The Remington 700 has long held a revered position among precision rifle enthusiasts. Its robust action, adaptability, and accuracy have made it a staple for hunting, target shooting, and even long-range competition. The collaboration between Remington and Magpul, resulting in the Remington 700 Magpul Hunter X-223, brings a modern, tactical aesthetic and enhanced features to this classic platform. This review delves into the performance, features, and overall value of this popular rifle.
Out-of-the-Box Impressions: A Blend of Classic and Modern
Upon unpacking the Remington 700 Magpul Hunter X-223, the first thing you notice is the striking Magpul PRS Gen 3 stock. This isn't your grandfather's hunting rifle; the stock boasts adjustable length of pull, cheek rest height, and comb angle, allowing for a truly customizable and comfortable shooting experience. The integration with the Remington 700 action is seamless, providing a solid and stable platform. The inclusion of Magpul's renowned ergonomic features instantly elevates the shooting experience beyond what a standard Remington 700 offers.
The X-223's free-floating, cold hammer-forged barrel ensures exceptional accuracy and consistency, a characteristic that Remington 700s are known for. The barrel's profile is designed for optimal balance and heat dissipation, preventing overheating during extended shooting sessions. The 223 Remington caliber is versatile and readily available, making ammunition acquisition straightforward.
On the Range: Accuracy and Performance
The real test of any rifle lies in its performance on the range. The Remington 700 Magpul Hunter X-223 consistently delivered sub-MOA accuracy in our testing using high-quality ammunition. This level of precision is expected from a rifle of this caliber and price point. The adjustable stock allowed for a personalized fit, significantly improving both comfort and accuracy. The free-floating barrel contributed to consistent groupings, minimizing the impact of hand pressure on the barrel. Recoil was manageable, even for less experienced shooters, thanks to the well-designed stock.
Features and Upgrades: What Sets it Apart
Beyond the Magpul PRS stock, the Remington 700 Magpul Hunter X-223 incorporates several key features that enhance its usability and versatility:
- Magpul PRS Gen 3 Stock: As previously mentioned, this adjustable stock is a game-changer, providing unparalleled comfort and customization.
- Cold Hammer-Forged Barrel: This manufacturing process results in a highly durable and accurate barrel with exceptional longevity.
- Free-Floating Barrel: Ensures consistent accuracy by minimizing barrel vibrations caused by hand pressure.
- Remington 700 Action: The proven reliability and accuracy of the Remington 700 action are the foundation of this rifle's performance.
While the rifle comes equipped with a standard trigger, many users opt to upgrade to an aftermarket trigger for enhanced performance and adjustability. This is a common modification for Remington 700s aiming for higher levels of precision.
Who is the Remington 700 Magpul Hunter X-223 For?
This rifle is ideally suited for several types of shooters:
- Long-range shooters: The accuracy and adjustable stock make it a great choice for precision shooting at longer distances.
- Tactical shooters: The Magpul stock and modern features enhance its suitability for tactical applications.
- Hunters: While it's not a dedicated hunting rifle in the traditional sense, its accuracy makes it suitable for precision hunting.
- Experienced shooters looking for an upgrade: The combination of Remington 700 reliability and Magpul's modern features makes it an attractive upgrade for shooters already familiar with the platform.
Final Verdict: A Strong Contender
The Remington 700 Magpul Hunter X-223 seamlessly blends the classic reliability of the Remington 700 with the modern features and ergonomics of Magpul. Its exceptional accuracy, adjustable stock, and overall performance make it a strong contender in the world of precision rifles. While the price point is higher than some standard Remington 700 models, the added features and improved ergonomics justify the cost for many shooters. For those seeking a versatile and highly accurate rifle, the Remington 700 Magpul Hunter X-223 is definitely worth considering.
