The Remington 700 in .270 Winchester is a legendary hunting rifle, and when paired with the right scope, it becomes a precision instrument capable of taking down game at impressive distances. This guide delves into the specifics of this powerful combination, exploring its features, benefits, considerations for choosing a scope, and how to get the most out of your setup.
Understanding the Remington 700 in .270 Win
The Remington 700 action is renowned for its accuracy and reliability. Its bolt-action design, coupled with the .270 Winchester cartridge, offers a potent combination for a wide range of hunting applications. The .270 Win provides a flat trajectory and excellent energy retention, making it suitable for deer, elk, antelope, and even larger game at moderate ranges. This cartridge's versatility is a key reason for its enduring popularity. It's also relatively easy to shoot accurately, making it a good choice for both experienced hunters and those new to the sport. The Remington 700's inherent accuracy is further enhanced by its robust construction and ability to accept a wide variety of aftermarket stocks and barrels.
Key Features of the Remington 700:
- Bolt-Action System: Provides smooth, reliable cycling.
- Three-Lug Bolt: Offers secure locking and consistent unlocking.
- M700 Action: A classic design known for its accuracy and longevity.
- .270 Winchester Cartridge: A versatile cartridge with a flat trajectory and good stopping power.
Choosing the Right Scope for Your Remington 700 .270 Win
Selecting a scope is crucial. The wrong scope can hinder accuracy and limit your hunting potential. Consider these factors:
Magnification:
- Low Magnification (1-4x or 2-7x): Ideal for close-to-medium range hunting in dense environments. Provides a wider field of view, helpful for quick target acquisition.
- Medium Magnification (3-9x or 4-12x): Versatile option for various hunting situations, offering a balance between field of view and magnification for longer shots.
- High Magnification (6-24x or higher): Best suited for long-range shooting, allowing for precise target engagement at extended distances. Requires a stable shooting platform and excellent shooting skills.
Reticle:
The reticle is the crosshairs inside the scope. Popular choices include:
- Duplex Reticle: Simple and classic, with thicker posts near the center for aiming and thinner posts for range estimation.
- Mil-Dot Reticle: Designed for precise rangefinding and ballistic compensation using mil-radian measurements.
- BDC (Ballistic Drop Compensating) Reticle: Features hold-over points calibrated for specific cartridge and load combinations.
Objective Lens Diameter:
The objective lens is the front lens of the scope. A larger diameter gathers more light, resulting in better low-light performance. Consider hunting conditions:
- Smaller diameter (32mm-40mm): Lighter weight, more compact, suitable for lighter weight rifles.
- Larger diameter (44mm-50mm): Better low-light performance, ideal for dawn and dusk hunting.
Turrets:
- Tactical Turrets: Offer precise adjustments with tactile clicks, making adjustments easier in the field.
- Hunter-Style Turrets: Often have capped turrets to avoid accidental adjustments.
Mounting Your Scope
Proper scope mounting is vital for accuracy. Use high-quality scope rings and bases designed specifically for the Remington 700 action. Ensure the rings are properly torqued to prevent scope slippage or damage. Consider professional mounting if you are unfamiliar with the process.
Case Study: A Hunter's Experience
"I've been using a Remington 700 .270 Win with a Vortex Viper PST 6-24x50 scope for the past three years. The combination has been phenomenal for long-range hunting. The clarity of the Viper scope, especially in low light, has been a game-changer. I’ve successfully taken several elk and deer at distances exceeding 400 yards with this setup. The BDC reticle on the scope has made range estimation and shot placement much easier. I highly recommend this combo for serious long-range hunters.” - John S., experienced hunter.
Conclusion: The Perfect Partnership
The Remington 700 .270 Win, when paired with a carefully chosen scope, offers a formidable hunting system. By understanding the features of both the rifle and the available scopes and carefully considering your hunting style and requirements, you can create a personalized setup that delivers accuracy and reliability in the field. Remember to always practice safe gun handling and prioritize ethical hunting practices.