For me, there’s something about a classic Remington bolt-action rifle that you can’t beat.
The Remington 700 has been tried and tested in virtually every scenario and has a proven track record of success. A longtime staple in the hunting world, the Model 700 has also seen its fair share of use in competition and target shooting.
As such, the Model 700 enjoys one of, if not the largest, aftermarkets for bolt action rifles. Just about every single component on the gun has numerous aftermarket and custom options. Many custom rifle builds and modern rifle manufacturers use Model 700-style actions as the basis for their guns.
Owing to its rugged and simple action, it’s no coincidence that this bad boy has also been a favorite sharpshooter’s rifle in law enforcement and has seen military action from the Army and USMC in the form of the M24 and M40.
All current Remington Model 700 variants are equipped with Remington’s patented X-Mark Pro trigger system. It’s a good trigger overall, with about 3.5 pounds of pull weight straight out the box and the ability to adjust the weight further using an external screw.
Full disclosure, the X-Mark Pro isn’t perfect. Remington was the target of a class action lawsuit due to safety issues associated with the trigger. Remington has since fixed these problems, but if you own an R700 with an X-Mark Pro made between 2004 and 2014, you should look into getting the trigger replaced.
With that out of the way, let’s dive into some of their best models.
THE QUICK LIST
-
Best Classic 700
-
Best All-Purpose 700
-
Most Affordable 700
-
Editor’s Pick
Table of Contents
Loading…
Best Remington 700 Rifles
1. Model 700 CDL
The Remington 700 CDL is a premium hunting rifle based on the traditional design of the Model 700, which was introduced in 1962. It’s hailed as an incredibly accurate and dependable rifle, making it one of the most favored guns among hunters and collectors.
When talking about the top all-purpose hunting rifles, you can bet your bottom dollar that the Model 700 comes up at some point during the conversation. Straight out of the box, the CDL is ready for virtually anything you throw at it. Mount your favorite scope, and you’re ready to go.
All CDL models come with a classic profile American walnut stock with a satin finish, which gives the gun an elegant look.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Current calibers available:
- .243 Winchester – 24” barrel
- 25-06 Remington – 24” barrel
- .270 Winchester – 24” barrel
- 7mm Remington Mag – 26” barrel
- 30-06 Springfield – 24” barrel
- .300 Winchester Mag – 26” barrel
2. Model 700 CDL SF
The Remington 700 Classic Deluxe SF has the vintage Model 700 design we’ve all come to know and love. It sports a stainless steel fluted barrel (hence the name SF), bolt, trigger guard, and bottom metal.
Aside from that, it’s virtually the same as your standard Model 700 CDL.
The benefits of the stainless fluted barrel include better shooting consistency, weight reduction, and corrosion resistance. Depending on the caliber of the gun, the CDL SF will weigh between 7.5 to 7.62 pounds.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Current calibers available:
- .270 Winchester – 24” barrel
- 7mm Remington Mag – 26” barrel
- .30-06 Springfield – 24” barrel
3. Model 700 BDL
The Remington 700 BDL is a deluxe model that’s functionally similar to the CDL but with some slightly different features.
While made out of the same American walnut finish as the CDL models, the BDL’s Monte Carlo stock design brings a different look by providing a slightly lighter finish, a different checkering pattern, and a raised cheek piece.
Although the BDL is the only current Model 700 equipped with iron sights, the raised cheek piece helps ensure a proper cheek weld and sight picture if you choose to mount a scope.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
The other significant difference between the BDL and the CDL models is barrel length, with the BDL having 2 inches less barrel than the CDL in both the standard and magnum configurations.
Current calibers available:
- .243 Winchester – 22” barrel
- .270 Winchester – 22” barrel
- 30-06 Springfield – 22” barrel
- 7mm Remington Mag – 24” barrel
What do you think of the BDL model? Give it a rating below.
4. Model 700 SPS
The Remington Model 700 SPS is the bread and butter working man’s rifle on this list. Owing to its synthetic stock and cost-effective matte finish, the SPS is the lowest-priced option on this list.
Don’t be fooled by the price difference, though — the guts of the rifle remain the same. With that in mind, the SPS performs nearly as well as its more expensive counterparts, just in a more stripped-down format.
Additionally, the SPS has the widest selection of available chamberings.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Current calibers available:
- 243 Winchester – 24” barrel
- 6.5 Creedmoor – 24” barrel
- 270 Winchester – 24” barrel
- 7mm-08 Remington – 24” barrel
- 7mm Remington Mag – 26” barrel
- 308 Winchester – 24” barrel
- 30-06 Springfield – 26” barrel
- 300 Winchester Mag – 26” barrel
5. Model 700 SPS Tactical
The Remington 700 SPS Tactical is an upgraded version of the SPS that focuses on maneuverability without sacrificing accuracy.
What makes this rifle tactical? For starters, it comes equipped with a shorter, heavy contour barrel. It also sports a Hogue overmolded stock that features pillar-bedding, a semi-beavertail fore-end, and a SuperCell recoil pad.
For those looking to be extra discreet, or extra loud, the 700 SPS Tactical is available with a threaded barrel in its 16.5-inch configuration. Its 5/8×24 thread pitch allows you to thread on a variety of popular suppressors and other muzzle devices, all while keeping the overall length of the gun relatively short.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
Current calibers available:
- .300 Blackout – 16.5″ Barrel (Threaded)
- .308 Winchester – 16.5″ Barrel (Threaded), 20″ Barrel (Non-threaded)
Honorable Mention
Bergara B-14 HMR
While the Bergara isn’t a Remington 700, it is based on the same design and takes all standard stocks, chassis, and triggers of the R700.
Bergara started as a premium barrel manufacturer before transitioning into making full-blown rifles. They have made quite a name for themselves in the last several years for their excellent line of rifles.
The B-14 HMR is no exception. You get a fantastic trigger, accurate rifle, and smooth bolt. HMR stands for Hunting and Match Rifle, and it will absolutely do both jobs well.
Just the stock alone is packed with features. These include a mini-chassis, adjustable length-of-pull, adjustable cheek height, and QD sling attachment points. The barrel is also fully free-floated with 5/8×24 threads, and the HMR accepts AICS pattern detachable box magazines.
In many ways, these rifles offer many benefits over the venerable Remington 700 while maintaining all of the aftermarket compatibility.
Prices accurate at time of writing
Prices accurate at time of writing
-
25% off all OAKLEY products - OAKLEY25
Copied! Visit Merchant
If you are looking for a true do-all rifle, the B-14 HMR is hard to beat for the money. Take a look at our Hands-on Review!
Final Thoughts
The Remington 700 has been in production since the 1960s. Many different sub-models have been produced throughout the years, with various calibers and trims being added and discontinued.
Remington has run into financial issues over the last few decades, but they are currently producing new rifles under their new ownership. While their current lineup is limited, I would expect to see new models in the future as Remington attempts to rebuild their brand.
This list is by no means a comprehensive guide of all Model 700s in existence, but it is a good place to get started if you are looking to buy a brand new one.
So, what type of 700 are you shooting? Which one do you want? Let us know in the comments below! Not quite sure if the Model 700 is for you? Check out our ultimate guide to the best bolt-action rifles!
43 Leave a Reply
You make a list of best REM 700s and you leave off the milspec 5r? Curious.
While on a hunting trip in TN I picked up a late-60s R700 ADL 30-06 with Redfield “TV-style”scope for $300. I had a gunsmith smooth out the grit on the trigger, and now it shoots like a dream!
One minor correction... the BDL isn't the only one that comes with iron sights. It may be the only one direct from Remington that does, but both the M24 and M40 included iron sights. Also surprised you didn't mention the 700P as an honorable mention as its seen lots of FBI HRT and LAPD SWAT action. Its essentially much like the 700SPS available in .308 with the shorter, heavier barrel, but also has the "speed bolt" round-ball knob (included as one piece... not cut, threaded and screwed on like many after markets options). Its also worth adding that any of these benefit from stock upgrades. Take a look at Stocky's Stocks and search by SA (short action) or LA (long action). For a few hundred or so you can do a nice upgrade from the stock, Hogue option and for a bit more add on a detachable mag solution (lots of options that are compatible with but way better than the Magpul's).
Are all of these legal to buy? I want one!!!
I have a Remington VSF LH in .308 and it's a beast. I've had it for prolly 11 or so yrs. Pd like $ 1,500 for it and had to order it in L.H. Then had to get scope of course, needless to say I couldn't drop a grand for optics cause it took my whole tax return to get the rifle lol! So I got some $250 Bushnell and it works but havent shot it in awhile. But I was under the impression the VSF was for " Varmint Synthetic Fluted" for the stock. Learn something every day esp from these great articles. BTW I think push feed like the Remingtons are more accurate then controlled feed like the Winchester 70s. IMHO. Just don't crawl around with a round in the chamber with ur bolt open. But who does that anyway?
I own thirteen Remington M700's in one variation or another ;Classic, BDL and CDL. Claibers ranging from .22-250 Rem to .300 Win magnum . Favorite is my CDL in .270 Win but my 7mm Weatherby magnum classic is a stong contender for the top spot. These range from forty years old to five years old. They have all always been reliable and accurate . I have other Remingtons ; a M750 carbine in .308 and a 870 , 1100 and 11-87 shotguns. I am a 100% Remington fan. With the the 7mm Weatherby I use Weatherby 154 gr. spire point ammunition. For all others I only shoot Rem Core-Lokt PSP ammunition. I too wwant to see Remington return and produce quality rifles and shotguns . At 77 years old - - I probably won't be buying many more but still wish them well. It all depends on weather "gun people" run the company or "venture capitalists" run the company into the ground by producing low-end , marginal quality product only .
your children must be very pround for you
Roger that
I have had the BDL version 25-.06 since 1980 when I was just 15 years old. This weapon has killed over 95 white tail deer. But what was special was using the M40 A3 in the Marine Corps Scout Sniper program. ( I served from 1984-2007 in the 1st and 2nd Force Recon) I cannot express how much I truly love these weapons. I love the Remington 700 platforms. I used the 168 grain boat tails in the 7.62x51 caliber and have had success at the 1000 and 1200 yard ranges. I know most everyone will not be using this model (s) for rugged terrain but it has stood up to earn the reputation of being the BEST rifle. Now if I could get a discount on a new tactical 700, I would be happy !!
i have a remington model 700 that is a 762 by 39. i am a ruger guy but when i found it i thought it was a little odd. if you could tell me anything about it i would be very thankful . it has scope on it and the wood is very very nice in color. i dont really know how to email but i do text. if you would like to see some pictures of it you can text me. 812-431-5000 . it is factory marked in that cal. the only thing i have found out about it is that it has a mouser action. thanks for any info.
Looking for 338 Remington Ultra Mag Ammo
Hi
Do you need 338 Remington?
Do they make a 204 left hand riffle
IDK about now but it used to be they only made L.Hs in their upper grades like when you got to the BDLs and stuff. But I'm not sure now.
Love this rifle. I bought this summer 2020 (Gen. 2) .308, 24" barrel. This is where I went with it: Accuracy Systems "On-Off muzzle brake, Vortex Diamondback Tactical 6-24x50 EBR 2C MRAD, Vortex Pro Rings, Harris 3-9 Swivel Bipod and also added panning swivel, Sure Shot Monopod, Trigger Tech Special with strait trigger, and lastly a KwikKlip bottom metal.
This rifle is such a huge pleasure to shoot, it makes me look like I know what I'm doing. At almost 70 yrs. my eyes are not what they were as a young guy so those way out there shots are not going to happen for me but I have no reservations that a better shooter might achieve some pretty amazing results with it. This may not be the Ferrari of PRS but neither am I so I couldn't be happier. A quick mention on the Kwik Klip, I realize that these are hardly ever mentioned anywhere but hear me out. It is basically a design knock off of HS Precision's 1st. generation DBM. The fit to the stock is a perfect drop in using the provided spacer washers. The 4 rd. mags rattle when empty but function flawlessly and given the center feed design, strip and chamber so effortlessly. The black finish on the metal isn't going to last forever. So why use Kwik Klip? Affordability and convenience. I got frustrated with having that 4th. rd. roll over onto the bolt raceway every time I top loaded. Let's hope that the new owners of the brand will get Remington back onto stable ground and the 700 back with unmatched QC and rekindle the love affair.
I have 2 700's both are ADL's a 270 NWTF version with a camo stock. A 7mm Rem mag with a black stock. I recently upgraded to Timmney triggers in both guns. Love em.
Anymore they are saying the ADL s are most accurate because of the strong top load stock. Good and solid. Just what I have heard.
I have a Remington model 700 Alaskan Titanium in 7mm with a composite stock I think HS presision can anyone tell me anything about this rifle I don’t think they made them for very long, shoots the 139 grain Hornaday really good thank you
I own a Remington 700 CDL in 30-06. I meat hunt big game (Elk, Mule Deer & Whitetail). Nowadays, everyone wants to follow the fad of hunting with really big guns (300 win mag +). However, My 30-06 will handle anything I can afford to hunt. Plus, it doesn't tear up too much meat. Interestingly, my hunting buddies with the really big guns shoot at the same distance I do (0 - 400 yards). If I ever get to travel and hunt exotic game, I'll pick up a 300 win mag. I love the wood grain in the stock.
If you can find one of the 5R Gen2 rifles I’d recommend you snatch it up. Fantastic rifles with the HS Precision varmint/tactical stock for under a grand. With Remington bankrupt and sold off there’s no telling when these will be available again, if ever, and I can attest that with quality ammo they will shoot with custom rifles 3x their price.
I have a Model 700 Mountain chambered in 270. It has a 4 round detachable mag. I bought that gun around 1997 and I still hunt with it today.
Hello Everybody,
I have just inherited two Remingtom 700,s.
.17 Remington.
.243 Winchester.
Can anyone lat me know anything about these rifles please.
Cheers
Noel
700's in 7 x 57 ? Classic, Mtn Rifle, any others ? small run of BDL's ??
Just bought a 700 but not sure what model. How do I tell what it is?
My current squad of 700s includes a mix of classic, mutt, rare, and other.
The classic: a BDL in 257 Roberts. Accurate, stylish, and has helped several of my kids take their first elk and deer.
The mutt: a BDL that was re-barrelled to 257 Wby. Very accurate, but heavy and picky about ammo. Handloads are a must.
The rare: two actually, which is odd for a rare rifle, right? But two of my kids are left-eye shooters, so I have two LH bolts. A BDL in 30-06 that is partial to Remington factory loads, and a SPS compact (?) in 308 with a Boyds stock.
And finally my personal rifle: a Sendero in 300 Win Mag. Sub-moa with most factory and handloads using 180gr or heavier. This rifle supplied my freezer with many cow elk when the kids were younger. (At the time Colo. was allowing 2 cow tags per year in some units)
Also in the mix is a 721 in 30-06 that was made in 1954. Probably will still be working good in 2054.
I recently bought a Remington 700 SPS in 6.5 creedmoor with the coyote tan finish and a # 3 contour 22" barrel. Just wondering what it would take to make this a really good shooting rifle
I bought one over a year ago, the first thing I did was dump the stock and trigger and replaced them with a Grayboe Terrain stock and a Timney trigger. Plus I reload so I can tailor my rounds to the rifle. Needless to say it is a tack driver....
I'm running my great grandfather's 1949 Model 721 Remington, the predecessor to the 700. After 70 years it's still a sub MOA tack driver.
I purchased one of the last 700 VSF left hand .308's to be made.
Shot excellent and had the now famous Xmark pro triggers. After
hearing about the the recall I called Remington and sure enough my .308 was on the list.
I had my trigger set at 3lbs. and never had any problems with the
rifle. Sent it in and finally got it back after about 9 months, their
Solution was to set my trigger at
6lbs. and JB WELD the stupid thing
In place. I got no satisfaction from
Remington at all ! I finally was able to rid myself of all the Remington's
That I owned so just buyer beware
Dealing with a company that has basically went to h*ll in a hand basket !
You dumped all your 700’s because of that, instead of spending the $100-120 on a Timney and killing two birds at the same time (better trigger and dealing with the poor warranty work)? Doesn’t sound like that was well thought out...
I have a 30/06 BDL and 338 win mag BDL both are left handed 1986 and 1988 respectively. Both are free floated and bedded 1 moa on the '06 1.25 moa on the 338. Many whitetail, muley and antelope and a couple of elk coyote black bear and a bighorn sheep. Hand loaded every round for both guns . Till death do is part.
What do you think of the Gen2 5R
Looking at one in 6.5 Creedmoor
Excellent rifles. Picked one up in 308 and liked it so much I bought another in 6.5 Creedmoor. Excellent balance with the fluted barrel and actions are nice and smooth. Accurate rifles as is but I put Timney Calvin Elite triggers in both and they’re absolute tack drivers with factory ammo; 308 averages under .5 MOA with Federal 168 Gold Medal and 6.5 averages .25 MOA with Hornady 140 ELD-M. Again, as stock with noting more than the trigger replaced. If you can find one if highly recommend picking one up.
I would like to know any opinions about rebarreling a 700 into the 358 win as another SA action cartridge based on the 243 or 308 win design Yes, I know a 358 isn't a super long range cartridge but for bear or a brush gun with punch
I would like to know if my trigger is.adjustable
Breaks clean but would be better for my taste if it were a little lighter
I have a 700 bull barrell in 308..after research I've found the rifle was made dec of 1995. It is aluminum bedded.prefloated and has a composite stock not plastic..I've found this one to be an absolute tack driver. I had to call remington to find out it is a vs model..any info on would be helpful.
i would love to see an article about aftermarket stocks and upgrades for the 700, it seems to be a rather large market.
I recently bought a 700 LR in 7mm Mag. Spent shells stick in the chamber and must be tapped out with a mallet at the bolt, very disconcerting. Sent it back to Remington, they returned it stating that they cleaned and polished the chamber. Guess what? Shells still stick. Now they are sending it to someone else so they can have a go at it. The Remington guy said I should use factory loads. I said that would put me in the poor house. I've been handloading ammo for 45 yrs. and have never encountered this problem before. The jury is still out on Remington. Comments are welcome.
How about and caliber by year article on the 700 classic. I'm shooting and 375h&h mag 700 classic that was bout in 2005 in and small town in southern west Virginia.
I hunt deer and bear with it here in northern west Virginia. Loaded with Barnes 235grain tsx bullets or speer 225grain hot cores ,makes tracking much easier. I believe that it was made in 1996 but I'm not confirmed this yet....
I have a left hand Mod 700 BDL 30-06. Beautiful stock, and Barrel has Iron sights. I can shoot 3 inch groups all day at 120 yards. my particular gun was made in the early 80,s. I strongly recommend finding one for your own collection and use. Should be able to find in great condition for around 600. Newer rifles really don't come with iron sights and are set up for optics. love open sights myself. Everything ive bagged hunting have been within 200 yards, and taken with open sights. just my preference
The first time I handled a Model 700 was at Whittaker's and it was a VTR model. I absolutely fell in love with the gun and the action, but not the price tag. A few months later I spotted an ADL model in .308 with a 24" barrel at Academy Sports for a steal at $350 and bought it that day. While the stock may leave a lot to be desired, the rest of the rifle doesn't. Its still a Model 700 after all. It is a tack driver.
I have a 700 in 6.5 and put an archangel AA700b stock on it off Ebay for 278$ drop in fit. Very nice stock a little heavy but way better than the factory stock with no bedding.