338 Lapua Magnum: The Remington 700 Bolt Action Upgrade

palestine.info Editorial Teams

You need 3 min read

·

Post on Mar 11, 2025

56 visitor like this post

Share

338 Lapua Magnum: The Remington 700 Bolt Action Upgrade

The .338 Lapua Magnum. The name itself conjures images of extreme long-range accuracy and devastating power. For serious long-range shooters, upgrading a Remington 700 to handle this potent cartridge is a popular choice, offering a significant leap in capability. But it's more than just slapping a new barrel on – it's a comprehensive upgrade demanding careful consideration. This article will delve into the key aspects of this transformation.

Why Choose the Remington 700 Platform?

The Remington 700 action is legendary among shooters for its robust design, readily available aftermarket support, and inherent accuracy. Its widespread popularity means parts are plentiful, and numerous gunsmiths are highly experienced working with them. This makes it an ideal foundation for a .338 Lapua Magnum build. The action's strength is crucial for handling the considerable recoil of this magnum cartridge.

Key Considerations for the Upgrade:

Before diving into the specifics, let's outline some critical factors:

• Budget: Upgrading a Remington 700 to .338 Lapua Magnum isn't cheap. Expect to invest significantly in high-quality components.
• Gunsmith Expertise: Unless you're a highly skilled gunsmith yourself, professional assistance is strongly recommended. Improper work can compromise safety and accuracy.
• Intended Use: The intended purpose of the rifle (long-range target shooting, hunting, etc.) will influence component choices.

Essential Components for the Upgrade:

A successful conversion requires several key upgrades:

• .338 Lapua Magnum Barrel: This is arguably the most critical component. A high-quality, match-grade barrel is essential for achieving the accuracy potential of the .338 Lapua Magnum. Barrel length is a consideration; longer barrels generally yield higher velocities. Popular choices include stainless steel for durability and longevity.
• Bolt Face: The standard Remington 700 bolt face will need to be replaced with one designed for the larger .338 Lapua Magnum cartridge. This ensures reliable extraction and feeding.
• Action Work: Often, the action requires some level of modification to accommodate the larger cartridge. A skilled gunsmith will perform this work meticulously, ensuring everything functions correctly and safely.
• Magazine: A high-capacity magazine specifically designed for the .338 Lapua Magnum is crucial. These are typically detachable box magazines.
• Stock: A robust stock designed for heavy recoil is necessary. The stock should be stiff and provide a stable platform for accurate shooting. Adjustable stocks allow for customization to fit the shooter.
• Trigger: Many shooters upgrade to an aftermarket trigger for improved accuracy and control. A crisp, adjustable trigger is highly beneficial for long-range precision shooting.

Beyond the Basics: Optimizing Your .338 Lapua Magnum Build

Once the core components are in place, further refinements can enhance performance:

• Scope: A high-quality long-range scope with sufficient magnification (at least 10x, possibly more) is essential.
• Mounts: Solid, reliable mounts are crucial for maintaining zero and withstanding recoil.
• Ammunition: Choosing the right ammunition is vital for accuracy. Experimentation with different brands and loads is often necessary to find the optimal combination for your specific rifle.

Safety First!

It's critically important to emphasize the safety aspects of this upgrade. The .338 Lapua Magnum is a powerful cartridge. Improperly assembled or modified rifles can be extremely dangerous. Only a qualified and experienced gunsmith should perform this conversion. Always follow all safety procedures when handling firearms.

Conclusion: A Powerful Upgrade

Transforming a Remington 700 into a .338 Lapua Magnum platform is a significant undertaking, demanding investment and expertise. However, the resulting rifle offers unparalleled long-range capabilities, rewarding dedicated shooters with exceptional accuracy and power. With careful planning, high-quality components, and the assistance of a skilled gunsmith, this upgrade can unlock a new level of precision shooting. Remember, safety should always be your top priority.