Best Remington 700 Models for Hunting, Tactical, and Target Shooting

Quick Answer

For a great all-around hunting rifle, the Model 700 CDL is hard to beat. For tactical setups, the 700 SPS Tactical shines. For an affordable entry, the 700 SPS delivers. The CDL SF adds stainless parts for corrosion resistance, and the BDL comes with factory iron sights. Every model uses the same proven 700 action and works with a huge range of aftermarket upgrades.

Key Takeaways

• The Remington 700 is still a top choice for bolt-action rifles worldwide.
• Different models fit different uses and budgets.
• Upgrades are easy thanks to massive aftermarket support.
• Military service has proven its accuracy and toughness.
• Pick your model based on your main use. Be it hunting, tactical, or target shooting.

There’s something about a Remington bolt-action that just clicks with anyone who’s ever pulled a trigger at the range. The Model 700 isn’t only a rifle – it’s a piece of American history built in steel and wood. Since 1962, it’s been a go-to in hunting camps, police departments, and long-range matches.

The U.S. military didn’t pick this action for their M24 and M40 sniper rifles by chance. They needed something that would run every time, no matter the weather, dirt, or pressure. From the jungles of Vietnam to the rocky ridges of Afghanistan, the Model 700’s design has proven itself in some of the toughest spots you can imagine.

This guide walks you through the different Model 700 options so you can find the right fit.

Why the Remington 700 Still Leads the Pack

The Model 700’s roots go back to the post–World War I era. Remington reworked leftover Model 1917 parts into sporting rifles, which over time evolved into the 700 we know today. This was not just a design from the drawing board but it was shaped by decades of real feedback. The National Shooting Sports Foundation even lists it among the most important firearms in U.S. history.

Its staying power comes down to the action. The bolt runs smooth, two locking lugs keep it strong, and the recessed bolt face holds the cartridge firmly for both safety and accuracy.

The military side tells another part of the story. The Army’s M24 and the Marine Corps’ M40 sniper rifles both start with the same 700 action. That kind of service record says a lot about what this rifle can handle.

Today’s rifles ship with the X-Mark Pro trigger, set around 3.5 pounds but adjustable with an external screw. Older triggers made between 2004 and 2014 had safety issues that led to a lawsuit, so if yours is from that period, check if it needs replacing - new ones are fixed.

How to Choose the Right Remington 700 for Your Needs

The best 700 for you depends on how you’ll use it.

For hunting, you need a mix of light enough to carry but accurate enough to make the shot count. Tactical setups call for something rugged, steady, and often with space for mounting gear. Target shooting? That’s all about squeezing out every bit of precision.

Caliber is just as important. For deer-sized animals, .243 Winchester, .270 Winchester, or .308 Winchester work well. For bigger games, step up to 7mm Remington Magnum or .300 Winchester Magnum. Tactical builds often use .308 Winchester for its mix of power and ammo availability. For targets, 6.5 Creedmoor is popular because of its flat flight and soft recoil.

Barrel length changes how the rifle feels and shoots. Longer barrels mean more speed, but they’re heavier. Heavy barrels stay accurate longer in a shooting session, but add even more weight. American Rifleman has covered how Remington balanced these factors over the years.

Wood stocks look great but need more care. Synthetic stocks handle bad weather better but lose that classic style.

Whatever your budget, remember the good news is that every 700 shares the same action. That means you can always upgrade later without changing the heart of the rifle.

Remington 700 SPS Tactical

The SPS Tactical takes the proven 700 action and makes it compact without losing accuracy. The heavy, short barrel keeps it stiff for tight shot groups.

If you want to add a suppressor, the 16.5-inch threaded option is ready to go. The Hogue overmolded stock with pillar bedding keeps things steady, and the semi-beavertail fore-end plus the SuperCell recoil pad make longer range time much more comfortable.

Price: Around $649

Features

• Short, heavy barrel for stiffness
• Hogue overmolded stock with pillar bedding
• Threaded barrel option (5/8×24)
• SuperCell recoil pad

Pros

• Easy to move in close spaces
• Suppressor-ready options
• Good grip in any weather
• Strong accuracy for the price

Cons

• Only in .223 Remington and .308 Winchester
• Heavier than standard hunting rifles
• Lacks traditional stock look

Remington 700 CDL SF

The CDL Stainless Fluted upgrades the classic CDL with stainless parts that fight rust. Barrel, bolt, trigger guard, and bottom metal make it a great pick for wet or salty air environments.

The fluted barrel trims weight, cools faster, and still stays rigid. Factory specs list the CDL SF at about 7.375 pounds depending on caliber, not as high as 7.62 pounds. It’s balanced for both carrying and steady shooting. 

Price: About $1,134

Features

• Stainless fluted barrel, bolt, and bottom metal
• American walnut stock with satin finish
• X-Mark Pro trigger
• Available in common hunting calibers

Pros

• Resists rust and corrosion
• Lighter barrel for easier carry
• Classic look with modern materials
• Great accuracy potential

Cons

• Costs more than the standard CDL
• Limited barrel length choices
• Stainless can reflect light in the field

Remington 700 BDL

The BDL stands out because it’s the only current Model 700 that comes with factory iron sights. That’s a handy backup if your scope fails when you’re out in the field. The Monte Carlo stock with its raised cheek piece helps line up your eye naturally even when you’re using the irons or a mounted scope.

The barrels here are a bit shorter than those on the CDL line, as current BDL models are listed with 24-inch barrels across most chamberings. The older 22-inch option is no longer in production. This makes it easier to move through brush and tight spots. The American walnut stock, with its lighter finish and checkering, gives it a timeless look that traditional hunters still love. 

Price: Around $953

Features

• Monte Carlo walnut stock with raised cheek piece
• Factory iron sights
• Shorter barrels than CDL models
• Classic checkering and finish

Pros

• Only current 700 with factory iron sights
• Raised cheek piece adds comfort
• Shorter barrel is easier to handle
• Attractive, traditional style

Cons

• Slight drop in velocity from the shorter barrel
• Heavier than synthetic-stock versions
• Fewer caliber options than the SPS line

Remington 700 CDL

The CDL, short for Classic Deluxe, is the Remington 700 that comes to mind for many hunters. The American walnut stock with a satin finish makes it feel like a true hunting rifle. It's just like the ones that have been carried for decades.

It’s ready for almost anything right out of the box. Factory specs list 24-inch barrels for standard calibers and 26-inch for magnums, and those are the only lengths offered in the CDL line. Shorter options aren’t part of this series. The 24-inch barrel gives you great velocity without being too long to manage. Add a good scope and you’re set for everything from whitetail in the woods to elk in the mountains. 

Price: About $908

Features

• American walnut stock with satin finish
• X-Mark Pro trigger
• Calibers from .243 Win up to .300 Win Mag
• Hinged floor plate for quick unloading

Pros

• Classic look with proven performance
• Good balance of weight and stability
• Works for almost any hunting situation
• High-quality wood stock

Cons

• Wood needs more care than synthetic
• Heavier than basic models
• Costs more than the SPS

Remington 700 SPS

The SPS (Special Purpose Synthetic) offers the heart of the Model 700 at the lowest price in the lineup. Same action, same potential accuracy, but with a synthetic stock and matte finish to keep costs down.

It also has one of the widest ranges of calibers of any 700 model, from small varmint rounds to big-game magnums. That makes it a smart choice for a first bolt-action or for adding a new caliber to your safe. 

Price: Around $560

Features

• Synthetic stock, matte finish
• X-Mark Pro trigger
• Broadest caliber range in the lineup
• Same action as higher-end models

Pros

• Most affordable way into the 700 line
• Easy-care synthetic build
• Great base for upgrades
• Matches the accuracy of premium models

Cons

• Looks more basic than wood-stock rifles
• Stock feels less premium
• Finish is rougher than deluxe models

Honorable Mention – Bergara B-14 HMR

The Bergara B-14 HMR is not a Remington, but it’s built on the same footprint. It fits standard 700 stocks, triggers, and chassis. Bergara started out making top-end barrels before moving into full rifles, and that barrel expertise shows.

HMR stands for Hunting and Match Rifle, and it’s built for both. The stock comes with a mini-chassis inside for strength, adjustable cheek height, and adjustable length-of-pull. QD sling mounts are built in. The free-floated barrel is threaded, and the rifle uses AICS-pattern magazine.

Price: About $999

Features

• Mini-chassis in stock for rigidity
• Adjustable cheek height and length-of-pull
• Threaded, free-floated barrel
• Uses AICS pattern magazines

Pros

• Very accurate from the factory
• Stock adjusts for a perfect fit
• Works with Remington 700 parts
• High-end features at a mid-range price

Cons

• Heavier than most hunting rifles
• Fewer caliber options
• Not an actual Remington product

Comparative Table For Best Remington 700 Models

Model	Price (Approx.)	Key Features	Pros	Cons
Remington 700 SPS Tactical	$649	Short heavy barrel; Hogue overmolded stock; Threaded option; SuperCell recoil pad	Easy to maneuver; Suppressor-ready; Good grip; Strong accuracy	Limited calibers; Heavy; No traditional stock look
Remington 700 CDL SF	$1,134	Stainless fluted barrel/bolt; Walnut stock; X-Mark Pro trigger	Rust-resistant; Lighter barrel; Classic look; Great accuracy	Expensive; Limited barrel lengths; Reflective stainless finish
Remington 700 BDL	$953	Monte Carlo walnut stock; Factory iron sights; Shorter barrels	Iron sights included; Comfortable cheek piece; Easy handling; Traditional style	Lower velocity; Heavier than synthetic; Fewer calibers
Remington 700 CDL	$908	Walnut stock; X-Mark Pro trigger; Wide caliber range; Hinged floor plate	Classic design; Balanced; Versatile; High-quality wood	Wood needs care; Heavier; More costly than SPS
Remington 700 SPS	$560	Synthetic stock; X-Mark Pro trigger; Broad caliber range	Most affordable; Easy maintenance; Good upgrade base; Accurate	Basic look; Less premium feel; Rougher finish
Bergara B-14 HMR (Honorable Mention)	$999	Mini-chassis; Adjustable cheek/length-of-pull; Threaded free-floated barrel; AICS mags	Very accurate; Adjustable fit; Compatible with 700 parts; Mid-range price for features	Heavy; Fewer calibers; Not a Remington

Final Buying Tips

Think about where you’ll use your rifle most. Thick woods? The BDL’s shorter barrel will handle best. Long days at the range? The SPS Tactical’s heavy barrel will keep accuracy steady. All-weather hunts? The CDL SF won’t mind the rain or salt air.

Plan for optics, too. Even the best rifle will disappoint with a poor scope. A good rule: spend at least as much on your glass as on the rifle.

Consider upgrades down the road. If you want to swap stocks, triggers, or barrels later, starting with the SPS might save money. If you’re after something to keep for life, the CDL or CDL SF brings that heirloom quality.

Caliber is just as important. Newer shooters will do well with .243, .270, or .308 for a mix of power and manageable recoil. More experienced marksmen might like the extra range from a 7mm Rem Mag or .300 Win Mag. Grayboe has a solid guide on picking the right one.

If you’re weighing which Model 700 variant to buy or whether a different bolt gun better fits your needs, a side-by-side comparison is a great next step. Our Top 6 Bolt-Action Rifles of 2025 provides quick picks and notes on when a different platform might be the better match.

Conclusion

More than 60 years after its launch, the Remington 700 still defines what a bolt-action can be. From the budget SPS to the top-end CDL SF, every one shares the same strengths like accuracy, toughness, and adaptability.

Remington’s had a rough patch in recent years, but under new ownership they’re focused on their best sellers. That should mean even better quality moving forward.

Whatever model you choose, you’re buying into a proven legacy used by hunters, police, and military around the world. With the massive aftermarket available, your 700 can grow and change with you for decades.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Which Remington 700 is best for long range?

The SPS Tactical with its heavy barrel is a strong starting point. For pure target shooting, the 700 in 6.5 Creedmoor offers flat flight, wind resistance, and light recoil.

2. Is the SPS Tactical beginner-friendly?

Yes. In .308 Winchester, it has manageable recoil, comfortable handling, and good accuracy. The threaded barrel also lets you add a brake for even softer shooting.

3. Can I still get older Remington 700 versions?

Yes. Over 5 million have been made since 1962, so older models often show up used. Current production focuses on core models under Remington’s new owners.

4.How does the CDL SF differ from the CDL?

The CDL SF has stainless steel fluted parts for better rust protection and slightly less weight compared to the CDL’s blued steel.

5. Is the BDL worth more than the SPS?

If you like classic looks, iron sights, and the Monte Carlo stock, yes. If you only care about performance for the money, the SPS is the smarter buy.

About the Author

This piece was put together by the ProArmory writing team after going through the latest research and trusted industry sources. That includes information from the Journal of Military Science, Firearms News, and the National Shooting Sports Foundation.

Disclaimer: This guide is for educational purposes only. Always follow your local laws and safe handling practices when using firearms. Specs, prices, and availability can change over time.