Remington 700 Short Action vs. Long Action: Choosing the Right Fit for Your Cartridge
The Remington 700 is a legendary bolt-action rifle, renowned for its accuracy and reliability. However, a crucial decision for any prospective buyer is choosing between the short action and long action receivers. This choice directly impacts the cartridges you can chamber and the overall balance and feel of the rifle. This article will delve into the key differences between Remington 700 short action and long action rifles to help you make an informed decision.
Understanding Action Length: What Does It Mean?
The "action" refers to the heart of the rifle – the receiver, bolt, and related components. The action length dictates the space available within the receiver to accommodate different cartridge lengths. Simply put:
- Short Action: Designed for shorter cartridges.
- Long Action: Designed for longer cartridges.
This seemingly small difference has significant implications for your choice of ammunition.
Cartridge Compatibility: The Defining Factor
The most critical difference lies in the cartridges each action can handle. Generally:
Remington 700 Short Action: Typically chambers cartridges like:
- .223 Remington
- .243 Winchester
- 7mm-08 Remington
- .308 Winchester
- 6.5 Creedmoor (becoming increasingly popular)
Remington 700 Long Action: Typically chambers cartridges like:
- .30-06 Springfield
- .270 Winchester
- .300 Winchester Magnum
- 7mm Remington Magnum
- 300 Win Mag
Choosing the right action hinges entirely on the cartridge you intend to use. Don't try to force a long-action cartridge into a short action – it won't work and could damage your rifle.
Beyond Cartridge Length: Other Considerations
While cartridge compatibility is paramount, other factors subtly influence the choice:
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Overall Rifle Length & Weight: Long-action rifles tend to be longer and heavier due to the increased space needed for the longer cartridges. This can impact handling, especially for smaller shooters or those hunting in dense terrain.
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Balance: The weight distribution can differ slightly between short and long actions, affecting how the rifle feels in your hands.
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Recoil: While not solely dependent on action length, longer actions often handle larger, higher-recoil cartridges.
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Availability: Certain cartridges are predominantly offered in one action length over another. Check the availability of your preferred ammunition in both short and long action configurations.
Choosing the Right Action: A Practical Guide
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Determine Your Intended Use: What will you primarily use the rifle for? Hunting, target shooting, varmint control? This will guide your cartridge selection.
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Select Your Cartridge: Based on your intended use, research cartridges known for their performance in that application. Consider factors like range, accuracy, and available ammunition.
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Check Cartridge Compatibility: Once you've chosen a cartridge, determine its corresponding action length (short or long). This will dictate your Remington 700 action choice.
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Consider Ergonomics: Think about the overall size and weight of the rifle. A lighter, shorter rifle might be preferable for certain hunting scenarios.
Choosing between a Remington 700 short action and long action is a crucial step in selecting the right rifle for your needs. By understanding the key differences in cartridge compatibility and other factors, you can make an informed decision and find the perfect firearm for years of reliable performance. Remember to always prioritize safety and handle firearms responsibly.
