Remington 700 rifles have long been a favorite among shooters, known for their accuracy and reliability. A crucial component often overlooked is the Remington 700 bottom metal, the part that houses the magazine and connects the action to the stock. Understanding your options and potential upgrades can significantly impact your shooting experience. This comprehensive guide delves into the world of Remington 700 bottom metal, exploring various types, their features, and how to choose the best one for your needs.
Understanding Remington 700 Bottom Metal Basics
The bottom metal is more than just a simple part; it's a critical interface. It holds the magazine, providing a smooth feeding mechanism for your cartridges. It also forms a crucial connection between the action and the stock, impacting the overall stability and accuracy of your rifle. Factory Remington 700 bottom metal is functional, but many shooters opt for upgrades to enhance performance and aesthetics.
Factory vs. Aftermarket Remington 700 Bottom Metal
Factory Remington 700 bottom metal is generally reliable. However, it may have limitations, such as:
- Limited Magazine Capacity: Factory magazines often have lower capacities compared to aftermarket options.
- Material Quality: Some may find the factory metal to be less durable or less aesthetically pleasing than aftermarket choices.
- Lack of Customization: Factory bottom metal usually offers limited options for customization or upgrades.
Aftermarket bottom metal offers several advantages:
- Increased Magazine Capacity: Many aftermarket options offer significantly higher magazine capacities.
- Enhanced Durability: Constructed from stronger materials, they often withstand more rigorous use.
- Improved Aesthetics: Aftermarket manufacturers offer a wide range of finishes and styles to match your rifle's aesthetic.
- Compatibility with Detachable Magazines: Aftermarket bottom metal often allows for the use of detachable magazines, enhancing speed and convenience during reloading.
Popular Remington 700 Bottom Metal Options
The market offers a wide array of Remington 700 bottom metal options, each with its own features and benefits. Here are some of the most popular choices:
1. Badger Ordnance
Known for their precision and quality, Badger Ordnance bottom metal is a favorite among long-range shooters. It's meticulously machined from high-quality materials, ensuring durability and precision. They are renowned for their:
- Robust Construction: Badger Ordnance bottom metal is incredibly strong, capable of handling heavy recoil.
- Precise Fit: They provide a perfect fit, ensuring smooth and reliable feeding.
- High-Quality Materials: Made from hardened steel, they are built to last.
Case Study: A competitive long-range shooter switched to Badger Ordnance bottom metal, reporting a significant improvement in accuracy and reliability due to the improved magazine alignment and overall structural rigidity.
2. Stiller Precision
Stiller Precision bottom metal is another highly regarded option, favored for its:
- Customization Options: They offer different configurations, accommodating various magazine types and calibers.
- Compatibility: They are compatible with many different stocks and actions.
- Excellent Fit and Finish: Known for their precision machining and high-quality materials.
3. XLR Industries
XLR Industries focuses on creating lightweight and ergonomic bottom metal systems, often incorporating features such as:
- Lightweight Design: Their bottom metal solutions are designed to reduce overall rifle weight without sacrificing strength.
- Ergonomic Features: Many designs include features for improved handling and comfort.
- Integration with other Systems: Often designed to integrate seamlessly with other XLR components.
Choosing the Right Remington 700 Bottom Metal: Key Considerations
Selecting the best Remington 700 bottom metal depends on your specific needs and preferences. Here's a breakdown of factors to consider:
- Budget: Prices range widely depending on the manufacturer and features.
- Intended Use: Are you a long-range shooter, hunter, or casual plinker? This will influence your choice of materials and features.
- Magazine Compatibility: Ensure the bottom metal is compatible with the type of magazine you want to use.
- Action Type: Different bottom metal options are compatible with different Remington 700 action types (e.g., short action, long action).
- Stock Compatibility: Verify compatibility with your existing stock or the stock you plan to use.
Installation and Potential Challenges
Installing aftermarket Remington 700 bottom metal may require some mechanical skills. While generally straightforward, certain challenges can arise:
- Fitting Issues: Some aftermarket bottom metal may require minor fitting or adjustments to ensure proper function.
- Action Interaction: It's crucial to ensure the bottom metal interacts correctly with the action to avoid feeding issues.
- Stock Compatibility: Ensure the bottom metal is compatible with the inletting of your stock.
It's recommended that those unfamiliar with gunsmithing seek the help of a qualified gunsmith for installation.
Conclusion: Enhancing Your Remington 700
Upgrading your Remington 700 with aftermarket bottom metal is a popular modification that can significantly improve your shooting experience. Whether you prioritize increased magazine capacity, enhanced durability, or improved aesthetics, a wide variety of options are available to suit your needs and budget. Careful consideration of the factors outlined above will ensure you select the right bottom metal for your specific requirements. Remember to always prioritize safety and seek professional assistance if needed during installation.