Introduction
In the realm of precision shooting, the Remington 700 stands as a true legend. Celebrated for its inherent accuracy and modular design, this iconic bolt-action rifle has been a cornerstone for hunters, target shooters, and military personnel for decades. While the Remington 700’s barreled action is renowned for its potential, the crucial link between the shooter and the bullet often comes down to one critical component: the trigger. Finding the Best Remington 700 Trigger can transform your shooting experience, improving accuracy, consistency, and overall enjoyment. This comprehensive guide delves into the world of Remington 700 triggers, exploring their importance, features, and, most importantly, the leading aftermarket options available today.
The trigger is more than just a lever; it’s the control center of your rifle’s firing mechanism. It’s the interface through which you initiate the shot, and its quality has a profound impact on your ability to group shots tightly and consistently. A poorly designed or malfunctioning trigger can lead to erratic shot placement, flinching, and frustration. Conversely, a meticulously crafted trigger can provide a crisp, clean break, allowing you to take advantage of the Remington 700’s inherent accuracy potential. This is why upgrading your factory trigger with one of the Best Remington 700 Trigger options is frequently the first and most impactful performance enhancement.
When assessing a trigger, consider the stock trigger and its shortcomings. The original Remington 700 trigger, while functional, has been a source of criticism. It can exhibit a heavy pull weight, a significant amount of creep (the distance the trigger moves before releasing the sear), and a less-than-crisp break. This can contribute to inconsistencies in shot placement and increase the likelihood of pulling the shot. Moreover, some early factory triggers have raised safety concerns due to potential failures.
Fortunately, the aftermarket world provides a plethora of superior alternatives. Aftermarket triggers are engineered to overcome the limitations of the factory trigger. They typically offer lighter, more consistent pull weights, significantly reduced creep and overtravel, and a cleaner, crisper break. These characteristics translate to a smoother, more predictable trigger pull, allowing for greater precision and faster follow-up shots. Upgrading to the Best Remington 700 Trigger available for your purposes offers a substantial return on investment in terms of improved accuracy.
Understanding the language surrounding triggers is essential for making informed decisions.
Essential Trigger Features and Their Importance
Pull weight is the force required to release the trigger and fire the rifle. A lighter pull weight can enhance accuracy by reducing the effort required to squeeze the trigger. However, the ideal pull weight is subjective and depends on the shooter’s preferences and the intended use of the rifle. Target shooters often prefer lighter pulls, while hunters might opt for a slightly heavier pull to minimize the risk of accidental discharges.
Creep refers to the unwanted movement of the trigger before the sear releases the firing pin. Excessive creep can degrade accuracy because it makes it difficult to predict precisely when the shot will break. Aftermarket triggers strive to minimize or eliminate creep, providing a cleaner, more predictable pull.
Overtravel is the distance the trigger moves after the shot is fired. Excessive overtravel can be distracting and can potentially affect the trigger reset. High-quality triggers often feature adjustable or minimized overtravel.
Reset is the point at which the trigger returns to its firing position after the shot, ready for the next round. A short, positive reset enables faster follow-up shots.
Adjustability is a hallmark of many Best Remington 700 Trigger options. Adjustable triggers often allow you to fine-tune pull weight, sear engagement, and sometimes overtravel. This degree of customization allows you to tailor the trigger to your individual shooting style and the specific demands of your shooting discipline.
Safety features are paramount. A reliable safety mechanism is crucial for preventing accidental discharges. The design and functionality of the safety should be carefully considered when choosing a trigger.
Single-stage triggers offer a consistent pull weight throughout the entire trigger stroke. Two-stage triggers have a distinct take-up stage followed by a final, lighter pull to break the shot. The choice between single-stage and two-stage triggers depends on personal preference and the application. Some shooters prefer the tactile feedback of a two-stage trigger, while others appreciate the simplicity and predictability of a single-stage design.
The materials used in the trigger’s construction impact its durability and performance. High-quality triggers often feature hardened steel or titanium components for enhanced longevity and a crisp feel.
Now, let’s delve into some of the Best Remington 700 Trigger options available on the market, categorized to help you find the perfect fit for your needs.
Top Trigger Choices: Reviews and Comparisons
Finding the Best Remington 700 Trigger is highly subjective. The “best” trigger for one shooter may not be the best for another. To aid your search, we’ll divide our recommendations into broad categories.
Budget-Friendly Triggers: Value and Performance
If you’re looking for a significant upgrade without breaking the bank, these triggers offer a compelling combination of value and performance.
Consider a reputable option like the Timney Hunter. This is a popular choice among hunters and target shooters alike. It typically offers a pre-set pull weight (often adjustable within a range), a clean break, and a positive reset. Installation is usually straightforward, making it a great option for those new to trigger upgrades. It’s known for its reliability and overall value.
Another good option is the TriggerTech Primary. TriggerTech triggers are known for their innovative Frictionless Release Technology, designed to provide an exceptionally crisp and clean break. The Primary model is a good starting point, offering a range of adjustable pull weights and a generally positive experience for the user.
High-Performance Triggers: Precision and Refinement
For shooters seeking the absolute pinnacle of trigger performance, these options represent the gold standard.
The Jewell Trigger is often lauded as a top-tier option. This trigger is renowned for its exceptional crispness, minimal creep, and a wide range of adjustability. While the Jewell can be pricier than many other options, it is worth the investment for shooters looking for the absolute highest levels of precision. Professional installation might be recommended to ensure optimal performance and safety. This trigger is a common sight on competitive target rifles.
The Bix ‘n Andy trigger represents another high-end alternative. These triggers are precision-engineered for outstanding performance, offering a clean, crisp break and high levels of adjustability. They often incorporate advanced design features and are favored by competitive shooters.
Specialized Triggers: Tailored for Specific Applications
The Best Remington 700 Trigger for your rifle truly depends on your intended use. Consider these:
For Competition shooting, the features of the Bix ‘n Andy and Jewell Triggers may be the best option. These triggers are built for extreme precision.
For Tactical applications, a trigger that is designed for speed and reliability will be key. Look for a trigger with a slightly heavier pull weight to avoid accidental discharges in high-stress scenarios. The TriggerTech Primary may fit this niche well.
For Long-Range shooting, a trigger with a light, consistent pull weight and minimal creep is paramount. These features allow you to maximize the accuracy of your rifle at extended distances.
Carefully considering your shooting style and priorities will help to guide your decision.
Key Factors to Consider
The Best Remington 700 Trigger is the one that best fits your needs. Let’s discuss the key elements:
Your shooting style should drive your choice. Are you a dedicated target shooter, a hunter, a tactical shooter, or a competitive marksman? Each discipline has unique trigger requirements.
The intended use of your rifle dictates the trigger’s specifications. Hunting applications may prioritize a reliable, slightly heavier pull weight for safety, while competition shooting demands a lighter, more precise pull.
Your budget will inevitably shape your decision. Fortunately, there are excellent trigger options at various price points. The key is to balance performance and value.
Ease of installation is a factor. Some triggers are designed for easy installation, while others may require professional gunsmithing. Consider your mechanical aptitude and the availability of local gunsmiths.
Adjustability can be a valuable feature. Adjustable triggers allow you to fine-tune the pull weight and other characteristics to suit your preferences.
Safety features are non-negotiable. Always prioritize triggers with reliable safety mechanisms.
Installation and Maintenance
Most aftermarket triggers are designed for relatively easy installation, often utilizing existing trigger housing and mounting points. However, if you’re not comfortable working on firearms, consider having a qualified gunsmith perform the installation. Always follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely. Regular cleaning and maintenance are critical to ensure your trigger’s long-term performance and reliability.
Conclusion
Choosing the Best Remington 700 Trigger is a significant upgrade. Take the time to understand your needs. Consider your budget, shooting style, and intended use. By carefully evaluating your options, you can find the perfect trigger to unlock the full potential of your Remington 700. This article is intended to guide your decision-making process. You will find that the most important step is to do your research, read user reviews, and ask questions. Good luck, and happy shooting!
