The Remington 700 SPS Varmint in .308 Winchester is a popular choice among long-range shooters and hunters. Its reputation for accuracy and the versatility of the .308 cartridge make it a compelling option. This in-depth review will explore the rifle's features, performance, and suitability for various applications, helping you determine if it's the right fit for your needs. We'll cover everything from its strengths and weaknesses to real-world shooting experiences and modifications.
The Remington 700 SPS Varmint: Key Features and Specifications
The Remington 700 SPS Varmint is built on the legendary Remington 700 action, known for its robustness and accuracy. Several key features set this model apart:
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Heavy Barrel: The "Varmint" designation points to the rifle's most distinctive feature: its heavy, free-floating barrel. This barrel profile helps dissipate heat more effectively, reducing barrel harmonics and promoting better accuracy during extended shooting sessions. The extra weight also contributes to increased stability.
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Durable Stock: The stock is typically a synthetic material, chosen for its weather resistance and durability. It's designed to be relatively rigid, minimizing flex that could affect accuracy. While not as aesthetically pleasing as wood, synthetic stocks are very practical for field use.
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Remington 700 Action: The heart of the rifle, the 700 action is a tried-and-true design renowned for its reliability and ease of maintenance. It uses a push-feed system, known for its smooth cycling and consistent feeding.
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Adjustable Trigger: The Remington 700 SPS Varmint features an adjustable trigger, allowing you to customize the pull weight to your preference. This is a crucial feature for precision shooting, ensuring a crisp and consistent trigger break.
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.308 Winchester Caliber: The .308 Winchester cartridge is extremely versatile. It offers a good balance of accuracy, range, and stopping power, making it suitable for a variety of applications, including hunting and long-range target shooting.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Action | Remington 700, Bolt-Action |
| Caliber | .308 Winchester |
| Barrel Length | Typically 26 inches |
| Barrel Profile | Heavy Varmint |
| Stock | Synthetic |
| Trigger | Adjustable |
| Capacity | Standard detachable box magazine (4 rounds) |
| Overall Length | Approximately 44 inches |
| Weight | Approximately 9.5 pounds |
Performance and Accuracy: Real-World Testing
The Remington 700 SPS Varmint's performance is consistently praised by owners and reviewers. Numerous tests have shown the potential for sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) accuracy with high-quality ammunition. This means grouping shots within a one-inch circle at 100 yards. However, this accuracy depends on several factors:
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Ammunition: Using premium, match-grade ammunition is crucial for achieving optimal accuracy. Experimentation with different brands and loads is necessary to find what your specific rifle shoots best.
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Scope: The quality of your scope will significantly impact accuracy. A high-quality scope with a good reticle is essential for precise shot placement.
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Shooter Skill: Even the best rifle will only perform as well as the shooter behind it. Proper shooting technique and practice are essential to realizing the rifle's full potential.
Case Study: One experienced shooter reported consistently achieving 0.75 MOA accuracy with Federal Gold Medal Match ammunition using a high-quality Leupold scope. This demonstrates the potential for exceptional accuracy with the right setup.
Remington 700 SPS Varmint: Strengths and Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Accuracy: The heavy barrel and robust action contribute to excellent accuracy potential.
- Versatility: The .308 Winchester cartridge is adaptable for various uses.
- Reliability: The Remington 700 action is known for its reliability and longevity.
- Adjustable Trigger: Allows for customization to suit individual preferences.
- Affordable: Compared to some custom rifles, the Remington 700 SPS Varmint offers excellent value.
Weaknesses:
- Stock: The synthetic stock, while durable, might not be as aesthetically pleasing to some.
- Trigger: While adjustable, the factory trigger can sometimes require improvement for optimal performance. Many shooters upgrade to aftermarket triggers.
- Recoil: The .308 Winchester cartridge produces noticeable recoil, which can be mitigated with a recoil pad or muzzle brake.
Who is the Remington 700 SPS Varmint for?
This rifle is ideal for:
- Long-range target shooters: Its accuracy and heavy barrel are well-suited for precision shooting at longer ranges.
- Hunters: The versatile .308 cartridge makes it suitable for hunting a wide variety of game animals.
- First-time bolt-action owners: The Remington 700 action is relatively straightforward, making it a good choice for beginners.
Conclusion: A Solid Choice for Accuracy and Reliability
The Remington 700 SPS Varmint .308 is a well-regarded rifle that provides excellent accuracy and reliability at a reasonable price. While it may not be a custom-grade rifle, its performance justifies its popularity. By understanding its strengths and weaknesses, and by choosing appropriate ammunition and accessories, shooters can unlock the Remington 700 SPS Varmint's full potential. Remember to always practice safe gun handling and follow all relevant laws and regulations.