The Remington 700 is a legendary rifle platform, known for its accuracy and reliability. But even a legendary rifle can benefit from an upgrade, and one of the most impactful upgrades you can make is replacing the stock. The right aftermarket stock can dramatically improve your shooting comfort, accuracy, and overall shooting experience. This guide dives deep into the world of Remington 700 aftermarket stocks, helping you navigate the options and choose the perfect one for your needs.
Why Upgrade Your Remington 700 Stock?
The factory stock on a Remington 700, while functional, often leaves much to be desired. Many shooters find the factory stock uncomfortable, lacking in adjustability, and ultimately hindering their accuracy. Upgrading to an aftermarket stock offers several key advantages:
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Improved Ergonomics: Aftermarket stocks often feature adjustable features like cheek rests, length of pull, and comb height, allowing you to customize the fit to your body for enhanced comfort and control. This translates to better shooting posture and reduced fatigue during long shooting sessions.
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Enhanced Accuracy: A more stable and rigid stock minimizes flex and vibration, leading to improved shot grouping and overall accuracy. Many high-end aftermarket stocks are made from materials like carbon fiber or aluminum bedding blocks for superior rigidity.
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Increased Customization: Aftermarket stocks come in a wide variety of styles, materials, and finishes, allowing you to personalize your rifle to match your aesthetic preferences and shooting style. You can choose stocks designed for specific shooting disciplines like hunting, tactical shooting, or long-range precision shooting.
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Added Features: Some aftermarket stocks incorporate features like integrated Picatinny rails for mounting accessories like scopes, bipods, or sling swivels, streamlining your setup and enhancing functionality.
Types of Remington 700 Aftermarket Stocks
The market offers a vast array of Remington 700 aftermarket stocks, each with its own unique features and benefits. Here are some of the most popular types:
1. Synthetic Stocks:
- Pros: Affordable, durable, lightweight, and often weather-resistant. Great for hunting and general shooting.
- Cons: May not offer the same level of rigidity as higher-end materials.
2. Wood Stocks:
- Pros: Classic look, often provide a good balance of weight, feel, and rigidity. Many variations available in different wood types and finishes.
- Cons: Can be more expensive than synthetic stocks and require more care to maintain.
3. Carbon Fiber Stocks:
- Pros: Extremely lightweight, incredibly rigid, and provide superior vibration dampening for improved accuracy.
- Cons: Typically the most expensive option.
4. Aluminum Chassis Systems:
- Pros: Extremely rigid, offer numerous mounting points for accessories, and provide excellent stability. Often used in precision shooting applications.
- Cons: Can be heavy and more expensive.
Choosing the Right Aftermarket Stock
Selecting the right aftermarket stock depends heavily on your individual needs and shooting style. Consider the following factors:
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Your Budget: Prices range significantly, from a few hundred dollars to well over a thousand.
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Shooting Discipline: A stock ideal for hunting might not be suitable for long-range precision shooting.
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Personal Preferences: Consider factors like weight, ergonomics, and aesthetics.
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Level of Adjustability: Determine how much adjustability you need in terms of cheek rest, length of pull, and comb height.
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Compatibility: Ensure the stock is compatible with your specific Remington 700 model (e.g., 700 SPS, 700 Police, etc.). Some stocks require additional bedding or fitting.
Installation and Bedding
Installing a new stock can range from straightforward to complex, depending on the stock and your skill level. Some stocks are designed for easy drop-in installation, while others may require professional fitting and bedding for optimal accuracy. Bedding involves filling the gaps between the stock and the receiver to create a solid, consistent interface, significantly enhancing accuracy. Always consult the manufacturer's instructions and consider seeking professional help if you lack the necessary experience.
Conclusion
Upgrading your Remington 700 with an aftermarket stock is a worthwhile investment for any serious shooter. By carefully considering your needs and researching the available options, you can significantly enhance your shooting experience and improve your accuracy. Remember to prioritize quality, fit, and compatibility to ensure a successful upgrade.
