Remington 700 Long Vs Short Action

3 min read 03-02-2025

Remington 700 Long Vs Short Action

The Remington 700 is a legendary bolt-action rifle, renowned for its accuracy and reliability. However, a key decision for any prospective buyer is choosing between the long and short action variants. This choice significantly impacts the types of cartridges you can use and the overall rifle's dimensions. Understanding the differences is crucial for selecting the perfect Remington 700 for your needs. This in-depth guide will clarify the distinctions between Remington 700 long and short actions, helping you make an informed decision.

Understanding Action Length in Bolt-Action Rifles

Before diving into the specifics of the Remington 700, let's establish what "action length" means. The action is the heart of the rifle, housing the bolt, firing pin, and receiver. Action length refers to the distance between the bolt face and the rear of the receiver. This dimension directly determines the maximum cartridge length the action can accommodate. Longer actions accommodate longer cartridges, while shorter actions handle shorter cartridges. This seemingly simple difference has significant implications for caliber selection and overall rifle balance.

Remington 700 Short Action: Ideal for Shorter Cartridges

The Remington 700 short action is designed for cartridges with shorter overall lengths. This typically includes popular hunting and target shooting calibers like:

  • .223 Remington: A versatile round for varmints and tactical shooting.
  • .243 Winchester: A popular hunting round known for its accuracy and moderate recoil.
  • 7mm-08 Remington: A powerful hunting cartridge suitable for medium-sized game.
  • .308 Winchester: A highly versatile round used for hunting, target shooting, and military applications. (Note: Some .308 Win. may require modifications to fit a short action perfectly. Always check manufacturer specifications.)

Advantages of the Short Action:

  • Compact and Lightweight: Shorter actions generally result in a more compact and lightweight rifle, making them easier to carry and maneuver in the field.
  • Lower Recoil: Shorter cartridges generally produce less recoil than their longer counterparts, leading to a more comfortable shooting experience.
  • Cost-Effective: Short action rifles often have a lower price point compared to long action models.

Disadvantages of the Short Action:

  • Limited Cartridge Selection: The most significant drawback is the limited range of cartridges that can be used. You are restricted to shorter cartridges only.

Remington 700 Long Action: Power and Versatility for Larger Calibers

The Remington 700 long action is built to handle longer cartridges, providing greater power and versatility. This includes cartridges popular for larger game hunting:

  • .30-06 Springfield: A classic and powerful hunting cartridge with a long history.
  • .270 Winchester: Another popular choice for a variety of game animals.
  • .300 Winchester Magnum: A powerful magnum cartridge suitable for large game hunting.
  • 7mm Remington Magnum: A powerful magnum cartridge known for its accuracy and flat trajectory.

Advantages of the Long Action:

  • Greater Cartridge Selection: The most obvious advantage is the expanded selection of cartridges available. This allows you to choose the round best suited to your specific hunting or target shooting needs.
  • More Powerful Cartridges: Long actions accommodate more powerful cartridges capable of taking down larger game.

Disadvantages of the Long Action:

  • Larger and Heavier: Long action rifles are generally larger and heavier than their short action counterparts, which can make them less comfortable to carry for extended periods.
  • Higher Recoil: The more powerful cartridges used in long actions typically produce greater recoil, requiring more practice and potentially more robust recoil management techniques.
  • Higher Cost: Long action rifles are usually more expensive than short action models.

Choosing Between Remington 700 Long and Short Action: A Decision Matrix

The best choice depends entirely on your intended use. Consider the following factors:

Feature Remington 700 Short Action Remington 700 Long Action
Cartridge Length Shorter Longer
Weight Lighter Heavier
Recoil Lower Higher
Cost Generally Lower Generally Higher
Game suitability Smaller to medium game Larger game
Versatility Limited Greater

Case Study: Choosing a Rifle for Elk Hunting

Let's say you're planning an elk hunting trip. Elk are large game animals requiring a powerful cartridge. In this scenario, a Remington 700 in .300 Winchester Magnum (long action) would be a more suitable choice compared to a .243 Winchester (short action). The added power and range offered by the .300 Win Mag are crucial for ethically and effectively harvesting elk at longer distances.

Conclusion: Matching the Rifle to the Cartridge (and the Hunter)

Selecting between a Remington 700 long action and short action ultimately hinges on your specific needs and intended use. Carefully consider the cartridge you plan to use, the type of game you'll be hunting, and your personal preferences regarding weight, recoil, and cost. By understanding the key differences, you can choose the Remington 700 that best fits your requirements and ensures a successful and enjoyable shooting experience. Remember to always consult with experienced shooters and firearm professionals before making your purchase.

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