A Look Back: The Birth of a Legend
The Remington 700 Legacy
The wind whispers secrets across the open plains, a constant reminder of the challenge that awaits the discerning hunter. The varmint, elusive and quick, dances on the edge of visibility, a test of skill and precision. To succeed in this pursuit demands a rifle of unwavering accuracy, a marriage of form and function built to conquer the distances. Enter the Remington 700 BDL 223 Varmint, a rifle steeped in tradition and renowned for its ability to deliver pinpoint accuracy with every pull of the trigger. It’s a legacy, a workhorse, and a tool perfectly designed for those who appreciate the finer aspects of varmint hunting.
This article is an exploration of the Remington 700 BDL 223 Varmint, a firearm that has earned its place in the hearts of hunters and shooters alike. We’ll delve into its rich history, examine its key features, discuss its performance in the field, and ultimately, help you understand why this rifle remains a compelling choice for anyone serious about varmint hunting.
The BDL’s Refinement
The Remington 700 isn’t just a rifle; it’s an icon. Its history is intertwined with the evolution of modern firearms, a testament to its robust design and undeniable accuracy. Emerging onto the scene, the Remington 700 quickly set a new standard for bolt-action rifles. It was revolutionary in its time, introducing design elements that would go on to become industry staples. The solid action, the carefully crafted barrel, and the precise trigger all contributed to its reputation for consistent accuracy. This precision, right from the factory, separated it from many of its competitors.
The BDL (Deluxe) designation added a touch of refinement to the already capable platform. The BDL models have consistently represented a step up in aesthetic appeal and quality of materials. The beautifully finished stocks, the intricate checkering patterns, and the overall attention to detail separate the BDL from its more utilitarian counterparts. The BDL model represented a commitment to both performance and presentation.
Unveiling the Heart of the Beast: Features and Specifications
Action: The Core of Reliability
The Remington 700 BDL 223 Varmint isn’t just about a pretty exterior; it’s about performance. Every component is meticulously engineered to create a system built for pinpoint accuracy.
The heart of the rifle is its action. The Remington 700 action is renowned for its inherent strength and reliability. It’s a robust design built to withstand the stresses of high-pressure cartridges and consistent use. The controlled-round-feed design ensures smooth and reliable feeding of rounds from the magazine into the chamber. The bolt head design contributes significantly to the rifle’s accuracy by providing a secure and precise lockup. The extractor and ejection system are also designed to ensure reliable spent cartridge extraction and ejection, a crucial element for consistent performance in the field.
Barrel: The Weapon’s Voice
The barrel is the weapon’s voice. The varmint barrel is a defining feature of this specific model. It is typically a heavier contour, designed to dissipate heat more effectively during sustained shooting. This heavy profile contributes to greater accuracy by minimizing the effects of barrel warping due to heat buildup. The length of the barrel is optimized for .223 Remington, providing excellent ballistic performance without sacrificing maneuverability. The rifling twist rate is carefully chosen, playing a critical role in stabilizing bullets. The .223 Remington commonly requires a fast twist rate, which works to stabilize the typically lighter bullets used in the cartridge.
Stock: An Extension of the Shooter
The stock is an extension of the shooter. The BDL model features a beautifully crafted stock, often made from fine walnut or high-quality synthetic materials. The stock is designed for comfort and optimal shooting posture. The intricate checkering provides a secure grip, even in wet conditions. The comb and buttplate are carefully shaped to fit comfortably against the shooter’s face and shoulder, enabling accurate target acquisition and recoil management.
Trigger: The Link Between Shooter and Shot
The trigger is the link between the shooter and the shot. A crisp and predictable trigger pull is crucial for accuracy. While factory triggers vary, the Remington 700 BDL can often be adjusted to meet the shooter’s preferences. Many owners choose to upgrade the trigger for an even lighter and more precise pull, enabling even more accurate shooting.
Magazine: Housing the Ammunition
The magazine houses the ammunition. The Remington 700 BDL typically features a hinged floorplate magazine, offering smooth feeding and easy unloading. The capacity of the magazine is typically designed to hold a standard number of rounds, dependent on the model and the specific configuration. The reliable feeding mechanism ensures that the rifle is ready for each shot.
Sights and Mounting: Built for Optics
The rifle is built for optical advantage. The Remington 700 BDL 223 Varmint usually comes prepared for scope mounting. The receiver is drilled and tapped to accept scope bases. This compatibility, along with the rifle’s inherent accuracy, makes it an ideal platform for long-range varmint hunting.
The .223 Remington Cartridge: The Varmint Hunter’s Choice
Ballistics Overview
The .223 Remington is a versatile cartridge that has cemented its place as a favorite among varmint hunters.
It is a high-velocity, centerfire round, known for its flat trajectory and accuracy. The trajectory is the path the bullet follows to its target. The .223 Remington offers a relatively flat trajectory, meaning that the bullet drops less over distance compared to other cartridges. This translates to easier aiming and greater effective range. The cartridge delivers a significant amount of energy to the target, making it highly effective for dispatching varmints.
Bullet Selection: Choosing the Right Round
The ability to choose the right bullet is a significant advantage. A wide range of bullet weights are available, allowing hunters to select the best ammunition for the specific varmint being hunted and the expected range. Common types for varminting include hollow points and ballistic tips. These bullets are designed to expand rapidly upon impact, delivering maximum damage to the target.
Advantages of the .223 for Varmint Hunting
The .223 Remington offers distinct advantages for varmint hunting. It’s incredibly accurate, allowing shots at extended ranges. The relatively low recoil makes it easy to shoot accurately and comfortably, even for extended periods. The ammunition is widely available and affordable, making it a practical choice for regular use.
Performance in the Real World: Accuracy and Effectiveness
Real-World Accuracy
The Remington 700 BDL 223 Varmint is known for its remarkable accuracy. Many shooters report consistently tight groups, even at extended ranges. The combination of the heavy varmint barrel, the robust action, and the quality trigger all contribute to its pinpoint precision. The specific accuracy achieved is heavily dependent on factors such as the ammunition used, the quality of the optics, and the shooter’s skill. Experienced shooters are often able to achieve sub-MOA (minute of angle) groups with this rifle, meaning that the shots cluster within a very small area at a given distance.
Range and Effectiveness
The effective range of the rifle is heavily influenced by the cartridge used, the bullet selection, and the prevailing weather conditions. With appropriate ammunition and optics, the Remington 700 BDL 223 Varmint can be highly effective on varmints out to several hundred yards, and sometimes even further. Considerations such as wind drift and bullet drop must be accounted for when shooting at longer ranges.
Hunting Experiences
The experiences of those who’ve used the Remington 700 BDL 223 Varmint often speak to its performance. Hunters appreciate its ability to deliver consistent accuracy shot after shot. The rifle’s comfortable ergonomics contribute to a steady hold, even in challenging conditions. Hunters report that the combination of accuracy, range, and handling makes this rifle a great choice for a wide variety of varmint hunting scenarios, from prairie dog towns to open fields.
Weighing the Scales: Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
The Remington 700 BDL 223 Varmint possesses many strengths, but it’s helpful to understand both its virtues and its potential limitations.
The advantages of the Remington 700 BDL 223 Varmint are substantial. Its accuracy and reliability are undeniable, establishing its reputation as a tool designed to consistently deliver high-precision performance. The rifle’s classic design, incorporating the features of the BDL, and overall build quality are appreciated by those who admire timeless craftsmanship. The ergonomic stock design contributes to comfort and ease of use. The abundance of aftermarket parts and accessories allows for customization and upgrades.
Disadvantages
However, there are also a few potential downsides to consider. The rifle’s price can be higher than some competitors, particularly when compared to entry-level offerings. The heavy varmint barrel, while contributing to accuracy, can add weight. The factory trigger may require some adjustment or replacement. The rifle faces stiff competition from other models and manufacturers in the market.
Comparing the Field: Rivals and Contenders
Other Remington 700 Models
The landscape of bolt-action rifles is rich with choices. Understanding how the Remington 700 BDL 223 Varmint stacks up against the competition is essential.
Other Remington 700 models are often a consideration. The Remington 700 SPS Varmint offers a similar core design but may feature a different stock, potentially lighter weight, and a more cost-effective price point. The differences often involve the level of finish and certain cosmetic details.
Rifles from Other Manufacturers
Rifles from other manufacturers are also strong contenders. Rifles from brands like Tikka, Savage, and Howa, offer alternative features, such as different action designs, stock materials, and barrel profiles. The choice of which rifle to use depends on the individual needs of the shooter and the budget.
Caring for Your Companion: Maintenance and Upkeep
Cleaning and Lubrication
Proper care and maintenance are crucial to keep the Remington 700 BDL 223 Varmint operating at its best.
The cleaning process is vital to ensure accuracy and longevity. The barrel must be cleaned after each shooting session to remove powder residue, copper fouling, and other contaminants. This is commonly done using a cleaning rod, patches, and bore cleaner. The action should also be cleaned and lubricated to ensure smooth cycling of the bolt.
Storage: Keeping it Safe
Storage is vital for protecting the rifle. Always store the Remington 700 BDL 223 Varmint in a safe, dry place, away from direct sunlight and extreme temperatures. Consider using a gun safe or a lockable case to protect it from unauthorized access.
Regular Inspections: For Long-Term Performance
Regular inspections are essential to identify any wear and tear that might affect the rifle’s performance. Inspect the barrel, action, and stock for any signs of damage or corrosion. Ensure that all screws are properly tightened and that the scope mounts are secure.
Enhancing the Experience: Accessories and Upgrades
Scopes and Optics: Choosing the Right View
Personalizing and refining the Remington 700 BDL 223 Varmint can enhance its performance.
The choice of optics is crucial for varmint hunting. High-magnification scopes are typically favored for long-range accuracy. Consider scope magnification, objective lens size, and reticle options to suit the expected shooting distances and environmental conditions.
Other Accessories
Other accessories can enhance the shooting experience. Bipods provide a stable shooting platform, allowing for more accurate shots at longer ranges. Slings can make carrying the rifle easier and more comfortable during extended hunts. Cleaning kits and ammunition are also essential.
Aftermarket Upgrades
Aftermarket upgrades can further improve the rifle’s performance. Upgrading the trigger can enhance accuracy, with many shooters choosing to replace the factory trigger with a more precise aftermarket model. Stock upgrades can improve ergonomics and comfort.
Conclusion: A Legacy of Precision
The Remington 700 BDL 223 Varmint stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of a well-crafted bolt-action rifle. It represents a time-tested design, meticulously engineered to deliver the pinpoint accuracy that varmint hunters demand. Its combination of performance, reliability, and classic styling has earned it a devoted following.
For the hunter seeking a reliable and accurate rifle, the Remington 700 BDL 223 Varmint remains a compelling choice. Its reputation for precision, its well-designed features, and its proven effectiveness make it a tool that can be depended upon to perform when it matters most. While the market offers many alternatives, the Remington 700 BDL 223 Varmint’s legacy, combined with its performance, places it squarely among the top choices for varmint hunting enthusiasts.
Have you ever hunted with the Remington 700 BDL 223 Varmint? Share your experiences and thoughts below!
