Noob, new Rem700 and some trigger questions

[muad]

Been lurking for a while, but have not posted much. I'm a total noob to bolt guns, and I picked up a Rem700 SPS Tactical AAC-SD in .308 last week (Christmas present to myself). It has a HS Precision stock, Badger Ordanance base and medium rings, and a Bushnell Elite Tactical 4200 FFP mil/mil illuminated scope.

I just loaded up some m118LR with help from my buddy, and I'm hoping to hit the range in the new couple days to get her sighted in @100 yards.

On to my question. The stock (I believe it's stock) trigger sucks IMHO. I'm an AR guy, coming from a Geissele SSA in my Colt. I read that these are adjustable triggers, but my buddy said it might be best to replace the trigger group. What say you?

Also, the button to remove the bolt seems very loose, like it's not under any spring tension. Is that normal?

Thanks for any help. I'm looking forward to getting hooked on a new platform.

-Will

 

[Megahoser]

Re: Noob, new Rem700 and some trigger questions

Yes, it is possible to adjust a 700 trigger...but it isn't easy. I would take it to a reputable gunsmith to drop it down to a reasonable weight. Most will do it for $20-30. If you have the funds look into getting a Timmeny trigger and a decent stock. HS and B&C stocks are for sale all the time in the WTS section. Good luck.

 

[muad]

Re: Noob, new Rem700 and some trigger questions

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Megahoser</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Yes, it is possible to adjust a 700 trigger...but it isn't easy. I would take it to a reputable gunsmith to drop it down to a reasonable weight. Most will do it for $20-30. If you have the funds look into getting a Timmeny trigger and a decent stock. HS and B&C stocks are for sale all the time in the WTS section. Good luck. </div></div>

Thanks for the input! They original owner upgraded the stock to a HS already, which I think is a huge improvement over the Hogue overmold.

 

[seanh]

Re: Noob, new Rem700 and some trigger questions

If your mechanically inclined at all, it's actually very simple to adjust the trigger...don't know why the prior post indicates it's not.

People say "take it to a smith"...not necessary (speaking as an ex-gunsmith). I've adjusted more than my fair share and always wondered why people are scared to work on this trigger...but, if they want to give away their money, I'll be there to take it.

below is a link that will guide you through the process...just take your time and work with it. If you make adjustments and you don't like it, you can always go back to where you were.


http://www.quarterbore.com/library/articles/rem700trigger.html


just don't go too light(where many people fail). What I do is take a plastic mallet and hit the back of the tang several times to see if it breaks the sear. If not, I'm not too light. If it does...needs more sear engagement/weight. Also, I slam the bolt closed fairly hard...

 

[colokraut]

Re: Noob, new Rem700 and some trigger questions

That link to quarterbore.com may not actually apply to your gun. If I'm not mistaken, the rifle you're talking about should have the Remington "X-Mark Pro" trigger installed. It's supposed to be adjusted by the the single screw accessible through the trigger blade. The link describes adjustment of Remington triggers prior to the X-Mark (need to remove action from stock) or X-Mark Pro (adjustable without removing action from stock) triggers. With the X-Mark Pro, "your mileage may vary" as they say. I couldn't get mine under 3.5#. Give it a try and see how yours adjusts. If not happy afterwards, you can always install an aftermarket trigger (Timney, Jewell, Huber, or one of many others).

 

[seanh]

Re: Noob, new Rem700 and some trigger questions

a link for the x-mark trigger...

http://erniethegunsmith.com/catalog/i173.html

 

[sourdough44]

Re: Noob, new Rem700 and some trigger questions

Yes, you can work or have someone else deal with the factory trigger. Even the newer 'X-Mark Pro' trigger isn't that great. One I had was still above an inconsistent 4 lbs with the screw totally out.

I have a Timney & Shilen in my 700s now. I'd spend any adjustment $$ on a new trigger.

 

[coryj]

Re: Noob, new Rem700 and some trigger questions

In my opinion, the old three screw remington triggers are way better than the x-mark or x-mark pro. I replaced the x-mark triggers on both of the 700 tacticals that I have owned with old style triggers.

You can usually find the old style triggers for sale here in the classifieds and will be able to sell the x-mark here as well if you so choose.

 

[Quark]

Re: Noob, new Rem700 and some trigger questions

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: seanh</div><div class="ubbcode-body">a link for the x-mark trigger...

http://erniethegunsmith.com/catalog/i173.html

</div></div>

Thanks for this link !

Regards

Bill

 

[Mike0341]

Re: Noob, new Rem700 and some trigger questions

hope you enjoy your rifle. show us some pics when you get a chance.

 

[JB02]

Re: Noob, new Rem700 and some trigger questions

Mark Gordon from Short Action Customs can overhaul the stock factory trigger for $65. Considering that such a trigger feels nearly as good as an afermarket trigger for roughly half the cost, it's not too bad of an investment.

 

[muad]

Re: Noob, new Rem700 and some trigger questions

Thanks for all the input folks. I'll get some pics posted ASAP. With some M118LR clones I loaded up, I was able to get a decent 1 1/4" 5 shot group at 100 yards off the bipod. It was very cold, and my fingers were frozen. Not to mention I am not use to this trigger at all; Im use to two-stage AR triggers. I'm also a new to this platform; I know, I'm making excuses.

I think with some trigger work, or a new trigger, I can get her sub MOA at 100 yards. Then, I'll move out to 300 and 500 yards to see if she'll hold 1 MOA.

I'll update when I have more to share. Thanks again all, and Happy New Year!

 

[ekbearly]

Re: Noob, new Rem700 and some trigger questions

The Timney is a worthwhile investment in my opinion.