Replacing the barrel on a Remington 700 in .308 caliber, especially to add threading, is a significant undertaking. It requires specialized tools, a solid understanding of firearms mechanics, and a safe workspace. This guide provides a detailed overview of the process, emphasizing safety and precision throughout. This information is for educational purposes only. Always prioritize safety and consult with a qualified gunsmith if you lack experience.
Why Replace a Remington 700 Barrel?
Several reasons might prompt a Remington 700 .308 barrel replacement:
- Thread Addition: Adding threading to the barrel allows for the attachment of suppressors or muzzle brakes, enhancing shooting experience and potentially reducing recoil.
- Barrel Wear: Over time, barrels wear out, leading to decreased accuracy and potentially affecting bullet velocity.
- Caliber Change: Switching to a different caliber requires a barrel replacement.
- Upgrade: Replacing with a higher-quality barrel can improve accuracy and overall performance.
Tools and Materials Needed for Remington 700 Barrel Replacement:
This is not an exhaustive list, and specific tools might vary slightly depending on the barrel and action. Always consult the instructions provided with your specific tools and barrel.
- Action Wrench: Specifically designed for your Remington 700 action.
- Barrel Vise: A properly sized vise to securely hold the barrel during the process. Improper clamping can damage the barrel.
- Headspace Gauge: Essential for ensuring proper headspace after the barrel installation. Incorrect headspace can lead to dangerous malfunctions.
- Go/No-Go Gauges: Used to check the chamber dimensions to ensure they are within specifications.
- Torque Wrench: Crucial for applying the correct torque to the barrel nut. Over-tightening can damage the action.
- Cleaning Supplies: Thoroughly clean the action and new barrel before assembly.
- New Remington 700 .308 Barrel (with desired threading): Ensure it’s compatible with your specific Remington 700 action.
- Thread Protector (if desired): Protects the threads when not using a suppressor or muzzle device.
- Action screws: You may need new action screws depending on the new barrel's specifications.
- Safety Glasses and Hearing Protection: Absolutely essential for all firearm-related work.
Step-by-Step Remington 700 Barrel Replacement Process:
This is a simplified overview. Detailed instructions and safety precautions should always be obtained from a qualified gunsmith or reputable firearm resources. Improper assembly can render the firearm unsafe.
- Safety First: Unloaded firearm! Ensure the action is completely disassembled and the chamber is empty. Double-check!
- Action Removal: Remove the existing barrel from the receiver using the action wrench.
- Barrel Removal: Carefully remove the old barrel from the action.
- Cleaning: Thoroughly clean the receiver and barrel threads.
- New Barrel Installation: Carefully install the new threaded barrel into the receiver, ensuring proper alignment.
- Torque Application: Tighten the barrel nut using the torque wrench, applying the manufacturer's recommended torque specification.
- Headspace Check: This is crucial! Use the headspace gauge to verify proper headspace. If headspace is incorrect, seek professional help immediately.
- Final Assembly: Complete the final assembly of the firearm, ensuring all parts are properly installed.
- Function Check: After reassembly, function check the firearm (dry firing, not live ammunition) to verify the action cycles correctly.
- Professional Inspection: Consider having the completed firearm inspected by a qualified gunsmith to ensure its safety and proper function.
Choosing a Threaded Barrel for Your Remington 700 .308:
When choosing a replacement barrel, consider factors like:
- Manufacturer Reputation: Select reputable manufacturers known for quality and accuracy.
- Barrel Profile: Different profiles (e.g., heavy, sporter, varmint) affect weight, balance, and heat dissipation.
- Thread Pitch: Ensure the thread pitch matches your chosen suppressor or muzzle device.
- Material: Stainless steel is common and relatively durable. Chrome moly offers high strength.
Conclusion:
Replacing a Remington 700 .308 barrel, especially to add threading, is a specialized task best left to experienced gunsmiths unless you possess the necessary skills and tools. This guide provides a basic overview, but safety and accuracy must always be prioritized. Improper assembly can result in serious injury or death. Always consult a professional for any doubts or uncertainties.
