The Remington 700 is a legendary name in the world of bolt-action rifles, renowned for its accuracy, reliability, and adaptability. Within the Remington 700 family, the short action variant holds a special place, offering a compelling choice for a wide range of hunting applications. This comprehensive guide delves into the specifics of the Remington 700 short action, exploring its features, benefits, suitable cartridges, and overall suitability for different hunting scenarios.
Understanding the Remington 700 Short Action
The "action" of a bolt-action rifle refers to the core mechanism—the receiver, bolt, and related parts—that control the firing cycle. A short action is designed to accommodate cartridges with shorter overall lengths. This translates to a more compact and often lighter rifle, making it easier to handle and maneuver in various hunting situations. The shorter action also generally means less recoil, which improves shooter comfort and follow-up shot capabilities.
Cartridges Compatible with the Remington 700 Short Action
The Remington 700 short action's versatility shines through its compatibility with a broad spectrum of popular hunting cartridges. Some of the most common include:
- .223 Remington: A highly versatile round ideal for varmints and smaller game. Its relatively low recoil makes it a great choice for new shooters.
- .243 Winchester: A popular all-around cartridge effective on deer-sized game and offering excellent accuracy at longer ranges.
- 6.5 Creedmoor: A rapidly growing favorite among hunters, prized for its flat trajectory, low recoil, and excellent performance on medium-sized game.
- .270 Winchester Short Magnum: A powerful short magnum cartridge offering a balance between knockdown power and manageable recoil, suitable for larger game.
- 7mm-08 Remington: Another excellent all-around cartridge capable of taking deer and other medium-sized game.
- .308 Winchester: A classic and highly versatile cartridge known for its accuracy, power, and widespread availability of ammunition.
Advantages of Choosing a Remington 700 Short Action
Several key advantages make the Remington 700 short action a compelling choice for hunters:
- Reduced Weight and Size: The shorter action translates to a more compact and lighter rifle, enhancing maneuverability in the field, especially crucial in challenging terrain.
- Lower Recoil: The shorter action often results in less recoil, improving shooter comfort and enabling faster follow-up shots.
- Wide Cartridge Selection: The compatibility with a variety of cartridges allows hunters to select the optimal round for their specific needs and game.
- Accuracy and Reliability: The Remington 700's reputation for accuracy and reliability extends to the short action models, providing hunters with confidence in their equipment.
- Aftermarket Support: The immense popularity of the Remington 700 means a vast selection of aftermarket accessories, stocks, and upgrades are readily available.
Considerations When Selecting a Remington 700 Short Action
While the Remington 700 short action offers many advantages, certain factors should be considered:
- Intended Game: The choice of cartridge is crucial. Ensure the selected cartridge is suitable for the game you intend to hunt.
- Shooting Experience: New shooters may find cartridges with lower recoil, such as the .223 Remington or .243 Winchester, more manageable.
- Budget: Prices can vary depending on the specific model, features, and accessories.
Conclusion: The Remington 700 Short Action – A Versatile and Reliable Choice
The Remington 700 short action represents a strong contender in the world of hunting rifles. Its combination of manageable size, reduced recoil, wide cartridge selection, and inherent accuracy makes it a versatile and reliable tool for a broad range of hunting scenarios. By carefully considering the factors outlined above, hunters can choose a Remington 700 short action perfectly tailored to their individual needs and hunting style. Remember to always prioritize safety and responsible hunting practices.
