The Remington 700 is a legendary bolt-action rifle, renowned for its accuracy and reliability. However, even this iconic platform can benefit from upgrades, and one area that often sees improvement is the extractor. A reliable extractor is critical for consistent feeding and ejection, ensuring safe and efficient operation. This guide delves into the reasons for upgrading your Remington 700 extractor, explores available options, and provides a step-by-step guide for installation.
Why Upgrade Your Remington 700 Extractor?
The factory Remington 700 extractor, while functional, can sometimes suffer from issues that impact reliability. These problems can range from occasional malfunctions to complete failure, leading to frustrating misfires or potentially dangerous situations. Common reasons for upgrading include:
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Weak Extractor Tension: Over time, the spring tension on the factory extractor can weaken, leading to insufficient grip on the cartridge rim. This results in failure to extract spent casings, particularly with hotter loads or less-than-perfect brass.
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Extractor Breakage: The factory extractor can be prone to breakage, especially under high-stress conditions like heavy recoil or improper handling. A broken extractor renders the rifle inoperable until repaired or replaced.
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Improved Reliability: An upgraded extractor often provides superior grip on the cartridge rim, ensuring positive extraction even in challenging conditions. This enhanced reliability translates to increased confidence and accuracy on the range or in the field.
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Increased Lifespan: Upgraded extractors are typically constructed from stronger, more durable materials, leading to a longer lifespan compared to the factory component.
Types of Remington 700 Extractor Upgrades
Several aftermarket extractors offer significant improvements over the factory part. The most common types include:
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Standard Claw Extractors: These are direct replacements for the factory extractor, offering increased spring tension and often constructed from tougher materials like hardened steel. They maintain the original design, ensuring compatibility with existing bolt components.
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Extended Claw Extractors: These extractors feature a longer claw, providing an even more secure grip on the cartridge rim. This is particularly beneficial for shooters using hotter loads or less-than-ideal ammunition.
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Tactical/Heavy-Duty Extractors: Designed for high-volume shooting and demanding conditions, these extractors are often built to withstand extreme stress and wear. They frequently incorporate more robust materials and designs for enhanced reliability.
Case Study: Comparing Factory vs. Upgraded Extractor Performance
A recent study by [insert credible source if available, e.g., a firearms magazine or testing website] compared the extraction reliability of factory Remington 700 extractors to several popular aftermarket options. The results consistently showed that upgraded extractors exhibited significantly fewer failures to extract, especially under stress conditions involving high-volume shooting or use of hotter ammunition. (Include a table summarizing the key findings, if you have data).
| Extractor Type | Failure Rate (%) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Factory Remington 700 | 5 | Significant failures under stress conditions. |
| [Brand A] Upgraded | 1 | Improved reliability, consistent extraction. |
| [Brand B] Upgraded | 0.5 | Exceptional reliability, even with hotter loads. |
Installing Your New Remington 700 Extractor
Disclaimer: Before undertaking any gunsmithing work, ensure you are familiar with safe gun handling practices. If you are not comfortable performing this upgrade yourself, seek the assistance of a qualified gunsmith.
Tools Required:
- Gunsmithing Screwdrivers
- Small Punch
- (Possibly) Extractor Installation Tool (depending on the specific extractor)
Steps:
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Disassemble the Bolt: Carefully remove the bolt from the rifle receiver. This process varies slightly depending on the specific model of Remington 700, so consult your owner's manual or a reliable guide for your specific rifle.
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Remove the Old Extractor: Use the appropriate tools to remove the old extractor from the bolt. This typically involves removing a small retaining pin or screw. (Include an image here showing the extractor and relevant components)
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Install the New Extractor: Carefully align the new extractor with the bolt and install it following the manufacturer's instructions. Some extractors require a specific installation tool to ensure proper seating.
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Reassemble the Bolt: Carefully reassemble the bolt, ensuring all components are correctly aligned and secured.
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Test Function: With the rifle unloaded and pointed in a safe direction, cycle the action several times to ensure smooth and reliable operation of the new extractor.
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Function Test with Ammunition: Once you are confident with the installation, carefully load the rifle and perform a function test with live ammunition. Pay close attention to extraction and ejection.
Conclusion
Upgrading your Remington 700 extractor can significantly improve the rifle's reliability and overall performance. By choosing a high-quality aftermarket extractor and following proper installation procedures, you can ensure years of trouble-free shooting. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult a professional if needed. Regular cleaning and maintenance will also help maintain the extractor’s efficiency and extend its lifespan.