The Remington 700 is a legendary rifle platform, renowned for its accuracy and adaptability. A crucial component contributing to its performance and versatility is the bottom metal. This seemingly simple part plays a vital role, impacting everything from magazine capacity and ease of reloading to the overall functionality and upgrade potential of your rifle. This guide will delve into the world of Remington 700 bottom metal, exploring its function, different types, and considerations for upgrading or replacing it.
Understanding Remington 700 Bottom Metal: Function and Importance
The bottom metal assembly of a Remington 700 houses the magazine and provides the interface between the magazine and the action. It's more than just a simple box; it's a critical component that ensures smooth, reliable feeding of ammunition. The quality of your bottom metal directly affects:
- Magazine Capacity: Different bottom metal options allow for varying magazine capacities, from standard 3-round configurations to high-capacity magazines holding up to 10 rounds (depending on the state laws and specific magazine type).
- Ease of Reloading: A well-designed bottom metal system facilitates quick and easy magazine changes, crucial in hunting or tactical scenarios.
- Accuracy: While not directly impacting bullet flight, a properly fitted and functioning bottom metal ensures consistent and reliable feeding, which is essential for maintaining accuracy.
- Customization: Upgrading your bottom metal opens up opportunities for customization, including adding detachable magazine functionality to older rifles, or upgrading to a more robust or ergonomic design.
Types of Remington 700 Bottom Metal
The Remington 700 bottom metal market offers a wide variety of options, catering to different needs and preferences. Here are some key types:
Factory Bottom Metal
Remington rifles typically come with factory bottom metal, usually designed for internal box magazines. These are generally reliable, but may have limitations in terms of capacity and upgradeability.
Aftermarket Bottom Metal
The aftermarket offers a vast selection of upgraded bottom metal options, providing significant advantages over factory components. These often include:
- Detachable Magazine Systems: These allow for quick and easy magazine changes, a significant advantage in dynamic situations. Popular brands include Magpul, Badger Ordnance, and others.
- Larger Capacity Magazines: Aftermarket bottom metal often supports larger capacity magazines, increasing your ammunition capacity without compromising functionality.
- Improved Durability: Some aftermarket options are constructed from stronger materials, offering enhanced durability and longevity.
- Enhanced Ergonomics: Some designs prioritize improved ergonomics, making magazine changes smoother and more intuitive.
Choosing the Right Remington 700 Bottom Metal
Selecting the right bottom metal for your Remington 700 depends on several factors:
- Intended Use: Are you primarily hunting, target shooting, or engaging in tactical applications? The ideal bottom metal will align with your specific needs.
- Magazine Capacity Requirements: Consider the legal magazine capacity limits in your area and your personal preferences.
- Budget: Aftermarket bottom metal varies considerably in price, ranging from moderately priced options to high-end, precision-engineered systems.
- Compatibility: Ensure that the bottom metal you choose is compatible with your specific Remington 700 action and model. Always check manufacturer specifications.
Installation and Considerations
Installing aftermarket bottom metal often requires some mechanical aptitude. While some installations are straightforward, others might necessitate gunsmithing skills. If you're not comfortable performing the installation yourself, seeking professional assistance from a qualified gunsmith is highly recommended.
This comprehensive guide provides a solid foundation for understanding the critical role of bottom metal in your Remington 700 rifle. Choosing the right bottom metal can significantly enhance your shooting experience, making your rifle more efficient, reliable, and adaptable to your specific needs. Remember to always prioritize safety and consult with a qualified gunsmith when necessary.
