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The Remington 700 LTR Tactical - .308 Winchester.
The Remington 700 series has long been a staple of some of
the finest firearms ever made in U.S. history whether your needs
are for plinking, hunting, trap & skeet, target shooting or being
contracted by our military (again) to produce the next generation
of sniper rifles called the XM2010.
The Remington 700 Police is standard issue for Law Enforcement
Snipers and a well known tack driver. My goal was to achieve the
same accuracy in a shorter, more tactical application. The 700 SPS
Tactical is a good choice, but I wasn't enthusiastic about the 1:12"
twist. Another option was to find a 700 in the military sniper
rifling known as the 5R. However, its 1:11.25" twist was still not
what I had in mind to drive a heavier bullet at longer distances.
That was when I stumbled on a little known rare gem called the
Remington 700 LTR. Initially it was only offered to law enforcement
for inner city situations but now it is available to civilians - if you
can find one.
The Remington 700 LTR is essentially the tactical version of the
Police model. Same bull barrel down to 20" incorporating the twist
I was seeking - 1:10". To sweeten the deal, the barrel is fluted
for better rigidity and heat dissipation. A rare find priced at $700
at the time... it was a no brainer.
Shouldering the lightweight beaver tail stock with palm swell felt
good... so good that I wanted to find an aftermarket alternative
that was just as light, easy to shoulder and be comfortable to shoot
standing as well as on a bench or prone. I'm a nut for quality
stocks/chassis but because I felt like I got a great deal, I wanted
to stick to a tactical stock that didn't cost too much either. So, I
decided to go with the BlackHawk Axiom stock which was made
famous by the Howa 1500 rifle.
The BlackHawk Axiom stock offers some neat features like a recoil
dampening system, free floating barrel design and can easily be
disassemble into 3 sections for easy storage in smaller bags.
Finally, the muzzle brake choice. To be tactical, I would need an
effective, lightweight muzzle brake that will further dampen the
brisk recoil of a .308 bolt and prevent muzzle rise so that I am
able to make quick backup shots while staying on target. I went
with a German crafted Roedale Precision Clamp On Muzzle since
the short 20" barrel does not give me the option for threading.
So far, my bolt action tactical tack driver is starting to take form.
Remington 700 LTR, BlackHawk Axiom Stock
(Click Image For Larger View)
When the BlackHawk Axiom stock arrived, it was definitely light.
The polymer construction was cleanly cut and the butt stock was
collapsible with a fixed cheek riser. My overall opinion was that
it is what it is... acceptable for its low price point.
Free Floating Fluted Bull Barrel
(Click Image For Larger View)
After installing the receiver and barrel to the stock, I did notice
something that I didn't like... too much flexibility in the fore end.
While holding the pistol grip, it takes no effort to twist the whole
rifle slightly to the left or right. Something that probably won't
make much of an issue because of the free floating barrel & that
some of my other guns do sport a pivoting bipod. I'm not a fan at
this point, but not going to prejudge what I am able to do with it.
Attractive - Yes.... But Can It Shoot?
(Click Image For Larger View)
I quickly ordered the Roedale Precision Muzzle Brake. I liked the
smart design it had for proper gas redirection. After doing some
research it seemed like the perfect match for my tactical project.
I paid for and ordered in Feb 2012. I received it 6 months later!!
Endless excuses of manufacturing delays, relocation, etc... I
simply shook my head and was just glad that I finally got it.
This experience has led me to talk to another custom muzzle
designer that I use and they've now duplicated the design.
Roedale Precision Muzzle Brake Made In Germany
(Click Image For Larger View)
Obviously, you can't be tactical by reloading your gun that still
has the hinged floorplate configuration... so I equipped the rifle
with a new trigger guard and detachable magazine assembly.
Installed A 5 Round Detachable Magazine Assembly
(Click Image For Larger View)
Collapsible Recoil Dampening Buttstock with Cheek Riser
(Click Image For Larger View)
American Made Quality Weaver Rail
Heavy Duty 30mm 3 Lug Scope Rings
(Click Image For Larger View)
Nice & Clean Left Side Profile
American Made Harris 6"-9" Bipod
(Click Image For Larger View)
Perfect Bolt Clearance
Angled Internal Recoil Dampening System
Comfortable Pistol Grip
(Click Image For Larger View)
Ultra Long Range Mark III
10-40x50mm Illuminated Rangefinder Reticle
30mm Tube
(Click Image For Larger View)
The BlackHawk Axiom stock is initially designed for the original
Remington trigger guard, which is slimmer than the trigger guard
of the new detachable magazine assembly I installed. I had to
use my Dremel to cleanly cut a larger opening in the pistol grip
to produce the perfect cutout in order to tightly fit in the thicker
trigger guard.
Needed Thicker Cutout In Pistol Grip
X-Mark Pro Adjustable Trigger
(Click Image For Larger View)
Tactical 20" Fluted Bull Barrel With 1:10" Twist Aren't those lines sexy?
(Click Image For Larger View)
Took this baby to Brookhaven, I wanted to test it on a concrete
bench to minimize all factors since the fore end flexibility of the
BlackHawk Axiom stock had me wondering about how steady I
was able to keep her. It was a test of breathing and heartbeats.
Created custom loads using 175gr Sierra Match Kings BTHP. For
100-200yrds, the weight of this projectile is a perfect starter for
the faster 1:10" twist. I anticipate decent & consistent accuracy
knowing that the bullet will incorporate two full rotations before
leaving the short 20" barrel.
Concrete Bench, Clear Humid Day... Ready To Fire!
(Click Image For Larger View)
I make all my targets on cardboard panels before I go to the
range. Easy to post up, easy to stick on new targets, easy to
take down.
5.5" Caldwell Bull Eye Targets (No Center Dot), Shoot-N-See Type Targets
(Click Image For Larger View)
The X-Mark Pro Trigger was decent. Set at about 3 - 3.5lbs, it
had a nice thick feel to it and it broke clean on shots. Nothing
compared to the trigger of a Sako TRG, but more than what one
would expect from a rare, undervalued rifle.
Shouldering the rifle, I immediately noticed the fore end flexibility
that I wasn't too fond of. Not to think negatively, I simply thought
to myself to "man" up and just go with it - no excuses.
It did taking a little getting use to, since every breath, heartbeat,
muscle tension would transfer movement to my aim. When I
finally was able to concentrate and lower my heart rate, I then
controlled my breathing to only hold it for a second when I'm
ready to take the shot. After sighting in the rifle, I was pleasantly
satisfied.
100yrds, Full Magazine (5 Shots) Groups
Westbound Wind Drifts At 15 - 20mph
First Shots Strayed To The Left Until I Was Able To Compensate Windage
Sub MOA Results... Not Too Bad
(Click Image For Larger View)
100yrds, Full Magazine (5 Shots) Groups
Minimal Wind, Sub MOA Results... Even Better
(Click Image For Larger View)
The rifle was soft shooting due some recoil reduction from the
Axiom stock but it was the Roedale Precision Muzzle Brake that
did most of the work. Sending 50 rounds downrange was comfortable
while consistently hitting my targets. I didn't want it to end.
Overall I am satisfied with the build and the experience. Once
again, the shorter tactical sibling of the Remington 700 Police
has lived up to its reputation.
As for the BlackHawk Axiom stock... it'll stay for now, until I
find a more likable, firmer solution.
Peace,
GH-07
The Remington 700 series has long been a staple of some of
the finest firearms ever made in U.S. history whether your needs
are for plinking, hunting, trap & skeet, target shooting or being
contracted by our military (again) to produce the next generation
of sniper rifles called the XM2010.
The Remington 700 Police is standard issue for Law Enforcement
Snipers and a well known tack driver. My goal was to achieve the
same accuracy in a shorter, more tactical application. The 700 SPS
Tactical is a good choice, but I wasn't enthusiastic about the 1:12"
twist. Another option was to find a 700 in the military sniper
rifling known as the 5R. However, its 1:11.25" twist was still not
what I had in mind to drive a heavier bullet at longer distances.
That was when I stumbled on a little known rare gem called the
Remington 700 LTR. Initially it was only offered to law enforcement
for inner city situations but now it is available to civilians - if you
can find one.
The Remington 700 LTR is essentially the tactical version of the
Police model. Same bull barrel down to 20" incorporating the twist
I was seeking - 1:10". To sweeten the deal, the barrel is fluted
for better rigidity and heat dissipation. A rare find priced at $700
at the time... it was a no brainer.
Shouldering the lightweight beaver tail stock with palm swell felt
good... so good that I wanted to find an aftermarket alternative
that was just as light, easy to shoulder and be comfortable to shoot
standing as well as on a bench or prone. I'm a nut for quality
stocks/chassis but because I felt like I got a great deal, I wanted
to stick to a tactical stock that didn't cost too much either. So, I
decided to go with the BlackHawk Axiom stock which was made
famous by the Howa 1500 rifle.
The BlackHawk Axiom stock offers some neat features like a recoil
dampening system, free floating barrel design and can easily be
disassemble into 3 sections for easy storage in smaller bags.
Finally, the muzzle brake choice. To be tactical, I would need an
effective, lightweight muzzle brake that will further dampen the
brisk recoil of a .308 bolt and prevent muzzle rise so that I am
able to make quick backup shots while staying on target. I went
with a German crafted Roedale Precision Clamp On Muzzle since
the short 20" barrel does not give me the option for threading.
So far, my bolt action tactical tack driver is starting to take form.
Remington 700 LTR, BlackHawk Axiom Stock

(Click Image For Larger View)
When the BlackHawk Axiom stock arrived, it was definitely light.
The polymer construction was cleanly cut and the butt stock was
collapsible with a fixed cheek riser. My overall opinion was that
it is what it is... acceptable for its low price point.
Free Floating Fluted Bull Barrel

(Click Image For Larger View)
After installing the receiver and barrel to the stock, I did notice
something that I didn't like... too much flexibility in the fore end.
While holding the pistol grip, it takes no effort to twist the whole
rifle slightly to the left or right. Something that probably won't
make much of an issue because of the free floating barrel & that
some of my other guns do sport a pivoting bipod. I'm not a fan at
this point, but not going to prejudge what I am able to do with it.
Attractive - Yes.... But Can It Shoot?

(Click Image For Larger View)
I quickly ordered the Roedale Precision Muzzle Brake. I liked the
smart design it had for proper gas redirection. After doing some
research it seemed like the perfect match for my tactical project.
I paid for and ordered in Feb 2012. I received it 6 months later!!
Endless excuses of manufacturing delays, relocation, etc... I
simply shook my head and was just glad that I finally got it.
This experience has led me to talk to another custom muzzle
designer that I use and they've now duplicated the design.
Roedale Precision Muzzle Brake Made In Germany

(Click Image For Larger View)
Obviously, you can't be tactical by reloading your gun that still
has the hinged floorplate configuration... so I equipped the rifle
with a new trigger guard and detachable magazine assembly.
Installed A 5 Round Detachable Magazine Assembly

(Click Image For Larger View)
Collapsible Recoil Dampening Buttstock with Cheek Riser

(Click Image For Larger View)
American Made Quality Weaver Rail
Heavy Duty 30mm 3 Lug Scope Rings

(Click Image For Larger View)
Nice & Clean Left Side Profile
American Made Harris 6"-9" Bipod

(Click Image For Larger View)
Perfect Bolt Clearance
Angled Internal Recoil Dampening System
Comfortable Pistol Grip

(Click Image For Larger View)
Ultra Long Range Mark III
10-40x50mm Illuminated Rangefinder Reticle
30mm Tube

(Click Image For Larger View)
The BlackHawk Axiom stock is initially designed for the original
Remington trigger guard, which is slimmer than the trigger guard
of the new detachable magazine assembly I installed. I had to
use my Dremel to cleanly cut a larger opening in the pistol grip
to produce the perfect cutout in order to tightly fit in the thicker
trigger guard.
Needed Thicker Cutout In Pistol Grip
X-Mark Pro Adjustable Trigger

(Click Image For Larger View)
Tactical 20" Fluted Bull Barrel With 1:10" Twist Aren't those lines sexy?

(Click Image For Larger View)
Took this baby to Brookhaven, I wanted to test it on a concrete
bench to minimize all factors since the fore end flexibility of the
BlackHawk Axiom stock had me wondering about how steady I
was able to keep her. It was a test of breathing and heartbeats.
Created custom loads using 175gr Sierra Match Kings BTHP. For
100-200yrds, the weight of this projectile is a perfect starter for
the faster 1:10" twist. I anticipate decent & consistent accuracy
knowing that the bullet will incorporate two full rotations before
leaving the short 20" barrel.
Concrete Bench, Clear Humid Day... Ready To Fire!

(Click Image For Larger View)
I make all my targets on cardboard panels before I go to the
range. Easy to post up, easy to stick on new targets, easy to
take down.
5.5" Caldwell Bull Eye Targets (No Center Dot), Shoot-N-See Type Targets

(Click Image For Larger View)
The X-Mark Pro Trigger was decent. Set at about 3 - 3.5lbs, it
had a nice thick feel to it and it broke clean on shots. Nothing
compared to the trigger of a Sako TRG, but more than what one
would expect from a rare, undervalued rifle.
Shouldering the rifle, I immediately noticed the fore end flexibility
that I wasn't too fond of. Not to think negatively, I simply thought
to myself to "man" up and just go with it - no excuses.
It did taking a little getting use to, since every breath, heartbeat,
muscle tension would transfer movement to my aim. When I
finally was able to concentrate and lower my heart rate, I then
controlled my breathing to only hold it for a second when I'm
ready to take the shot. After sighting in the rifle, I was pleasantly
satisfied.
100yrds, Full Magazine (5 Shots) Groups
Westbound Wind Drifts At 15 - 20mph
First Shots Strayed To The Left Until I Was Able To Compensate Windage
Sub MOA Results... Not Too Bad

(Click Image For Larger View)
100yrds, Full Magazine (5 Shots) Groups
Minimal Wind, Sub MOA Results... Even Better

(Click Image For Larger View)
The rifle was soft shooting due some recoil reduction from the
Axiom stock but it was the Roedale Precision Muzzle Brake that
did most of the work. Sending 50 rounds downrange was comfortable
while consistently hitting my targets. I didn't want it to end.
Overall I am satisfied with the build and the experience. Once
again, the shorter tactical sibling of the Remington 700 Police
has lived up to its reputation.
As for the BlackHawk Axiom stock... it'll stay for now, until I
find a more likable, firmer solution.
Peace,
GH-07