The Remington 700, a legendary platform in the world of bolt-action rifles, finds a formidable match in the potent 338 Lapua Magnum cartridge. This combination, the Rem 700 338 Lapua, represents a serious contender for long-range precision shooting, hunting extreme game, and competitive shooting disciplines. This in-depth article explores the nuances of this powerful pairing, delving into its capabilities, modifications, and considerations for potential owners.
The Remington 700 Action: A Foundation of Strength
The Remington 700 action has stood the test of time, proving itself reliable and accurate across countless applications. Its push-feed system, while sometimes debated, ensures smooth operation and reliable feeding, crucial in high-pressure cartridges like the 338 Lapua. The three-lug design provides robust locking, contributing to the rifle's exceptional accuracy potential. Many aftermarket parts and modifications are available, allowing for extensive customization to tailor the rifle to individual needs and preferences. This makes the Remington 700 an incredibly versatile platform that is readily adaptable to the demands of the 338 Lapua.
Key Features of the Remington 700 Action:
- Three-Lug Bolt: Provides strong, reliable locking.
- Push-Feed System: Generally reliable, though some shooters prefer controlled-round feed actions.
- Widely Available Parts: Extensive aftermarket support for customization and upgrades.
- Proven Reliability: Decades of use have proven the action's durability and reliability.
The 338 Lapua Magnum: A Cartridge Built for Distance
The 338 Lapua Magnum isn't just powerful; it's designed for extreme range. Its large case capacity allows for the use of heavy bullets at high velocities, resulting in exceptional downrange energy and trajectory. This makes it ideal for long-range target shooting, hunting large and dangerous game at extreme ranges, and military applications demanding exceptional accuracy and stopping power.
Ballistic Advantages of the 338 Lapua Magnum:
- High Muzzle Velocity: Leads to flat trajectory and extended effective range.
- Heavy Bullet Weight: Provides high ballistic coefficient for reduced wind drift.
- Exceptional Energy Retention: Maintains substantial energy at extreme ranges.
- Precise Accuracy: Capable of sub-MOA accuracy with proper ammunition and setup.
Rem 700 338 Lapua: A Synergistic Combination
The marriage of the Remington 700 action and the 338 Lapua Magnum cartridge creates a potent long-range system. The robust action handles the high recoil effectively, while the accuracy potential of both components combines to deliver impressive precision at extended ranges. However, this combination demands careful attention to several key factors.
Factors to Consider:
- Recoil Management: The significant recoil of the 338 Lapua necessitates a recoil pad and proper shooting technique to maintain accuracy and comfort. A muzzle brake can mitigate recoil, but often comes with increased noise and blast.
- Scope Selection: A high-quality, long-range scope with sufficient magnification and clarity is crucial for taking advantage of the cartridge's potential.
- Ammunition Selection: Choosing the right ammunition is vital for accuracy and consistent performance. Factors like bullet weight, bullet type, and powder charge all affect the rifle's performance.
- Maintenance: Regular cleaning and maintenance are essential to ensure the rifle's continued reliability and accuracy. The high pressures generated by the 338 Lapua require thorough cleaning after each shooting session.
Modifications and Upgrades
Many modifications can enhance the performance and shootability of a Rem 700 338 Lapua. These often include:
- Aftermarket Stocks: Replacing the factory stock with a more ergonomic and stable stock designed for long-range shooting can significantly improve accuracy and comfort.
- Muzzle Brakes: As mentioned, these reduce felt recoil but often increase noise.
- Triggers: Upgrading to a lighter, crisper trigger can improve accuracy.
- Action Bedding: Proper bedding ensures the action is firmly and consistently mounted in the stock, improving accuracy.
Case Studies and Real-World Performance
Several notable instances showcase the capabilities of the Rem 700 338 Lapua. Long-range competitions frequently feature this setup, with shooters consistently demonstrating impressive accuracy at distances exceeding 1,000 yards. In hunting applications, it's a favored choice for ethically harvesting large game at considerable ranges, minimizing suffering by ensuring a clean, quick kill. However, responsible and ethical hunting practices, including knowledge of trajectory and ballistic performance, are always paramount.
Conclusion: A Force to be Reckoned With
The Rem 700 338 Lapua represents a powerful and precise long-range system. Its combination of a robust action and a potent cartridge makes it suitable for various applications, from competitive shooting to hunting the largest game. However, responsible ownership and understanding of its capabilities are crucial for safe and effective use. Careful consideration of factors such as recoil management, scope selection, and ammunition choice are essential for maximizing the rifle's potential.