The Remington 700 in .308 Winchester is a legendary platform, renowned for its accuracy and adaptability. A significant component contributing to its performance is the barrel. Choosing the right barrel, whether for a new build or an upgrade, requires careful consideration of various factors. This comprehensive guide will delve into the intricacies of Remington 700 .308 barrels, exploring different options, upgrade considerations, and crucial factors to ensure optimal shooting experience.
Understanding Remington 700 Barrel Options
The market offers a wide array of Remington 700 .308 barrels, each with unique characteristics impacting accuracy, longevity, and overall performance. Key distinctions lie in:
1. Barrel Material:
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Stainless Steel: A popular choice for its durability, resistance to corrosion, and relatively affordable price point. Stainless steel barrels can withstand harsh conditions and maintain accuracy over extended use.
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Carbon Steel: Often chosen for its superior stiffness and potential for tighter tolerances, leading to enhanced accuracy in some cases. However, carbon steel is more susceptible to rust and requires more diligent maintenance.
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Chrome Moly (Chrome-Molybdenum): A blend offering a balance between the properties of stainless and carbon steel. It provides good corrosion resistance while retaining reasonable stiffness.
2. Barrel Profile:
The barrel profile significantly affects the rifle's balance, handling, and overall weight. Common profiles include:
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Heavy Varmint: Features a thick, heavy profile, enhancing stability and reducing harmonic vibrations, leading to improved accuracy, particularly for long-range shooting.
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Sporter: A lighter profile, providing improved maneuverability and reduced overall weight. It's a good all-around choice for various shooting disciplines.
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Lightweight: Designed for portability and reduced weight, often at the expense of some accuracy compared to heavier profiles. Ideal for hunters prioritizing mobility.
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Target: A very heavy profile optimized for extreme accuracy, usually featuring thicker walls and a longer length.
3. Barrel Length:
Barrel length plays a crucial role in velocity and accuracy. Longer barrels generally yield higher velocities, but the improvement diminishes after a certain point. Common lengths for .308 barrels range from 16" to 26", with each impacting ballistics and handling characteristics differently. A shorter barrel is more maneuverable, while a longer barrel might offer a slight edge in velocity and accuracy at longer ranges.
Upgrading Your Remington 700 .308 Barrel: What to Consider
Upgrading your barrel can significantly improve accuracy and performance. However, it's a process requiring careful planning and execution. Factors to consider include:
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Budget: Barrels range in price depending on material, profile, and manufacturer. Set a realistic budget before starting the upgrade process.
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Intended Use: The intended use (hunting, target shooting, long-range precision) will dictate the optimal barrel profile, length, and material.
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Threading: Ensure compatibility with your receiver's threading. Incorrect threading can lead to fitting issues and damage.
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Headspace: Proper headspace is critical for safe and reliable operation. Incorrect headspace can lead to dangerous malfunctions. Professional gunsmithing is highly recommended for barrel changes.
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Manufacturer Reputation: Choose a reputable barrel manufacturer known for quality and consistency. Research reviews and seek recommendations from experienced shooters.
Maintaining Your Remington 700 .308 Barrel
Proper maintenance is crucial for extending the life and accuracy of your barrel. Regular cleaning, especially after shooting, is essential to remove fouling and prevent corrosion. Use appropriate cleaning solvents and patches, paying attention to the bore's condition. Store the rifle in a dry environment to prevent rust and deterioration.
Conclusion
Selecting the right Remington 700 .308 barrel is a crucial step in optimizing your shooting experience. Understanding the various options and factors discussed above will enable you to make an informed decision that aligns with your specific needs and shooting style. Remember, safety should always be your priority, and if you are unsure about any aspect of the barrel selection or installation, always seek the guidance of a qualified gunsmith.
