The Remington 700 SPS in .22-250 Remington is a popular choice for varmint hunting, target shooting, and long-range precision. This in-depth guide will explore its features, performance, and suitability for various applications. We'll delve into the specifics of this cartridge and rifle combination, providing you with the information you need to make an informed decision. This article will cover everything from its history and design to its pros and cons, helping you understand whether the Remington 700 SPS .22-250 is the right rifle for you.
Understanding the .22-250 Remington Cartridge
The .22-250 Remington is a wildly popular high-velocity cartridge known for its flat trajectory and accuracy. Developed in the 1950s, it quickly gained popularity among varmint hunters and long-range shooters.
- High Velocity: Its key feature is its exceptionally high muzzle velocity, often exceeding 4000 feet per second (fps) with lighter bullets. This translates to a flatter trajectory, reducing bullet drop at longer ranges.
- Accuracy: The .22-250 is renowned for its inherent accuracy, making it suitable for both hunting and target shooting. Its relatively small bore diameter also contributes to its accuracy.
- Flat Trajectory: The high velocity results in a flatter trajectory, making range estimation and aiming easier, especially at longer distances. This is crucial for precision shooting.
- Limited Recoil: Compared to larger cartridges, the .22-250 has manageable recoil, allowing for quicker follow-up shots and greater comfort during extended shooting sessions.
- Varmints and Predators: The cartridge's design makes it exceptionally effective against prairie dogs, coyotes, and other small to medium-sized animals. The high velocity ensures clean kills.
Ballistics Comparison Table:
| Bullet Weight (grains) | Muzzle Velocity (fps) | Energy (ft-lbs) |
|---|---|---|
| 50 | 4000 | 1600 |
| 55 | 3850 | 1500 |
| 75 | 3400 | 1700 |
(Note: These are approximate values and can vary depending on the ammunition manufacturer and barrel length.)
The Remington 700 SPS Platform
The Remington 700 SPS (Special Purpose Synthetic) is a reliable and versatile bolt-action rifle built on the renowned Remington 700 action.
- 700 Action: The Remington 700 action is known for its robust design, smooth operation, and accuracy. It's a time-tested platform favored by many shooters.
- Synthetic Stock: The SPS features a durable, weather-resistant synthetic stock, providing a stable platform for shooting. This stock is typically less expensive than wood stocks.
- Features: The SPS usually includes features like a three-position safety, detachable magazine, and a threaded muzzle for adding a suppressor or muzzle brake.
- Customization: The Remington 700 action is widely supported by aftermarket parts, allowing for significant customization and upgrades. You can easily enhance the trigger, stock, and other components.
Remington 700 SPS .22-250: Performance and Applications
The combination of the .22-250 Remington cartridge and the Remington 700 SPS platform creates a highly effective rifle for various applications.
- Varmint Hunting: The high velocity and accuracy make this rifle excellent for hunting prairie dogs, ground squirrels, and coyotes.
- Predator Hunting: Its longer range capabilities make it suitable for hunting foxes and other predators.
- Target Shooting: The .22-250's accuracy is well-suited for long-range target practice. This platform is capable of impressive group sizes with proper ammunition and technique.
- Long-Range Shooting: While not a dedicated long-range rifle, the flat trajectory allows for accurate shots at extended ranges. However, you will need to adjust your scope and understand the ballistic trajectory.
Case Study: A successful prairie dog hunt
A hunter using a Remington 700 SPS .22-250 reported taking down 25 prairie dogs at ranges exceeding 300 yards in a single afternoon. The rifle's flat trajectory and accurate ammunition were crucial to this success. This is a testament to the rifle and cartridge's effectiveness for varmint hunting.
Pros and Cons of the Remington 700 SPS .22-250
Pros:
- High accuracy
- Flat trajectory
- Manageable recoil
- Effective for varmint hunting and target shooting
- Durable and reliable
- Many aftermarket options available
- Affordable compared to other precision rifles.
Cons:
- Can be loud, requiring hearing protection.
- May be slightly more expensive than some other .22-250 rifles.
- Not ideal for larger game.
Conclusion: Is the Remington 700 SPS .22-250 Right for You?
The Remington 700 SPS .22-250 is a versatile and effective rifle that excels in varmint hunting and target shooting. Its high velocity, accuracy, and manageable recoil make it a popular choice among many shooters. If you're looking for a reliable, accurate, and relatively affordable rifle for these applications, the Remington 700 SPS .22-250 is certainly worth considering. However, if you need a rifle for larger game, you'll want to choose a larger cartridge. Remember to always practice safe gun handling and follow all local hunting regulations.