The Remington 700, a cornerstone of American firearm history, finds a potent pairing with the .338 Lapua Magnum cartridge. This combination represents a formidable platform for long-range precision shooting, attracting both seasoned marksmen and ambitious newcomers to the world of extreme-distance accuracy. This in-depth look will explore the strengths, weaknesses, and considerations surrounding the Remington 700 chambered in .338 Lapua Magnum.
The Powerhouse Cartridge: .338 Lapua Magnum
The .338 Lapua Magnum isn't just a cartridge; it's a statement. Its immense power, derived from its substantial case capacity and typically heavy projectiles, enables extreme range and energy retention. This makes it a favorite for long-range target shooting, hunting large game at extended distances, and even specialized military applications. Understanding its capabilities is crucial to understanding the platform as a whole.
Key Characteristics of the .338 Lapua Magnum:
- Exceptional Ballistic Coefficient: The .338 Lapua Magnum boasts high ballistic coefficients (BC), meaning its bullets retain velocity and accuracy over significantly longer distances than many other calibers.
- High Energy Retention: The substantial energy delivered at the target, even at extreme ranges, ensures effective shot placement and lethality.
- Powerful Recoil: The sheer power comes at a cost – significant recoil. This requires a robust rifle and experienced handling to manage effectively.
- Ammunition Cost: .338 Lapua Magnum ammunition is generally more expensive than other calibers due to the specialized manufacturing involved.
Remington 700: A Proven Platform
The Remington 700 action is renowned for its accuracy, reliability, and customizability. Its robust design and widely available aftermarket parts make it an ideal platform for building a high-precision .338 Lapua Magnum rifle. However, it's important to note that the .338 Lapua Magnum's recoil necessitates specific considerations when using this action.
Key Considerations for a Remington 700 in .338 Lapua Magnum:
- Action Strength: While the Remington 700 action is sturdy, the intense pressures generated by the .338 Lapua Magnum demand meticulous attention to its condition and proper maintenance. Regular inspections and professional servicing are strongly recommended.
- Stock and Bedding: A high-quality, rigid stock with appropriate bedding is paramount to minimize movement and maximize accuracy. A poorly fitted stock can significantly impact precision. Consider stocks specifically designed to handle the recoil of this cartridge.
- Barrel Selection: The barrel is critical for accuracy and longevity. Heavier barrels help mitigate recoil and provide better heat dissipation during extended shooting sessions. Barrel length is also a crucial factor, influencing velocity and trajectory. Longer barrels generally yield higher velocities.
- Trigger: A crisp, adjustable trigger is essential for consistent and accurate shot placement. Many shooters opt for aftermarket triggers to enhance their Remington 700's performance in this regard.
Building a Precision Rifle: Beyond the Basics
Simply purchasing a Remington 700 in .338 Lapua Magnum isn't enough to guarantee accuracy. Optimizing this rifle requires meticulous attention to detail:
- Professional Stock Bedding: Ensure the stock is properly bedded to the action for a solid, consistent platform.
- Scope Selection: A high-quality, long-range scope with sufficient magnification is critical.
- Ammunition Selection: Experimenting with different ammunition types and loads is necessary to determine the optimal combination for your specific rifle.
- Consistent Loading Procedures: Maintaining consistency in ammunition loading and handling is paramount for accuracy.
Conclusion: A Powerful Combination with Responsibilities
The Remington 700 in .338 Lapua Magnum offers unparalleled long-range capability. However, this potent combination demands respect and expertise. Understanding the cartridge's power, carefully selecting components, and investing time in practice are crucial for safe and accurate shooting. Only those committed to diligent preparation and responsible firearm handling should consider this powerful platform. This isn't a rifle for casual shooters; it's a precision instrument for those dedicated to long-range accuracy.
