Reviewing the H-S Precision Remington 700 BDL Detachable Magazine Assembly, Long Action, High, 7-10 Rounds: Beyond Marketing
For a long time, I’ve appreciated the venerable Remington 700 action. Its robustness and adaptability are legendary, making it a cornerstone for countless custom builds and factory rifles. However, the traditional BDL configuration, while functional, always felt a bit dated in its floorplate design. The need to strip rounds from the open action or deal with the hinged floorplate when clearing a rifle in the field became a persistent, albeit minor, annoyance. This is precisely where the H-S Precision Remington 700 BDL Detachable Magazine Assembly, Long Action, High, 7-10 Rounds enters the picture, promising a modern solution to an age-old design. My search for a cleaner, more convenient way to manage ammunition and quickly clear my long-action Remington 700 led me directly to this conversion kit.
First impressions of this conversion kit from H-S Precision were centered on its solid construction. The stainless steel, finished with a durable Cerakote, felt substantial and well-machined right out of the box. It’s clear this isn’t some flimsy afterthought; it’s a thoughtfully engineered upgrade. I briefly considered a few other aftermarket floorplate systems, but the promise of a factory-like fit and the reputable name of H-S Precision tilted the scales. The initial thought was one of quiet satisfaction, a feeling that a long-standing minor inconvenience was about to be efficiently resolved.
Real-World Testing: Putting H-S Precision Remington 700 BDL Detachable Magazine Assembly, Long Action, High, 7-10 Rounds to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing grounds were the familiar confines of my workshop and then a day out on the range. The conversion was straightforward, requiring basic tools and a steady hand, with the included instructions proving clear and concise. The kit easily dropped into my long-action Remington 700 BDL.
During the range session, I cycled rounds through the detachable magazine repeatedly. The 7-10 round capacity was immediately apparent as a significant improvement over the internal magazine. The magazine dropped freely when the latch was actuated, even with gloves on, and reinserted with a reassuring click. I exposed the rifle to a light dusting of soil and even a bit of residual workshop grease to simulate less-than-ideal conditions.
While the installation was intuitive, getting the magazine to seat perfectly the very first time took a couple of tries. This minor quirk was quickly overcome once I understood the slight pressure required for a positive lock. There were no significant surprises, but the overall experience was one of immediate functional improvement.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months and numerous range trips, the H-S Precision detachable magazine assembly has become an indispensable part of my Remington 700 setup. It has seen consistent use, from casual plinking sessions to more deliberate load development. The stainless steel construction, coated in black Cerakote, shows minimal wear beyond a few minor scuffs from handling, testament to its robust build.
Durability has been excellent; there are no signs of cracks, binding, or performance degradation. The magazine release mechanism remains crisp and reliable, ejecting the magazine consistently every time. Cleaning is as simple as removing the magazine and wiping down the floorplate assembly and the magazine itself. Compared to some of the more finicky aftermarket solutions I’ve encountered over the years, this H-S Precision unit stands out for its plug-and-play reliability.
Breaking Down the Features of H-S Precision Remington 700 BDL Detachable Magazine Assembly, Long Action, High, 7-10 Rounds
Specifications
The H-S Precision Remington 700 BDL Detachable Magazine Assembly, Long Action, High, 7-10 Rounds is engineered to transform your rifle’s feeding system. The core components include a Pro-Series Floor metal and a magazine box. This particular configuration offers a 10 round magazine capacity, a significant upgrade for practical shooting and hunting scenarios.
The entire assembly is crafted from stainless steel, providing excellent corrosion resistance, a crucial factor for any rifle that might see varied environmental conditions. It’s finished with a tough black Cerakote, which not only looks sleek but adds another layer of protection. The external dimensions of the replacement floor metal are designed to match the factory hinged floor plate, ensuring a direct drop-in replacement with minimal or no need for stock inletting. This specification is vital for a hassle-free upgrade.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of this kit is to convert a fixed-magazine Remington 700 BDL into a rifle that accepts detachable magazines, and it excels at this task. The 7-10 round capacity allows for more shots before reloading, which is beneficial for hunting where quick follow-up shots might be necessary, or simply for extended range sessions without constant interruption. The positive lock spring tension levers on the bottom of the floor metal, coupled with the polymer-coated boot on the magazine, ensure a snug fit. This eliminates any dreaded magazine rattle, whether the box is empty or full, providing a solid, integrated feel.
The standout feature in terms of functionality is the skeletonized latch located on the front of the trigger guard. Working in conjunction with a robust spring, it guarantees a positive ejection of the magazine box every single time. This mechanism is designed to be operated easily, even when wearing gloves, a critical consideration for anyone operating in colder climates or during tactical applications. The feed from the magazine into the action is smooth and consistent, without any hangups or feeding failures that I experienced during my testing.
Design & Ergonomics
The design of the H-S Precision Remington 700 BDL Detachable Magazine Assembly, Long Action, High, 7-10 Rounds is focused on practicality and integration. The stainless steel build speaks to its inherent durability and resistance to the elements. The black Cerakote finish is not only aesthetically pleasing, matching most rifle finishes, but also provides a non-reflective surface and added protection against scratches and corrosion.
Ergonomically, the conversion is seamless. The external profile of the new floor metal mirrors the factory original, meaning it feels like a natural extension of the rifle rather than an awkward add-on. The magazine release latch is intuitively placed and provides positive tactile feedback. The two positive lock spring tension levers on the bottom of the floor metal are designed to be unobtrusive, yet they contribute to a very secure magazine fit, preventing any unwanted movement or play. The magazine itself is also designed for comfortable handling and insertion.
Durability & Maintenance
Given its construction from stainless steel and the application of a high-quality Cerakote finish, this detachable magazine assembly is built for longevity. Under normal use, I anticipate this unit to last the lifetime of the rifle it’s installed on. The materials chosen are inherently resistant to rust and wear, and the Cerakote further enhances this by providing a hard, protective outer layer.
Maintenance is minimal and straightforward. The magazine can be easily removed for cleaning, and the floorplate assembly can be wiped down with a cloth. There are no complex springs or intricate parts in the floorplate that require specialized tools or knowledge for routine upkeep. The primary maintenance concern would be ensuring the magazine well remains free of excessive debris, which is good practice for any firearm.
Accessories and Customization Options
The H-S Precision Remington 700 BDL Detachable Magazine Assembly, Long Action, High, 7-10 Rounds kit typically comes with the main floorplate assembly and one 10 round magazine box. Additional magazine boxes are readily available from H-S Precision in various capacities, allowing users to tailor their rifle’s ammunition management to their specific needs. This modularity is a significant advantage.
While the kit itself doesn’t include other accessories, its function enhances the rifle’s overall usability. For those who frequently swap magazines, having multiple 10 round magazines ensures you’re always ready. The high capacity aspect of these magazines means fewer reloads are needed, increasing your effective engagement time in the field or on the range.
Pros and Cons of H-S Precision Remington 700 BDL Detachable Magazine Assembly, Long Action, High, 7-10 Rounds
Pros
- Seamless Conversion: Transforms a fixed-magazine Remington 700 BDL into a modern detachable magazine system with minimal fuss.
- Robust Construction: Made from stainless steel with a durable black Cerakote finish for excellent corrosion resistance and longevity.
- Secure Magazine Fit: Features positive lock spring tension levers and a polymer-coated boot to eliminate rattle and ensure a tight, wobble-free magazine.
- Positive Magazine Ejection: The skeletonized latch and robust spring provide reliable and easy magazine release, even with gloves.
- Direct Fit Design: External dimensions match the factory floor plate, requiring minimal to no stock inletting for a clean installation.
- Enhanced Functionality: The 10 round magazine capacity significantly increases firepower between reloads.
Cons
- Price Point: At $399.00, this is a significant investment for a conversion kit.
- Long Action Specific: This kit is designed specifically for long action Remington 700 BDL models, requiring careful selection for other action lengths.
- Single Magazine Included: While additional magazine boxes are available, the base kit usually includes only one.
Who Should Buy H-S Precision Remington 700 BDL Detachable Magazine Assembly, Long Action, High, 7-10 Rounds?
This conversion kit is ideally suited for owners of Remington 700 BDL Long Action rifles who are looking to modernize their firearm’s feeding system. If you frequently hunt larger game where multiple shots might be necessary or enjoy extended shooting sessions at the range without frequent stoppages, this upgrade is a game-changer. It’s also a fantastic option for those who value reliability and a secure fit, as the H-S Precision name is synonymous with quality.
Those who are looking for a budget-friendly modification or own a Remington 700 in a short action or action type other than the BDL configuration should look elsewhere. This is a premium upgrade, and its specificity means it’s not a universal solution. For those who opt for this kit, I’d highly recommend purchasing at least one or two additional magazine boxes to maximize the benefits of the detachable system.
Conclusion on H-S Precision Remington 700 BDL Detachable Magazine Assembly, Long Action, High, 7-10 Rounds
The H-S Precision Remington 700 BDL Detachable Magazine Assembly, Long Action, High, 7-10 Rounds is a top-tier upgrade that delivers on its promises of enhanced functionality and robust reliability. It transforms the venerable Remington 700 BDL into a more modern, adaptable platform without compromising the action’s inherent quality. The stainless steel construction and black Cerakote finish ensure it will withstand the rigors of real-world use, while the well-engineered latch and tensioning levers provide a secure and rattle-free experience.
While the price point is certainly an investment, the value proposition lies in the flawless integration, superior build quality, and the significant improvement in practical usability it offers. For owners of the specified Remington 700 BDL long action who are seeking a premium, reliable solution for detachable magazines, I wholeheartedly recommend this H-S Precision conversion. It’s a smart upgrade that makes a great rifle even better.