The Remington 700 is a legendary bolt-action rifle, prized for its accuracy and reliability. But even a classic can benefit from upgrades, and one of the most popular modifications is replacing the stock with a Hogue stock. This comprehensive guide explores the reasons behind this popular upgrade, the different Hogue stock options available for the Remington 700, and how to choose the best one for your needs.
Why Choose a Hogue Stock for Your Remington 700?
Hogue stocks are renowned for their superior ergonomics, durability, and affordability. They offer a significant improvement over the factory Remington stock in several key areas:
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Enhanced Grip: Hogue stocks often feature overmolded rubber or synthetic materials that provide a much more secure and comfortable grip, especially in wet or cold conditions. This improved grip translates to better control and accuracy, particularly during recoil.
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Improved Ergonomics: Many Hogue stocks are designed with features like palm swells and adjustable cheek rests, allowing for a more customized and comfortable shooting experience. This can lead to improved accuracy and reduced fatigue during extended shooting sessions.
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Durability and Weather Resistance: Hogue stocks are typically made from highly durable materials that can withstand the rigors of hunting and shooting in harsh environments. They often offer superior resistance to impacts, scratches, and the elements compared to standard wood or synthetic stocks.
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Cost-Effectiveness: Compared to high-end custom stocks, Hogue stocks offer an excellent balance of quality and affordability, making them a popular choice for budget-conscious shooters.
Types of Hogue Stocks for Remington 700
Hogue offers a range of stocks for the Remington 700, each with its own unique features and benefits. Some of the most popular options include:
Hogue OverMolded Stocks
These stocks are known for their comfortable, non-slip grip provided by the overmolded rubber coating. They offer excellent weather resistance and are a popular choice for hunting and tactical applications. Different variations within this category offer different levels of adjustability.
Hogue Pillar-bedded Stocks
Pillar bedding helps to distribute stress more evenly across the receiver, improving accuracy and consistency. Hogue stocks featuring pillar bedding offer enhanced stability and reduce stress on the action, leading to potentially improved accuracy.
Hogue Stocks with Adjustable Features
Some Hogue stocks incorporate adjustable features such as cheek risers and length-of-pull adjustments. These customizable options allow shooters to tailor the stock to their individual body type and shooting style for optimal comfort and accuracy.
Choosing the Right Hogue Stock for Your Remington 700
Selecting the ideal Hogue stock depends on several factors, including:
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Your shooting style and discipline: Are you a hunter, a target shooter, or a tactical shooter? Different disciplines may benefit from different features.
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Your budget: Hogue stocks offer a range of price points, allowing you to find a stock that fits your budget.
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Your physical characteristics: Consider your hand size, arm length, and overall body size when choosing a stock with appropriate dimensions and features like adjustable cheek rests and length of pull.
Installation and Customization
Installing a Hogue stock on a Remington 700 is generally straightforward. However, it's recommended to consult a qualified gunsmith, especially if you are unfamiliar with firearm modifications. This will help ensure proper installation and avoid any potential damage to your rifle. Further customization options, such as adding sling studs or bedding the stock, are also often undertaken to further enhance the functionality and fit of the rifle.
Conclusion
Upgrading your Remington 700 with a Hogue stock can significantly improve your shooting experience. The enhanced ergonomics, durability, and affordability make Hogue stocks a popular and worthwhile upgrade for many Remington 700 owners. By carefully considering your needs and preferences, you can choose the perfect Hogue stock to enhance the accuracy, comfort, and overall performance of your rifle.
