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Remington 700 Tactical: A Comprehensive Overview for Precision Shooters

The Remington 700 Tactical is a bolt-action rifle renowned for its accuracy, reliability, and versatility. It’s a staple in law enforcement, military applications, and among civilian precision shooters. This article provides a comprehensive overview of the Remington 700 Tactical rifle, covering its features, variants, performance, and suitability for various applications. We will delve into what makes this rifle such a popular choice among professionals and enthusiasts alike. The Remington 700 Tactical series has consistently proven its worth.

History and Evolution of the Remington 700

The Remington 700 platform, introduced in 1962, has a long and storied history. It quickly gained popularity due to its innovative design, which included a cylindrical receiver and a ‘three rings of steel’ concept, offering enhanced strength and safety. Over the years, Remington has refined and expanded the 700 series, leading to the development of specialized models like the Remington 700 Tactical, specifically engineered for precision shooting and tactical applications.

Key Features of the Remington 700 Tactical

The Remington 700 Tactical distinguishes itself through several key features that contribute to its accuracy and usability:

Heavy Barrel: Typically, Remington 700 Tactical rifles feature a heavy-contour barrel. This thicker barrel profile reduces barrel flex and enhances heat dissipation, contributing to consistent accuracy during extended shooting sessions.
Improved Stock: Models often include stocks designed for enhanced ergonomics and stability, sometimes featuring adjustable cheek pieces and length-of-pull adjustments to allow for a customized fit. Some stocks are made from materials like fiberglass or aluminum for increased rigidity.
X-Mark Pro Trigger: Many Remington 700 Tactical rifles are equipped with the X-Mark Pro trigger, which is adjustable for pull weight, allowing shooters to fine-tune the trigger to their preference.
Picatinny Rail: A Picatinny rail is typically mounted on top of the receiver, providing a secure and versatile platform for mounting optics such as scopes, red dot sights, and other accessories.
Oversized Bolt Handle: An oversized bolt handle is often included for easier manipulation, especially in high-stress situations or when wearing gloves.

Popular Remington 700 Tactical Variants

Several Remington 700 Tactical variants cater to specific needs and preferences:

Remington 700 SPS Tactical

The Remington 700 SPS Tactical is a popular entry-level option that offers a balance of performance and affordability. It features a heavy barrel, a synthetic stock, and is chambered in common calibers such as .308 Winchester and .223 Remington. This is a great starting point for anyone looking to get into tactical shooting.

Remington 700 Magpul Enhanced

This variant features a Magpul Hunter 700 stock, which provides enhanced ergonomics, adjustability, and M-LOK compatibility for attaching accessories. It’s a popular choice for shooters who want a customizable and modern platform. The Magpul stock significantly improves the rifle’s handling.

Remington 700 PCR (Precision Chassis Rifle)

The Remington 700 PCR is built on an aluminum chassis system, providing exceptional rigidity and accuracy. It also features an adjustable stock and a free-floating handguard for attaching accessories. This is a premium option for serious precision shooters. [See also: Precision Rifle Shooting Techniques]

Calibers and Ammunition

The Remington 700 Tactical is available in a variety of calibers, each suited for different applications:

.308 Winchester: A versatile and widely available caliber suitable for both target shooting and hunting. It offers a good balance of range, accuracy, and stopping power.
.223 Remington/5.56 NATO: A lighter caliber suitable for varmint hunting, target shooting, and training. It offers lower recoil and is generally more affordable to shoot.
6.5 Creedmoor: A popular long-range caliber known for its flat trajectory, high ballistic coefficient, and excellent accuracy. It’s a favorite among competitive shooters.
.300 Winchester Magnum: A powerful long-range caliber suitable for hunting large game and extreme long-range shooting.

Choosing the right ammunition is crucial for maximizing the accuracy and performance of the Remington 700 Tactical. Match-grade ammunition, specifically designed for precision shooting, can significantly improve results. Experimenting with different brands and bullet weights is recommended to find the optimal load for your rifle.

Accuracy and Performance

The Remington 700 Tactical is known for its inherent accuracy. With proper technique and quality ammunition, it is capable of achieving sub-MOA (minute of angle) accuracy. Factors that contribute to its accuracy include the heavy barrel, the rigid receiver, and the consistent trigger. Regular maintenance and cleaning are essential for maintaining optimal accuracy. The Remington 700 Tactical remains a top performer in accuracy tests.

Accessories and Customization

The Remington 700 Tactical platform is highly customizable, with a wide range of aftermarket accessories available. Popular accessories include:

Scopes: High-quality scopes are essential for precision shooting. Choose a scope with appropriate magnification, objective lens size, and reticle for your intended use.
Bipods: Bipods provide a stable platform for shooting from a prone position.
Suppressors: Suppressors reduce recoil and muzzle blast, improving shooter comfort and reducing noise. [See also: Benefits of Using a Suppressor]
Aftermarket Stocks: Upgrading to an aftermarket stock can improve ergonomics, adjustability, and accuracy.
Triggers: Replacing the factory trigger with an aftermarket trigger can improve trigger pull and consistency.

Applications of the Remington 700 Tactical

The Remington 700 Tactical is used in a variety of applications:

Law Enforcement: The Remington 700 Tactical is a common choice for police snipers due to its accuracy and reliability.
Military: Some military units use the Remington 700 Tactical for specialized roles.
Competitive Shooting: The Remington 700 Tactical is popular among competitive shooters in disciplines such as PRS (Precision Rifle Series) and NRL (National Rifle League).
Hunting: The Remington 700 Tactical can be used for hunting, particularly for varmint hunting and long-range hunting.
Recreational Shooting: Many recreational shooters enjoy using the Remington 700 Tactical for target shooting and practicing their marksmanship skills.

Maintenance and Care

Proper maintenance and care are essential for keeping your Remington 700 Tactical in top condition. Regular cleaning and lubrication will help prevent malfunctions and maintain accuracy. It is important to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for cleaning and maintenance. A well-maintained Remington 700 Tactical will provide years of reliable service.

Pros and Cons of the Remington 700 Tactical

Like any firearm, the Remington 700 Tactical has its pros and cons:

Pros:

Accuracy: Known for its inherent accuracy and ability to achieve sub-MOA results.
Reliability: The Remington 700 platform is known for its reliability and durability.
Versatility: Available in a variety of calibers and configurations to suit different needs.
Customization: Highly customizable with a wide range of aftermarket accessories.
Availability: Parts and accessories are readily available.

Cons:

Trigger Issues: Some older models have been subject to recalls due to trigger issues. Always ensure your rifle has been inspected and updated if necessary.
Weight: The heavy barrel can make the rifle somewhat heavy, especially for carrying over long distances.
Cost: Depending on the variant and accessories, the Remington 700 Tactical can be expensive.

Conclusion

The Remington 700 Tactical remains a popular and respected choice for precision shooters, law enforcement, and military personnel. Its accuracy, reliability, and versatility make it a valuable tool in a variety of applications. While it’s important to be aware of potential trigger issues and other considerations, the Remington 700 Tactical continues to be a top performer in the world of bolt-action rifles. Whether you’re a seasoned professional or a new enthusiast, the Remington 700 Tactical offers a solid foundation for precision shooting. The enduring legacy of the Remington 700 Tactical speaks for itself, cementing its place in firearms history.