Replacing the barrel on a Remington 700 in .308 Winchester, especially to add threading, is a significant undertaking demanding precision and the right tools. This guide provides a detailed walkthrough, focusing on safety and accuracy. Disclaimer: This information is for educational purposes only. Improper firearm handling can lead to serious injury or death. Always consult with a qualified gunsmith if you lack experience.
Why Replace a Remington 700 Barrel?
Several reasons might prompt a Remington 700 .308 barrel replacement:
- Accuracy Issues: A worn or damaged barrel will inevitably impact accuracy. Consistent poor grouping is a strong indicator.
- Thread Addition: Adding threads to the barrel allows the use of suppressors or muzzle brakes, enhancing performance and reducing recoil.
- Caliber Change: You might want to change the caliber of your rifle, requiring a barrel swap.
- Barrel Wear: Even with proper maintenance, barrels eventually wear out, affecting accuracy and performance.
Tools and Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather all necessary tools and materials. This is not an exhaustive list, but it covers the essentials:
- Action Wrench: Specifically designed for Remington 700 actions, preventing damage.
- Barrel Vise: Essential for securely holding the barrel during the process. A dedicated gunsmithing vise is recommended.
- Torque Wrench: Crucial for tightening the barrel nut to the manufacturer's specifications. Incorrect torque can lead to damage or unsafe operation.
- Headspace Gauges: Absolutely critical to ensure correct headspace after barrel installation. Incorrect headspace can cause catastrophic failure.
- Go/No-Go Gauges: These gauges are specifically for checking headspace, ensuring the cartridge fits snugly but doesn't cause excessive pressure.
- New Remington 700 .308 Barrel (Threaded): Select a barrel from a reputable manufacturer, ensuring it's compatible with your action and chambering.
- Action Cleaning Kit: Thoroughly clean the receiver before reassembly.
- Thread Protector (if applicable): Protect the threads when not using a suppressor or muzzle device.
- Gunsmithing Tools: This may include specialized punches, screwdrivers, and other tools depending on your specific needs.
- Safety Glasses and Hearing Protection: Always prioritize safety!
Step-by-Step Barrel Replacement Process
This process is simplified for brevity. Consult a professional gunsmithing manual for complete details.
1. Disassembly: Carefully remove the bolt and trigger group from your Remington 700 action. Consult your firearm's manual for proper disassembly procedures.
2. Barrel Removal: Secure the action in the barrel vise, carefully supporting the receiver. Using the action wrench, loosen and remove the barrel nut. Remove the old barrel.
3. New Barrel Installation: Carefully install the new threaded barrel into the receiver, ensuring it is properly aligned. Tighten the barrel nut using the torque wrench to the manufacturer's specified torque.
4. Headspace Check: This is the most crucial step. Use headspace gauges to ensure the chamber dimensions are correct. Incorrect headspace can cause catastrophic failure, rendering the rifle unsafe. If the headspace is not correct, seek professional help immediately.
5. Reassembly: Reassemble the trigger group and bolt back into the action.
6. Test Firing: After reassembly, test-fire the rifle at a safe range, paying close attention to accuracy and function. Start with smaller groups of ammunition and incrementally increase the amount of rounds fired to identify potential problems early.
Choosing the Right Threaded Barrel
Selecting the right barrel is vital. Consider:
- Barrel Length: Different barrel lengths affect ballistics and accuracy. Shorter barrels offer maneuverability, while longer barrels often provide increased accuracy and velocity.
- Twist Rate: The twist rate dictates how quickly the bullet spins, influencing stability and accuracy. Choose a twist rate appropriate for the bullet weight you intend to use.
- Profile: The barrel profile affects weight, balance, and heat dissipation. Different profiles are suited to different applications.
- Manufacturer: Reputable manufacturers prioritize quality control, ensuring a well-made, accurate barrel.
Conclusion
Replacing a Remington 700 .308 barrel, particularly to add threading, is a complex procedure requiring skill, precision, and the right tools. Improper execution can lead to serious consequences. If you're uncomfortable performing this task, always consult a qualified gunsmith. Your safety and the firearm's integrity are paramount. Remember to always follow safe gun handling practices.
