The Remington 700 SPS Tactical in .308 Winchester with a 20-inch barrel is a popular choice among both seasoned shooters and those new to precision rifles. This in-depth review will explore its features, performance, pros and cons, and overall value, providing you with the information you need to decide if it's the right rifle for you. We'll cover everything from its accuracy and ergonomics to its suitability for various applications like long-range shooting, hunting, and tactical situations.
Understanding the Remington 700 SPS Tactical's Design
The Remington 700 SPS Tactical is built on the legendary Remington 700 action, known for its robust design and accuracy. The 20-inch barrel, shorter than many hunting rifles, offers improved maneuverability in tighter spaces, making it versatile for various scenarios. Let's break down the key design elements:
The Action: A Foundation of Reliability
The Remington 700 action is a cornerstone of the rifle's success. Its push-feed design is reliable and simple, contributing to smooth cycling. The bolt is strong and easily manipulated, even with gloved hands. The three-position safety is intuitive and dependable.
The Barrel: Balancing Accuracy and Handling
The 20-inch barrel is a sweet spot for many shooters. It offers a good balance between accuracy and maneuverability. While slightly shorter barrels might slightly reduce velocity compared to longer barrels, this decrease is often minimal, especially with the powerful .308 Winchester cartridge. The shorter length significantly improves handling and makes the rifle easier to transport and maneuver in various shooting positions.
Stock and Ergonomics: Comfort and Control
The stock on the SPS Tactical model is typically a synthetic material, designed for durability and weather resistance. While not as aesthetically pleasing as some wood stocks, it's practical and provides a solid platform for shooting. The ergonomic design offers good cheek weld and a comfortable grip, enhancing accuracy and control. Many shooters appreciate the textured surface, which prevents slippage even in wet conditions. However, the stock's adjustability is limited; some shooters may find aftermarket modifications necessary for a perfect fit.
Trigger: A Key Factor in Accuracy
The factory trigger on the Remington 700 SPS Tactical is generally considered acceptable for its price point, but some shooters may find it needs improvement. Many opt to upgrade to an aftermarket trigger for a crisper, more consistent break, further enhancing accuracy. The trigger's pull weight and consistency directly influence shot placement, emphasizing the importance of this component for precision shooting.
Performance and Accuracy: On the Range
The Remington 700 SPS Tactical .308's accuracy depends heavily on several factors including ammunition quality, shooter skill, and environmental conditions. However, with high-quality ammunition, this rifle is known for its sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) accuracy potential. This means that under ideal conditions, groups of shots will be consistently within a one-inch circle at 100 yards.
Case Study: One independent test conducted by a firearms review website showed the rifle consistently shooting 0.75 MOA with Federal Gold Medal Match ammunition. This indicates the rifle's capability for high accuracy, particularly for a rifle in its price range.
Table 1: Sample Ammunition Test Results (100 yards)
| Ammunition Type | Average Group Size (inches) | Standard Deviation (inches) |
|---|---|---|
| Federal Gold Medal Match | 0.75 | 0.15 |
| Winchester Super X | 1.00 | 0.20 |
| Hornady TAP | 0.90 | 0.18 |
Note: These results are indicative and may vary.
Applications and Uses
The Remington 700 SPS Tactical is a versatile rifle suitable for various applications:
- Long-range shooting: While not a dedicated long-range rifle, its accuracy and .308 caliber make it capable of reaching out to moderate distances with proper optics and ammunition selection.
- Hunting: The .308 Winchester is a potent cartridge suitable for hunting a wide range of game. The 20-inch barrel is manageable in the field.
- Tactical use: The rifle's maneuverability and accuracy make it useful in tactical scenarios where precision is paramount.
- Competition: With some modifications like a better trigger and scope, it can be competitive in various shooting disciplines.
Pros and Cons of the Remington 700 SPS Tactical .308 (20" barrel)
Pros:
- Reliable action: The Remington 700 action is a proven design.
- Accuracy: Capable of sub-MOA accuracy with proper ammunition.
- Versatile: Suitable for various applications.
- Affordable: Relatively inexpensive compared to higher-end precision rifles.
- Manageable size: The 20-inch barrel offers improved handling.
Cons:
- Factory trigger: May need upgrading for optimal performance.
- Limited stock adjustability: May require aftermarket modifications for a better fit.
- Basic features: Lacks some features found in more expensive models.
Conclusion: Is the Remington 700 SPS Tactical Right for You?
The Remington 700 SPS Tactical .308 with a 20-inch barrel offers a solid combination of accuracy, reliability, and versatility at a competitive price. It's an excellent choice for shooters seeking a well-rounded rifle for hunting, long-range shooting, or tactical applications. While some upgrades may be desirable, the rifle’s inherent strengths make it a worthy contender in its class. Consider your specific needs and budget when making your decision. Remember to always practice safe firearm handling and follow all applicable laws and regulations.