A Classic of Bolt-Action Rifles
The crisp autumn air bites at your cheeks, the scent of pine needles and damp earth filling your lungs. Sunlight filters through the trees, dappling the forest floor. You shoulder your rifle, a classic Remington 700, its beautiful wood stock warm against your cheek. This isn’t just a tool; it’s an extension of your will, a companion in the pursuit of a perfect shot. Today, we delve into the enduring appeal of the Remington 700 in .22-250 with a wood stock, a rifle that embodies the best of American craftsmanship and ballistics.
The Remington 700 isn’t just another rifle; it’s a legend. Born from a legacy of firearm excellence, the Remington 700 has earned its place as one of the most popular and respected bolt-action rifles in history. Its reputation rests on a foundation of accuracy, reliability, and a simple, elegant design that has captivated shooters for decades. From the rugged terrains of the American West to the crisp ranges of target shooting, the Remington 700 has proven its worth time and again. Its influence is undeniable, shaping the landscape of modern firearm design and inspiring countless imitations.
A Brief History of the Remington 700
The story of the Remington 700 begins with a simple goal: to create a rifle that excels in both accuracy and affordability. Introduced in the early 1960s, the 700 quickly gained popularity, thanks to its innovative design and a commitment to quality. It incorporated a new action that proved inherently accurate, leading to a reputation for exceptional precision. The 700 was a departure from the older rifles, incorporating a stronger action and a refined firing system that contributed to greater accuracy. Over the years, Remington made improvements, including better triggers and refined barrel manufacturing processes, but the core philosophy remained the same: build a reliable, accurate rifle that could excel in the field.
The Remington 700 was originally offered in a variety of chamberings, and its modular design has lent itself to several variations, from hunting rifles to precision target rifles. One of the most compelling combinations has always been the 700 paired with the potent .22-250 cartridge, especially when housed within the warm embrace of a classic wood stock.
The .22-250: A Ballistic Powerhouse
The .22-250 Remington cartridge, often simply referred to as .22-250, is a true powerhouse in the world of rifle cartridges. It was designed specifically for varmint hunting and fast, accurate shooting at a distance. The .22-250 offers a flat trajectory and exceptional velocity, making it ideal for hitting small targets at extended ranges.
The Cartridge’s Origins and Development
The .22-250’s roots can be traced back to the early 1930s. Originally created as a wildcat cartridge, enthusiasts experimented with various brass casings before Remington officially standardized it in 1965. Remington recognized the potential for a high-velocity .22-caliber cartridge that would excel in varminting, and with the standardization of the .22-250, its reputation exploded.
Exceptional Performance and Ballistics
The .22-250’s performance is remarkable. A typical load can propel a 50-grain bullet at speeds exceeding 3,700 feet per second. This combination of speed and accuracy contributes to its flat trajectory, a characteristic that makes it easy to aim and correct for distance. The cartridge’s relatively light recoil makes it easy to control and shoot consistently. The .22-250 also offers an impressive effective range, stretching out to several hundred yards when paired with the right rifle and optic.
Common Uses and Applications
The .22-250 is popular in a variety of shooting disciplines. Its original purpose was in varmint hunting, and it excels when targeting prairie dogs, groundhogs, coyotes, and other small game animals. The .22-250 is also a favorite among target shooters, and its precision makes it an excellent choice for paper punching and long-range plinking. The cartridge’s effectiveness, flatter trajectory, and manageable recoil create a well-rounded platform for hunting and precision shooting.
Choosing Your Ammunition
The wide variety of ammunition options is a major selling point for those who choose to shoot the .22-250. The selection of bullet weights and types available helps customize the cartridge for specific uses and shooting preferences. Choosing the appropriate bullet weight and design for a specific shooting activity is vital to optimizing accuracy and terminal performance. For varmint hunting, lighter-weight bullets are often preferred for their high velocities and explosive expansion. For target shooting, heavier bullets with better ballistic coefficients are chosen for their ability to maintain accuracy at longer ranges.
The Beauty of the Remington 700 Wood Stock
The Remington 700 with a wood stock is more than just a functional firearm; it’s a testament to classic gunmaking aesthetics. A wood stock brings a traditional elegance, creating a bond with the rifle that’s difficult to replicate with synthetic materials.
Wood Stock Materials
The primary type of wood found on the classic Remington 700 .22-250 is walnut. It’s appreciated for its grain patterns, its rich, warm color, and its durability. Walnut can be beautiful, with striking figuring in the grain patterns. Depending on the grade of walnut used, the appearance can range from understated elegance to a highly figured and attractive wood grain. The wood stock provides a natural feel that synthetic stocks can’t match.
Stock Design and Handling
The classic stock design of a Remington 700 wood stock typically includes a pistol grip, a comfortable cheek piece, and a well-shaped fore-end. These design elements work together to enhance handling and control, contributing to a more consistent and accurate shooting experience. The stock’s shape helps the shooter maintain a natural and comfortable shooting posture, making it easier to acquire the target and squeeze the trigger smoothly.
The Action and Barrel
The heart of the Remington 700 is its robust bolt-action mechanism. It’s a classic design known for its strength, simplicity, and inherent accuracy. The action locks up tightly, providing a solid platform for accurate shooting, even with high-pressure cartridges like the .22-250. The barrel is equally important to performance, and the Remington 700 barrels are renowned for their accuracy. Barrel length is a key component to balancing velocity and handling, with the standard length offering the most overall benefits.
The Trigger System
A crisp, clean trigger pull is critical to accuracy, and the Remington 700’s trigger system can contribute significantly to consistent shot placement. The trigger should be easily adjustable.
Other Key Features
Other aspects include the magazine capacity, which is standard for the 700 series, as well as the scope mounting options. There are several different mounting solutions for mounting optics. These are easy to accommodate different types of scopes and aiming systems.
Advantages of Owning a Remington 700 .22-250 Wood Stock
There are several compelling reasons to choose the Remington 700 .22-250 with a wood stock. The combination brings many advantages, combining a proven firearm with a proven cartridge.
Accuracy and Reliability
The Remington 700 is widely known for its impressive accuracy. The combination of the action, the barrel, and the trigger all work together to achieve tight groupings, which is essential for both hunting and target shooting. The rifle’s reliability is also a major benefit. The simple, rugged design ensures that it will function consistently, even under challenging conditions.
Timeless Appeal
The wood stock gives the rifle a traditional and handsome appearance. The combination of wood, steel, and a finely crafted bolt-action mechanism is a classic look that is hard to duplicate. It’s an investment that you can appreciate for its aesthetics as well as its function.
Handling and Balance
The weight and balance of the wood-stocked Remington 700 contribute to a comfortable shooting experience. The stock’s contours fit naturally in the hand, providing a solid grip that helps with recoil control and aiming. The balance between the action, barrel, and stock makes it easy to point and swing the rifle, especially when tracking moving targets.
Customization Possibilities
While a standard Remington 700 .22-250 with a wood stock is excellent as is, there’s plenty of opportunity for personalization. Shooters can choose from a variety of scopes, triggers, and other accessories to fine-tune the rifle to their liking. These accessories can enhance the rifle’s capabilities and aesthetics.
Important Considerations for Owning a Wood-Stocked Rifle
While the Remington 700 with a wood stock offers many advantages, it’s important to be aware of some considerations.
Durability of the Stock
Wood stocks are often more susceptible to scratches, dents, and damage from weather conditions compared to the synthetic alternatives. Exposure to moisture and extreme temperatures can also cause the wood to swell or warp, potentially affecting accuracy.
Maintenance of the Stock
Wood stocks require regular maintenance to protect their integrity and appearance. Routine cleaning and applying protective oil or varnish can help prevent damage. Checking for any cracks or splits is a regular component to ensure the gun stays in top condition.
The Cost Factor
Buying a classic, wood-stocked rifle can be an investment. The initial cost of the rifle, along with the cost of any accessories, should be a component of your decision to purchase.
Shooting the Remington 700 .22-250 Wood Stock
Learning to shoot the Remington 700 .22-250 with a wood stock and enjoying its performance is a rewarding experience.
Mounting and Zeroing Your Scope
Begin by properly mounting a scope onto the Remington 700. Once the scope is properly installed, sighting in the rifle is the next step. It is critical to zero the scope at the desired range using a quality target.
Shooting Techniques
Proper shooting techniques are essential to maximizing accuracy. Maintaining a stable shooting platform, holding the rifle correctly, and squeezing the trigger smoothly and consistently.
Cleaning and Maintaining Your Rifle
Keeping your Remington 700 .22-250 Wood Stock clean and properly maintained will significantly extend its lifespan and ensure its ongoing accuracy. After each shooting session, clean the barrel thoroughly, checking the wood stock, and applying a protective oil to prevent rust and corrosion.
Comparing to Other Rifles and Cartridges
Knowing how the Remington 700 .22-250 compares to other rifles and cartridges is a valuable way to make the right decision for your shooting needs.
Comparing to Other Rifles
The Remington 700 is frequently compared to other bolt-action rifles. It stands out for its accuracy, design, and customizable nature. Each rifle will perform to a specific level.
Comparing to Similar Cartridges
The .22-250 is often pitted against cartridges with similar functions. It can be compared against other varmint rounds, such as the .223 Remington or .204 Ruger. The .22-250 is known for high performance.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Accuracy and Beauty
The Remington 700 .22-250 with a wood stock continues to hold a special place in the hearts of shooters and hunters alike. Its blend of exceptional accuracy, reliable performance, and the undeniable beauty of a wood stock make it a rifle that will be cherished for generations. The cartridge offers remarkable performance and versatility, and the Remington 700’s legacy of excellence is sure to endure.
The combination of a classic firearm design and the versatility of a powerful cartridge is difficult to surpass. It’s a testament to craftsmanship, a joy to handle, and a reliable companion in the field. It’s more than just a rifle; it’s a piece of history, a conversation starter, and an enduring symbol of the American shooting heritage. If you appreciate the timeless appeal of classic firearms and seek a rifle capable of impressive accuracy, then the Remington 700 .22-250 Wood Stock is a choice you won’t regret. Consider adding this rifle to your collection.
