For decades, the name Remington has resonated among shooting enthusiasts as the herald of reliable, accurate, and timeless firearms. Today’s firearms news echoes with anticipation as we delve into the recent addition to this storied lineage – the Remington 700 CP (Chassis Pistol). A bold foray into the expanding world of bolt-action pistols, this platform promises the precision of a traditional rifle with the portability and versatility of a handgun. In this article, we will unwrap the details of the Remington 700 CP, dissecting its features, performance, and potential place in a market teeming with innovation.
The Birth of a Hybrid: Remington’s Legacy Meets Modern Demand
The Remington 700 CP may come as a surprise to those who associate the model 700 with full-length rifles designed for steadied, long-range precision. Indeed, it’s a stark departure from the wood-stocked hunters or the tactical chassis systems of its larger kin. But this new entrant is setting its sights on a niche: precision bolt-action pistol shooting.
Adapting to the call for a compact yet powerful firearm, Remington’s answer lies in the 700 CP’s design. This bolt-action pistol harnesses the well-respected action of the Remington 700 and houses it in a chassis system, featuring a 10.5-inch to 12.5-inch barrel, depending on the chambering. It’s not your grandfather’s Remington, and yet, it maintains that signature lineage of quality and precision.
The Specs at a Glance: What Makes the 700 CP Tick
Embracing the chassis pistol format, the Remington 700 CP steps into the ring with a few features that demand attention:
- Caliber Options: Available in .308 Winchester, .223 Remington, and the increasingly popular 300 Blackout, the 700 CP caters to a variety of shooting preferences and applications.
- Barrel Length and Quality: The 700 CP sports a threaded, heavy barrel, making it suppressor-ready and optimized for precision.
- The Chassis System: Built around an aluminum chassis, the pistol offers a Magpul MIAD pistol grip and a rear Picatinny rail to accommodate a brace or stock for those who wish to convert it into a short-barreled rifle (SBR), following the relevant NFA regulations.
- Magazine Capacity: A detachable magazine system facilitates quick reloads, with a magazine capacity varying according to the caliber.
- Optics and Sights: The absence of iron sights nods towards the expected use of optics; a full-length Picatinny rail offers ample real estate for scopes or red dots.
Performance on the Range: A Close Inspection of the 700 CP’s Abilities
Time at the range with the Remington 700 CP reveals its duality of purpose. It’s at home plinking at close-range steel with the 300 Blackout or threading the needle at longer distances with the .308 Winchester round. The weight and balance of the pistol, complemented by the crisp Remington 700 trigger, facilitate a level of accuracy uncommon in traditional handguns.
That said, the 700 CP isn’t without its learning curve. The combination of a heavy trigger pull and the need for a steady hand can initially challenge shooters. Yet, for those accustomed to the precision rifle domain, the transition to the bolt-action pistol isn’t jarring. It calls for steady hands or proper support and a meticulous approach to each shot, not unlike the disciplines of sniper schools and long-range competitions.
Modularity and Customization: Tuning the 700 CP to Your Liking
A foundational advantage of the Remington 700 CP is its inherent modularity. The chassis system readily accepts the bevy of AR-style grips, and the Picatinny rail means easy optics mounting. Options for arm braces or the legal transformation into an SBR add layers of personalization for the user. Additionally, the threaded barrel invites muzzle devices and suppressors, further tailoring the 700 CP to individual taste and purpose.
Navigating the Landscape: Potential Concerns and Market Position
No platform is without its critics, and the Remington 700 CP is no exception. Its very nature – a bolt-action pistol – will inevitably polarize. From a practical standpoint, its size and weight make it less convenient than typical handguns for everyday carry or even some hunting situations. The need for proper stabilization when shooting also presents a challenge that’s not as significant in the rifle configuration of the Model 700.
In terms of competition, the recent surge in interest for “pistol” versions of rifle platforms suggests that Remington is on trend. The Remington 700 CP is entering a fray with the likes of the Ruger Precision Rimfire Pistol and others that have already established a community following. Yet, it’s the firearm’s distinct identity – an amalgamation of classic reliability and unconventional innovation – that might just carve a niche for itself.
Conclusion: Defining a Space in Your Arsenal
The Remington 700 CP isn’t a handgun for the masses. It’s a specialized tool that blurs the lines between rifle and pistol disciplines. It’s a brave step by Remington – to repurpose the esteemed Model 700 into uncharted territory – and it’s this boldness that may very well pay off. The 700 CP is a firearm positioned to appeal to those who revel in precision shooting but crave a format that’s more compact and maneuverable.
Ultimately, the pistol’s success will depend on the objectives and preferences of individual shooters. For those in the market for a unique bolt-action experience, appreciate the precision pedigree of the Remington 700, and are looking to navigate the legislative landscapes surrounding SBRs and pistol braces, the Remington 700 CP might just be the next intriguing addition to your collection.
Gun enthusiasts, the ball is in your court. As the Remington 700 CP finds its way into more hands and holsters, it’s you, the discerning shooter, who will chart its trajectory in the firearms news and lore. Whether on the range, in the woods, or simply as part of your firearms’ portfolio, this Remington reincarnation is sure to make its mark.