The Remington 700 is a legendary bolt-action rifle, renowned for its accuracy and adaptability. Its popularity has spawned a vast aftermarket, offering numerous conversion options to tailor the rifle to specific needs. This guide delves into the world of REM 700 magazine conversions, exploring various aspects, from understanding the different magazine types to the practical considerations of undertaking such a conversion.
Understanding REM 700 Magazine Types
Before diving into conversions, understanding the different REM 700 magazine types is crucial. Factory Remington 700s typically come with detachable box magazines, but the specifics vary considerably depending on the caliber and model. These include:
- Short Action Magazines: Designed for shorter cartridges like .223 Remington, .243 Winchester, and 7mm-08 Remington.
- Long Action Magazines: Used for longer cartridges like .30-06 Springfield, .300 Winchester Magnum, and .300 Weatherby Magnum.
- Magnum-Length Magazines: Specifically designed for magnum cartridges, offering increased capacity.
The choice of magazine significantly impacts the potential for conversion, as certain modifications may be more suitable for specific magazine types.
Why Convert Your REM 700 Magazine?
There are several compelling reasons to consider a REM 700 magazine conversion:
- Increased Capacity: Converting to a higher-capacity magazine allows for more shots before reloading, an advantage in hunting or competitive shooting.
- Caliber Change: Conversion enables a change of caliber without purchasing a completely new rifle. This is particularly attractive if you want to adapt your rifle to different hunting situations or target shooting disciplines.
- Improved Reliability: Some aftermarket magazines offer superior reliability and feeding compared to factory magazines.
- Customization: Converting to a different magazine system allows for increased customization options, potentially improving the ergonomics and functionality of the rifle.
Types of REM 700 Magazine Conversions
The scope of a REM 700 magazine conversion varies significantly. Some popular conversion paths include:
1. Upgrading to a Higher-Capacity Magazine
This involves simply replacing the existing magazine with a higher-capacity aftermarket option designed for the same caliber. This is generally a straightforward process, requiring minimal modification or gunsmithing.
2. Changing Calibers Through Magazine Conversion
This is a more complex undertaking, often requiring the fitting of a new magazine well and potentially barrel changes. The level of difficulty and necessary expertise depend heavily on the specifics of the original and desired calibers. Consult with a qualified gunsmith to ensure proper fit and functionality.
3. Converting to a Different Magazine System
This might involve switching from a detachable box magazine to a fixed magazine, or vice versa. This requires a more extensive modification, necessitating expertise in gunsmithing and potentially specialized tooling.
Considerations Before Conversion
Before embarking on a REM 700 magazine conversion, several critical factors should be considered:
- Legal Compliance: Always ensure your planned conversion complies with all applicable local, state, and federal laws and regulations.
- Gunsmith Expertise: If the conversion involves significant modifications, it is crucial to seek the services of a qualified and experienced gunsmith. Attempting such conversions without proper skills can compromise the rifle's safety and functionality.
- Cost: The cost of the conversion can vary widely, depending on the complexity of the modification and the cost of parts.
- Compatibility: Ensure that all chosen components are compatible with your specific REM 700 model.
Conclusion
A REM 700 magazine conversion can significantly enhance your rifle's performance and versatility. However, careful planning and consideration of the factors discussed above are essential to ensure a safe, successful, and legally compliant outcome. Remember to always prioritize safety and seek professional help when necessary. This information is for educational purposes only and should not be construed as professional gunsmithing advice. Always consult a qualified gunsmith before undertaking any modifications to your firearm.
