Introduction
The Remington Model 700. The name itself resonates with hunters, marksmen, and enthusiasts across the globe. Revered for its accuracy, reliability, and versatility, the Model 700 has cemented its place as an icon in the world of bolt-action rifles. From its introduction to its continued evolution, it’s a firearm that has been adapted and appreciated by many. But even the best designs can benefit from improvements, and one popular upgrade that enhances the functionality of this rifle is the Kwik Klip.
Let’s delve into the specifics of this firearm and how the Kwik Klip plays a crucial role in enhancing its performance.
Understanding the Remington Model 700
The Remington Model 700 has a rich history. It emerged from the company’s desire to produce a rifle that would combine accuracy with affordability. The initial design proved to be highly effective, and as it evolved, Remington continued to refine the rifle. The Model 700’s simple, robust design features a reliable bolt-action mechanism, which has allowed it to excel in various shooting disciplines and hunting applications.
Its widespread popularity stems from several factors. The Model 700 is known for its inherent accuracy thanks to its precise manufacturing and a rigid receiver. The rifle is easily customizable, making it a favorite among those who enjoy modifications. Beyond the rifle’s mechanics, the Model 700’s wide availability and comparatively reasonable price point have also contributed to its success, making it accessible to a broad range of shooters. The design’s modularity allows for easy upgrades and modifications, enabling shooters to tailor it to their specific needs and preferences.
The Original Features: Internal Magazine
The original Model 700 came with an internal magazine. This magazine is an integral part of the rifle’s design, and it is loaded from the top via a feed ramp. Cartridges are fed into the magazine from the top through the ejection port, making it a relatively simple system. Typically, it has a fixed capacity, depending on the caliber, and is designed to be loaded and unloaded through the bolt-action cycle.
While the internal magazine served its purpose, it came with certain operational limitations. Reloading the rifle can be a time-consuming process. Unloading the rifle with the original magazine often involves manually cycling each round, which can be slow, especially in the field.
Introducing the Kwik Klip
Enter the Kwik Klip, an aftermarket upgrade designed to address some of these inherent limitations. This is not just another accessory; it is a carefully engineered system that dramatically changes the way the Model 700 functions. It offers shooters a more efficient and streamlined experience.
The Kwik Klip is a detachable magazine conversion system that completely replaces the original internal magazine of the Remington Model 700. The system utilizes a detachable magazine, significantly changing the rifle’s loading and unloading dynamics. This allows shooters to load and unload the rifle more rapidly, a key advantage in many scenarios.
Components of the Kwik Klip System
The Kwik Klip system consists of several components. The heart of the system is a specially designed receiver floor plate assembly which is designed to integrate with the action of the Model 700. Detachable magazines are then inserted into the magazine well. The Kwik Klip system also often includes other hardware that ensures proper feeding and reliable operation.
Magazine Options
Beyond the Kwik Klip itself, magazine options come in different capacities. The magazine capacity determines the number of rounds that can be held in the magazine, and this impacts the number of reloads you will need to carry out. The magazines are also made of various materials that affect durability and weight. Magazines can be manufactured from steel, aluminum, or high-strength polymers.
Faster Reloading: A Key Advantage
One of the key advantages of the Kwik Klip is the speed of reloading. With a detachable magazine, shooters can quickly replace empty magazines with pre-loaded ones. This is far more efficient than loading rounds one by one through the ejection port. In hunting situations or competitive shooting, where fractions of seconds can be the difference between success and failure, the rapid-reload capability can provide a significant advantage.
Easier Unloading: Enhanced Safety and Convenience
A detachable magazine also makes unloading the rifle significantly easier. Instead of manually cycling rounds through the bolt, a shooter can simply remove the magazine and safely unload the rifle. This enhanced control offers improved safety and convenience.
Increased Magazine Capacity
Beyond the speed of reload and unload, the Kwik Klip can offer a higher magazine capacity. A larger capacity magazine means fewer reloads are needed during a shooting session. This is especially useful for hunting, where having more rounds readily available can be crucial. This could be essential in situations where multiple shots are required, and reduces the need to stop to reload.
Ease of Maintenance
The system also enhances the ease of maintenance. Removing the magazine is much simpler than having to manipulate the internal magazine. The entire system can be cleaned and inspected in a more efficient way.
Aesthetic Considerations
The Kwik Klip system also provides aesthetic adjustments, transforming the overall appearance of the rifle. The ability to select magazines manufactured from various materials and with different finishes can also affect the overall look and feel of the rifle.
Installation Process
The installation process usually involves removing the original bottom metal of the rifle, which contains the internal magazine. Next, the Kwik Klip receiver floor plate assembly is installed in its place. Finally, the detachable magazine is inserted into the newly installed well.
The required tools often include a screwdriver and possibly a punch for removing any pins, if needed. You may need to have some mechanical skills, but with the proper instructions and the right tools, the installation can be accomplished by a competent gun owner. However, it is essential to follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully to ensure proper fit and function.
Compatibility Factors
The Kwik Klip is not a universal upgrade. The upgrade will only work if it is compatible with the Model 700 variant you own. The product is available for both short-action and long-action Model 700 rifles.
Ensure that you’re choosing the right magazine for your particular caliber. Some magazines are specifically designed to feed certain cartridge types. Choosing the correct magazine for your rifle is key to ensuring proper feeding and reliable functioning.
The stock or chassis of the rifle may also impact compatibility. Some aftermarket stocks and chassis have built-in magazine wells that are compatible with the Kwik Klip system. However, it’s essential to verify compatibility before purchasing a Kwik Klip, as modifications might be required for some stocks or chassis.
Advantages and Disadvantages
There are both pros and cons associated with using a Kwik Klip. The main advantage lies in the efficiency improvements provided by the detachable magazine. Faster reloads, easier unloading, and often increased magazine capacity are all significant benefits.
However, there are some potential downsides. The Kwik Klip system itself adds to the overall cost. Detachable magazines and the Kwik Klip components can be expensive, so this investment should be considered when making a purchase. The reliability of some detachable magazine systems can be a point of discussion among shooters. This makes choosing a Kwik Klip from a reputable manufacturer essential.
In some instances, there may be some fitting or modification requirements for specific rifles and stocks. Be sure to check the manufacturer’s instructions to find out if any fitting is necessary. In situations like hunting, there is also the potential of losing the magazine.
Alternatives to the Kwik Klip
There are alternative solutions available for upgrading the Remington Model 700. Some aftermarket companies offer their own detachable magazine conversion kits. These conversions often include a new bottom metal, and a compatible magazine. The best solution for you will depend on your needs and budget. The Kwik Klip can be superior because of its ease of installation, and sometimes its cost.
Pricing and Where to Buy
The price of a Kwik Klip system can vary. Prices usually range from a couple of hundred dollars, and depend on the materials and the magazine capacity. Online retailers are great places to find Kwik Klips. Gun stores are another place to look. Make sure to compare prices from different vendors before committing to a purchase. Researching reviews and comparisons of Kwik Klip products can help determine which system will best suit your needs.
Conclusion
The Kwik Klip is a useful upgrade that significantly enhances the functionality of the Remington Model 700. By replacing the internal magazine, it provides shooters with faster reloads, simplified unloading, and the potential for increased magazine capacity. While there are some considerations, the benefits often outweigh the drawbacks. If you own a Remington Model 700 and are looking for an upgrade that will improve its performance and overall ease of use, the Kwik Klip is worth considering. It’s a simple yet effective way to modernize and optimize your rifle.
