Understanding the Core: Action Length Demystified
Action Defined
At the heart of the Remington 700 lies its action. But what exactly is the action, and why is action length so important? In simplest terms, the action is the working mechanism of the rifle. It encompasses the bolt, the receiver (the main body of the rifle), and the internal components that perform the key functions of a firearm: chambering a round, firing it, and extracting the spent casing.
What Determines Length
Action length, in the context of the Remington 700, is primarily determined by the overall length of the cartridge it’s designed to accommodate. The cartridge’s physical dimensions dictate the size of the action needed to efficiently feed, fire, and extract spent casings. This is a fundamental relationship, as an action that’s too short for a cartridge will likely malfunction, while one that’s too long may introduce unnecessary weight and bulk. The primary purpose of different action lengths in the Remington 700 is to optimize the rifle for specific cartridge types.
Practical Considerations
While a skilled gunsmith could theoretically modify an action, it’s generally not practical or cost-effective to try and fit a very long cartridge into a short action. The design dictates the cartridge capabilities. Hence, the first consideration when evaluating a Remington 700 should always be your intended use and the cartridges you plan to utilize.
Cartridge Harmony: Matching the Action to the Ammunition
The crucial factor in choosing between a Remington 700 long action and a Remington 700 short action boils down to cartridge compatibility. This isn’t about preference; it’s a fundamental physical limitation. Understanding which action works with which cartridges is paramount.
Long Action Cartridges: Power and Reach
The Remington 700 long action is designed for cartridges that are typically longer and more powerful. These cartridges often excel at longer ranges and provide greater energy on target. Some popular examples include:
- .30-06 Springfield: A classic American cartridge with a long and successful history. Versatile for a variety of game.
- .270 Winchester: Known for its flat trajectory and excellent performance on medium to large game.
- .300 Winchester Magnum: A powerful magnum cartridge ideal for larger game and long-range shooting.
- 7mm Remington Magnum: Another popular magnum cartridge, offering good ballistics and versatility.
These cartridges, and others that share similar dimensions, need the extra space afforded by a Remington 700 long action for proper feeding and reliable operation. The Remington 700 long action allows for a longer bolt throw, accommodating the overall length of the cartridge. This can translate to a more deliberate cycling of the bolt, as you handle larger cartridges that tend to generate more forceful recoil. If you’re seeking long-range performance and the ability to take down larger game at considerable distances, then the Remington 700 long action will be the more appropriate choice.
Short Action Cartridges: Compactness and Speed
The Remington 700 short action caters to cartridges that are shorter in overall length. These cartridges often offer a good balance of power and manageability, making them popular choices for a wide range of applications. Notable examples include:
- .308 Winchester (7.62x51mm NATO): A widely used and versatile cartridge for hunting and target shooting.
- 7mm-08 Remington: A smaller alternative to the 7mm Rem Mag, offering good ballistics with less recoil.
- .223 Remington (5.56x45mm NATO): While the .223 Rem can be used in short action rifles, it’s important to consider that the action is short, not necessarily dedicated to this cartridge.
- 6.5 Creedmoor: Modern and popular cartridge known for its long-range capabilities and excellent accuracy.
The primary advantage of the Remington 700 short action is its more compact size, which can translate to a lighter and easier-to-handle rifle. The shorter bolt throw can also lead to faster cycling times, though this is a subtle difference for most shooters. If you’re looking for a rifle that’s easy to maneuver, provides accurate shots at moderate ranges, and offers less recoil, the Remington 700 short action is an excellent choice.
The Cartridge Connection: A Simplified Guide
Because the cartridge choice is the most critical factor, here’s a general guide. Remember, this is a generalization and there may be exceptions:
| Action Type | Common Cartridges |
|---|---|
| Long Action | .30-06 Springfield, .270 Winchester, .300 Win Mag, 7mm Rem Mag |
| Short Action | .308 Winchester, 7mm-08 Remington, 6.5 Creedmoor, .223 Remington |
This chart is not exhaustive but serves as a helpful reference point.
Accuracy, Recoil, and Ballistics: Understanding the Trade-offs
The debate over Remington 700 long action versus Remington 700 short action often extends to discussions of accuracy, recoil, and ballistics. Let’s clarify some key points.
Accuracy: The Marksman and the Rifle
It is important to dispel the notion that the action length itself directly dictates accuracy. Both Remington 700 long and Remington 700 short actions are capable of exceptional accuracy when properly manufactured and paired with quality barrels and ammunition.
Accuracy is far more influenced by factors such as:
- Barrel Quality: A precisely manufactured barrel is critical for consistent bullet flight.
- Ammunition: High-quality, match-grade ammunition can significantly improve accuracy.
- Shooter Skill: Proper technique, trigger control, and understanding of wind and other environmental factors are paramount.
- Scope: A good scope with precise adjustments is critical.
While action length indirectly influences accuracy by determining which cartridges are available, the action’s contribution is largely confined to its mechanical consistency and solid lockup.
Recoil: The Kick Factor
The amount of felt recoil is a significant factor when considering any rifle, and it’s directly related to the power of the cartridge. Generally speaking, longer-action cartridges tend to produce higher recoil due to their increased powder capacity and larger bullet weights.
A Remington 700 long action rifle chambered in .300 Winchester Magnum, for example, will typically have more recoil than a Remington 700 short action rifle in .308 Winchester. This is because the .300 Win Mag utilizes a much larger powder charge and often fires heavier bullets.
Increased recoil can affect the shooter in several ways. It can lead to:
- Increased Fatigue: Especially during extended shooting sessions.
- Reduced Accuracy: Flinching in anticipation of recoil can negatively impact shot placement.
- Development of Shooting Habits: Learning to manage recoil can take time and practice.
The Remington 700 short action, utilizing cartridges with inherently less power, will generally experience reduced recoil, making it more comfortable to shoot, especially for new shooters or those sensitive to recoil.
Ballistics and Range: Reaching Out
Ballistics are the science of projectiles in motion, and they influence the effective range of a rifle. The Remington 700 long action, with its compatibility with more powerful cartridges, often lends itself to longer effective ranges. The increased powder capacity of cartridges like the .300 Win Mag allows for greater muzzle velocities and flatter trajectories, enabling shots at distances where shorter-action cartridges might be less effective.
However, the Remington 700 short action and its corresponding cartridges still excel at a wide variety of ranges. Cartridges like the 6.5 Creedmoor, known for their excellent ballistics, perform well out to 1000 yards and beyond. The .308 Winchester, another popular short-action cartridge, remains a viable choice for hunting and target shooting at moderate distances.
Therefore, while Remington 700 long action rifles may have the potential for greater ranges, the specific cartridge and its ballistic profile will ultimately determine the effective range of any rifle.
Applications and Considerations: Tailoring the Rifle to Your Needs
The choice between a Remington 700 long action and a Remington 700 short action is deeply influenced by the intended purpose of the rifle.
Hunting: Matching Action to Quarry
For hunting, the choice often comes down to the type of game you plan to pursue and the environments you’ll be hunting in.
- Long Action: Best suited for large game animals like elk, moose, and bear, especially when shots at longer ranges are likely. The added power of the cartridges helps to ensure a clean and ethical kill.
- Short Action: Ideal for hunting medium-sized game like deer, pronghorn, and coyotes at moderate ranges. They’re easier to carry and maneuver in tight spaces. The compactness is helpful in forested areas.
Target Shooting and Competitive Shooting
- Long Action: Popular in long-range shooting disciplines, where the extended range capabilities of cartridges like the .300 Win Mag are advantageous.
- Short Action: Also utilized in various target shooting disciplines, including benchrest shooting and tactical competitions. Cartridges like the 6.5 Creedmoor have gained immense popularity for their accuracy and long-range performance. The choice of which is best depends on the specific game.
Other Considerations
- Availability of Aftermarket Parts: Both the Remington 700 long and Remington 700 short actions enjoy extensive aftermarket support. However, it’s always wise to ensure the availability of components such as stocks, triggers, and scope mounts.
- Weight and Dimensions: Short-action rifles generally weigh less and are more compact, which can be a significant advantage when carrying the rifle for extended periods.
- Overall Cost: The price difference between Remington 700 long and Remington 700 short action rifles is often not significant, but you might find slightly more options for the more popular short-action rifles.
Recap: Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
Before making a final decision, summarizing the advantages and disadvantages of each action type can be helpful.
Long Action: A Balanced View
- Strong Points:
- Versatile cartridge selection, allowing for a wide range of game and shooting scenarios.
- Potential for high muzzle velocity.
- Capable of effective shooting at extended ranges.
- Weaknesses:
- Often more recoil.
- Generally heavier and more bulky.
Short Action: The Compact Choice
- Strong Points:
- More compact and lighter.
- Generally less recoil.
- Potentially faster cycling, though the difference is often subtle.
- Weaknesses:
- Limited to shorter cartridges.
- May not be suitable for extremely large game or very long-range shooting.
Making the Right Choice: Personalized Advice
The “right” action is entirely dependent on your individual shooting needs. Start by asking yourself these critical questions:
- What kind of shooting or hunting will I be doing?
- What range will I typically be shooting at?
- What game animals do I plan to hunt?
- What is my tolerance for recoil?
- Am I seeking long range capabilities or maneuverability?
If you are a hunter primarily targeting deer at moderate ranges, a Remington 700 short action might be an excellent choice. If your goal is to hunt elk at long distances, a Remington 700 long action might be preferable. If you’re a long-range target shooter, the cartridge you’ll be using may determine the action. The key is to match the Remington 700 action to the cartridge and, ultimately, to your shooting goals.
Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy
The Remington 700 rifle, in both its long and short action configurations, stands as a testament to American ingenuity and enduring design. The choice between the two is a fundamental decision, driving the heart of how the rifle will be used, and what the shooter can accomplish.
By understanding the core differences between these action types, considering cartridge compatibility, ballistics, and your specific shooting goals, you can confidently select the Remington 700 that will best serve your needs for years to come. Regardless of your final decision, the Remington 700 platform provides a solid foundation for a lifetime of enjoyable and accurate shooting. Remember to research specific cartridges before making a decision.
