The Talley PLM700ACI 1913 Picatinny Rail Rem 700 (6-48) Long Action Black Aluminum Made a Bold First Impression
The Talley PLM700ACI 1913 Picatinny Rail Rem 700 (6-48) Long Action Black Aluminum is more than just a mounting platform; it’s the foundation upon which precision and versatility are built for your Remington 700 long action rifle. Machined from high-grade 7000 series alloy and finished with a robust hard-coat anodizing, this Picatinny rail promises durability and a secure interface for optics. The Talley name carries weight in the firearms world, and this product aims to uphold that reputation with its promise of tight tolerances and reliable performance.
As someone who’s spent over a decade tinkering with and optimizing tactical rifles, I’ve always been searching for the perfect balance of strength, weight, and precision in my mounting solutions. My aging Remington 700 long action needed a reliable Picatinny rail to modernize its optic mounting capabilities, opening up the possibilities for a broader range of optics and accessories. The factory mounting options felt limiting, and I yearned for the flexibility a Picatinny rail could provide.
The Talley PLM700ACI arrived in a simple, no-nonsense package, immediately conveying a sense of purpose. Lifting it from the box, I was struck by its lightweight yet solid feel, a testament to the quality of the 7000 series aluminum. The black anodized finish looked flawless and promised excellent resistance to the elements, critical for a rifle that sees its fair share of backcountry adventures.
Compared to a steel rail I had previously considered (but ultimately rejected due to weight) and a cheaper, cast aluminum option that felt flimsy, the Talley rail impressed with its perceived strength and precise machining. I specifically chose this Talley model over others due to its reputation for maintaining tight tolerances, ensuring a rock-solid optic mount that wouldn’t shift zero even under heavy recoil. I was excited to see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Talley PLM700ACI 1913 Picatinny Rail Rem 700 (6-48) Long Action Black Aluminum to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing ground for the Talley PLM700ACI was the local shooting range, where I subjected it to a battery of tests using a variety of optics. Installation was straightforward; the provided screws (6-48 thread) fit perfectly into the Remington 700’s receiver, and the rail sat flush with the action. I initially mounted a high-powered variable optic for long-range target practice.
The weather was less than ideal – a persistent drizzle and a biting wind – but the Talley rail remained unaffected. Even after repeated firing with a magnum cartridge, there was no sign of movement or loosening of the screws. The precisely machined Picatinny slots provided a secure and repeatable mounting point for the optic, ensuring consistent accuracy.
There was a minor adjustment period related to torquing the screws to the proper specification. This required a proper torque wrench to ensure the rail was securely mounted without over-tightening and potentially damaging the receiver.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including a challenging elk hunting trip in the mountains, the Talley PLM700ACI has proven its mettle. It has endured significant temperature fluctuations, bumps and scrapes from rough terrain, and exposure to rain and snow. There are no signs of wear and tear beyond minor cosmetic scratches on the anodized finish.
Cleaning and maintenance are simple: a quick wipe-down with a lightly oiled cloth keeps the rail free from corrosion and ensures smooth operation. The Talley rail has consistently outperformed my expectations, maintaining zero even after being subjected to rough handling and extreme conditions. It has exceeded the performance of cheaper rails I’ve used in the past, which often exhibited loosening or shifting under similar conditions.
Breaking Down the Features of Talley PLM700ACI 1913 Picatinny Rail Rem 700 (6-48) Long Action Black Aluminum
Specifications
- Product Name: Talley PLM700ACI 1913 Picatinny Rail Rem 700 (6-48) Long Action Black Aluminum. This is the specific model designed for Remington 700 long action rifles.
- Material: 7000 Series Alloy. The high-grade aluminum alloy provides an optimal balance of strength and weight.
- Finish: Hard-coat Anodizing (65 Rockwell). The hard-coat anodizing provides exceptional resistance to scratches, corrosion, and wear.
- Compatibility: Remington 700 Long Action Rifles. This rail is specifically designed to fit Remington 700 long action receivers with 6-48 screw threading.
- Mounting Interface: MIL-STD-1913 Picatinny Rail. The standard Picatinny rail allows for the mounting of a wide variety of optics and accessories.
- Screw Thread: 6-48. The 6-48 screw thread size ensures a secure and reliable attachment to the receiver.
- Made in America: The fact that this rail is Made in America gives confidence in its quality and manufacturing standards.
These specifications are crucial because they dictate the rail’s strength, durability, and compatibility. The 7000 series aluminum and hard-coat anodizing ensure the rail can withstand the rigors of field use, while the precise dimensions guarantee a secure and reliable optic mount.
Performance & Functionality
The Talley PLM700ACI performs its primary function – providing a stable and repeatable mounting platform for optics – exceptionally well. Its rigidity and precise machining ensure that optics remain securely mounted, even under heavy recoil. The rail’s low profile design doesn’t interfere with the rifle’s handling or balance.
The rail’s greatest strength lies in its unwavering reliability. Its only real weakness is that it is only compatible with Remington 700 long action rifles with 6-48 screws. It meets and exceeds expectations, offering a level of performance and durability that justifies its price point.
Design & Ergonomics
The Talley PLM700ACI boasts a simple yet effective design. The lightweight aluminum construction doesn’t add unnecessary weight to the rifle, while the hard-coat anodized finish provides a sleek and durable surface. The rail’s low profile design minimizes interference with the rifle’s handling.
The Talley rail is extremely user-friendly. Installation is straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a torque wrench. No significant learning curve exists.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Talley PLM700ACI is built to last. The high-quality materials and robust construction ensure that it can withstand years of use in demanding conditions. The hard-coat anodized finish provides excellent protection against corrosion and wear.
Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning with a lightly oiled cloth. The rail’s simple design and durable construction minimize the need for repairs.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Talley PLM700ACI itself doesn’t come with any accessories beyond the mounting screws. However, its Picatinny rail interface allows for the use of a vast array of optics, including scopes, red dot sights, and holographic sights. It’s compatible with virtually any optic mount designed for Picatinny rails.
Pros and Cons of Talley PLM700ACI 1913 Picatinny Rail Rem 700 (6-48) Long Action Black Aluminum
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: The 7000 series aluminum and hard-coat anodized finish provide excellent resistance to wear and corrosion.
- Precise Machining: Tight tolerances ensure a secure and repeatable optic mount.
- Lightweight Design: Minimizes added weight to the rifle.
- Easy Installation: Straightforward installation with basic tools.
- Wide Compatibility: Compatible with a vast array of Picatinny-compatible optics and accessories.
Cons
- Limited Compatibility: Only compatible with Remington 700 long action rifles using 6-48 screws.
- Price: Slightly more expensive than some other Picatinny rail options.
Who Should Buy Talley PLM700ACI 1913 Picatinny Rail Rem 700 (6-48) Long Action Black Aluminum?
The Talley PLM700ACI is perfect for hunters, competitive shooters, and anyone who demands a reliable and durable optic mounting solution for their Remington 700 long action rifle. It’s ideal for those who want to modernize their rifle with a Picatinny rail, allowing for the use of a wider range of optics and accessories.
Those who should skip this product are individuals with short action Remington 700s or those unwilling to spend slightly more for a high-quality rail. They should also skip this if their receiver has a different screw thread size.
A must-have accessory for this rail is a high-quality torque wrench to ensure proper installation.
Conclusion on Talley PLM700ACI 1913 Picatinny Rail Rem 700 (6-48) Long Action Black Aluminum
The Talley PLM700ACI 1913 Picatinny Rail Rem 700 (6-48) Long Action Black Aluminum is a worthwhile investment for anyone seeking a reliable, durable, and precise optic mounting solution for their Remington 700 long action rifle. Its high-quality construction, precise machining, and easy installation make it a standout product in a crowded market. The Talley rail delivers exceptional value, providing a level of performance and durability that justifies its price.
I would wholeheartedly recommend it to anyone looking to upgrade their Remington 700 with a modern Picatinny rail. Don’t settle for subpar mounting solutions – invest in the Talley PLM700ACI and experience the difference that quality makes. Upgrade your rifle today and unlock its full potential!