The Remington 700
The Remington 700, introduced in 1962, is one of the most successful sporting rifles ever conceived. A simplification of the Mauser, intended for cost-effective mass production, it is based on a tubular steel receiver. There are two front locking lugs (like a Mauser) and a third created by the bolt handle itself (the Mauser has a third lug to the rear). The Remington has a recessed bolt head (unlike the Mauser) and a simple side safety. It is available in all manner of variants in both blue and stainless steel and it is available for southpaws too. My choice would be a stainless .308 as an all-round rifle but I might buy an aftermarket stock such as those made by Bell and Carlson, H-S precision and McMillan and drop it in. If you can’t be bothered with the hassle go direct to Border Barrels which will offer such guns off the shelf, “accurised” from a comparatively reasonable £2,000 or so complete with a sound moderator and accuracy guarantee (Border can also build bespoke 700-based rifles, including ultimate foxers effective at 500yd plus). Call 01387 376253 or have a look at what is on offer at www.border-barrels.com. Ex-sniper, Andrew Evans-Hendrick in Norfolk also makes well-priced custom guns based on the 700 action. Call Riflecraft 01379 853745 or for off-the-shelf Remingtons call Edgar Brothers on 01625 613177.
Rifles:
WJ Jeffrey & Co (J Roberts)