The Unsung Hero: Understanding the Function
The Remington 700 rifle stands as a true icon in the world of firearms. Celebrated for its accuracy, reliability, and modularity, it has found its place in hunting blinds, competitive shooting ranges, and even military applications. A crucial component for the rifle’s functionality, often overlooked until a malfunction arises, is the firing pin. Ensuring this component operates flawlessly is paramount for the rifle’s performance and, more importantly, for the safety of the shooter and anyone in the vicinity. This article delves deep into the Rem 700 firing pin, offering a comprehensive guide covering its essential function, the common problems it encounters, the necessary maintenance steps, and the potential for beneficial upgrades.
The firing pin, in its simplest definition, is the striking mechanism within the bolt assembly of the Remington 700. Its primary function is deceptively straightforward: to strike the primer of a cartridge. This impact ignites the priming compound, initiating the chain reaction that propels the bullet down the barrel. But its role extends beyond this. The firing pin’s performance is intrinsically tied to the overall function of the rifle, influencing factors like reliable ignition, consistent accuracy, and safe operation.
Consider the firing cycle. When the trigger is pulled, the sear releases the firing pin. Driven forward by the force of the firing pin spring, the pin moves with impressive speed and precision to contact the primer. Upon impact, the primer ignites, creating a burst of flame that travels through the flash hole, igniting the propellant powder within the cartridge case. The resulting expansion of gasses pushes the bullet out of the barrel. If the firing pin does not function as expected – lacking the necessary force, or impacting the primer off-center – the entire cycle is disrupted, often resulting in a misfire.
The firing pin assembly isn’t a monolithic structure. It’s a carefully designed system composed of several key components, each playing its part. The core element, the firing pin itself, is typically a slender, cylindrical rod made of hardened steel. Within the bolt, the firing pin slides back and forth, guided by a channel within the bolt body. It is meticulously engineered to withstand the repeated impact force and the stresses of the firing cycle. The firing pin spring provides the kinetic energy needed for the impact. It sits behind the firing pin, compressed when the bolt is closed and cocked. When the trigger is pulled, this spring releases, driving the firing pin forward. Other crucial components include the firing pin retainer, which holds the firing pin and spring within the bolt, and the bolt itself, which houses the entire assembly. The bolt’s construction is crucial because the firing pin is designed to move within its housing and its secure fit.
The materials used in a Rem 700 firing pin are chosen to provide the perfect balance of strength, durability, and wear resistance. High-quality steels, often heat-treated, are used. This is crucial because the firing pin is subjected to significant stress with each shot fired. The design of the firing pin itself is vital. The tip, that makes contact with the primer, is carefully shaped to ensure reliable primer ignition, without piercing the casing or causing any other operational issues.
The Dark Side: Addressing Common Problems
Even with the finest materials and engineering, firing pins can encounter issues. These problems can range from minor annoyances to serious malfunctions, and it’s crucial to understand the possibilities.
Firing pins are, unfortunately, not indestructible. A common problem is breakage. Over time, the constant impacts, combined with the high-pressure environment inside the bolt, can fatigue the metal, causing it to fracture, usually at the tip or where the firing pin meets the bolt body. A broken firing pin results in the rifle failing to fire.
Another issue involves the firing pin spring. Springs can lose their tension over time. Reduced spring tension, the force behind the strike, can result in “light strikes” which can lead to misfires. This means the firing pin impacts the primer, but with insufficient force to ignite the priming compound. Similarly, a firing pin spring can break, preventing the rifle from firing.
Contamination can also be a problem. Dirt, grime, and old lubricants can accumulate in the firing pin channel within the bolt. This buildup can restrict the free movement of the firing pin, slowing down the firing cycle and leading to misfires or unreliable ignition.
Light strikes can stem from a variety of issues, not solely the firing pin. They can occur due to a dirty firing pin channel or a worn firing pin spring. Defective ammunition, with a primer that’s too hard, can also be a culprit. Misfires can frustrate even the most experienced shooter.
Troubleshooting firing pin issues starts with careful observation. If the rifle fails to fire, start by inspecting the ammunition, ensuring the primer is properly seated and undamaged. If the ammunition appears fine, examine the firing pin itself. Remove the bolt from the rifle (always make sure the firearm is unloaded) and inspect the firing pin for any signs of damage, such as a broken tip or a bent body. If the firing pin appears intact, then check the firing pin spring. If you have any doubt about your abilities or you are uncomfortable with disassembling a firearm, do not proceed; consult a qualified gunsmith.
Keeping it Clean: Maintenance and Care
Regular maintenance is the key to a reliable Rem 700 firing pin. It’s a relatively simple process, but one that is often neglected.
Cleaning the firing pin assembly should be part of your routine rifle maintenance. The frequency of cleaning will depend on the amount of shooting you do and the environment in which you shoot. After each shooting session, it’s always good practice to clean the rifle, including the bolt. To begin, carefully remove the bolt from the rifle, and disassemble the bolt. A detailed disassembly guide specific to the Remington 700 will be readily available through various sources. Take care to note how the pieces fit so you can reassemble them properly. Carefully clean the firing pin and the firing pin channel within the bolt body. Use a solvent formulated for firearms to remove any residue from the firing pin. Then apply a thin coat of a high-quality lubricant, specifically designed for firearms. Reassemble the bolt assembly, taking care to ensure all parts are correctly fitted.
Regular inspection should go hand-in-hand with cleaning. Check the firing pin for any signs of damage, such as bending, cracks, or wear. Inspect the firing pin spring, looking for any signs of compression or damage. Examine the bolt body for any excessive wear. Proper lubrication is critical. Without lubrication, friction can cause the firing pin to stick or move sluggishly within its channel. Use a high-quality lubricant, specifically formulated for firearms, and apply it sparingly to the firing pin and the channel.
Taking it Further: Upgrades and Options
For those seeking enhanced performance, increased reliability, and other improvements, the aftermarket offers a wide range of upgrades.
Aftermarket firing pins offer several potential benefits. They can be made from improved materials, offering enhanced durability and resistance to wear or breakage. Some firing pins are designed with optimized shapes to improve primer ignition or reduce the risk of pierced primers. These aftermarket firing pins can result in more reliable ignition, particularly with ammunition that has tougher primers. When choosing an aftermarket firing pin, ensure it is compatible with your specific Remington 700 model and that you have the necessary installation tools or access to a qualified gunsmith. Popular brands include those offering hardened steel firing pins with enhanced geometry.
Upgraded firing pin springs are another valuable upgrade. A stronger spring can increase the force delivered to the primer, improving the chance of ignition, especially under challenging conditions. Increased tension can also speed up the firing pin’s strike, contributing to overall reliability. Choosing a spring requires a careful assessment of your specific needs and the characteristics of your rifle. Be aware that an excessively strong spring can potentially increase the risk of premature wear on other components.
Beyond the firing pin itself and the spring, other upgrades can potentially improve the overall function of the firing system. Consider bolt work, such as polishing the firing pin channel or blueprinting the bolt. It’s imperative that the work is performed by a trained and experienced gunsmith. When considering any upgrade, consider the potential benefits alongside the risks, such as compatibility and potential for misuse. Thorough research is critical. If any doubt exists, seek the help of a professional.
Putting Safety First: Important Considerations
Safety must always be paramount when working with firearms, and this is particularly true when dealing with the firing pin and bolt assembly.
Always handle the rifle as if it were loaded. Before any disassembly or maintenance, double-check that the rifle is unloaded. Remove the bolt from the rifle. Do this to be sure the chamber is clear and that no ammunition is present. Use a dedicated workspace where you can clearly see all components. When reassembling the bolt, pay close attention to the manufacturer’s instructions or seek guidance from a qualified gunsmith. Ensure all parts are correctly fitted and properly lubricated. After any maintenance or upgrade, carefully function test the rifle.
Proper installation is essential. Ensure you are using the correct parts for your specific Rem 700 model. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions and use the appropriate tools. Incorrect installation can lead to malfunctions and safety hazards. After any firing pin work, it is essential to test the rifle thoroughly. Begin by using dummy rounds, carefully observing the function of the firing pin and ensuring that the primer is correctly struck. When you are sure the gun is working correctly, you can then test live ammunition.
The Rem 700 firing pin is a vital component, and understanding its role is critical. Through regular maintenance, careful inspection, and a thorough approach to any potential upgrades, you can help ensure your Rem 700 remains reliable, accurate, and safe for years to come.
