The Remington 700 SPS Tactical in 6.5 Creedmoor has earned a solid reputation among shooters for its accuracy, versatility, and value. This isn't just another bolt-action rifle; it's a precision instrument designed for a range of applications, from long-range target shooting to hunting. This in-depth review will explore its key features, performance characteristics, and overall suitability for various shooting disciplines.
Understanding the Remington 700 SPS Tactical Platform
The Remington 700 action is legendary in the firearms world, known for its robust design and adaptability. The SPS Tactical builds on this foundation, incorporating features specifically tailored for precision shooting. This includes:
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Durable Action: The renowned Remington 700 action provides a reliable and consistent platform for accurate shot placement. Its robust construction can withstand the rigors of frequent use.
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Tactical Stock: The SPS Tactical boasts a typically synthetic stock designed for stability and ergonomics. It often features a comfortable pistol grip, adjustable length of pull, and a bedding system to enhance accuracy. Variations in stock design might exist across different production years.
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Free-Floating Barrel: A free-floating barrel is crucial for precision shooting. It prevents pressure from the stock from affecting barrel harmonics and impacting accuracy. The SPS Tactical's barrel is typically free-floated, contributing to its renowned accuracy.
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Threaded Barrel: The barrel is usually threaded, allowing for the easy attachment of muzzle brakes or suppressors to further enhance accuracy and reduce recoil. This is a significant advantage for long-range shooting and extended shooting sessions.
The 6.5 Creedmoor Cartridge: A Match Made in Heaven
The 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge is a perfect match for the Remington 700 SPS Tactical platform. Its characteristics contribute significantly to the rifle's overall performance:
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Exceptional Ballistic Coefficient: The 6.5 Creedmoor boasts a high ballistic coefficient, meaning its bullets retain velocity and accuracy over longer distances compared to some other calibers. This is paramount for long-range shooting.
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Reduced Recoil: The relatively lower recoil of the 6.5 Creedmoor makes it more comfortable to shoot, promoting better accuracy and faster follow-up shots.
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Flat Trajectory: The flat trajectory of the 6.5 Creedmoor simplifies aiming at longer ranges and reduces the need for significant elevation adjustments.
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Versatility: The 6.5 Creedmoor is suitable for both target shooting and hunting, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of applications.
Performance and Accuracy: What to Expect
The Remington 700 SPS Tactical in 6.5 Creedmoor is widely praised for its accuracy. While individual results may vary depending on factors such as ammunition, barrel break-in, and shooter skill, this rifle is capable of sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) accuracy with quality ammunition. This means that groups of shots at 100 yards will typically cluster within a one-inch diameter circle.
Considerations Before Purchase
While the Remington 700 SPS Tactical 6.5 Creedmoor is a highly regarded rifle, potential buyers should consider:
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Trigger: While generally good, some users might find the factory trigger requires improvement. A trigger upgrade might be considered to optimize performance for precision shooting.
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Optics: The rifle itself doesn't come with optics. Choosing a high-quality scope and mounting system is essential to realize the rifle's full accuracy potential.
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Ammunition: Consistent and high-quality ammunition is crucial for achieving the best accuracy. Experimentation might be required to find the ammunition that performs best in your specific rifle.
Conclusion: A Strong Contender in the Precision Rifle Market
The Remington 700 SPS Tactical 6.5 Creedmoor offers a compelling blend of accuracy, versatility, and value. Its robust design, coupled with the superb performance of the 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge, makes it a strong contender in the precision rifle market. While some minor adjustments or upgrades might be desirable, the rifle's inherent capabilities make it a worthy investment for both experienced shooters and those looking to step up their precision shooting game. It remains a popular and reliable choice for various shooting disciplines.
