The Remington 700 is a legendary platform, and the addition of a bull barrel elevates its performance to a new level, particularly for long-range shooting and precision accuracy. This comprehensive guide explores the benefits, considerations, and nuances of choosing a Remington 700 with a bull barrel. We'll delve into what makes bull barrels unique, the various options available, and how to select the right one for your specific needs.
Understanding the Bull Barrel Advantage
A bull barrel, characterized by its significantly thicker profile compared to a standard barrel, offers several key advantages:
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Enhanced Accuracy: The increased mass of the bull barrel helps to dissipate heat more efficiently. This reduces barrel harmonics and vibrations, leading to improved shot-to-shot consistency and greater accuracy. Heat buildup is a major contributor to accuracy degradation, especially during rapid firing.
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Improved Barrel Life: The heavier barrel construction promotes slower heat transfer, reducing the stress placed on the barrel steel during extended shooting sessions. This contributes to a longer barrel lifespan, meaning you'll enjoy accurate performance for an extended period.
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Reduced Recoil: While not a dramatic reduction, the added weight does slightly mitigate felt recoil, making the rifle more comfortable to shoot, especially during prolonged practice sessions.
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Enhanced Stability: The thicker profile contributes to a more stable platform, reducing the impact of external factors that might affect accuracy, such as wind or shooter movement.
Types of Remington 700 Bull Barrels
Remington 700 bull barrels come in a variety of configurations, each offering unique properties:
Material:
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Stainless Steel: This is the most common material, offering a great balance of strength, durability, and corrosion resistance. It's ideal for various climates and shooting conditions.
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Chrome Moly (Chrome-Molybdenum): Offers exceptional strength and wear resistance, often preferred by competitive shooters and those seeking the longest barrel lifespan.
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Carbon Steel: A more affordable option, but it requires more diligent care and is more prone to rust. Less common in high-end bull barrels.
Contour:
Bull barrels are available in different contours. The contour refers to the barrel's thickness along its length. Some common contours include:
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Heavy Varmint: This contour is quite thick, providing superior heat dissipation and stiffness.
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Target: Similar to the heavy varmint, but sometimes features a slightly thinner profile towards the muzzle, reducing overall weight.
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Super Heavy: These are extremely thick barrels designed for ultimate accuracy and heat dissipation, often used in very specialized applications.
Choosing the Right Remington 700 Bull Barrel
Selecting the right bull barrel depends on several factors:
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Intended Use: Are you targeting long-range precision shooting, hunting, or competitive events? This will influence your choice of material, contour, and caliber.
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Caliber: Heavier calibers benefit more from the heat dissipation capabilities of a bull barrel than lighter calibers.
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Budget: Prices vary significantly depending on materials and manufacturer.
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Personal Preference: Consider the overall weight and balance of the rifle. A heavier barrel might be advantageous for accuracy, but could also impact maneuverability and comfort.
Maintenance and Care
Proper maintenance is essential for preserving the accuracy and longevity of your Remington 700 bull barrel. Regular cleaning is crucial to remove fouling and prevent corrosion. Using high-quality cleaning supplies and techniques will ensure your rifle remains in peak condition.
Conclusion
The Remington 700 with a bull barrel represents a significant upgrade for shooters seeking unmatched accuracy and performance. By carefully considering the factors discussed above, you can select the ideal configuration to meet your specific shooting needs and elevate your shooting experience to a new level. Remember to consult with firearms experts and conduct thorough research before making your purchase.
