The Remington 700 SPS Tactical in .308 Winchester is a popular choice among long-range shooters and hunters seeking a reliable, accurate, and versatile rifle. This in-depth review will explore its features, performance, strengths, and weaknesses, helping you determine if it's the right fit for your needs.
Design and Features: A Blend of Tactical and Practical
The Remington 700 SPS Tactical boasts a design that balances tactical aesthetics with practical functionality. Its key features include:
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Heavy Barrel: The free-floating, heavy barrel contributes significantly to enhanced accuracy and reduced barrel whip, essential for precision shooting at longer ranges. The heavier profile also helps manage heat buildup during extended firing sessions.
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Synthetic Stock: The durable, typically black synthetic stock is both lightweight and robust, providing a stable platform for shooting. Its design usually incorporates a textured grip for improved handling and control, even in adverse conditions.
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Adjustable Trigger: While the exact trigger pull weight can vary, the Remington 700 SPS Tactical generally features an adjustable trigger, allowing shooters to customize the pull weight to their preference for optimal performance. A crisp, clean trigger break is crucial for accuracy.
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Picatinny Rail: The inclusion of a Picatinny rail on the receiver allows for easy mounting of scopes and other accessories, facilitating customization and enhancing shooting capabilities.
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DBM ( Detachable Box Magazine): The detachable box magazine facilitates quick and easy reloading, a crucial feature for tactical or hunting situations where speed and efficiency are paramount.
Performance and Accuracy: On the Range
The Remington 700 SPS Tactical's accuracy is generally considered to be excellent for a factory rifle. With high-quality ammunition, consistent grouping at longer ranges is achievable. However, individual rifles can exhibit slight variations in accuracy due to manufacturing tolerances. Factors influencing accuracy include:
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Ammunition: The type and quality of ammunition significantly impact accuracy. Experimentation with different brands and bullet weights is recommended to find the optimal load for your specific rifle.
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Scope and Mounting: The quality of the scope and its mounting system are crucial for achieving consistent accuracy. A high-quality scope with proper mounting ensures that the scope's point of impact aligns precisely with the rifle's point of aim.
Strengths and Weaknesses: A Balanced Perspective
Strengths:
- Accuracy: Generally known for its excellent accuracy potential.
- Versatility: Suitable for both hunting and long-range shooting applications.
- Reliability: Remington 700 actions have a long-standing reputation for reliability.
- Customization: The Picatinny rail allows for easy customization with various scopes and accessories.
- Value: Provides a good balance of features and performance for its price point.
Weaknesses:
- Trigger: While adjustable, the factory trigger might not be ideal for all shooters and may require further refinement or replacement for optimal performance.
- Stock: While durable, the synthetic stock may not be as aesthetically pleasing to all users compared to wooden stocks found on other models.
- Individual Variation: Accuracy can vary from rifle to rifle.
Conclusion: A Solid Choice for the Discerning Shooter
The Remington 700 SPS Tactical .308 Win is a capable and versatile rifle that offers excellent accuracy and reliability at a competitive price. While some minor adjustments or upgrades may be desired by certain shooters, its overall performance and features make it a strong contender in its class. Potential buyers should carefully consider their specific needs and preferences before making a purchase. Thorough research, including checking independent reviews and firsthand accounts from other users, is strongly advised before any purchasing decision. Remember to always practice safe firearm handling and follow all applicable laws and regulations.
