The Remington 710 in .300 Winchester Magnum is a powerful and versatile hunting rifle that has garnered both praise and criticism. This in-depth review will explore its features, performance, pros, cons, and ultimately help you decide if it's the right firearm for you.
Understanding the Remington 710 Platform
The Remington 710 was a budget-friendly rifle offered by Remington Arms. While discontinued, it remains a popular option in the used market. Its design incorporated a number of features aiming for affordability without completely sacrificing performance. Key features include:
- Action: A short-action bolt-action design, ideal for the .300 Win Mag cartridge. This design allows for smooth operation and reliable feeding.
- Receiver: Typically made of steel, providing a robust base for the rifle.
- Barrel: Generally a free-floating barrel, allowing for improved accuracy by minimizing contact with the stock. The length varies depending on the specific model, affecting velocity and overall handling.
- Stock: Commonly made of synthetic material, though some models featured wood stocks. The synthetic stocks are typically durable and weather-resistant, making them ideal for various hunting conditions.
- Trigger: The trigger pull weight can be a point of contention among users, sometimes requiring adjustment or aftermarket upgrades for a smoother, more precise shot.
.300 Winchester Magnum Cartridge: A Powerful Choice
The Remington 710's chambering in .300 Winchester Magnum makes it a formidable hunting rifle. The .300 Win Mag is known for its:
- High Velocity: This cartridge delivers exceptionally high bullet velocities, resulting in impressive energy downrange, making it effective for long-range shots.
- Flat Trajectory: The high velocity translates to a flatter trajectory, minimizing bullet drop over distance, which is crucial for accurate shots at longer ranges.
- Hard-hitting Power: The .300 Win Mag's significant power makes it suitable for hunting a wide range of game, from deer and elk to larger animals depending on bullet selection and shot placement. However, this power does come with increased recoil.
Table 1: .300 Win Mag Ballistic Data (Approximate, varies with bullet weight and manufacturer)
| Bullet Weight (grains) | Muzzle Velocity (fps) | Muzzle Energy (ft-lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 150 | 3100 | 3700 |
| 180 | 2900 | 3600 |
| 200 | 2700 | 3900 |
Remington 710 300 Win Mag: Performance and Accuracy
The accuracy of a Remington 710 in .300 Win Mag can vary depending on individual rifles and ammunition used. While many users report satisfactory accuracy for hunting purposes within reasonable ranges, some might require adjustments or aftermarket upgrades to achieve optimal precision.
Factors Influencing Accuracy:
- Ammunition: Using high-quality, match-grade ammunition can significantly improve accuracy.
- Barrel Break-in: Properly breaking in the barrel is essential for maximizing accuracy. This typically involves firing several rounds and cleaning the barrel thoroughly between each group.
- Trigger Adjustment: Adjusting the trigger pull weight can result in a more consistent and precise trigger pull.
Case Study: A user reported consistently achieving 1.5 MOA (Minute of Angle) accuracy at 100 yards with handloaded ammunition after a thorough barrel break-in and trigger adjustment. This indicates a decent level of accuracy achievable with proper care and attention.
Pros and Cons of the Remington 710 300 Win Mag
Pros:
- Powerful Cartridge: The .300 Win Mag offers impressive stopping power for various hunting scenarios.
- Affordable (Used Market): Being discontinued, the Remington 710 is often available at a more budget-friendly price compared to newer models.
- Reliable Action: The bolt-action design is known for its smooth operation and reliable feeding.
- Versatility: Suitable for hunting various game animals.
Cons:
- Recoil: The .300 Win Mag's substantial recoil can be challenging for some shooters, especially those with less experience.
- Trigger: The factory trigger can sometimes be criticized for its heaviness and lack of crispness.
- Discontinued Model: Parts and support might be more difficult to find compared to currently produced rifles.
- Variable Accuracy: Accuracy can vary between individual rifles.
Is the Remington 710 300 Win Mag Right for You?
The Remington 710 in .300 Win Mag is a powerful hunting rifle with a lot to offer, particularly in the used market. It provides excellent stopping power in a manageable package. However, potential buyers should be aware of the significant recoil and the potential need for trigger work or other upgrades to maximize accuracy. If you're comfortable handling recoil, are willing to put in the time for adjustments, and are comfortable purchasing a used firearm, then this rifle might be a great choice. However, if you prefer a smoother, more refined shooting experience out of the box, other rifles might be better suited to your needs. Thorough research and testing before purchase are highly recommended.