## Remington 700 vs 770: Choosing the Right Bolt-Action Rifle for Your Needs
Deciding between the Remington 700 and the Remington 770 can be a challenge for both new and experienced shooters. Both are bolt-action rifles designed for hunting and sport shooting, but key differences in their design, features, and overall performance can significantly impact your shooting experience. This comprehensive comparison aims to provide you with the expert knowledge needed to make an informed decision. We’ll delve into the specifics of each rifle, covering everything from their actions and triggers to their accuracy and reliability, ultimately helping you determine which model best suits your specific needs and budget.
This article goes beyond simple specifications. We’ll explore the nuances of each rifle, drawing upon simulated experiences and expert consensus to offer a trustworthy and authoritative guide. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter seeking a reliable workhorse or a beginner looking for an affordable entry into the world of bolt-action rifles, this comparison will equip you with the insights necessary to choose the right Remington for your shooting style.
## Understanding the Remington 700 and 770: A Deep Dive
The Remington 700 and 770 are both bolt-action rifles manufactured by Remington Arms. While they share the same general purpose, they differ significantly in design and construction. Understanding these differences is crucial for making the right choice.
### Remington 700: The Industry Standard
The Remington 700 is arguably one of the most popular and widely respected bolt-action rifles ever made. Introduced in 1962, it quickly gained a reputation for its accuracy, reliability, and versatility. Its cylindrical action, featuring a “three rings of steel” design (the bolt face, chamber, and receiver fully enclose the cartridge head), provides exceptional strength and safety. The 700’s modular design has also made it a favorite among custom gunsmiths, allowing for extensive aftermarket upgrades and modifications. Its long history and vast user base have solidified its position as an industry standard.
* **History:** Introduced in 1962, a staple in hunting and sport shooting.
* **Action:** Cylindrical, “three rings of steel” design for strength and safety.
* **Trigger:** Originally featured the adjustable Remington Trigger, but later versions may have different trigger systems.
* **Aftermarket:** Extensive aftermarket support for customization and upgrades.
* **Reputation:** Known for accuracy, reliability, and versatility.
### Remington 770: The Budget-Friendly Option
The Remington 770, introduced as a more affordable alternative to the 700, aims to provide a reliable hunting rifle at a lower price point. To achieve this, Remington simplified the design and manufacturing process. The 770 features a simplified action, a pre-mounted and bore-sighted scope (on most models), and a detachable magazine. While it may not offer the same level of refinement or customization as the 700, the 770 provides a viable option for budget-conscious shooters.
* **Purpose:** Designed as a more affordable alternative to the Remington 700.
* **Action:** Simplified design compared to the 700.
* **Scope:** Often comes with a pre-mounted and bore-sighted scope.
* **Magazine:** Detachable magazine for easy reloading.
* **Target Audience:** Budget-conscious hunters and shooters.
### Core Concepts and Advanced Principles
At its core, the difference between the 700 and 770 comes down to manufacturing philosophy. The 700 is built for precision and longevity, with a focus on quality materials and meticulous craftsmanship. The 770 prioritizes affordability, utilizing simplified designs and manufacturing processes to reduce costs. While both rifles are designed to fire the same cartridges, their internal mechanics and overall performance differ significantly.
Advanced principles involve understanding the impact of these design choices on accuracy, reliability, and long-term durability. For example, the 700’s cylindrical action provides a more rigid and consistent platform for the barrel, contributing to improved accuracy. The 770’s simplified action, while functional, may not offer the same level of precision. Similarly, the 700’s extensive aftermarket support allows for upgrades that can further enhance its performance, while the 770 offers limited customization options.
### Importance and Current Relevance
The Remington 700 remains a highly relevant platform due to its proven track record and continued availability. It serves as a benchmark against which other bolt-action rifles are often measured. The Remington 770, while not as widely praised, still fills a niche for budget-conscious shooters who need a functional hunting rifle. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses of each model is crucial for making an informed purchase decision in today’s market.
## The Remington Arms Company and Bolt-Action Rifles
Remington Arms has a long and storied history in the firearms industry, dating back to 1816. The company has produced a wide range of firearms, including rifles, shotguns, and handguns. The Remington 700 is one of the company’s most iconic and successful products, becoming a staple in hunting, sport shooting, and even military applications. Remington’s commitment to innovation and quality has helped solidify its position as a leading firearms manufacturer.
The Remington 700, from an expert viewpoint, stands out due to its robust design and modularity. Its cylindrical action, coupled with the “three rings of steel” concept, provides a safe and accurate platform. The rifle’s popularity has also led to a vast aftermarket of parts and accessories, allowing shooters to customize it to their specific needs. The Remington 700’s legacy extends beyond civilian use; it has also served as the basis for military sniper rifles, further demonstrating its reliability and accuracy.
## Feature-by-Feature Comparison: Remington 700 vs 770
Let’s break down the key features of each rifle to highlight the differences:
### 1. Action Design
* **Remington 700:** Features a cylindrical action with the “three rings of steel” design. This design provides exceptional strength and rigidity, contributing to improved accuracy and safety. The bolt is typically smoother and more refined than the 770.
* **How it Works:** The cylindrical action ensures consistent alignment of the bolt and receiver, minimizing play and maximizing accuracy. The “three rings of steel” design fully encloses the cartridge head, providing a strong and safe firing platform.
* **User Benefit:** Enhanced accuracy, reliability, and safety.
* **Remington 770:** Employs a simplified action design to reduce manufacturing costs. While functional, it may not offer the same level of precision or smoothness as the 700.
* **How it Works:** A simplified bolt design and manufacturing process reduce costs but may compromise precision.
* **User Benefit:** Lower cost, but potentially at the expense of accuracy and smoothness.
### 2. Trigger Mechanism
* **Remington 700:** Originally featured the adjustable Remington Trigger, which allowed users to fine-tune the trigger pull weight. However, some later versions may have different trigger systems. Aftermarket triggers are readily available for further customization.
* **How it Works:** The adjustable trigger allows users to customize the trigger pull weight to their preference, improving accuracy and control.
* **User Benefit:** Customizable trigger pull for improved accuracy and control.
* **Remington 770:** Typically features a non-adjustable trigger. While functional, it may not offer the same level of precision or customization as the 700.
* **How it Works:** A non-adjustable trigger simplifies manufacturing but limits user customization.
* **User Benefit:** Simplicity, but with limited customization options.
### 3. Stock Design
* **Remington 700:** Available with a wide range of stock options, including synthetic, wood, and laminate. Aftermarket stocks are also readily available for further customization.
* **How it Works:** Different stock materials and designs offer varying levels of comfort, durability, and aesthetic appeal.
* **User Benefit:** Customizable stock options to suit individual preferences and shooting styles.
* **Remington 770:** Typically comes with a synthetic stock. While durable and weather-resistant, it may not offer the same level of comfort or aesthetic appeal as the 700’s stock options.
* **How it Works:** A synthetic stock provides durability and weather resistance at a lower cost.
* **User Benefit:** Durability and weather resistance, but with limited customization options.
### 4. Magazine System
* **Remington 700:** Typically features an internal magazine with a hinged floorplate. Aftermarket detachable magazine kits are also available.
* **How it Works:** The internal magazine provides a streamlined profile and reliable feeding.
* **User Benefit:** Reliable feeding and a streamlined profile.
* **Remington 770:** Features a detachable magazine. This allows for faster reloading compared to the 700’s internal magazine.
* **How it Works:** A detachable magazine allows for quick and easy reloading.
* **User Benefit:** Faster reloading.
### 5. Scope Mounting
* **Remington 700:** Requires separate scope mounting hardware. This allows users to choose their preferred scope and mounting system.
* **How it Works:** Separate scope mounting hardware allows for customization and compatibility with a wide range of scopes.
* **User Benefit:** Customizable scope options.
* **Remington 770:** Often comes with a pre-mounted and bore-sighted scope. This simplifies the setup process for new shooters.
* **How it Works:** A pre-mounted and bore-sighted scope simplifies setup for new shooters.
* **User Benefit:** Simplified setup for new shooters.
### 6. Aftermarket Support
* **Remington 700:** Boasts extensive aftermarket support, with a vast array of parts and accessories available for customization and upgrades. This includes triggers, stocks, barrels, and more.
* **How it Works:** Extensive aftermarket support allows users to customize the rifle to their specific needs and preferences.
* **User Benefit:** Highly customizable.
* **Remington 770:** Offers limited aftermarket support. This restricts customization options.
* **How it Works:** Limited aftermarket support restricts customization options.
* **User Benefit:** Lower cost, but with limited customization options.
### 7. Accuracy Potential
* **Remington 700:** Generally known for its excellent accuracy potential, especially with aftermarket upgrades. Its robust action and precise manufacturing contribute to consistent shot placement.
* **How it Works:** A robust action and precise manufacturing contribute to consistent shot placement.
* **User Benefit:** Excellent accuracy potential.
* **Remington 770:** While capable of acceptable accuracy for hunting purposes, it may not match the precision of the 700. Its simplified action and manufacturing processes may limit its accuracy potential.
* **How it Works:** A simplified action and manufacturing processes may limit accuracy potential.
* **User Benefit:** Acceptable accuracy for hunting purposes.
## Advantages, Benefits, and Real-World Value
The Remington 700 and 770 offer distinct advantages and benefits to different types of shooters. Understanding these can help you determine which rifle best aligns with your needs and priorities.
### Remington 700: The Premium Choice
The Remington 700 offers several key advantages:
* **Superior Accuracy:** Its robust action and precise manufacturing contribute to excellent accuracy, making it suitable for both hunting and target shooting.
* **Extensive Customization:** The vast aftermarket support allows users to customize the rifle to their specific needs and preferences, enhancing its performance and versatility.
* **Proven Reliability:** Its long history and widespread use have established its reputation as a reliable and dependable firearm.
* **Higher Resale Value:** Due to its popularity and reputation, the Remington 700 typically holds its value better than the 770.
* **Wider Range of Calibers and Configurations:** The 700 is available in a wider variety of calibers and configurations, allowing shooters to choose the perfect rifle for their specific needs.
These advantages translate to real-world value for shooters who prioritize accuracy, customization, and long-term reliability. For example, a hunter who demands pinpoint accuracy for ethical long-range shots would likely benefit from the 700’s superior performance. Similarly, a competitive shooter who wants to fine-tune their rifle for optimal performance would appreciate the 700’s extensive customization options.
### Remington 770: The Budget-Friendly Option
The Remington 770 offers the following advantages:
* **Lower Cost:** Its simplified design and manufacturing process make it a more affordable option than the 700.
* **Ready to Use:** The pre-mounted and bore-sighted scope (on most models) simplifies the setup process for new shooters.
* **Detachable Magazine:** The detachable magazine allows for faster reloading compared to the 700’s internal magazine.
These advantages provide real-world value for budget-conscious shooters who need a functional and reliable hunting rifle. For instance, a new hunter who is just starting out and wants to minimize their initial investment would likely find the 770 to be a suitable option. Similarly, a shooter who prioritizes simplicity and ease of use would appreciate the 770’s ready-to-use design.
## Comprehensive Review: A Balanced Perspective
Both the Remington 700 and 770 have their strengths and weaknesses. Let’s take a closer look at each rifle from a balanced perspective.
### Remington 700 Review
The Remington 700 is a highly regarded bolt-action rifle known for its accuracy, reliability, and versatility. Its robust action and precise manufacturing contribute to consistent shot placement, making it a popular choice among hunters, target shooters, and law enforcement agencies. The rifle’s extensive aftermarket support allows users to customize it to their specific needs and preferences.
* **User Experience & Usability:** The 700’s smooth bolt action and comfortable stock make it a pleasure to shoot. Its adjustable trigger (on some models) allows users to fine-tune the trigger pull weight for improved accuracy.
* **Performance & Effectiveness:** The 700 delivers excellent accuracy and reliability, making it a capable performer in a wide range of shooting scenarios.
**Pros:**
* **Exceptional Accuracy:** Consistently delivers accurate shots, even at longer ranges.
* **Extensive Customization:** Offers a vast array of aftermarket parts and accessories for customization.
* **Proven Reliability:** Has a long and well-established track record of reliability.
* **Wide Range of Calibers:** Available in a wide variety of calibers to suit different shooting needs.
* **High Resale Value:** Typically holds its value well due to its popularity and reputation.
**Cons:**
* **Higher Price:** More expensive than the Remington 770.
* **Requires Separate Scope Mounting:** Requires separate scope mounting hardware, adding to the overall cost.
* **Trigger Issues (on some models):** Some older models have been subject to trigger recalls.
**Ideal User Profile:** The Remington 700 is best suited for shooters who prioritize accuracy, customization, and long-term reliability. It’s an excellent choice for experienced hunters, target shooters, and anyone who wants a high-quality bolt-action rifle.
**Key Alternatives:** The Savage 110 and Tikka T3x are popular alternatives to the Remington 700, offering similar levels of accuracy and performance.
**Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation:** The Remington 700 remains a top choice for those seeking a reliable and accurate bolt-action rifle. While it comes at a higher price point, the benefits it offers in terms of accuracy, customization, and long-term reliability make it a worthwhile investment.
### Remington 770 Review
The Remington 770 is a budget-friendly bolt-action rifle designed for hunters who need a reliable and functional firearm without breaking the bank. Its simplified design and pre-mounted scope (on most models) make it a good option for new shooters.
* **User Experience & Usability:** The 770’s lightweight design and pre-mounted scope make it easy to handle and use, especially for new shooters.
* **Performance & Effectiveness:** The 770 delivers acceptable accuracy for hunting purposes, but it may not match the precision of the 700.
**Pros:**
* **Affordable Price:** Significantly less expensive than the Remington 700.
* **Ready to Use:** Comes with a pre-mounted and bore-sighted scope (on most models).
* **Detachable Magazine:** Allows for faster reloading compared to the 700’s internal magazine.
* **Lightweight Design:** Easy to carry and handle, especially for new shooters.
**Cons:**
* **Limited Customization:** Offers limited aftermarket support.
* **Lower Accuracy Potential:** May not match the precision of the 700.
* **Less Refined Action:** The bolt action is not as smooth or refined as the 700.
* **Durability Concerns:** Some users have reported durability issues with the 770.
**Ideal User Profile:** The Remington 770 is best suited for budget-conscious hunters who need a functional and reliable firearm without breaking the bank. It’s a good option for new shooters who are just starting out.
**Key Alternatives:** The Ruger American and Mossberg Patriot are popular alternatives to the Remington 770, offering similar levels of performance and affordability.
**Expert Overall Verdict & Recommendation:** The Remington 770 is a decent option for budget-minded hunters, but its limitations in terms of accuracy, customization, and durability should be considered. If you can afford it, the Remington 700 is a significantly better investment.
## Insightful Q&A Section
Here are 10 frequently asked questions about the Remington 700 and 770:
1. **Q: What is the primary difference between the Remington 700 and 770?**
**A:** The primary difference lies in their design and manufacturing. The 700 is built for precision and longevity with a focus on quality materials and craftsmanship, while the 770 prioritizes affordability through simplified designs and manufacturing processes.
2. **Q: Which rifle is more accurate, the Remington 700 or 770?**
**A:** The Remington 700 generally offers better accuracy potential due to its robust action, precise manufacturing, and extensive aftermarket support.
3. **Q: Does the Remington 770 come with a scope?**
**A:** Most Remington 770 models come with a pre-mounted and bore-sighted scope, simplifying the setup process for new shooters.
4. **Q: Can I customize the Remington 770?**
**A:** The Remington 770 offers limited aftermarket support, restricting customization options compared to the 700.
5. **Q: Is the Remington 700 trigger adjustable?**
**A:** Some Remington 700 models feature an adjustable trigger, allowing users to fine-tune the trigger pull weight. However, some older models have been subject to trigger recalls.
6. **Q: Which rifle is better for a new shooter, the Remington 700 or 770?**
**A:** The Remington 770 can be a good option for new shooters due to its lower cost and ready-to-use design (with the pre-mounted scope). However, the 700’s superior accuracy and reliability may be worth the investment for serious shooters.
7. **Q: What are some common problems with the Remington 770?**
**A:** Some users have reported durability issues with the Remington 770, particularly with the stock and magazine.
8. **Q: What calibers are available for the Remington 700 and 770?**
**A:** Both rifles are available in a range of popular hunting calibers, including .270 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield, and 7mm Remington Magnum. The 700 typically offers a wider range of caliber options.
9. **Q: How does the “three rings of steel” design benefit the Remington 700?**
**A:** The “three rings of steel” design (the bolt face, chamber, and receiver fully enclose the cartridge head) provides exceptional strength and safety.
10. **Q: Is the Remington 700 worth the extra cost compared to the 770?**
**A:** For shooters who prioritize accuracy, customization, and long-term reliability, the Remington 700 is generally worth the extra cost. However, the 770 can be a viable option for budget-conscious shooters who need a functional hunting rifle.
## Conclusion: Making the Right Choice
In the debate of Remington 700 vs 770, the “better” rifle ultimately depends on your individual needs and priorities. The Remington 700 stands as a testament to precision and customization, offering superior accuracy and a vast array of aftermarket options. Its robust design and proven reliability make it a worthwhile investment for serious shooters who demand the best. On the other hand, the Remington 770 provides an affordable entry point into the world of bolt-action rifles, offering a functional and reliable platform for budget-conscious hunters.
Consider your budget, shooting experience, and desired level of customization when making your decision. If accuracy and long-term reliability are paramount, the Remington 700 is the clear choice. However, if you’re looking for an affordable and ready-to-use hunting rifle, the Remington 770 can be a viable option. Remember to always prioritize safety and practice responsible gun ownership.
Share your experiences with the Remington 700 and 770 in the comments below! What are your thoughts on these two popular bolt-action rifles? Your insights can help other shooters make an informed decision.
