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joe9838
Oct 15, 20245 min read

Remington 700 Series: A Legendary Rifle with a Rich History

Updated: Nov 14, 2024


The Remington 700 has earned a place among the most iconic rifles in history, known for its accuracy, reliability, and versatility. Since its introduction in 1962, the Remington 700 series has been a favorite among hunters, target shooters, and military/law enforcement professionals alike. This guide will take you through the history, evolution, and key features of the Remington 700, highlighting its standout models and the reasons it has remained popular for over half a century.


The History of the Remington 700

The Remington 700 was first introduced in 1962 as an affordable, accurate, and reliable bolt-action rifle. It was based on Remington’s Model 721 and 722, with significant improvements that allowed it to outperform many competing rifles. The 700 quickly became known for its three-ring design, where the bolt encloses the cartridge case head in three rings of steel, providing a high level of strength and safety.

Law Enforcement and Military Use

One of the defining features of the Remington 700 is its use by the U.S. military and law enforcement. In the 1980s, the M24 Sniper Weapon System, based on the Remington 700, became the standard sniper rifle for the U.S. Army. The M40, a similar variant, was adopted by the U.S. Marine Corps.

These military applications helped cement the 700's reputation for long-range precision and reliability in the harshest environments.


The Evolution of the Remington 700 Series

Over the decades, the Remington 700 has evolved into a wide range of models tailored to different types of shooting, from hunting to tactical applications. Here’s a look at some of the most important models and how they have changed over time:

Remington 700 ADL

  • Original Model: The ADL (A Deluxe) was one of the first models introduced in 1962. It featured a blind magazine and a basic stock, making it an affordable option for hunters.

  • Purpose: This was primarily a hunting rifle, favored for its simplicity and cost-effectiveness.

  • Discontinued: The ADL was eventually phased out and replaced by more advanced models, but it remains popular among collectors.

Remington 700 BDL

  • Upgraded Model: The BDL (Better Deluxe) introduced a hinged floorplate, higher-quality wood stock, and improved sights compared to the ADL.

  • Features: Known for its classic look and feel, the BDL is still a favorite among hunters and shooters who appreciate traditional rifle aesthetics combined with modern accuracy.

  • Current Use: The BDL is still in production and widely used for hunting and target shooting.

Remington 700 SPS (Special Purpose Synthetic)

  • Modernized Version: Introduced as a more durable, weather-resistant alternative, the SPS model uses a synthetic stock, making it more versatile for hunting in different weather conditions.

  • Features: The SPS Tactical variant adds a heavy barrel for increased accuracy in long-range shooting, making it popular among precision shooters.

Remington 700 Varmint SF (Stainless Fluted)

  • Purpose-Built for Varmint Hunting: The Varmint SF model features a stainless steel, fluted heavy barrel and synthetic stock for excellent durability and precision, especially in varmint or small game hunting.

  • Long-Range Performance: The heavy barrel ensures better accuracy during extended shooting sessions, and the fluted design helps dissipate heat, maintaining accuracy even under heavy use.

Remington 700 Tactical

  • Precision Shooting: This model was designed for law enforcement and military use, offering superior accuracy for tactical applications.

  • Key Features: Includes a shorter, threaded heavy barrel, often paired with suppressors, making it a popular choice for precision shooters and tactical applications.


Key Features of the Remington 700

Across all its variations, the Remington 700 has maintained several key features that have contributed to its long-standing success:

Three-Ring Design

  • The three-ring design (where the bolt encloses the cartridge case head in three rings of steel) provides extra strength and safety, making it one of the most robust bolt-action designs on the market.

Trigger System

  • The original Remington 700 came with the Walker trigger, which was lauded for its crisp break but later became controversial due to safety concerns. In response, Remington introduced the X-Mark Pro Trigger in more recent models, offering a smoother pull and user adjustability for enhanced precision.

Accuracy

  • One of the main reasons shooters gravitate to the Remington 700 is its renowned accuracy. The precision engineering of the action and barrel allows for sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) performance, which means it can shoot groups smaller than one inch at 100 yards.

Customization Options

  • The Remington 700 is one of the most customizable bolt-action rifles available, with a wide range of aftermarket options for stocks, triggers, barrels, and optics. This makes it popular among DIY gun enthusiasts who want to tailor their rifle to their specific needs.


Military and Law Enforcement Applications

The Remington 700’s legacy in military and law enforcement is one of its defining traits. Both the M24 and M40 sniper systems were derived from the Remington 700 action, and they are still in use by the U.S. Army and Marine Corps, respectively.

M24 Sniper Weapon System

  • Adopted: In 1988 by the U.S. Army.

  • Key Features: The M24 has a heavy barrel, long-range scope, and adjustable stock. It is chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO and is highly regarded for its accuracy and durability.

M40 Sniper Rifle

  • Adopted: By the U.S. Marine Corps, this variant has seen action in numerous military operations, from the Vietnam War to the present day.

  • Chambering: Also chambered in 7.62x51mm NATO, the M40 continues to be a favorite for long-range precision shooting.

These military sniper systems helped cement the Remington 700's reputation as one of the most accurate and reliable bolt-action rifles ever made, and its continued use by professionals adds to its legendary status.


Awards and Recognition

The Remington 700 has earned numerous accolades over the years, especially in the competitive shooting world. Here are some of the most prestigious awards:

  • National Rifle Association’s Golden Bullseye Award: The Remington 700 series has been recognized for its excellence in rifle design and performance multiple times by the NRA.

  • American Rifleman Editor's Choice Award: The Remington 700 has been praised for its versatility and precision across various shooting disciplines.


Recommended Current Models of the Remington 700

Here are some of the most popular and innovative models of the Remington 700 still available today:

Remington 700 SPS Tactical

  • Best Use: Precision shooting and tactical applications.

  • Key Features: Heavy barrel for improved accuracy, synthetic stock, and X-Mark Pro trigger.

Remington 700 BDL

  • Best Use: Hunting and traditional shooting.

  • Key Features: Classic wooden stock with a hinged floorplate, available in several popular calibers.

Remington 700 Varmint SF

  • Best Use: Varmint and small game hunting.

  • Key Features: Stainless fluted barrel, heavy design for long-range accuracy, and synthetic stock for durability.

Remington 700 PCR (Precision Chassis Rifle)

  • Best Use: Long-range shooting and precision competitions.

  • Key Features: Modular chassis design with adjustable stock, heavy barrel, and available in calibers like 6.5 Creedmoor for extended range.


The Remington 700 series remains one of the most respected bolt-action rifles in the world, with a history of innovation, precision, and reliability. Its continued use in military and law enforcement, coupled with its widespread popularity among hunters and target shooters, has cemented its place as an iconic firearm. Whether you're a seasoned marksman or a beginner, the Remington 700 offers a variety of models to fit your shooting needs.


Looking to add a Remington 700 to your collection? Browse our selection of Remington 700 rifles and accessories and text to let us know what you're interested in since our inventory is on-demand. Explore here.









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