Finding a left-handed bolt-action rifle can feel like searching for a needle in a haystack. But for southpaws, the right tool is crucial for accuracy and comfort. The Remington 700, a legendary rifle platform, offers a left-hand action, catering to a market often overlooked. This guide delves into the specifics of the Remington 700 left-hand action, exploring its features, benefits, and considerations for potential buyers.
Understanding the Remington 700's Legacy
Before diving into the left-handed variations, it's important to understand the Remington 700's enduring reputation. For decades, this rifle has been a favorite among hunters, law enforcement, and competitive shooters. Its renowned accuracy, reliability, and wide array of available customizations have solidified its place as a cornerstone of the firearms world. The left-hand action simply extends this legacy to a specific group of shooters.
Key Features of the Remington 700 Left-Hand Action
The core features of the left-handed Remington 700 mirror its right-handed counterpart, but with crucial mirrored components:
- Bolt Throw: The most significant difference is the bolt's ejection port and handle. On a left-hand action, the bolt handle is positioned on the left side of the receiver, and spent casings are ejected to the right. This allows for natural and comfortable operation for left-handed shooters.
- Safety: The safety mechanism is also mirrored, ensuring seamless operation for left-handed users.
- Magazine Well: The magazine well remains the same, accommodating standard Remington 700 magazines, regardless of the action's handedness.
- Receiver: While the bolt and safety are mirrored, the receiver itself shares the same robust design and functionality as its right-handed counterpart, ensuring the same level of strength and reliability.
Choosing the Right Configuration
The beauty of the Remington 700 lies in its modularity. Left-handed models are available in various configurations, allowing you to choose a rifle tailored to your specific hunting style and preferences:
- Caliber: Remington 700 left-hand actions are available in a broad range of calibers, from popular hunting rounds like .30-06 Springfield and .308 Winchester to more specialized cartridges. Consider the intended use of the rifle when making your selection.
- Stock: Stock choices greatly impact comfort and shooting accuracy. Look for stocks that are properly fitted for your body type and shooting style. Consider features such as adjustable length of pull and comb height for optimal ergonomics.
- Barrel Length: Barrel length influences accuracy and velocity. Longer barrels generally provide greater accuracy at longer ranges, but can be less maneuverable in dense cover.
Advantages of a Left-Hand Action
For left-handed shooters, the advantages of a left-hand action are considerable:
- Improved Accuracy: A properly configured left-hand rifle allows for more natural shooting posture, reducing fatigue and potentially leading to enhanced accuracy.
- Increased Comfort: The mirrored controls reduce awkward movements and strain during operation, making shooting more enjoyable and efficient.
- Enhanced Safety: The ejection port being on the right side prevents spent casings from hitting the shooter's face, which is a common concern for left-handed shooters using right-handed rifles.
Things to Consider Before Purchasing
- Availability: Left-handed models may be less readily available than their right-handed counterparts, potentially requiring more searching or patience.
- Cost: While not always the case, some left-handed models might command a slight premium due to reduced production volume.
- Customization: While the Remington 700 platform is highly customizable, certain left-handed specific parts might have limited availability compared to their right-handed equivalents.
Conclusion: The Perfect Fit for Southpaws
The Remington 700 left-hand action offers southpaw shooters the same legendary performance and reliability of its right-handed sibling. By carefully considering the features, configurations, and potential challenges, left-handed shooters can find a rifle that meets their needs and provides a lifetime of enjoyment and success. Remember to handle and test any rifle before committing to a purchase to ensure the perfect fit and feel.
