The Remington 700 is a legendary bolt-action rifle, prized for its accuracy and reliability. However, its performance hinges critically on proper action screw torque. Getting this wrong can lead to significant accuracy problems, and even damage to your rifle. This guide provides a deep dive into understanding and managing Remington 700 action screw torque.
Understanding Action Screw Torque
The action screws on a Remington 700 (and many other rifles) hold the action securely to the stock. Insufficient torque can lead to shifting during firing, causing inconsistent accuracy. Excessive torque, on the other hand, can strip the screws or damage the action or stock.
What is Torque? Torque isn't the same as tightening force. Torque measures the rotational force applied to a fastener. It's measured in inch-pounds (in-lb) or foot-pounds (ft-lb). Using a simple wrench and "gut feeling" will not provide consistent and safe torque. Always use a torque wrench.
Why Precise Torque Matters
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Accuracy: Inconsistent action screw tightness leads to shifting of the action relative to the stock during recoil. This shift impacts the barrel's alignment and dramatically reduces shot-to-shot accuracy.
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Action Damage: Over-tightening can strip the action screw threads or even crack the receiver. This can render your rifle inoperable and expensive to repair.
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Stock Damage: Excessive torque can crush or crack the wood or synthetic stock, affecting its structural integrity.
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Safety: While less common, improperly tightened action screws could potentially lead to a dangerous malfunction during firing.
Finding the Right Torque Spec
Unfortunately, there's no single magic number for Remington 700 action screw torque. The correct value depends on several factors:
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Specific Rifle Model: Different Remington 700 models (e.g., 700 SPS, 700 Police, 700 Tactical) may have slightly different specifications. Always consult your rifle's manual first.
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Stock Material: Wood stocks require a lower torque than synthetic stocks. Wood is more susceptible to damage from over-tightening.
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Screw Type: The type of action screws (e.g., standard, upgraded) will also impact the recommended torque.
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Action Bedding: If your rifle is professionally bedded, the bedding compound will influence the appropriate torque. Over-tightening could damage the bedding.
Where to Find the Recommended Torque
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Owner's Manual: This is the first and most reliable source. Your owner's manual should explicitly state the recommended torque for your specific rifle.
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Remington's Website: While sometimes lacking specific model details, Remington's website might provide general guidelines.
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Gunsmiths: A qualified gunsmith can help determine the right torque, especially if your rifle has been modified or bedded.
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Online Forums: While not always reliable, forums dedicated to Remington 700 rifles might contain user-shared experiences and torque values for similar models and configurations. Use caution and prioritize information from reputable sources.
The Torque Wrench: Your Essential Tool
A torque wrench is not an optional accessory but an absolute necessity for setting action screw torque correctly. There are several types:
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Beam-type: These are simple, inexpensive, and reliable for single torque settings.
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Click-type: These provide a tactile "click" when the desired torque is reached. They're the most common and generally preferred for firearms.
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Digital: These display the applied torque digitally, offering precise control and measurement. They are more expensive but can be invaluable for fine-tuning.
Calibration is crucial. Torque wrenches can drift over time, affecting their accuracy. Regular calibration by a professional is recommended to ensure reliability.
Step-by-Step: Setting Action Screw Torque
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Clean the Screws and Threads: Remove any dirt, debris, or old lubricant from the screws and threads before beginning.
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Apply Lubricant: Apply a thin layer of a suitable lubricant (e.g., high-quality gun grease) to the screw threads. This helps prevent galling and provides smoother tightening.
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Set the Torque Wrench: Adjust your torque wrench to the recommended value for your specific Remington 700 model.
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Tighten the Screws: Tighten the screws in a crisscross pattern (opposite screws, alternating). This ensures even pressure on the action and minimizes stress on the stock.
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Check Torque: After tightening, double-check the torque using your wrench. Make sure both screws are within the recommended range.
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Test Fire (Safely): After setting the torque, take your rifle to a safe shooting range, and carefully test-fire it to see if the accuracy improves. Always follow safe firearm handling procedures.
Case Study: Accuracy Improvement Through Correct Torque
In a case study conducted by a professional gunsmith, a Remington 700 with poorly tightened action screws (torque was significantly lower than recommended) exhibited a large group size at 100 yards (approximately 4 MOA). After correcting the torque with a precise torque wrench, the group size was reduced by more than half (approximately 1.5 MOA). This highlights the dramatic impact that proper action screw torque can have on rifle accuracy.
Conclusion
Proper Remington 700 action screw torque is not just a recommendation; it's essential for accuracy, safety, and the longevity of your rifle. Using a calibrated torque wrench and following the recommended specifications for your specific model is critical. Don't hesitate to consult a gunsmith if you have any doubts. The investment in a torque wrench and proper procedure will pay off handsomely in enhanced accuracy and the preservation of your valuable firearm.