Magpul Industries Hunter 700 Rifle Stock, for Rem. 700 Short Action Review

Let’s Review the Magpul Industries Hunter 700 Rifle Stock, for Rem. 700 Short Action

For years, the Remington 700 platform has been a bedrock for precision shooting, but its factory stocks, especially on older or budget models, often leave room for significant improvement. My own journey led me to the Magpul Industries Hunter 700 Rifle Stock, for Rem. 700 Short Action after wrestling with the limitations of a standard Hogue stock on a Remington 700 SPS Tactical in .308. The factory offering, while functional, lacked adjustability and a truly rigid feel, especially when pushing the rifle’s capabilities for longer shots or diverse shooting positions. I considered a few custom bedding jobs and aftermarket synthetic stocks, but the promise of a true drop-in solution with Magpul’s reputation for robust polymer construction and ergonomic design was too compelling to ignore, especially at its price point of $230.75. Upon arrival, the initial impression was one of solid, no-nonsense engineering – it felt substantial and well-made, immediately surpassing the flexy, hollow feel of the stock it replaced. This upgrade promised to bring a modern, adaptable platform to an already proven action, and I was eager to see if it lived up to the hype.

Real-World Testing: Putting Magpul Industries Hunter 700 Rifle Stock, for Rem. 700 Short Action to the Test

First Use Experience

My initial testing grounds were the familiar concrete benches and varied terrain of my local long-range shooting club, alongside some impromptu field sessions during deer season. The rifle was mounted with a Leupold VX-3HD scope in standard rings, and the stock was tested with factory Remington and some hand-loaded .308 rounds. The first few shots revealed an immediate difference in handling; the improved grip angle and solid forend provided a much more stable platform for positional shooting, and the adjustable comb allowed for a perfect cheek weld, which is critical for consistent eye relief. I did encounter a minor quirk during initial setup: the forend, designed to free-float even medium-profile barrels, initially seemed a little tight against a particular medium Palma contour barrel I use, requiring a slight adjustment to the barrel’s position to ensure absolutely no contact. This was easily rectified by loosening the action screws slightly and then re-torquing them to spec, a standard procedure for any stock bedding, even a non-bedded one.

Extended Use & Reliability

Over several months of consistent range visits and a few hunting trips, this Magpul stock has proven its mettle. It’s become my go-to for any precision shooting activities with my Remington 700 short action. The reinforced polymer shell has shrugged off incidental bumps against trees and rocks without showing any significant scuffs or cracks, a testament to its durability. Cleaning is straightforward; a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth and mild soap is usually all that’s needed to keep it looking new. Compared to other factory and even some higher-end aftermarket stocks I’ve used on similar platforms, this Magpul offering strikes an excellent balance between rigidity, adjustability, and cost. It feels far more integrated and stable than the often-spongy feel of traditional injection-molded stocks, yet lacks the immense weight or cost of a full chassis system. The ability to quickly adjust LOP and comb height makes it versatile for different shooters and shooting positions, a significant advantage over fixed-length stocks.

Breaking Down the Features of Magpul Industries Hunter 700 Rifle Stock, for Rem. 700 Short Action

Specifications

The Magpul Industries Hunter 700 Rifle Stock, for Rem. 700 Short Action is constructed with a reinforced polymer shell that houses a Type III hard anodized aluminum bedding block. This combination provides a rigid and stable platform for the Remington 700 short action without requiring custom bedding, making it a true “drop-in” solution. The stock is designed to accommodate standard Remington 700 pattern short actions and is compatible with most factory and aftermarket triggers. Its length of pull (LOP) is adjustable from 13.0″ to 15.0″ using included 0.50″ spacers, allowing for a precise fit for various shooter statures.

The forend features a tapered beam design that contributes to its rigidity and is engineered to free-float all factory Remington barrels, including aftermarket profiles up to a Medium Palma (0.920″ dia.) for 5.50″ forward of the breech. This feature is crucial for consistent accuracy, as it prevents barrel contact that can induce stringing or pressure points affecting bullet flight. The stock includes a rubber recoil butt-pad as standard, offering a degree of recoil mitigation, and is compatible with an optional OEM Butt-Pad Adapter for aftermarket pad use. A standard 0.25″ Riser is included with the optional High Cheek Riser Kit, allowing for adjustment of cheek weld height.

For accessory mounting, the stock features M-LOK slots on the forend sides and bottom. These slots are incredibly versatile, allowing for the attachment of bipods, lights, sling mounts, and other tactical or practical accessories without the need for bulky rail sections. It also includes three dimpled drill points for installing standard swivel studs (#10-32 x 3/8″ long dome stud), a common requirement for many hunting slings. At the rear, push-button QD swivel compatibility is available through optional Sling Mount Kits, and there are left and right rear 1-1/4″ Footman’s Loops for traditional sling attachment points.

Compatibility with detachable magazines is a significant upgrade this stock facilitates. While it accepts factory hinged floorplates on compatible Remington actions, ADL models (which are top-loading) will require either current factory bottom metal or the optional Magpul Bolt Action Magazine Well. This affordable Bolt Action Magazine Well (sold separately) is key, enabling the use of AICS-spec magazines without custom inletting, transforming the rifle into a more modern and flexible platform. The grip angle is ergonomically designed with a 60-degree grip angle from the bore axis, intended to improve shooting posture and comfort.

Performance & Functionality

The primary function of a rifle stock is to provide a stable interface between the shooter and the firearm, and the Magpul Industries Hunter 700 Rifle Stock, for Rem. 700 Short Action excels here. The reinforced polymer and integrated aluminum bedding block create a rock-solid foundation for the Remington 700 action. This rigidity translates directly into improved shot consistency, particularly noticeable when transitioning between different shooting positions or when dealing with recoil. The free-floating forend is a major performance enhancer; it ensures that barrel harmonics are not disturbed by external contact, allowing the barrel to vibrate and cool uniformly for better accuracy.

One of the standout functional aspects is the adjustable length of pull and comb height. Being able to dial in the LOP precisely is crucial for maintaining consistent shoulder contact and trigger control, especially for shooters who might share a rifle or wear different amounts of clothing. The adjustable comb ensures proper eye alignment with optics, preventing canting and promoting a natural, repeatable shooting position. The 60-degree grip angle feels natural in hand, promoting a relaxed wrist and efficient trigger finger placement.

The integration with the Magpul Bolt Action Magazine Well is a game-changer for functionality. Converting a Remington 700 from a fixed internal magazine to a detachable box magazine system dramatically improves the shooting experience, especially for hunting or tactical applications where rapid reloads or caliber changes are beneficial. Without the need for gunsmithing to inlet the stock, this feature adds immense value. The M-LOK slots are another functional win, offering unmatched versatility for adding accessories. Attaching a bipod, light, or sling mount is a tool-less, secure process, making the rifle adaptable to a wider range of scenarios.

Design & Ergonomics

Magpul’s design philosophy is evident throughout this stock: functional, durable, and user-centric. The reinforced polymer construction feels robust and durable, offering a good tactile experience that’s comfortable to the touch, even in cold weather. The textured grip surfaces on the stock and forend provide ample purchase without being overly aggressive. The anodized aluminum bedding block is precisely machined, ensuring a snug fit for the Remington 700 action and contributing to the overall stiffness of the platform.

Ergonomically, the stock is a significant upgrade over most factory offerings. The 60-degree grip angle promotes a more natural wrist position compared to the steeper angles found on many traditional hunting stocks, reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions. The adjustable LOP and comb height are operated via simple, secure mechanisms. The spacer system for LOP adjustment is intuitive, and the comb riser adjustment, while perhaps requiring a bit more care to ensure it’s locked down, offers a substantial range of vertical adjustment.

The overall silhouette of the stock is modern and utilitarian, eschewing the excessive curves or ornamentation of some designs for a clean, purposeful look. The M-LOK slots are well-integrated into the forend’s design, maintaining clean lines when not in use for accessories. The inclusion of both traditional sling swivel points (via optional studs) and QD cup compatibility provides flexibility for various sling setups. Even the rubber butt-pad feels substantial and well-fitted, contributing to the overall premium feel.

Durability & Maintenance

The Magpul Industries Hunter 700 Rifle Stock, for Rem. 700 Short Action is built for the long haul. The reinforced polymer is exceptionally resistant to impacts, abrasions, and environmental factors like moisture and UV exposure, which can degrade lesser plastics over time. The Type III hard anodized aluminum bedding block is also highly durable, resisting scratches and wear from repeated action insertion and removal. I have yet to see any signs of cracking, significant deformation, or material fatigue after months of use in various conditions.

Maintenance is blessedly simple. The polymer surfaces wipe clean easily with a damp cloth and mild soap or a specialized gun cleaner. The aluminum bedding block can be cleaned with a brush and solvent if needed. Unlike wood stocks that require varnishing or synthetic stocks that can attract dirt and grime, this Magpul stock remains functional and presentable with minimal effort. There are no complex mechanisms or hidden crevices that are difficult to access for cleaning.

The potential failure points are minimal. The adjustment knobs for the comb and LOP spacers are robust and unlikely to fail under normal use. The M-LOK slots are structurally sound, designed to hold accessories securely without stripping. The only area that might require periodic inspection, as with any stock, is the interface between the action and the bedding block, ensuring screws remain torqued to spec, but this is standard practice for any rifle.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Magpul Industries Hunter 700 Rifle Stock, for Rem. 700 Short Action comes with a basic set of components, but its true strength lies in its accessory and customization potential. Standard inclusions are the rubber recoil butt-pad and typically a 0.25″ cheek riser as part of the adjustable cheek comb system. However, Magpul offers several key optional accessories that significantly enhance its functionality.

The most impactful accessory is the Magpul Bolt Action Magazine Well. This part is crucial for converting Remington 700 short actions to use AICS-spec detachable box magazines, vastly increasing the rifle’s utility. Without it, ADL models (top-loading) cannot accept detachable magazines. Another valuable addition is the High Cheek Riser Kit, which includes additional risers (beyond the standard 0.25″) to achieve a perfect cheek weld with various optics and ring heights.

For sling attachment, Magpul offers Sling Mount Kits that integrate with the stock’s push-button QD sockets. These allow for quick attachment and detachment of QD-compatible slings. Standard swivel studs can be installed into the pre-drilled holes on the forend for traditional sling use. The stock also accepts aftermarket butt-pads via an optional OEM Butt-Pad Adapter, providing further customization for recoil reduction preferences. Finally, the M-LOK system is designed for broad compatibility, allowing users to attach a vast array of third-party accessories like bipods (e.g., Atlas, Magpul’s own M-LOK bipod), lights, and barricade stops.

Pros and Cons of Magpul Industries Hunter 700 Rifle Stock, for Rem. 700 Short Action

Who Should Buy Magpul Industries Hunter 700 Rifle Stock, for Rem. 700 Short Action?

This stock is an ideal upgrade for any owner of a Remington 700 short action rifle who seeks improved ergonomics, enhanced stability, and greater adaptability. It’s perfect for precision shooters, hunters, and tactical enthusiasts looking to get more out of their existing platform without breaking the bank on a full custom build or expensive chassis. If you’re frustrated with the flex, lack of adjustability, or fixed magazine limitations of your factory stock, this Magpul offering is a superb choice.

Those who would probably skip this product are individuals looking for extremely lightweight hunting stocks designed for extreme backcountry travel where every ounce counts, as this stock adds some weight over a minimalist factory option. Also, someone with a bull barrel or custom barrel profile significantly larger than a Medium Palma might need to investigate compatibility or be prepared for potential minor modifications.

For users looking to maximize this stock’s potential, I’d strongly recommend investing in the Magpul Bolt Action Magazine Well to enable detachable magazine use, along with a quality bipod that attaches via M-LOK. A QD sling swivel kit is also a smart addition for modern sling setups.

Conclusion on Magpul Industries Hunter 700 Rifle Stock, for Rem. 700 Short Action

The Magpul Industries Hunter 700 Rifle Stock, for Rem. 700 Short Action represents a significant leap forward in aftermarket support for the venerable Remington 700 platform. It masterfully blends robust construction, thoughtful ergonomics, and impressive adaptability into a package that offers exceptional value. The rigid polymer and aluminum construction immediately elevates the shooting experience, providing a stable shooting platform that translates directly to improved accuracy. Its fully adjustable length of pull and comb height ensure a personalized fit, crucial for consistent performance.

Considering its price point of $230.75, the value proposition is outstanding. It delivers features and a level of adjustability typically found in much more expensive stocks or chassis systems. The ability to easily integrate with detachable magazines via the optional Bolt Action Magazine Well and leverage the versatility of the M-LOK system makes it a highly adaptable solution for a wide range of shooting disciplines. While a few key accessories are sold separately, their inclusion drastically enhances the stock’s capabilities, making them worthwhile investments.

I would wholeheartedly recommend the Magpul Industries Hunter 700 Rifle Stock, for Rem. 700 Short Action to any Remington 700 short action owner looking to enhance their rifle’s performance, comfort, and modularity. It’s a practical, durable, and effective upgrade that transforms a good rifle into a truly great one, offering a modern shooting experience without demanding a custom gunsmith’s bill.