The Remington 700 SPS Stainless has long been a staple in the bolt-action rifle market, appealing to both seasoned hunters and novice shooters. This review delves into the features, performance, and overall value of this popular rifle, offering a comprehensive assessment to help you decide if it's the right choice for you.
Key Features of the Remington 700 SPS Stainless
The Remington 700 SPS Stainless boasts several features that contribute to its enduring popularity:
-
Durable Stainless Steel Construction: The stainless steel receiver and barrel offer superior resistance to corrosion and the elements, making it ideal for hunting in various conditions. This significantly increases the rifle's lifespan and reduces the need for meticulous cleaning and maintenance.
-
Durable Synthetic Stock: The synthetic stock is lightweight, weather-resistant, and provides a solid platform for accurate shooting. While not as aesthetically pleasing to some as wood, its practicality and durability are undeniable advantages.
-
Remington 700 Action: The heart of the rifle is the renowned Remington 700 action, known for its reliability, smooth operation, and ease of maintenance. This action is widely considered one of the best in the industry, a testament to its robust design and precision engineering.
-
Versatile Caliber Options: The Remington 700 SPS Stainless is available in a wide range of popular calibers, catering to diverse shooting applications, from hunting big game to target shooting. This versatility makes it a highly adaptable rifle for various needs.
-
Three-Position Safety: The three-position safety allows for safe handling and manipulation while maintaining a smooth and intuitive operation.
Performance and Accuracy
The accuracy of the Remington 700 SPS Stainless is generally praised, offering acceptable performance for most shooting scenarios. While individual rifles may vary slightly, most shooters report good accuracy with factory ammunition. However, it's crucial to note that achieving optimal accuracy often requires finding the right ammunition for your specific barrel. Experimentation with different brands and types of ammunition is highly recommended to determine the best load for your individual rifle.
Pros and Cons
Pros:
- Durable Construction: The stainless steel and synthetic stock provide excellent resistance to the elements.
- Reliable Action: The Remington 700 action is renowned for its smooth operation and reliability.
- Versatile Caliber Options: The rifle is available in a variety of calibers to suit diverse needs.
- Affordable Price: Compared to some high-end rifles, the Remington 700 SPS Stainless offers excellent value for its features and performance.
- Easy to Maintain: The durable construction and relatively simple design make maintenance straightforward.
Cons:
- Trigger: The factory trigger can be somewhat heavy and could benefit from an upgrade for enhanced precision shooting. Many shooters opt for an aftermarket trigger for improved performance.
- Stock: While durable, the synthetic stock may not be aesthetically pleasing to all shooters. Aftermarket stocks are available for those seeking a more refined look and feel.
- Potential for Variation: Like any mass-produced firearm, there can be some variation in accuracy and performance between individual rifles.
Who is the Remington 700 SPS Stainless For?
This rifle is a strong contender for various shooters:
- Hunters: Its durability, reliability, and versatile caliber options make it an excellent choice for hunting in diverse conditions.
- Target Shooters: While not a dedicated precision rifle, the Remington 700 SPS Stainless provides acceptable accuracy for target practice.
- New Shooters: Its ease of use and relatively affordable price make it a good option for those new to bolt-action rifles.
Conclusion: A Solid Choice for Value and Reliability
The Remington 700 SPS Stainless delivers a solid combination of durability, reliability, and affordability. While some minor upgrades might be desired by serious precision shooters, the rifle's performance and value generally exceed expectations. If you're searching for a versatile and dependable bolt-action rifle, the Remington 700 SPS Stainless is certainly worth considering. Remember to always practice safe firearm handling and consult with a firearms expert before purchasing any firearm.
