The Remington 700: A Legacy of Accuracy
Introducing the Classic
The crisp air of a hunting morning, the quiet anticipation before a shot, the satisfying weight of your rifle – these are the experiences that define a rifleman. For generations, the Remington 700 has been synonymous with precision and reliability, a cornerstone of the shooting world. But even a classic like the Model 700 can benefit from thoughtful upgrades. One of the most popular, offering a tangible improvement in functionality, is the Kwik Klip system. This article will explore the world of the Kwik Klip system, helping you transform your Remington 700 into an even more versatile and efficient firearm.
The Remington 700’s Legacy
Before diving into the Kwik Klip, it’s important to understand the rifle at the heart of the matter. The Remington 700’s story began in the mid-twentieth century, quickly establishing itself as a dominant force in both hunting and competitive shooting. The rifle’s design philosophy centered around accuracy and simplicity. The bolt-action mechanism, a testament to its reliability and precision, is the core of this rifle’s popularity.
Bolt-Action Excellence
The Remington 700’s bolt action is celebrated for its consistent lockup and inherent accuracy. The controlled-round-feed design offers smooth feeding and reliable extraction of spent cartridges. This, combined with a variety of stock and barrel options, has made the Remington 700 a customizable platform for countless applications.
Understanding the Original Design
The original Remington 700 configuration included an internal magazine, typically loaded through the top of the receiver. This design, while functional, presents certain limitations. Reloads could be slow, requiring the shooter to cycle the bolt and manually load rounds one at a time or to manually load each individual round into the internal magazine. The capacity of the internal magazine was also often limited. This internal design, however, ensured a clean and streamlined aesthetic that was embraced by traditionalists.
Entering the World of Kwik Klip
The Kwik Klip system addresses some of the inherent limitations of the internal magazine, offering a significant upgrade. It transforms the Remington 700 from a rifle with an internal magazine into one that utilizes a detachable magazine, improving reloading speed and overall handling. The advantages are clear: quicker reloads, easier management of ammunition, and the potential for increased magazine capacity.
The Kwik Klip System Explained
The Kwik Klip system, available for various Remington 700 actions and chamberings, replaces the original floorplate and bottom metal of the rifle. The system usually includes a magazine well and accompanying detachable magazines. The magazines, of varying capacities, offer flexibility for different shooting scenarios.
Upgrading Your Rifle: Installation and Functionality
The installation process for a Kwik Klip system involves a few key steps, and while some may find it relatively simple, it’s essential to understand that it can often require modifications to your rifle, which is highly recommended to be done by a gunsmith.
The Installation Process
The initial step involves removing the original floorplate and bottom metal from your Remington 700. This exposes the rifle’s internal magazine well. The Kwik Klip system’s magazine well is then precisely fitted into the rifle. Depending on the specific model and the manufacturer of the Kwik Klip system, this may necessitate minor adjustments. The magazine well may be secured using screws or other methods.
How it Works
Once the magazine well is securely fitted, the system is ready to accept the detachable magazines. These magazines are designed to feed reliably into the rifle’s chamber. The bolt action must be carefully cycled to ensure smooth feeding and ejection.
Safety First
Safety during both installation and use is paramount. Always ensure your rifle is unloaded before beginning any work on it. Consult the manufacturer’s instructions for precise steps, and consider seeking the help of a qualified gunsmith, particularly if you are not comfortable working with firearms.
Enhancing Your Shooting Experience: Performance and Practical Applications
The Kwik Klip system provides a tangible enhancement to the performance of your Remington 700 in various scenarios. In hunting applications, faster reloads can be critical. If a follow-up shot is needed, the detachable magazine allows for a rapid reload, increasing your chances of a successful hunt.
Shooting Versatility
In target shooting, the Kwik Klip system streamlines the reloading process, allowing you to focus on shot placement and consistency. This can be particularly beneficial in competitions where time is a factor.
Ease of Use
The ease of handling the detachable magazine can also be a significant advantage. The magazine can be quickly removed and reloaded, and it can be easily switched between different magazine types for various ammunition.
Evaluating the Advantages and Disadvantages
As with any upgrade, the Kwik Klip system presents both advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these points can help you make an informed decision.
The Pros
The advantages are numerous. The primary benefit is the speed of reloads. Quickly swapping magazines is significantly faster than manually loading individual rounds. The system often provides an increase in magazine capacity, allowing you to carry more rounds on hand. Enhanced handling is another plus. Detachable magazines are easier to carry and manage.
The Cons
There are also potential downsides to consider. The initial cost of the Kwik Klip system must be taken into account. Also, installation may require professional gunsmithing. Depending on the system and the type of your rifle, you might need to modify the rifle. Some owners may not like the aesthetics of the updated system.
Important Considerations
Another factor is compatibility. Ensure the Kwik Klip system is compatible with your specific Remington 700 model and chambering. There might also be some considerations regarding ammunition. For example, it is essential to confirm whether your selected ammunition feeds reliably from the magazine.
Maintaining and Caring for Your System
Proper maintenance is essential to ensure the long-term reliability of your Kwik Klip system. Begin by cleaning and lubricating the detachable magazines regularly. Use a quality gun cleaning solvent and lubricant, carefully removing any dirt, debris, or residue.
Cleaning and Inspection
Inspect the magazines for any damage or wear, such as dents, cracks, or bent feed lips. Replace any damaged magazines immediately. Store your magazines in a clean and dry environment. Avoid leaving them loaded for extended periods.
Alternatives to the Kwik Klip
While the Kwik Klip is a popular option, other detachable magazine systems exist for the Remington 700. These alternatives may offer unique features, such as varying magazine capacities.
Exploring Other Options
Explore other systems, examining their features, compatibility, and installation requirements. Weigh the pros and cons of each system, considering your specific needs and shooting preferences. Different magazine capacities and retention systems may be of interest, depending on the way your rifle will be used.
Concluding Thoughts: Is the Kwik Klip Right for You?
The Kwik Klip system is a valuable upgrade for any Remington 700 owner seeking improved reloading speed, handling, and magazine capacity. This upgrade, if performed correctly, enhances the rifle’s performance in many shooting disciplines.
Making the Right Choice
If you are looking for a practical and worthwhile upgrade, the Kwik Klip system is well worth considering. By carefully considering the advantages, potential drawbacks, and specific requirements of your rifle, you can determine if this system aligns with your shooting goals.
Further Research
Take time to research different Kwik Klip systems and read user reviews. Don’t hesitate to seek advice from experienced shooters or gunsmiths. Making the right decision will enhance your shooting experience.
Resources for the Enthusiast
If you are interested in learning more about the Kwik Klip system, start by searching the internet and searching for specific manufacturers. You can find helpful installation videos and guides online.
Finding Information
Consider visiting gun forums and discussion boards to gather more information and to learn from other owners’ experiences. Many retailers specialize in firearms accessories. Look for shops that specialize in Remington 700 upgrades. Careful research and an informed decision can lead to a more fulfilling experience with your Remington 700.
