The Remington 700 in .308 Winchester is a legendary rifle platform, renowned for its accuracy and reliability. However, the factory stock can often be limiting, especially for serious shooters seeking improved ergonomics, comfort, and performance. Choosing the right aftermarket stock can significantly enhance your shooting experience. This guide dives deep into selecting the perfect Remington 700 308 stock for your needs and budget.
Understanding Your Needs: Key Considerations Before Buying
Before diving into specific stock options, it's crucial to identify your priorities. What kind of shooting will you primarily be doing? This will heavily influence your stock choice:
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Long-Range Precision: If you're focused on long-range accuracy, you'll want a stock with features like adjustable cheek rests, length of pull adjustments, and a solid, stable platform to minimize recoil and maintain consistent aim. Consider stocks made from high-quality materials like aluminum bedding blocks for superior rigidity.
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Hunting: For hunting, you'll prioritize maneuverability and comfort during extended periods in the field. A lighter-weight stock with a comfortable design and perhaps a sling swivel stud will be beneficial.
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Tactical/Competition: Tactical or competition shooting demands a highly adjustable stock offering a wide range of customization options to perfectly fit your body type and shooting style. Features like adjustable comb height, cant, and length of pull are essential.
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Budget: Stocks range in price from moderately priced to extremely expensive. Determine a realistic budget before you begin your search.
Types of Remington 700 308 Stocks
Remington 700 stocks come in various materials, each offering different benefits and drawbacks:
Synthetic Stocks:
- Pros: Durable, lightweight, relatively inexpensive, and often weather-resistant. Great for hunting and general shooting.
- Cons: Can be less rigid than other materials, potentially impacting accuracy at longer ranges.
Wood Stocks:
- Pros: Aesthetically pleasing, can offer a classic feel, and can be quite durable if properly cared for.
- Cons: More expensive than synthetic stocks, can be heavier, and are more susceptible to environmental damage (moisture).
Aluminum Chassis Stocks:
- Pros: Extremely rigid, highly customizable, and often feature integrated bedding systems for optimal accuracy. Ideal for precision shooting.
- Cons: Can be expensive and heavier than synthetic or wood stocks.
Top Features to Look For in a Remington 700 308 Stock
Regardless of the material, several key features should be considered:
- Adjustable Length of Pull (LOP): Allows you to customize the distance between the trigger and your shoulder for optimal fit and comfort.
- Adjustable Cheek Rest: Crucial for maintaining proper eye alignment with the scope, particularly important for long-range shooting.
- Recoil Pad: A comfortable recoil pad reduces felt recoil, improving shooting comfort and reducing fatigue.
- M-LOK or Picatinny Rails: Allows for mounting accessories like bipods, vertical grips, or other tactical gear.
- Bedding Block: Ensures a solid and consistent interface between the stock and the rifle action, maximizing accuracy.
Choosing the Right Stock: A Final Word
Selecting the right Remington 700 308 stock is a deeply personal decision. Consider your shooting style, budget, and the features that matter most to you. Don't hesitate to research different brands and models, read reviews, and perhaps even handle a few stocks in person before making your final choice. The right stock can transform your shooting experience, making it more enjoyable, accurate, and effective.
