ASK THE GUN EDITOR
Stainless Steel Barrels In Remington 700s
Q I recently bought a Remington Model 700 in 7mm Rem. Mag. from a deceased estate. It appears to have an original stainless-steel barrel, but I can't find any reference to this model having a stainless-steel barrel in any of its variations. What can you tell me about this model?
– Lester Adams
A In the early 1960s, Remington introduced stainless-steel barrels with the idea of reducing erosion in hot chamberings like the .264 Win. Mag. and the .17 Rem. and 7mm Rem.Mag. The company later discovered there was no significant increase in barrel life and, stainless-steel barrels were discontinued about 1979. Les Bowman had one of the first Model 700s in 7mm Rem. Mag. and he claimed he'd fired 5,000 rounds through the barrel and it still had good hunting accuracy. See if you can beat that!
Ruger M77 Conversion
Q I have a Ruger M77 MK II .308 and the barrel has become rusted. Would it be possible to convert this rifle to 6.5 Rem. Mag? If this conversion is possible, what changes would need to be made other than having a new barrel fitted? If it is not possible, can you suggest an alternative calibre - not the 6.5 Creedmoor? I don't know of anyone chambering a rifle in this calibre, although I believe Remington used to make the Model 600 and
