The Remington 700 SPS Varmint has long held a respected place among precision bolt-action rifles. Its reputation for accuracy, reliability, and versatility has made it a favorite for long-range target shooting, varmint hunting, and even some precision rifle competitions. But what exactly makes this rifle stand out? Let's delve into the specifics of the Remington 700 SPS Varmint, examining its features, performance, and suitability for various applications.
Key Features of the Remington 700 SPS Varmint
The Remington 700 SPS Varmint distinguishes itself through several key design elements:
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Heavy Barrel: The defining characteristic is its heavy, typically fluted, barrel. This contributes significantly to enhanced accuracy by reducing barrel vibrations and heat buildup during extended shooting sessions. The heavier profile helps maintain consistent point of impact even with rapid fire.
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Durable Stock: The synthetic stock, often black, is both sturdy and lightweight. It provides a stable platform for accurate shooting while minimizing the overall weight of the rifle. This balance between stability and portability is crucial for varmint hunting, where quick, precise shots are often required.
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Remington 700 Action: This rifle boasts the renowned Remington 700 action, a cornerstone of bolt-action rifle design. Known for its reliability and smooth operation, this action is easily customizable and allows for upgrades and modifications to suit individual preferences and needs.
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Adjustable Trigger: While the specifics might vary slightly depending on the year of manufacture, many models feature an adjustable trigger. This allows shooters to fine-tune the trigger pull weight to their preferences, optimizing trigger control and shot consistency. A well-adjusted trigger is paramount for accuracy.
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Versatile Chamberings: The Remington 700 SPS Varmint is available in a range of popular chamberings, including .223 Remington, .204 Ruger, .22-250 Remington, and others, catering to a wide variety of shooting applications and calibers. This versatility ensures that shooters can select the optimal cartridge for their specific needs.
Performance and Accuracy
The Remington 700 SPS Varmint is renowned for its accuracy. The heavy barrel significantly contributes to this, as does the overall design of the rifle. Many shooters report sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) accuracy with quality ammunition, making it a highly capable platform for long-range precision shooting. However, achieving optimal accuracy depends on several factors, including the quality of ammunition used, the shooter's skill, and proper scope mounting and zeroing.
Applications and Uses
This rifle's design lends itself well to a variety of applications:
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Varmint Hunting: The name itself suggests its primary intended use. The accuracy and ability to handle higher-powered cartridges make it ideal for taking down prairie dogs, groundhogs, and other small varmints at extended ranges.
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Long-Range Target Shooting: The heavy barrel and inherent accuracy make it a suitable choice for competitive long-range target shooting. With proper optics and ammunition, shooters can achieve impressive results.
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Precision Rifle Competition: While not specifically designed for this purpose, its accuracy and customizability make it a viable option for some precision rifle competitions.
Considerations and Upgrades
While the Remington 700 SPS Varmint is a well-regarded rifle, there are some considerations and potential upgrades:
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Trigger Upgrade: While the factory trigger is often acceptable, many shooters choose to upgrade to an aftermarket trigger for a lighter, crisper, and more adjustable pull.
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Scope Mounting: Choosing the right scope and mounting system is critical for achieving optimal accuracy. Proper scope rings and bases are essential for ensuring consistent zero and avoiding potential issues.
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Ammunition Selection: The quality and type of ammunition significantly impact accuracy. Experimenting with different brands and loads is crucial to finding what works best for your specific rifle.
Conclusion: A Solid Choice for Precision Shooters
The Remington 700 SPS Varmint remains a strong contender in the world of bolt-action rifles. Its combination of accuracy, reliability, and versatility makes it a suitable choice for a wide range of shooters, from varmint hunters to long-range target enthusiasts. While individual experiences may vary, the reputation of the Remington 700 action and the benefits of a heavy barrel ensure that this rifle continues to be a popular and effective option for those seeking precision and dependability.
