Introduction
The world of firearms is rich with choices, and for those seeking precision and reliability, the bolt-action rifle reigns supreme. These rifles, known for their manual action, are celebrated for their accuracy, ruggedness, and suitability for a wide range of applications, from hunting big game to hitting targets at long distances. Two names often come up in discussions among gun enthusiasts: the venerable Remington 700 and the increasingly popular Ruger American. Both represent excellent examples of bolt-action engineering, yet they cater to slightly different needs and offer distinct advantages.
This article aims to provide a thorough comparison between the Remington 700 and the Ruger American, examining their key features, performance capabilities, and overall value. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter looking for a new rifle, a target shooter seeking greater accuracy, or simply a firearms enthusiast wanting to learn more, understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each model is crucial. We’ll delve into the details, helping you make an informed decision about which bolt-action rifle best suits your individual needs and preferences.
Background and History
The Legacy of the Remington 700
The Remington 700 has a long and storied history, deeply intertwined with the evolution of the American sporting rifle. Introduced in the early nineteen sixties, it quickly established itself as a benchmark of accuracy and reliability. The design, featuring a strong action and a precise barrel, set a new standard for accuracy that resonated with hunters, competitive shooters, and military and law enforcement agencies alike.
Over the decades, the Remington 700 has undergone refinements and variations, evolving to meet the demands of a changing market. Its widespread adoption by the US military and law enforcement, as seen in its various sniper rifle iterations, further solidified its reputation for precision and durability. This rifle is a testament to enduring engineering, consistently finding its way into the hands of professionals and enthusiasts who demand the best. The sheer volume of aftermarket support for the Remington 700, ranging from stocks to triggers to barrels, is a clear indicator of its continued popularity and versatility. It remains a timeless classic, a cornerstone of the American shooting culture.
The Ruger American: A Modern Contender
In stark contrast to the legacy of the Remington 700, the Ruger American burst onto the scene in the early part of the current century. Its introduction represented a deliberate effort by Sturm, Ruger & Co. to create a modern, affordable, and highly functional bolt-action rifle. Ruger focused on cutting-edge manufacturing techniques, allowing them to produce a rifle that delivers exceptional value for the price. The design philosophy centered on practicality, accuracy, and user-friendliness.
The Ruger American incorporated features like a three-lug bolt for faster cycling and a user-adjustable trigger, appealing to a broad spectrum of shooters. It quickly gained traction among hunters seeking a reliable rifle at a competitive price point. Its success underscored the growing demand for high-performance rifles accessible to a wider audience. The Ruger American demonstrates a commitment to innovation, making it a strong competitor in a crowded market.
Key Feature Comparison
Examining Actions and Bolts
The heart of any bolt-action rifle is its action, the mechanism responsible for loading, firing, and extracting spent cartridges. The Remington 700 typically utilizes a receiver machined from solid steel, known for its strength and ability to withstand high pressures. The bolt design, often featuring a two-lug configuration, offers a good degree of locking strength. Modifications and aftermarket upgrades for the Remington 700 action are extremely common, ranging from bolt handles to entire replacement actions. Its renowned smoothness and consistent performance remain a key factor in its desirability.
The Ruger American features a more modern approach, with a receiver often crafted from durable steel alloys. Its signature three-lug bolt provides a shorter bolt throw, meaning a faster and more efficient cycling process. This design, along with the use of modern materials, contributes to the rifle’s value and robustness. The Ruger American bolt also incorporates a robust extraction system designed for reliable operation in various conditions. Comparing the actions, the Remington 700 often has a slightly smoother feel out of the box due to its long history of refinement, while the Ruger American’s shorter bolt throw is a distinct advantage in rapid follow-up shots.
Focusing on Barrel and Accuracy Potential
The barrel is crucial for accuracy, and both rifles offer different approaches. The Remington 700 has been known for its exceptional accuracy potential, provided with an emphasis on high-quality barrels and meticulous chambering. Many models offer a variety of barrel profiles and lengths, allowing for tailored performance. The reputation of Remington 700 accuracy has been established through years of proven performance in both hunting and competitive shooting, establishing a strong reputation.
The Ruger American often utilizes cold hammer-forged barrels, a manufacturing process that can improve the barrel’s internal consistency and durability. Ruger typically guarantees sub-MOA accuracy with factory ammunition, demonstrating confidence in its product. Barrel lengths and contours vary depending on the specific model, and the readily available variety meets diverse shooting needs. Both rifles are capable of excellent accuracy, and the ultimate precision achieved often depends on factors such as ammunition selection, scope quality, and the shooter’s skill. The Ruger American’s accuracy guarantee and the Remington 700’s track record create a compelling competition between the two rifles.
Delving into Stock and Ergonomics
The stock, the portion of the rifle that interfaces with the shooter, contributes significantly to comfort and handling. Remington 700 stocks come in a range of materials including traditional wood, synthetic polymers, and advanced composite materials. Various stock designs cater to different preferences, from classic sporter profiles to tactical configurations. The Remington 700’s compatibility with various aftermarket stocks offers enhanced versatility and customization. Ergonomics are generally well-considered, though some older models may feel less modern than the Ruger American.
The Ruger American typically features a synthetic stock, often constructed from durable polymers. Many models incorporate modularity, allowing for easy length-of-pull adjustments using interchangeable spacers. The design often focuses on modern ergonomics, enhancing comfort and facilitating fast target acquisition. The stock design tends to emphasize functionality and ease of use, which is important for hunters and those new to bolt-action rifles. The Ruger American stock’s lighter weight and better adaptability offer a modern edge, whereas the Remington 700 often allows for a more traditional aesthetic, depending on the model.
Analyzing the Trigger System
A crisp and predictable trigger is essential for accurate shooting. The Remington 700 has seen various trigger designs over its lifespan. Some older models featured triggers that were prone to potential issues, which led to recalls. Aftermarket trigger upgrades for the Remington 700 are very widespread, and can transform the rifle.
The Ruger American generally utilizes the Ruger Marksman Adjustable trigger. This trigger system allows shooters to fine-tune the pull weight within a certain range. The Marksman Adjustable trigger is generally well-regarded for its crisp break, consistent feel, and adjustability. This adjustment offers an immediate advantage to those who favor customized trigger pulls, offering greater control and enhancing shot placement. The trigger comparison highlights Ruger’s modern approach to providing practical features.
Considering Magazine and Feeding Systems
Magazine systems and smooth feeding are crucial for reliability, especially in hunting situations. The Remington 700 can feature internal magazine or detachable box magazine. Magazine capacity varies depending on the caliber and model. The feeding reliability is generally very good.
The Ruger American utilizes a detachable box magazine system, typically made of polymer. The detachable magazines make for easier and quicker reloading. This system often incorporates the same magazines found in the Ruger Precision Rifle, leading to a readily available source of magazines. The Ruger’s detachable magazine system provides a clear benefit in terms of convenience and faster follow-up shots when hunting or engaging multiple targets.
Looking at Optics Mounting
Both rifles allow for the easy attachment of optics. The Remington 700 has a standard receiver drilled and tapped, allowing for mounting using scope bases. There are tons of options available, including Picatinny rails.
The Ruger American has similar mounting options. All models come drilled and tapped for mounting bases.
Caliber Availability
The Remington 700 is known for its wide array of calibers offered, allowing a shooter to easily match a model with the needs.
The Ruger American also offers a variety of calibers, allowing hunters to select a weapon suited for their needs.
Performance and Real-World Use
Assessing Accuracy Testing (if data available)
Many sources provide accuracy data for these rifles, and the results are generally impressive. The Remington 700, especially with a skilled shooter and quality ammunition, has consistently demonstrated sub-MOA accuracy capabilities.
The Ruger American, with its guaranteed sub-MOA accuracy, also performs impressively in testing.
Examining Hunting Performance
Both rifles have earned their place in hunting fields. The Remington 700, with its reputation for accuracy, is an ideal choice for a wide variety of big-game hunting scenarios. Different models are tailored to specific types of hunting.
The Ruger American, with its combination of accuracy and affordability, is an excellent value. It is suited for many hunting purposes, with calibers to match the needs.
Considering Target Shooting Performance
For target shooting, both rifles perform well. The accuracy and customization options of the Remington 700 give it an advantage in competitive shooting.
The Ruger American, with its accuracy guarantee and comfortable ergonomics, is an excellent choice for recreational target shooting.
Price and Value
MSRP Comparison
The Remington 700 has a wide price range, influenced by the model, features, and materials used. It is common for the price to be higher than the Ruger.
The Ruger American, with its modern manufacturing, delivers excellent value for its price.
Analyzing Market Availability and the Used Market
Both rifles have great availability in the market. The Remington 700, a long-established model, is abundant on the used market, making it possible to find rifles at attractive prices.
The Ruger American, being relatively new, can be found at many retail locations.
Understanding Value Proposition
The Remington 700 provides a level of prestige, craftsmanship, and customization that attracts many shooters.
The Ruger American provides exceptional value, offering performance and modern features.
Pros and Cons
Remington 700
Pros: Legacy of accuracy, wide range of calibers and models, extensive aftermarket support, established reputation.
Cons: Higher cost, trigger issues in some models, can be more expensive than Ruger.
Ruger American
Pros: Excellent value, generally excellent accuracy guarantee, user-adjustable trigger, detachable magazine.
Cons: Less customization options, lower cost compared to Remington.
Conclusion
In the final analysis, deciding between the Remington 700 and the Ruger American depends largely on the individual’s priorities and budget. The Remington 700, with its long and distinguished history, offers proven accuracy, a wide array of model options, and unmatched aftermarket support for customization. It represents a classic choice for those who value tradition and are willing to invest in a premium bolt-action rifle.
The Ruger American, conversely, provides an exceptional level of value, delivering impressive accuracy, modern features, and user-friendly ergonomics at a competitive price point. It’s an excellent option for hunters, target shooters, and anyone seeking a reliable and accurate bolt-action rifle without breaking the bank.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on your specific needs. If your priorities are classic design, extensive customization, and a proven track record, the Remington 700 may be the better choice. If you’re looking for a modern, accurate, and affordable rifle, the Ruger American is hard to beat. Carefully weigh the pros and cons, consider your budget, and evaluate which rifle aligns best with your shooting goals. Whether you choose the Remington 700 or the Ruger American, you’re sure to find a reliable and accurate platform for your shooting endeavors. Further research into specific models and calibers is always recommended before making a final decision.
