The Remington 700 .308 is a legendary platform, renowned for its accuracy and reliability. But for many shooters, a stock Remington 700 just isn't enough. This article delves into the world of custom Remington 700 .308 builds, exploring the options, considerations, and processes involved in creating your ideal precision rifle. We'll cover everything from choosing the right action to selecting the perfect scope. Understanding these aspects will allow you to build a custom .308 that meets your specific needs and surpasses your expectations.
Choosing Your Remington 700 Action
The foundation of any custom build is the action itself. While you can build on a factory Remington 700 action, many custom builders opt for aftermarket actions, which offer improved features and enhanced precision.
Factory vs. Aftermarket Actions
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Factory Remington 700 Actions: These are readily available and relatively affordable. They provide a solid base for a custom build, especially for those on a budget. However, they may require more work to achieve the ultimate level of accuracy.
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Aftermarket Actions: Companies like Stiller, Defiance, and Badger Ordnance produce high-quality actions with improved features such as:
- Enhanced bolt geometry: Often incorporating smoother bolt lifts and improved locking lugs for greater reliability and consistency.
- Improved machining tolerances: Leading to superior accuracy and consistency.
- Advanced materials: Using materials like stainless steel or titanium for greater strength and durability.
The choice between factory and aftermarket depends largely on your budget and desired level of performance. For ultimate accuracy and features, aftermarket actions are worth the investment.
Stock Selection: Ergonomics and Precision
The stock significantly impacts accuracy and shooting comfort. Factors to consider include:
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Material: Popular choices include synthetic stocks (lightweight and durable), laminated wood stocks (aesthetically pleasing and stable), and carbon fiber stocks (extremely lightweight and stiff).
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Ergonomics: A well-designed stock provides proper cheek weld and a comfortable grip, crucial for consistent accuracy. Adjustable stocks allow customization for different shooters and shooting positions.
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Features: Consider features such as adjustable length of pull (LOP), comb height, and recoil pads. Some stocks incorporate integral bedding systems for improved accuracy.
Case Study: A shooter struggling with consistent accuracy switched from a factory plastic stock to a Manners T4A carbon fiber stock with an adjustable cheek riser and recoil pad. The improvement in accuracy was dramatic, highlighting the stock's significant impact.
Barrel Selection: The Heart of Accuracy
The barrel plays a critical role in the rifle's overall accuracy. Factors to consider include:
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Profile: Different profiles (heavy, sporter, varmint) affect the barrel's weight, stiffness, and cooling rate. Heavier barrels offer superior accuracy and heat dissipation but increase overall weight.
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Material: Stainless steel is the most common material, offering a balance of cost-effectiveness, durability, and corrosion resistance. Other options include chrome moly and carbon fiber wrapped barrels.
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Twist Rate: The twist rate determines how quickly the rifling spins the bullet, influencing its stability and accuracy. A proper twist rate is essential for achieving optimum accuracy with your chosen ammunition. Incorrect twist rate can lead to poor accuracy and keyholing.
Table 1: Common .308 Twist Rates
| Bullet Weight (grains) | Recommended Twist Rate (inches) |
|---|---|
| 150-168 | 1:10 |
| 175-200 | 1:11 or 1:12 |
Trigger Selection: Crisp Breaks for Enhanced Accuracy
A crisp, clean trigger is vital for consistent shot placement. Factory triggers are often heavy and have a long pull, which can negatively affect accuracy. Upgrading to an adjustable trigger offers superior control and improved accuracy.
Popular Options: Timney, Geissele, and TriggerTech are well-regarded manufacturers of aftermarket triggers for Remington 700 actions. These offer adjustable pull weight and overtravel, allowing customization to the shooter's preferences.
Important Note: Improper trigger adjustment can be dangerous. Seek professional assistance if unsure.
Optics Selection: Enhancing Precision
The choice of scope significantly impacts the rifle's precision and usability. Factors to consider include:
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Magnification: Choose magnification appropriate for your intended use. Higher magnification is needed for longer-range shooting, while lower magnification is suitable for closer-range work.
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Reticle: Select a reticle that complements your shooting style and target acquisition needs.
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Quality: Invest in a high-quality scope from a reputable manufacturer like Leupold, Nightforce, or Schmidt & Bender for superior clarity, durability, and tracking performance.
Conclusion: Building Your Dream Custom Remington 700 .308
Building a custom Remington 700 .308 rifle is a rewarding experience that culminates in a firearm tailored to your specific needs and preferences. By carefully considering each component—the action, stock, barrel, trigger, and optics—you can create a precision instrument capable of exceptional accuracy and reliable performance. Remember to prioritize quality components and seek professional guidance where needed to ensure a safe and successful build. Enjoy the process and the resulting precision of your custom rifle!