Magpul Industries Bolt Action Magazine Well 700L Magnum – Hunter 700L Stock Review

Grit & Gear: Testing the Magpul Industries Bolt Action Magazine Well 700L Magnum – Hunter 700L Stock

For years, my Remington 700 platform rifles have been workhorses, serving in a variety of demanding roles. While I appreciate the inherent accuracy and reliability of the classic 700 action, the fixed internal magazine on certain configurations, especially when transitioning to more modern stock systems like the Magpul Hunter, felt like a constraint. This limitation became particularly apparent when I began exploring longer-range shooting and competitive applications where consistent feeding and quick magazine changes are paramount. The need for a more versatile feeding system led me to seek out a solution that wouldn’t require extensive custom gunsmithing. After reviewing several options, the Magpul Industries Bolt Action Magazine Well 700L Magnum – Hunter 700L Stock emerged as the most promising candidate.

My journey to this particular product wasn’t a direct one. I’d previously looked into aftermarket floor plates and adapters, but many required significant inletting or were simply not designed for magnum cartridges. The idea of a drop-in solution that integrated seamlessly with the already excellent Magpul Hunter stock was particularly appealing. Upon receiving the Magpul magazine well, my initial impression was one of robust, no-nonsense design. It felt solid, yet surprisingly lightweight, characteristic of Magpul’s polymer expertise. The reinforced polymer construction promised durability without adding unnecessary heft to the rifle. This piece of hardware felt like it was engineered to withstand the rigors of both field use and frequent trips to the range.

Considering the price point, and the reputation Magpul carries for producing functional, durable accessories, I had high hopes. The prospect of converting my Remington 700 to a reliable detachable magazine system without venturing into costly custom work offered significant value. This particular component promised to unlock a new level of modularity for my rifle, making it a more adaptable tool for various shooting disciplines. My initial reaction was one of cautious optimism mixed with a healthy dose of anticipation for what this relatively simple upgrade could achieve.

Real-World Testing: Putting the Magpul Industries Bolt Action Magazine Well 700L Magnum – Hunter 700L Stock to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing began at my home workshop, where the installation process was remarkably straightforward. The instructions provided with the Magpul Industries Bolt Action Magazine Well 700L Magnum – Hunter 700L Stock were clear, and the user feedback I’d seen online regarding ease of installation proved accurate. Removing the factory bottom metal from my Hunter 700L stock was simple, and the new Magpul unit slipped into place with satisfying precision. There was no need for custom inletting; the fit was snug and secure, requiring only the provided screws to be tightened.

After a quick visual inspection and function check to ensure everything was seated correctly, I loaded a Magpul PMAG 5 AC L, Magnum into the newly installed well. The magazine clicked into place with a positive engagement, and the release lever operated smoothly. I cycled the action several times to confirm reliable feeding and extraction of dummy rounds. The entire installation and initial functional test took less than ten minutes, a testament to Magpul’s thoughtful design.

The real test, however, came at the local shooting range. I had anticipated potential issues with magazine seating, feeding, or the magazine release under the stress of live fire, especially with magnum cartridges. However, the experience was overwhelmingly positive. The Magpul Industries Bolt Action Magazine Well 700L Magnum – Hunter 700L Stock performed exactly as advertised, facilitating smooth magazine changes and consistent feeding. Even with the slightly longer overall length of magnum cartridges like the .300 Winchester Magnum, the provided magazine had ample generous cartridge overall length (COL) space, preventing any seating or feeding obstructions.

Extended Use & Reliability

Weeks turned into months, and the Magpul magazine well has become a permanent fixture on my Remington 700. It has accompanied me on several range days, including sessions focused on positional shooting and speed drills, where quick reloads are a necessity. It’s also seen use during some informal varmint hunting trips, where the ability to carry spare loaded magazines is a distinct advantage. Throughout this extended period, the Magpul Industries Bolt Action Magazine Well 700L Magnum – Hunter 700L Stock has demonstrated impressive reliability.

Durability has been excellent. Despite being constructed from reinforced polymer, it has withstood minor impacts and the general wear and tear of being in the field. There are no signs of cracking, excessive flexing, or degradation of the material, even after being exposed to dust, varying temperatures, and the occasional drop onto softer ground. The polymer construction has proven to be surprisingly resilient.

Maintenance is practically non-existent. A quick wipe down with a soft cloth is usually all that’s needed to keep it clean. Unlike some metal components that can rust or corrode, the polymer simply shrugs off environmental factors. Compared to the fixed internal magazines I’ve dealt with in the past, this detachable system is a revelation. The ease of cleaning and the ability to quickly swap magazines far surpasses the experience of dealing with traditional bottom metal, especially when longer rounds are involved.

Breaking Down the Features of the Magpul Industries Bolt Action Magazine Well 700L Magnum – Hunter 700L Stock

Specifications

The Magpul Industries Bolt Action Magazine Well 700L Magnum – Hunter 700L Stock is designed as a direct replacement for the OEM bottom metal on Magpul’s Hunter 700L Stock. Its primary function is to provide a robust platform for detachable AICS-pattern long action magazines. The unit is constructed from a durable, reinforced polymer, which contributes to its light weight and resistance to corrosion and impact. It is specifically engineered to accommodate AICS-pattern long action magazines, a standard widely adopted for bolt-action rifles.

Included with the magazine well is one Magpul PMAG 5 AC L, Magnum magazine, capable of holding five rounds of magnum-based cartridges. This capacity is ideal for hunting scenarios where a few extra rounds are beneficial, but bulk is undesirable. The generous internal dimensions of the magazine allow for longer overall cartridge lengths, accommodating handloads or factory ammunition with high ballistic coefficients. The polymer construction also makes it resistant to the elements, a crucial trait for outdoor gear.

The drop-in nature of this component means it requires minimal to no gunsmithing for installation. It secures to the Hunter 700L stock using user-supplied screws, typically from the original bottom metal. The black color offers a sleek, tactical appearance that blends well with most rifle builds. This model specifically targets the 700L Magnum variant, ensuring compatibility with the longer action receivers.

Performance & Functionality

The core performance of the Magpul Industries Bolt Action Magazine Well 700L Magnum – Hunter 700L Stock lies in its ability to reliably feed rounds from a detachable magazine into the Remington 700 action. In my testing, it has excelled in this regard. The transition from a fixed internal magazine to a detachable box magazine is seamless. Magazine insertion is positive and secure, and ejection is crisp and reliable with the integrated magazine release.

A significant strength is its compatibility with AICS-pattern long action magazines. This opens up a world of aftermarket magazine options, including higher capacity units and specialized magazines for specific cartridges. The inclusion of the Magpul PMAG 5 AC L, Magnum is a good starting point, offering proven Magpul reliability. I experienced zero feeding failures or malfunctions during my extensive range sessions.

The primary weakness, if one can call it that, is inherent to its design: it requires the Magpul Hunter 700L stock. It is not a universal solution for all Remington 700 stocks. Additionally, while the polymer is durable, some users might prefer the feel or perceived strength of all-metal bottom metal. However, for its intended purpose and price point, its performance is exceptional.

Design & Ergonomics

Magpul’s design philosophy is evident in the Magpul Industries Bolt Action Magazine Well 700L Magnum – Hunter 700L Stock. The reinforced polymer feels substantial, offering a good balance between rigidity and weight savings. The finish is consistent and matte black, which helps reduce glare. The overall shape is sculpted to integrate perfectly with the lines of the Hunter 700L stock, creating a cohesive and aesthetically pleasing unit.

Ergonomically, the magazine release is well-positioned and easy to operate with a thumb or index finger. It provides a positive tactile and audible click when a magazine is properly seated or released. There is no awkwardness or learning curve associated with its operation; it feels intuitive from the moment it’s installed. The smooth internal surfaces of the mag well further contribute to reliable magazine insertion and extraction, preventing snagging or binding.

The design prioritizes function and simplicity. There are no extraneous protrusions or complicated mechanisms. This straightforward approach not only enhances durability but also makes it easier to keep clean and maintain. The polymer construction also provides a slightly warmer feel to the touch compared to cold metal, which can be a minor comfort in colder shooting environments.

Durability & Maintenance

Based on my experience and Magpul’s reputation, the Magpul Industries Bolt Action Magazine Well 700L Magnum – Hunter 700L Stock is built for longevity. The reinforced polymer material is known for its impact resistance and ability to withstand environmental stresses without degradation. I anticipate this unit will last for many thousands of rounds and years of use with minimal fuss.

Maintenance is refreshingly simple. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth or a blast of compressed air is usually sufficient to clear any dust or debris. Unlike traditional steel bottom metal, there’s no need for regular oiling or concern about rust. The smooth internal surfaces resist the buildup of fouling, making cleaning straightforward.

Potential failure points are minimal. The primary moving part is the magazine release mechanism, which, being polymer, is robust but could theoretically wear over extreme usage. However, the overall design is robust, and I have seen no indication of premature wear. The polymer construction is more forgiving than metal in terms of shock absorption, potentially protecting the stock and internal action from minor impacts.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Magpul Industries Bolt Action Magazine Well 700L Magnum – Hunter 700L Stock itself is a component designed for integration, not extensive customization. The primary “accessory” is the included Magpul PMAG 5 AC L, Magnum magazine. This 5-round magazine is well-suited for hunting and general use, offering a good balance of capacity and profile.

The true “customization” comes from its compatibility with the wide array of AICS-pattern long action magazines. This means users can choose from various capacities, including 10-round or even higher-capacity magazines, depending on their intended use and local regulations. Popular manufacturers of AICS-pattern magazines include Accurate-Mag, MDT, and of course, Magpul’s own PMAG AC series. This broad compatibility is a significant advantage, allowing users to tailor their rifle’s feeding system to their specific needs.

While the magazine well itself is not designed to be modified, its integration with the Hunter 700L stock and compatibility with standard magazines makes it a highly adaptable component within a larger system.

Pros and Cons of the Magpul Industries Bolt Action Magazine Well 700L Magnum – Hunter 700L Stock

Who Should Buy the Magpul Industries Bolt Action Magazine Well 700L Magnum – Hunter 700L Stock?

This product is an absolute must-have for anyone who has invested in or is planning to equip their Remington 700 Long Action rifle with the Magpul Hunter 700L Stock. If your goal is to convert a fixed-magazine rifle into a modern, detachable-magazine platform, this is the most straightforward and cost-effective way to achieve it. It is ideal for shooters looking to enhance their rifle’s versatility for hunting, competition, or general range use.

Individuals who frequently reload or use ammunition with longer overall lengths will particularly benefit from the generous cartridge overall length (COL) accommodation provided by the associated magazines. Those who value the durability and lightweight characteristics of high-quality polymer firearms accessories will also find this component highly appealing. It’s designed for the practical shooter who wants functional upgrades without breaking the bank on custom gunsmithing.

Those who should probably skip this item are individuals who are not using the Magpul Hunter 700L stock, as it will not fit. Also, if you are looking for a metal-inletted floorplate for aesthetic or perceived durability reasons above all else, this polymer option might not meet that specific preference. For anyone else wanting to bring their Remington 700 into the modern era of modular firearms, this magazine well is a fantastic upgrade. Consider purchasing additional AICS-pattern long action magazines for increased operational efficiency.

Conclusion on the Magpul Industries Bolt Action Magazine Well 700L Magnum – Hunter 700L Stock

The Magpul Industries Bolt Action Magazine Well 700L Magnum – Hunter 700L Stock is, quite simply, an excellent accessory that delivers on its promise of a reliable, easy-to-install detachable magazine solution for the Remington 700 platform equipped with the Hunter 700L stock. It transforms a capable rifle into a more adaptable and user-friendly tool, especially for those dealing with magnum cartridges or frequent magazine changes. The reinforced polymer construction ensures durability and keeps weight down, while the flawless integration with AICS-pattern magazines offers unparalleled flexibility.

For the price of $74.45, the value proposition is outstanding. You’re not just buying a piece of plastic; you’re investing in enhanced functionality, ease of use, and the proven reliability that Magpul is known for. The minimal installation effort and the immediate improvement in rifle operation make it a highly rewarding upgrade.

I wholeheartedly recommend this magazine well to anyone who has a Magpul Hunter 700L stock on their Remington 700 long action. It’s a smart, practical addition that significantly enhances the rifle’s performance and modularity. If you’re looking to unlock the full potential of your setup without resorting to expensive custom work, this is undoubtedly the way to go. It’s one of those upgrades that, once installed, you’ll wonder how you ever managed without it.