Why Upgrade Your Remington 700 to a Chassis?
The Remington 700. This name alone resonates with rifle enthusiasts across the globe. For decades, this iconic bolt-action rifle has been a cornerstone of shooting sports, hunting, and military applications. Its enduring popularity stems from its inherent accuracy, robust design, and the sheer volume of aftermarket support available. One of the most significant upgrades a Remington 700 owner can make is the installation of a rifle chassis. But with a wide array of options on the market, choosing the *best chassis for Remington 700* can seem like a daunting task. This article will guide you through the process, helping you select the ideal chassis to maximize your rifle’s potential.
Enhanced Accuracy
The most compelling reason to consider a chassis is the potential for a significant boost in accuracy. A chassis offers a far more rigid and stable platform compared to traditional wooden or composite stocks. This rigidity minimizes flex and movement during the firing process, creating a more consistent environment for the barrel and action. A rigid platform translates into tighter shot groups and improved precision.
Furthermore, chassis often incorporate advanced bedding designs. Proper bedding ensures that the rifle’s action is seated securely and consistently within the chassis. This eliminates stress points that can negatively impact accuracy. The precise fit provided by a chassis helps the action settle properly and remain in that position with each shot, ultimately promoting improved shot-to-shot consistency. Chassis designs also help control barrel harmonics. Harmonics refer to the natural vibrations of the barrel during firing. These vibrations can affect bullet flight if not properly managed. A chassis’s design can help dampen or control these vibrations, leading to more predictable bullet paths and enhanced accuracy at longer ranges.
Improved Ergonomics
Beyond accuracy, a chassis drastically improves ergonomics. Ergonomics refers to the study of how people interact with their environment. A well-designed chassis provides a more comfortable and efficient shooting experience, leading to improved performance. This is especially valuable for precision shooting and hunting applications.
Adjustability is a hallmark of modern chassis designs. Features like adjustable length of pull (LOP) and cheek piece height allow you to customize the fit to your specific body dimensions and shooting style. Proper LOP ensures that your eye is correctly positioned relative to the scope, allowing for quick target acquisition and reducing the risk of eye strain. An adjustable cheek piece provides a stable and comfortable platform for your cheek, promoting consistent head position and sight alignment. This directly translates to enhanced accuracy.
Many chassis also feature improved grip designs. These often incorporate pistol-style grips that encourage a more natural and comfortable hand position. Better grip placement enables better trigger control, which in turn promotes greater shot-to-shot consistency. The angled grip also contributes to managing recoil. The resulting control allows for better follow-up shots.
Modularity and Customization
The world of shooting is constantly evolving. The ability to adapt your equipment is essential for optimizing performance and staying ahead of the curve. Chassis excel in this area by offering a high degree of modularity and customization.
They are frequently designed with a multitude of attachment points, primarily using Picatinny rails or M-LOK slots. These allow for the easy addition of accessories like bipods, night vision devices, lasers, and other tactical equipment. This flexibility allows you to configure your rifle precisely to your needs, whether you’re engaging in long-range target shooting or pursuing game in challenging terrain.
The modularity extends beyond accessory attachment. Many chassis are designed to accommodate different barrel contours, action sizes, and even magazine types. This adaptability ensures that you can easily upgrade or modify your rifle as your needs change.
Aesthetic Appeal
While not a primary consideration, a well-designed chassis adds a touch of modern elegance to your Remington 700. The sleek lines and tactical aesthetics of a chassis often provide a visual upgrade over traditional stocks, providing a custom and professional look. The improved feel and functionality combine to make your rifle a pleasure to handle.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Remington 700 Chassis
Selecting the *best chassis for Remington 700* requires careful consideration of several factors. Understanding these elements will help you choose a chassis that is perfectly matched to your needs and budget.
Budget
The cost of a chassis can vary significantly. Entry-level options start at a few hundred dollars, while premium chassis can easily exceed a thousand. The price often reflects the quality of materials, the level of adjustability, and the number of features offered.
Setting a realistic budget upfront is crucial. Determine how much you’re willing to invest in the upgrade. This will help you narrow down your choices and focus on chassis that fall within your price range. Remember that the “best” chassis doesn’t necessarily mean the most expensive one. The ideal choice is the one that meets your specific requirements while staying within your budget constraints.
Intended Use
How you plan to use your Remington 700 is a critical factor. Your shooting discipline, whether it be hunting, precision target shooting, or tactical applications, will have a huge impact on your chassis selection.
Hunting
For hunting, prioritize a chassis that is lightweight, weather-resistant, and comfortable to carry in the field. Look for features like sling attachment points and a streamlined design that won’t snag on brush. Durability against the elements is vital.
Competition
If you’re a competitive shooter, accuracy and adjustability are paramount. Look for a chassis with a high degree of adjustability (LOP, cheek piece, etc.) and excellent bedding characteristics. Consider factors like the weight of the chassis and whether it will allow for the optimal balance of your rifle.
Tactical/Military
If you’re planning on using the chassis for tactical purposes, prioritize ruggedness, durability, and the ability to mount a wide range of accessories. Picatinny rails, M-LOK slots, and robust construction are essential for this application.
Material and Construction
The materials used in a chassis directly affect its performance, durability, and weight. The most common materials include aluminum, steel, and polymer/composite materials.
Aluminum
Aluminum chassis are popular because they offer an excellent balance of strength, weight, and cost. They are highly rigid, providing a solid platform for accuracy. Aluminum is also readily machined, allowing for a high degree of customization and feature integration.
Steel
Steel chassis offer exceptional durability. They are extremely resistant to damage, making them a good choice for demanding environments. The weight of steel can be a disadvantage for some applications.
Polymer/Composite
Polymer chassis are the lightest of the bunch. They are typically the most affordable. The weight savings can be beneficial for hunting or situations where mobility is a priority. Some polymer chassis may not offer the same level of rigidity as aluminum or steel.
Consider the environmental conditions in which you’ll be using your rifle. A chassis made from a weather-resistant material will be a more practical choice for environments with high humidity, rain, or snow.
Adjustability
The level of adjustability offered by a chassis is a critical factor for achieving a perfect fit and maximizing accuracy. Look for a chassis with these essential adjustments:
Length of Pull (LOP)
This allows you to adjust the distance between the trigger and the shoulder of the shooter. This is probably the single most important ergonomic adjustment.
Cheek Piece Height
This allows you to position your cheek at the proper height for a clear and consistent sight picture through your scope.
Other adjustments might include buttpad height and cant, and even grip angle.
The more adjustable the chassis, the easier it will be to tailor it to your specific body dimensions and shooting style.
Features and Accessories
Modern chassis often come with a variety of features and the ability to mount accessories.
Rail Systems
Picatinny rails or M-LOK slots are standard for mounting scopes, bipods, lights, lasers, and other accessories. Determine what accessories you plan to use and ensure that the chassis has the appropriate mounting options.
QD Sling Attachment Points
These allow for the quick and easy attachment of slings.
Magazine Compatibility
Ensure that the chassis is compatible with the type of magazines you intend to use.
Integrated Bubble Levels
Many chassis now have built in bubble levels to assist with ensuring that your rifle is level, minimizing cant and improving accuracy.
Adjustable Weighting Systems
Some chassis offer integrated weighting systems, allowing you to fine-tune the balance of your rifle.
Compatibility
Not all chassis are created equal. Ensure the chassis you choose is compatible with your Remington 700 rifle and its specific features.
Action Type
Consider whether your action is short or long action. This is a critical factor.
Barrel Contour
Some chassis are designed to accommodate specific barrel contours. Check compatibility before purchasing.
Action Screw Spacing
Action screw spacing is critical for fitment and action bedding. Confirm the spacing.
Aftermarket Parts
Consider if you are using any aftermarket parts like triggers or bolt handles. Make sure the chassis supports them.
Top Remington 700 Chassis Options
Choosing the *best chassis for Remington 700* can be a process. Here are several highly-regarded chassis to consider:
MDT ACC Chassis System
The MDT ACC (Adjustable Chassis Competition) is a premium option favored by competitive shooters and precision rifle enthusiasts.
Key Features and Specifications
Integrated weight system, Arca-Swiss support, compatible with AICS magazines.
Pros
Extremely adjustable, excellent for competitive shooting, high build quality, designed for precision.
Cons
Higher price, can be heavy when fully loaded with weight.
Best Use Cases
Precision rifle competitions, long-range shooting.
KRG Bravo Chassis
The KRG Bravo is a popular choice for hunters and general-purpose shooters, well known for its balance of features, performance, and value.
Key Features and Specifications
Lightweight polymer chassis, adjustable LOP and cheek piece, M-LOK compatible.
Pros
Budget-friendly, ergonomic design, lightweight.
Cons
May not offer the same level of rigidity as aluminum chassis, limited accessory options compared to some higher-end chassis.
Best Use Cases
Hunting, general-purpose shooting, target practice.
Foundation Stocks Revelation Chassis
The Foundation Stocks Revelation is a chassis with a unique look, using high-quality wood.
Key Features and Specifications
Built around a single piece of wood, modular accessory mounts, adjustable cheek piece.
Pros
Unique aesthetics, solid construction, comfortable.
Cons
Higher price, heavier than many other options, limited accessory mounting options compared to metal chassis.
Best Use Cases
Precision shooting, benchrest shooting.
Installation and Setup
The installation process will vary slightly depending on the specific chassis you choose. However, these are the standard steps.
General Installation Steps
- Remove the existing stock: Carefully remove the stock from your Remington 700. Make sure to remove any action screws or bedding material that may be present.
- Prepare the action: Clean the action and remove any debris or old bedding material from the action. Ensure the threads for the action screws are in good condition.
- Install the action into the chassis: Place the Remington 700 action into the chassis. Make sure it is properly seated and aligned with the action screw holes.
- Secure the action: Install and tighten the action screws, following the manufacturer’s recommendations for torque specifications.
- Install the barrel and other components: Install the barrel, scope and any other accessories.
Customization and Adjustment
Once installed, adjust the chassis to fit your body and shooting style. This typically involves adjusting the length of pull and cheek piece height.
- Length of Pull (LOP): Adjust the LOP by using the provided spacers or adjusting the mechanism.
- Cheek Piece Height: Adjust the cheek piece to provide a comfortable and consistent cheek weld.
Maintenance and Care
To keep your chassis in top condition, clean it regularly and protect it from the elements.
- Cleaning: Wipe down the chassis with a clean cloth.
- Preventing Rust and Corrosion: Protect steel components from rust and corrosion by applying a thin layer of oil.
- Regular Inspection: Inspect the chassis regularly for any signs of wear or damage.
Conclusion
Upgrading to a high-quality chassis is one of the most impactful modifications you can make to your Remington 700 rifle. By increasing accuracy, enhancing ergonomics, and offering unparalleled modularity, a chassis transforms your rifle into a truly custom precision instrument. Through research and consideration of the factors outlined above, you can confidently select the *best chassis for Remington 700* to unlock the full potential of your firearm. Consider your budget, intended use, and the specific features you require to make the right choice. Embrace the advantages of a modern chassis system and enjoy the enhanced performance, comfort, and customization options. Your Remington 700 will reward you with tighter shot groups and a more enjoyable shooting experience. Start improving your Remington 700’s performance today!
