First build (700 SPS), feedback?

[brucee63]

I'm attempting my first rifle build. I'm more of a handgun guy (IPDA and such), but I realize I need to work on carbine and long range rifle skills as well. In terms of purpose of use, this is a range gun first an foremost, may get more into hunting eventually, but this will likely be too heavy to lug around, so I'll likely build something lighter in the future for that POU.

I'd like to reliably go out to 500-700 yards, more regularly shooting at 100-300 yards. I realize there are limitations with a 20" barrel, that's all I'm going for at this time.

I have the Remington 700 SPS tactical, the rest I've just been researching. Any feedback, anything missing, or issues you see with the build? If you recommend another scope, just keep in mind, I'd like to go mil/mil from the get go. And I won't spend more than $2250 or so. Durability is key to me.

Rifle - Remington 700 SPS tactical 308win (purchased)

Stock - AICS 2.0 Dark Earth Short Action Folding
Scope - Night Force NXS 3.5-15x50mm F1 MLR2 reticle, 1 Mil-Radian
Base - NightForce one pice base HS 700 MOA - Short Action 20 MOA 8-40 screws
Rings - NightForce .885 (titanium or steel?) (clearance issues?)
Bipod - Atlas, not sure which model (BT10, BT10-NC or BT10-LW17) Not sure if need any additional accessories.

Just wanted to make sure I ran it by the experts before I start making purchases.
Thanks,
B

 

[error4o4]

Re: First build (700 SPS), feedback?

The biggest missing piece I see is handloading. I started in a similar place, with an SPS Varmint. Upgraded the trigger with a Shilen Match, swapped the stock for an HS Precision, but the biggest difference came when I started loading for the gun. Best money I spent, I wish I would've done it sooner.

 

[Trigger Monkey]

Re: First build (700 SPS), feedback?

As far as the base goes you'll probably want part number A115 (Rem 700 SA 20 MOA) instead of A146 (HS 700 SA 20 MOA 8-40). The reason being that the standard Remington thread pitch for base screws is 6-48 so if you're wanting to mount everything up when you get it that's the way to go. The holes can be opened up to 8-40 by a gunsmith which aligns the base holes to bore centerline but it's not always necessary.

If you get the Nightforce F1 it will come with NF 1.0" UL rings which are great rings. I think the F1 is a great choice in optic as well, I've had three of them and my current one is the F1 with MLR2 reticle and it's a great scope. If I was doing it all over again though I would've given a lot of consideration to the Vortex Razor HD with EBR-2B reticle. Along with the Vortex/Seekins rings this is a helluva combination backed by a great company.

The trigger...replace the X Mark trigger because it sucks big time so that should be on your list also. You can go with a Shilen, Rifle Basix, Timney, or even an old style Remington trigger that shows up here from time to time in the F/S section. Even though it's said that the X Mark Pro comes from the factory set at 3.5# it's more like double that at best.

In regards to ammo, you can get all the handloading stuff but it's a sizeable initial investment in time, money, and space. I'm not trying to dissuade you from handloading eventually but pick up some ammo from Southwest Ammo, Corbon, or Blackhills to start with because it will be one less variable to worry about.

All in all your build looks good.

 

[brucee63]

Re: First build (700 SPS), feedback?

Thanks for the feedback Trigger Monkey. So no need for rings, they come with them with the F1, got it. As for trigger group, Shilen Competition 40x with no safety 2-6lbs?

My father will be giving me his reloading equipment next year if I want it since I do a fair amount of shooting, so I should be able to get started anyhow. First things first though, need a rifle to shoot

Updates below.

Rifle - Remington 700 SPS tactical 308win (purchased)

Stock - AICS 2.0 Dark Earth Short Action Folding
Scope - Night Force NXS 3.5-15x50mm F1 MLR2 reticle, 1 Mil-Radian <span style="font-weight: bold">(rings included)</span>
Base - <span style="font-weight: bold">Rem 700 SA 20 MOA part #A115</span>
Bipod - Atlas, not sure which model <span style="font-weight: bold">(Appears people are using BT10-NC with AICS stocks?)</span> Not sure if need any additional accessories.
<span style="font-weight: bold">Trigger group - Shilen Competition 40x/no safety?</span>

 

[xXlojackXx]

Re: First build (700 SPS), feedback?

Atlas makes a nice bipod but they absolutely hate dirt, snow, etc as far as functioning in my experience. They are great from a bench or mat but for field use I much rather prefer a Harris.

 

[Chiller]

Re: First build (700 SPS), feedback?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: xXlojackXx</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Atlas makes a nice bipod but they absolutely hate dirt, snow, etc as far as functioning in my experience. They are great from a bench or mat but for field use I much rather prefer a Harris. </div></div>

Really? My ATLAS Rocks in all the crap. Harris works fine. Atlas rocks the house though

 

[Trigger Monkey]

Re: First build (700 SPS), feedback?

I think you mean Shilen Competition Trigger 2-6oz no safety...even still I wouldn't get that one. It's mostly personal preference but that's a pretty light trigger for practical tactical competition. I'd recommend something in the 1.5-3 lb range with a safety.

 

[brucee63]

Re: First build (700 SPS), feedback?

I was able to locate this trigger - Timney Rifle Trigger Remington 700, 40X with Safety 1-1/3 to 4 lb blue

Will this work, or do you have another recommendation?
Thanks,
B

 

[reximus]

Re: First build (700 SPS), feedback?

When I was in your spot getting started in this sport, I wanted an AICS too - REAL BAD. I thought it looked awesome, wanted its detachable magazine, liked the full adjustability, and thought the the structural stability of a full metal chassis would benefit greatly. I had heard lots about how the AICS was ergonomically 'perfect'... So, I bought one and had it on my first rifle (700PSS). I shot the crap out of it and really liked the AICS. It felt good, was rock solid, and worked great for me. Nothing wrong with it in my book. Some will say that you'll either love or hate the AICS - but I liked it, it was great.

Now that being said...

It came time for me to upgrade to a 'custom' rifle. The rifle I purchased (and am currently running), came with a Manners T4-A with their mini chassis... And I love it - more than the AICS. I've got another Manners on the way for my long action build - so I guess that tells you which I preferred after trying both.

I don't know about you, but I didn't have the opportunity to try either before I bought my first upgraded stock - so I went just went with one. Having tried them both now, I think I like the 'feel' of a more traditional stock (Manners). I like to have my thumb free and not in a thumb hole or underneath on a pistol grip (tried the Viperskins too). I know you keep it out off to the side, but that just never 'felt' right. And as you'll learn - it is all about how the rifle fits to YOU.

I'm not sure why you're going with the AICS (don't get me wrong - there's nothing wrong with it at all), but don't rule out a good Manners of McMillan. With the mini chassis installed (or with a good bedding job and Badger M5), you get the benefits of a chassis' stability and the Badger DBM which runs AICS mags. To me: it was the best of both worlds.

Just my two cents. Good luck. Looks like a really SWEET first rifle! Can't go wrong with what you've got planned.

Cheers.
- Rex

 

[reximus]

Re: First build (700 SPS), feedback?

Oh, and don't forget a good brake.

Lots of good ones out there.

 

[brucee63]

Re: First build (700 SPS), feedback?

Reximus,
Thanks for the feedback. I haven't shot any rifles with custom stocks, so it's all new to me. The main reason I'm going with the AICS is I didn't want to deal with bedding. I felt like I could do it myself on this first go round if I don't get into gunsmith type activities.

I believe I will build a lighter rifle more suitable for hunting in the future, and for that I'll likely go with a more traditional stock.

As for a break, I don't have a threaded barrel at this point (stock SPS 20"), so I'll have to hold off for the time being. From what I understand wedding a new barrel to my 700 action would require a gunsmith to do it right. Maybe a future project, not sure at this point. feedback appreciated.
Thanks,
B

 

[lowfill707]

Re: First build (700 SPS), feedback?

i would save a little cash and see if you cant get the factory trigger worked over a bit instead of throwing a bunch of cash at an aftermarket one right away.as for the stock, i dont know how much you like the feel of those aics stocks but you could get a manners with their chassis system for the same price or less with a more traditional feel. chances are, are soon as the build is done youll find something you wish you did different or something else you NEED and end up scrapping some things or just starting a whole nother build. atleast thats been my experiance.

 

[reximus]

Re: First build (700 SPS), feedback?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: brucee63</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Reximus,
Thanks for the feedback. I haven't shot any rifles with custom stocks, so it's all new to me. The main reason I'm going with the AICS is I didn't want to deal with bedding. I felt like I could do it myself on this first go round if I don't get into gunsmith type activities.</div></div>
No problem - glad I could try and help. If you don't want to mess with bedding, don't rule out Manners. If you get one with their mini chassis, you'll have the same v-block aluminum "chassis" for bedding - it is a true 'do it yourself' drop-in stock set-up. Again, I like them both - but I do like the Manners T4-A a bit better than the AICS. I think you'll be happy with either. I just figured I'd let you know that there are other options out there...

Good luck man! Enjoy the journey!!

 

[brucee63]

Re: First build (700 SPS), feedback?

Reximus,
After mulling it over for a while, I just ordered the Manners T4-A.

MCS-DBM MINI CHASSIS
COYOTE TAN
ATLAS PIC RAIL
LIMB SAVER
2 flush cups non-rotating (left side)
2 flush cups non-rotating (right side)
1 flush cup non rotating rear bottom

Can't wait for it to come in. I'll keep you updated on how the build progresses.

Thanks,
Bruce

 

[Flatland308]

Re: First build (700 SPS), feedback?

I had almost the exact same setup except I had an IOR 3.5-18X50 with IOR rings and a Harris bipod. It was a great setup and was very accurate for an initial gun. I have since upgraded to a Sako TRG-22(which rocks!) but my brother purchased the SPS and still rocks it to this date.