Choosing between a Remington 700 long action and short action rifle hinges entirely on the cartridge you intend to use. This seemingly simple decision impacts everything from accuracy and potential for upgrades to the overall balance and feel of your firearm. Understanding the differences is crucial for making the right choice.
Understanding Action Length in Remington 700 Rifles
The "action" refers to the heart of the rifle – the part containing the bolt, receiver, and mechanism for feeding and firing cartridges. Action length is determined by the length of the cartridge it's designed to handle. A longer cartridge requires a longer action to allow for proper feeding and extraction. This is the fundamental distinction between long and short actions in the Remington 700 platform.
Short Action Remington 700:
The Remington 700 short action is designed for cartridges with shorter overall lengths. These generally include popular hunting rounds like:
- .223 Remington: A versatile and widely used round for varmints and smaller game.
- .243 Winchester: Excellent for deer and other medium-sized game.
- .308 Winchester: A powerful and accurate cartridge suitable for a wide range of applications, from hunting to target shooting.
- 7mm-08 Remington: Another excellent choice for deer hunting, known for its manageable recoil.
- .260 Remington: Increasingly popular for its accuracy and mild recoil, suitable for deer and other medium-sized game.
The shorter action provides a more compact and often lighter rifle, making it easier to handle, particularly for extended periods.
Long Action Remington 700:
The Remington 700 long action accommodates longer cartridges, often those with greater power and intended for larger game. Popular long-action cartridges include:
- .300 Winchester Magnum: A powerful cartridge used for larger game such as elk and moose.
- 7mm Remington Magnum: Similar in power and application to the .300 Win Mag.
- .338 Winchester Magnum: A very powerful cartridge used for large and dangerous game.
- 30-06 Springfield: A classic and versatile round suitable for a variety of game.
- .270 Winchester: Another time-tested cartridge for medium to large game.
Long-action rifles tend to be slightly heavier due to the larger action and often more powerful cartridges, contributing to a more substantial recoil.
Key Differences and Considerations:
| Feature | Short Action | Long Action |
|---|---|---|
| Cartridge Length | Shorter cartridges | Longer cartridges |
| Weight | Generally lighter and more compact | Generally heavier and less compact |
| Recoil | Generally less recoil | Generally more recoil |
| Applications | Varmints, smaller to medium-sized game | Medium to large game, long-range shooting |
| Cost | Often slightly less expensive (initially) | Often slightly more expensive (initially) |
Beyond Cartridge Choice: Other Factors to Consider
While cartridge selection is paramount, other factors influence your decision:
- Intended Use: What will you primarily use the rifle for? Hunting? Target shooting? Long-range shooting? This will guide your cartridge choice.
- Personal Preferences: How does the rifle feel in your hands? A proper fit is essential for comfortable and accurate shooting.
- Budget: While initial costs differ slightly, consider the long-term costs of ammunition.
Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
Selecting between a Remington 700 short action and long action is a crucial step in acquiring the right rifle for your needs. Carefully consider the cartridges you plan to use, your intended application, and your personal preferences. Doing your homework beforehand will ensure you make a well-informed decision and enjoy your Remington 700 for years to come.
