The Remington 700 CDL (Camouflage Deluxe) has long been a favorite among hunters for its blend of accuracy, reliability, and affordability. This in-depth review will explore its features, performance, and suitability for various hunting scenarios. We'll examine what makes it a classic choice and consider potential drawbacks. Let's dive into the world of the Remington 700 CDL.
What Makes the Remington 700 CDL Stand Out?
The Remington 700 CDL boasts several key features that contribute to its popularity:
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Accuracy: Built on the renowned Remington 700 action, the CDL is known for its inherent accuracy. Its free-floating barrel contributes to consistent shot placement, even at longer ranges. Many shooters report sub-MOA accuracy with quality ammunition. This is critical for ethical hunting practices.
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Reliability: The 700 action is renowned for its robustness and dependability. It can handle harsh conditions and years of use with minimal maintenance. Its simple, proven design is a key factor in its reliability.
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Versatility: Chambered in various popular hunting calibers, including .270 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield, and .308 Winchester, the CDL offers flexibility for different game and hunting situations. This adaptability makes it a versatile tool for a range of hunting needs.
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Affordability: Compared to other high-end hunting rifles, the Remington 700 CDL offers excellent value for its price. It provides a solid platform for hunters without breaking the bank.
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Camouflage Finish: The "CDL" designation signifies a camouflage finish. While aesthetics are subjective, the camo pattern aids in concealment, blending the rifle with the natural environment.
Remington 700 CDL Action and Trigger
The heart of the Remington 700 CDL is its push-feed action. This is a reliable, proven system that efficiently feeds cartridges into the chamber. However, some users find the factory trigger somewhat heavy and gritty. Many upgrade to an aftermarket trigger for a crisper, lighter pull. This is a common modification among precision shooters and hunters.
Barrel and Stock
The CDL typically features a free-floating barrel, crucial for accuracy. The free-floating design minimizes barrel vibration and ensures consistent shot groups. The stock is usually made of synthetic material, making it durable, weather-resistant, and relatively lightweight. It's designed for comfortable shouldering and provides a stable platform for aiming.
Remington 700 CDL Performance and Use Cases
The Remington 700 CDL excels in various hunting scenarios:
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Big Game Hunting: Calibers like .30-06 and .270 Winchester are well-suited for large game, providing sufficient power and penetration. The accuracy of the CDL ensures clean kills at moderate to long ranges.
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Deer Hunting: The .308 Winchester is a popular choice for deer hunting, offering a good balance of accuracy, power, and recoil management.
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Predator Hunting: Smaller calibers can be used for predator hunting, but the 700 platform's accuracy remains an advantage.
Case Study: A Successful Elk Hunt
A friend of mine used his Remington 700 CDL in .30-06 Springfield to harvest a bull elk at 300 yards. The rifle's accuracy and consistent performance proved crucial in making a clean, ethical shot at that distance. This exemplifies the CDL's capability for long-range hunting.
Potential Drawbacks
While the Remington 700 CDL is a highly regarded rifle, some potential drawbacks exist:
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Trigger: As mentioned earlier, the factory trigger often requires upgrading for a smoother, lighter pull.
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Recoil: Powerful calibers like the .30-06 can generate significant recoil. Shooters should practice proper shooting techniques to mitigate this.
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Customer Service: Remington has faced criticism regarding customer service in recent years, although improvements are being made.
Conclusion: Is the Remington 700 CDL Right for You?
The Remington 700 CDL offers a fantastic combination of accuracy, reliability, and affordability, making it a strong contender for various hunting purposes. Its proven action and versatility make it a popular choice among hunters of all experience levels. While some potential drawbacks exist, such as the factory trigger and potential recoil, these issues can often be addressed with aftermarket upgrades or proper technique. If you're seeking a dependable hunting rifle with excellent accuracy and a reasonable price point, the Remington 700 CDL deserves serious consideration. However, thoroughly research different calibers to select the one best suited to your hunting needs and game preferences.