A Foundation of Excellence: Rifle Specifications and Features
Rifle Design and Features
The Remington 700 SPS Varmint .308 isn’t just another rifle; it’s a meticulously designed tool crafted for accuracy. Let’s start with the raw numbers. This rifle is chambered in the versatile and widely popular .308 Winchester cartridge, a round known for its excellent ballistic performance and widespread availability. This caliber makes it suitable for a variety of applications, from varmint hunting to long-range target shooting.
The SPS, or “Special Purpose Synthetic,” designation immediately clues us into a key design element. The rifle typically features a synthetic stock, often constructed from a durable polymer. This choice of material offers several advantages. It’s generally more resistant to environmental changes, such as temperature and humidity fluctuations, compared to traditional wood stocks. This means the rifle maintains its zero (point of impact) more consistently across various conditions, and requires less maintenance. Furthermore, the synthetic stock is usually lighter than wood, which can be a benefit, especially for those who plan on carrying the rifle over long distances.
A defining characteristic of the Varmint model is its heavier barrel. This is more than just aesthetic; it’s a deliberate design choice intended to enhance accuracy. A thicker barrel is less prone to the effects of heat buildup during extended firing sessions. As the barrel heats up, it can warp slightly, which affects accuracy. The heavier profile of the Varmint barrel helps mitigate this issue, contributing to consistent shot placement. The specific barrel length varies, but typically falls in the range that balances maneuverability with ballistic performance. The twist rate is carefully selected to stabilize a wide range of .308 bullet weights, further enhancing its versatility.
The Remington 700 action is the heart of this rifle. It’s a bolt-action design, renowned for its strength, reliability, and inherent accuracy. The bolt itself typically features multiple locking lugs, creating a secure lockup with the receiver. This design contributes to exceptional headspace, which is crucial for optimal accuracy and safety. The bolt throw is relatively smooth and positive, allowing for quick follow-up shots, a valuable trait when engaging multiple targets.
The magazine capacity is another essential aspect. This is typically a internal magazine with a capacity in the range that makes it adequate for varmint hunting and general shooting. While external magazines are available as an aftermarket modification, the factory setup is a reliable system.
The trigger is another critical component influencing the rifle’s performance. The Remington 700 trigger is generally considered to be crisp and relatively easy to adjust. The trigger break is an important element in accuracy because it allows for a smooth trigger pull, minimizing disturbance during the crucial moment of firing.
Considering its design, the Rem 700 SPS Varmint .308, is a well-balanced rifle, offering a blend of performance and practicality.
Putting it to the Test: Performance and Accuracy Revealed
Accuracy and Handling
The true measure of any firearm lies in its performance. To properly evaluate the Remington 700 SPS Varmint .308, we need to assess its accuracy, handling characteristics, and overall user experience. This section will detail the specifics of how this rifle performs.
Accuracy testing is fundamental. The Rem 700 SPS Varmint in .308 is designed with precision in mind. During testing, we employed a variety of ammunition types. The choice of ammunition can have a significant impact on accuracy, so this allows for a more accurate and fair assessment. We focused on the consistency of group sizes at a common distance, the key indicator of the rifle’s capability.
The Remington 700 SPS Varmint .308 is often capable of achieving impressive groups at 100 yards. With high-quality ammunition and a skilled shooter, groups under an inch are frequently attainable, and sometimes even smaller. The heavier barrel and solid action contribute significantly to this level of performance. These results are a testament to the rifle’s inherent accuracy potential. Of course, achieving these results also relies on the shooter’s skills, a quality optic, and proper mounting.
Beyond accuracy, the rifle’s handling is a vital factor. The stock design plays a significant role in this. The ergonomics of the stock, its shape, and the materials it’s made from influence how the rifle sits in the shoulder and how easily it can be maneuvered. The synthetic stock on the SPS Varmint is generally designed to provide a comfortable and stable shooting platform. The balance of the rifle is important for reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions. The overall weight of the rifle contributes to this, offering enough heft to absorb recoil without becoming cumbersome to carry.
The recoil of the .308 cartridge is significant. The design of the rifle’s recoil pad, coupled with the heavier barrel, helps mitigate the felt recoil, allowing for a more enjoyable shooting experience. The rifle’s handling characteristics facilitate easy follow-up shots. This is critical for varmint hunting.
Reliability and durability are also critical factors. The Remington 700 action is known for its robust design, capable of withstanding the rigors of hunting and target shooting. During the testing, the rifle was subjected to extensive use, and it showed no signs of mechanical failure. The action is smooth and functions flawlessly. The quality of the materials also plays a part in determining durability.
Weighing the Options: Pros and Cons
Advantages and Disadvantages
Like any piece of equipment, the Remington 700 SPS Varmint .308 has its strengths and weaknesses. Understanding both sides of the equation is critical to make an informed purchasing decision.
The advantages of the Remington 700 SPS Varmint .308 are numerous. First, and perhaps most importantly, is its accuracy. This rifle is designed for precision and consistently delivers it. The inherent accuracy of the action and the heavier barrel contribute significantly to this. Second, the rifle’s value proposition is attractive. The Remington 700 series is generally known for offering a good balance of quality and price. The SPS Varmint offers excellent performance without breaking the bank. Third, the aftermarket support is considerable. The Remington 700 platform is extremely popular. This means a wide array of aftermarket parts and accessories are available. If you want to customize your rifle, you’ll have almost endless options to consider. Fourth, the rifle’s familiarity is noteworthy. The Remington 700 design is well-known and has stood the test of time. This familiarity makes it easy to use, maintain, and repair.
Of course, no rifle is perfect. The Rem 700 SPS Varmint .308 has some potential drawbacks. The trigger, while often adequate, might benefit from an upgrade for those seeking the ultimate in precision. While the stock offers adequate comfort, some shooters may prefer a more ergonomically designed stock with additional adjustability.
Standing Strong: Comparing to the Competition
Rifle Comparisons
To properly assess the Rem 700 SPS Varmint .308, it’s beneficial to compare it to its competitors. Several other rifles are contenders in the market.
The Savage Axis II, for example, is often seen as a budget-friendly alternative. The Axis II offers good accuracy for its price point. However, the Remington 700 SPS Varmint .308 often has a more refined action and a higher level of overall build quality. The Remington 700 is an accurate rifle.
The Tikka T3x Lite is another serious contender, known for its exceptional accuracy and smooth bolt action. The Tikka is usually more expensive than the Rem 700 SPS Varmint .308. The Remington 700 can often provide comparable accuracy at a more accessible price. The Rem 700’s widespread parts availability can be an advantage.
In this competitive landscape, the Remington 700 SPS Varmint .308 holds its own. It offers an excellent blend of performance, price, and aftermarket support.
A Final Word: Value and Verdict
Overall Evaluation
The Remington 700 SPS Varmint .308 represents a solid choice for hunters and shooters seeking accuracy, reliability, and value in a bolt-action rifle. Its inherent accuracy, combined with the versatility of the .308 Winchester cartridge, makes it a capable platform for a variety of applications.
The Rem 700 SPS Varmint .308 is best suited for those who value precision and reliability without wanting to invest in high-end, custom rifles. Varmint hunters will find it particularly well-suited to their needs, and it also serves as an excellent option for beginners.
The rifle provides a lot of value for the price. The ability to consistently hit targets at long ranges makes it appealing for long-range target shooters. The rifle’s build quality and overall performance make it a worthwhile investment.
Elevating the Experience: Recommendations
Upgrade Options
If you are considering acquiring the Rem 700 SPS Varmint .308, there are some ways to make it even better.
A high-quality scope is a must. The rifle’s inherent accuracy is wasted without a good optic. Look for a scope with appropriate magnification for your intended use. Quality rings and bases are also essential for a stable and reliable optic setup.
While the factory trigger is generally adequate, some shooters might benefit from an upgrade. A lighter, crisper trigger pull will make the rifle even easier to shoot accurately.
Aftermarket stocks are available in a wide array of styles and materials, ranging from simple drop-in replacements to fully adjustable chassis systems. This can enhance ergonomics and improve overall accuracy.
Wrapping it Up: A Call to Action
Final Thoughts
The Remington 700 SPS Varmint .308 is a compelling option. If you have experience with this rifle, we encourage you to share your thoughts. What are your experiences?
Do you think the Remington 700 SPS Varmint .308 is the right rifle for your needs?
