Rem 700, AICS, Vortex build

[jamesbern]

Figured i'd do a thread as my rifle evolves and is built.

Base is a Remington 700 SPS Tactical

I picked it up in trade with a

Timney trigger
Wyatt Outdoors bottom metal and mags
B&C stock

This would have been fine...but I can't leave well enough alone. First off I had to figure out what I wanted for a scope, rings, and one piece base.

I went with a Nightforce 20MOA base which i'm waiting on right now. The extra elevation will allow me to shoot out further than I ever would want to.

For rings I grabbed a set of low Burris Xtreme Tactical 30mm rings. One, because I knew I was going with a scope that had a 30mm tube, but also because they worked well when I put together my prior rifle.

I reordered the Wheeler Engineering kit which consists of their Level, Level, Level, FAT wrench, and both 1" and 30mm lapping tools.

Now to choose a scope. I've had cheap scopes and i've had scopes that cost a large amount to <span style="font-style: italic">me</span>. My favorite was an SWFA 5-20x50HD FFP. At $1,500 it isn't cheap, but I felt it was very nice quality for the price. FFP allowed me to range at any magnification so that for me is a must in this build. The issue this time is I couldn't drop that much on a scope right now. I settled for a great scope at hundreds less. Every review I have read is really saying how great this scope is. What is it? Why a Vortex Viper PST 6-24x50 FFP. It is a tick under $1000, great glass, and supposedly good quality. If it is anything like the Vortex Viper PST 1-6x24 I have on my AR I will love it!

My last dilemma was the stock. The B&C is a great stock, but I had had one already and wanted something else that fit me better. I really wanted to keep the removable magazines. The more I thought about it the more I kept going back to the Accuracy International AICS chassis. I've always had a thing for their thumbhole stocks. A huge plus in my book was the fact that there was no bedding or anything needed of the action. The barrel is fully free floated, AI mags are well reviewed, plus the chassis just works! I was lucky enough to find one of two AICS 1.5 chassis' in stock at EuroOptics.com. Really nice guys to deal with and shipping was fast. I grabbed a second magazine as well. I would eventually like to get a 10rd mag to give it a try.

Now it's time to get to work!

I removed the bipod, action, bottom metal, and stock.

After giving it a once over and confirming the action was ready to drop in I matted the action with the chassis, tightened the two action screws and that was it for now. I tossed on the Harris-like bipod for now. I plan to order the AI adapter and an Atlas when there is some free cash available.

Comparison: Wyatt's 5rd mag on left and AI 5rd mag on right.

Hopefully I got a good one and the barrel shoots well. The Timney trigger feels really nice. I plan to shoot it first before making any adjustments.

 

[jamesbern]

Re: Rem 700, AICS, Vortex build

And with the new AR.

I got the scope in. Looks really nice! Turrets feel great, illumination is good, and glass looks good. At the time, I was waiting on my Nightforce base, but the rifle currently had a two piece weaver mount so I figured i'd just test fit to see if the scope clears the barrel with the low Burris rings.

Good news: scope clears fine. Bad news: it sits way to low for my cheekweld with the cheek rest all the way down.

So what do I do now? I jump on Amazon and grab a set of medium rings and do one-day shipping (I hate waiting).

Then I started pondering it and figured i'm into it for this much already, minds as well finish it the way I want. So I get on Milehighshooting.com and ordered up the following:

Atlas BT10NC bipod
Atlas BT19 AICS adapter
Borka MG7 tool kit
TAB Gear Rifle sling with HK hooks -Olive Drab

The tool kit looks like a great option for in the field and at the range. It includes the following (everything can be seen in the photo)

1. MTD-15x72-12FS-MG multi torque driver and user guide
2. Autolock bit holder (primary driver spindle)
3. Extension for Autolock, may also be used as driver spindle
4. 1/4" hex (male) to 1/4" square (male) adapter
5. 1/4" square (female) to 3/8" square (male) adapter
6. Compact mini ratchet wrench
7. 1/2" hex socket with 1/4" square drive
8. Customized 29 pcs. hex bits set in two organizers, which includes:
Hex (inch): 5/64", 3/32", 7/64", 1/8", 9/64", 5/32", 3/16"
Hex (metric): 2 mm, 2.5 mm, 3 mm, 4mm, 5 mm
Torx: T-10, T-15, T-20, T-25, T-27, T-30
Flat (blade width): 1/8", 5/32", 3/16", 7/32", 1/4", 9/32", 5/16"
Philips: #1, #2; Pozi: #1, #2;
9. Custom 3/16" hex AICS action screws bit (see details)
10. OD Green custom T.A.B. GEAR 1000D cordura custom carry pouch

While, I have the Wheeler Engineering FAT wrench, this is a great setup in the field and in addition to that wrench. It also includes the custom 3/16" hex AICS bit for the action screws.

Luckily, Mile High Shooting does a discount for Snipers Hide members so i'll save a bit of money.

I also ordered a new Data Book from Impact Data Books customized the way I want which I plan to use for both this and the AR I just finished. I choose the pages I want in it and they deliver that way. This way I only have what I need and not filler pages I won't use.

My Nightforce 20MOA base came in!

One thing I realized right away is how much higher the rail is over the weaver two piece that was on it.

That was about the point I realized that the low rings probably would work just fine! Which is great news, even though I just overnighted the medium rings to me.

I put the base down, tightened each screw a bit. Then removed screws one by one and put a dab of thread locker on each. Once they were snug again I pulled out the FAT wrench and torqued them down to the specified amount per the instructions.

Next up I mounted the Burris rings. After getting them where I felt they were needed I torqued them down to the rail and then put the alignment rods in the mount to make sure they were at least very close to aligned.

I then got the lapping compound ready to go and put some in the rings.

 

[jamesbern]

Re: Rem 700, AICS, Vortex build

Put the lapping bar through and started lapping away.

After that, I cleaned everything off, while making sure to keep the ring bottoms with their corresponding uppers. Put the scope in, leveled it, and tightened to spec.

As shown below, plenty of clearance for Butler Creek Caps.

I confirmed the height was correct by getting behind it in a shooting position and it looks like it will do fine. I may keep the medium rings as spares in case I want to go higher.

Best shot I could get of the FFP reticle with the iPhone. This is at 6x.

And this is magnified, probably around 12x or so.

 

[jamesbern]

Re: Rem 700, AICS, Vortex build

So far it is a beauty! Lets hope she shoots as well as she looks.

Just waiting for the Atlas bipod, adapter, and TABS Gear sling.

I was lucky enough to score 100 more rounds of Federal GMM tonight for half of what I got the other stuff online for. It's good to know owners of good gun shops!

I also got the data book in too.

Friend and I hit the range yesterday morning and even though it was cold, I was happy to get out for a few hours. I got it on paper at 50 yards using some PPU 145gr FMJ. Once on paper I moved the target out to 100 yards and switched to the 168gr Federal Gold Medal Match ammo.

This is when I started to plot my shots using my data book. It was my first time using it and I understand the value of it now. I didn't have a wind meter so I left that blank. At longer ranges it will definitely come into play. Today, I lucked out and there was very little wind.

We went through 55 rounds today and had a blast. Shot a bowling pin as well as a very small snowman!

This was my last, and best group of the day. It is a 2" circle. I shot weak hand (right hand) sitting. It was my first time running a rifle righty. Hopefully with some more range time my groups tighten up a bit.

I brought my video camera as well and we got some footage of each other. All in all a good day.

http://youtu.be/uq29__1rh9w

 

[scudzuki]

Re: Rem 700, AICS, Vortex build

Nice build-a-log. Rifle turned out very nice, too.

If you had bedded your rail there would likely have been a fraction (or none) of the ring misalignment that you had to lap out. Seems like you have the mechanical acumen to bed the rail, too.

A good one piece scope mount (like an AI from Mile High Shooting) eliminates the need to lap the rings and allows easy removal and reinstallation of the mount/scope combo whenever needed. I have a Spuhr, too, but I can't justify $400 for every scope mount.

I enjoy building 'em almost as much as shooting 'em.

Joe

 

[madAB]

Re: Rem 700, AICS, Vortex build

Awesome rifle and very nice write up. Was the Timney trigger a drop in fit on the new AICS chasis? I've read that on the odler version of the AICS, there were clearance issues.

 

[irishshooter]

Re: Rem 700, AICS, Vortex build

good thread, some of your pics arent showing, can you fix them please

 

[jamesbern]

Re: Rem 700, AICS, Vortex build

Thanks. All the photos are working on my end.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: madAB</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Awesome rifle and very nice write up. Was the Timney trigger a drop in fit on the new AICS chasis? I've read that on the odler version of the AICS, there were clearance issues. </div></div>

It was. There seemed to be plenty of clearance for it to drop in.

 

[Janus4088]

Re: Rem 700, AICS, Vortex build

Great build thread. I wish there were more like this on the SH, really a good source of info.

Nice looking rifle you have there.

 

[danish1911]

Re: Rem 700, AICS, Vortex build

That's it, I'm getting an AICS. I've been on the fence for awhile and it's gonna happen. Nice looking stick!!

 

[JB02]

Re: Rem 700, AICS, Vortex build

TIS makes a sling that's as nice as TAB. Also, LaRue tactical sells picatinny rail mounted Harris bipods that are very nice. I have an Atlas, and while I like it, it can be a pain to adjust the legs (especially on a cold day when you need gloves).

 

[arbogb06]

Re: Rem 700, AICS, Vortex build

I have never seen pictures or in person a scope being lapped. Not really understanding the concept or reason why the adehsive or grease like substance is for. I am guessing this is because the two points of each cylinder in the rings did not match up. Does the adehsive act as a bedding compound then you sping the lapping bar and remove access, wait until it dries then the two cylinder pointsa should align perfectly?

Can someone explain this to me.

Thanks.

 

[NeTo]

Re: Rem 700, AICS, Vortex build

My understanding of the goop is its acts like a sand paper and sands the rings square and takes the burrs off your rings

 

[arbogb06]

Re: Rem 700, AICS, Vortex build

Got ya. I guess that makes sense. That way the scope is contacting the rings 100%. Never figured the "goop" would act as a sand paper.

You learn something new everyday.

 

[jamesbern]

Re: Rem 700, AICS, Vortex build

As said above, it is a gritty paste like substance. It probably isn't necessary to lap them with the one piece NF base, but I did it for good measure.

 

[jamesbern]

As expected....more info and photos! I got my order in from Milehighshooting.com tonight. I'm very excited to get it back out to the range. First up the TAB Gear sling in OD. I've now realized I installed it backwards from how it should be mounted. The loop should be in the front.

It has HK hooks for mounting and Fastex buckles. It is a well made sling ready to carry the weight of this hunk of a gun.

 

[jamesbern]

Next up we have the Atlas BT10 NC bipod with BT19 spigot adapter for the AICS. Wow....is all I can say. Really a nice feeling bipod. I now understand why everyone recommends them. Way nicer than any Harris i've had. I really like the range of adjustment as well. With that said, I'm just going to let the photos do the talking.

 

[jamesbern]

 

[jamesbern]

Finally I also got my Borka MG-7 tool kit in. I really like this. It comes in the TAB Gear pouch and everything fits nicely inside.

 

[jamesbern]

Below is the main part of the tool kit, the MTD-15x72-12FS-MG (military grade) multi torque driver, which has torque values as follows: 5,18,21,24,27,30,36,43,50,57,65,72 inch-lbs.

The kit also comes with a bit specifically for the AICS chassis which is great. It allows torquing the action screws to proper specs.

Basically you put together the bit holder and bit you require in the correct torque value you want. I find with your palm resting on top and your thumb pushing against the part of the tool that "breaks" when the torque is applied is the easiest way to use it. While I don't know how accurate it is, I haven't tested it against my FAT wrench which I do plan to and see if the torque values listed are close. With all the bits, driver, and auto lock bit holder I think it is definitely worth the price paid. It's an invaluable addition to the range bag or in the field.

 

[Voodoocld]

Tool kit looks cool. I'd like to see the comparison against a quality torque wrench.
For the price you could buy a pretty nice 1/4" wrench and some bits.

 

[NeTo]

Your rifle looks great. I bought one of the Borka MG9 tool kits in a group buy here it is a great tool to have, when I got I took out all my rifles and started checking them all and now it goes with me whenever I go shooting.

 

[savages]

How much does your completed rifle weigh?

 

[jamesbern]

Prior to the sling and Atlas my scale showed 13.1 lbs. I don't know how accurate that is though. I plan to get the Borka torque against the FAT wrench tonight to see if indicated ratings are close.

 

[[email protected]]

I was in the same boat as you about 5 months ago, started with an SPS AAC, put it in a HS precision stock, one day it rusted on me and never shot again so I put a rock creek barrel on it and AICS stock. I'm actually selling it to buy the new SRS A1 tho.

 

[thx1138jt]

Nice looking rifle! I am starting my build with 700 AAC SD and going with AX stock.

 

[jamesbern]

Finally decided on a drag bag. Just ordered the Blackhawk Drag Bag. I already have a shooting mat, and really liked the Tac-Ops, but for $155 more, I couldn't justify it. I had a Blackhawk previously with my old 700 and it worked great and was very well built. It will suit me just fine and provide some protection to the rifle.

I also jumped on Triad Tactical and ordered a Red Tac ammo management platform, Red Tac ammo card, Triad data book cover, and a Mildot Master.

Now I just need to find some Butler Creek scope covers and it's mainly complete for now. Just needs to be shot a bunch.

 

[Gosu]

This is a excellent thread, great pictures, good products, nicely done.

 

[mdesign]

Very nice write up...great looking rifle!

 

[jamesbern]

Thanks guys. I got a few more goodies in tonight.

I picked up the Red Tac Gear Ammo Management Platform and Ammo card.

Goes on easy, after removing the cheek rest and spacers.

Next up I scooped up the Triad Tactical Data Book cover.

It has room for some booklets, pens, scope manuals, and more.

I also was lucky enough to order the Mildot Master. After understanding how it works, it really makes ranging that much easier. It is a great addition to everyones range bag.

Now that my setup is complete I look forward to getting more range time with this setup.

 

[ArmyJerry]

wow what a thread, thanks for the info, you probably just cost me more money.

 

[crazybrit]

Nice work ... good pics.... may have to order that Borka kit .

 

[quimico2]

Great set-up. Congratulations !!!!

Q2

 

[clj94104]

I have a Timney and it dropped right in to my new AICS 2.0. So they fixed it at AI with the new models.

 

[clj94104]

Bro our set ups are eerily similar down to the data book and cover. Lol.

 

[_RJ_]

You should also look into getting an FDAC http://actsvirginia.com/products/fdac/

Nice write up BTW.

 

[jamesbern]

I have a Timney and it dropped right in to my new AICS 2.0. So they fixed it at AI with the new models.

Yep, mine is fine and looks like there is plenty of room.

Bro our set ups are eerily similar down to the data book and cover. Lol.

Thats funny....but seriously cut the copying out. LOL

You should also look into getting an FDAC http://actsvirginia.com/products/fdac/

Nice write up BTW.

Will check that out.

I'm considering sending in the bolt to GA Precision to have a bolt knob installed.

Badger Ordnance Tactical Bolt Knob - installed, Remington 700 $95

I was told a two week turn around door to door. I'm assuming it includes the bolt knob as it doesn't state otherwise.

http://www.gaprecision.net/ga-precision-services.html

 

[TheBelgian]

Great step-by-step!! Love the pics and tips

 

[sulcop96]

Excellent tutorial!

Sully

 

[slingshot14]

One of the more entertaining reads on SH in awhile. You definitely did everything right the first-time. Congrats and have fun shooting that beauty.

 

[bluto77]

Helluva thread! I actually just bought the identical scope to put on a Savage 110 FCP .338 LM, and I'm planning on using Nightforce rings. I was considering the Nightforce rail, but the rifle already comes with a rail. I've also been eyeballing that tool set, mainly for the torque wrench. Thanks for all the extra ideas.