One critical area of a precision rifle is the surface where the action and barrel contact the stock. Most barrels are free floating or bedded to ensure either no contact or consistent contact, respectively. The rifle's action on the other hand makes direct contact with the stock. To ensure consistent performance from the rifle, it is important to make sure that the action screws are properly torqued to the correct settings.
Torque Settings for Wooden Stocks
Wooden stocks are the most easily damaged. The maximum torque that should be used on wooden stocked Remington 700 rifles is 15-inch per pound. This is more than enough torque to hold securely the action in place but not so much that the wood is cracked or otherwise damaged.
Torque Settings for Synthetic Stocks
Synthetic stocks are well known for their strength and durability. Because the synthetic material is custom fitted to the action and due in part to its high strength, action screws can be torqued much tighter than on a wooden stock. Forty-five inch per pound is recommended by Remington as the maximum torque for action screws on Model 700 rifles with synthetic stocks.
Torque Settings for Composite Stocks
Precision target and bench-rest rifles are generally outfitted with heavy composite stocks. These are some of the strongest stocks found on modern sporting rifles. As such, the actions on Model 700 rifles equipped with a composite stock can be tightly secured with a maximum torque of 65-inch per pound.
