First Impressions of Magpul Industries Pro 700L Lite LA Stock Remington 700 Rifle
The Magpul Industries Pro 700L Lite LA Stock Remington 700 Rifle represents a significant evolution in rifle chassis design, promising to bring enhanced ergonomics and modularity to the venerable Remington 700 platform. Magpul, known for their innovative polymer and metal accessories, aims to bridge the gap between traditional stocks and full-blown chassis systems with this offering. This “Lite” version piqued my interest with its promise of reduced weight and a streamlined feature set, making it potentially ideal for those seeking a balance of performance and portability.
As an avid long-range shooter and experienced hunter, I’ve always sought ways to improve the accuracy and comfort of my rifles. The factory stock on my Remington 700 LA was functional, but lacked the adjustability needed for optimal cheek weld and length of pull, especially when shooting from various positions. I considered other chassis systems, but many felt too bulky or added unnecessary weight, something I wanted to avoid.
The unboxing experience was straightforward, with the Pro 700L Lite LA arriving well-protected. My first impression was positive: the materials felt robust and well-made, the polymer having a quality texture that inspired confidence. The weight, or lack thereof, was immediately noticeable – a welcome change from heavier chassis systems I’ve handled.
Compared to the MDT ACC Chassis and the original Magpul Pro 700L, the “Lite” version seemed like a better fit for my needs. The MDT ACC, while incredibly precise, felt overkill for my hunting applications, and the original Pro 700L was heavier than I desired. The Pro 700L Lite LA appeared to strike a balance between these two, offering key features without excessive bulk. I was excited to see if it lived up to my expectations.
Real-World Testing: Putting Magpul Industries Pro 700L Lite LA Stock Remington 700 Rifle to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place at my local shooting range, primarily focusing on zeroing my scope and evaluating the improved ergonomics. The weather was mild, but a slight crosswind provided a good opportunity to test stability. Installation was relatively straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a few minutes of my time.
The adjustability of the Pro 700L Lite LA immediately paid dividends. I was able to quickly dial in the perfect cheek weld and length of pull, significantly improving my shooting comfort and consistency. Recoil felt noticeably reduced compared to the factory stock, and the rifle felt more stable overall. There were no immediate issues, and the chassis felt like a natural extension of my rifle.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Magpul Industries Pro 700L Lite LA Stock Remington 700 Rifle has proven to be a reliable and worthwhile upgrade. I’ve used it in various conditions, including damp, chilly mornings during deer season and dusty afternoons at the range, all with consistent performance. The finish has held up well, with minimal signs of wear.
Cleaning and maintenance are simple, with the smooth polymer surfaces easily wiping clean. The aluminum chassis components appear to be corrosion-resistant, showing no signs of rust or pitting. This chassis significantly outperforms the factory stock. The improved ergonomics and stability have resulted in tighter groupings and greater confidence in my shots.
Breaking Down the Features of Magpul Industries Pro 700L Lite LA Stock Remington 700 Rifle
Specifications
- The Magpul Industries Pro 700L Lite LA Stock Remington 700 Rifle is designed for Remington 700 long action rifles. Its compatibility makes it an ideal choice for upgrading existing rifles.
- The chassis weighs approximately 4.5 lbs, a significant reduction compared to the original Pro 700L. This weight savings is crucial for hunters and shooters who prioritize mobility.
- It is constructed from fiberglass-reinforced polymer and a machined aluminum chassis. This combination provides strength and durability while minimizing weight.
- The stock is fully ambidextrous, with swappable QD sling swivel and bolt retainer plates. This feature caters to both left- and right-handed shooters.
- Length of pull is adjustable from 13.0″ to 14.4″ in 0.14″ increments. This adjustability ensures a comfortable fit for a wide range of shooters.
Performance & Functionality
The Magpul Industries Pro 700L Lite LA Stock Remington 700 Rifle greatly enhances the accuracy and stability of the Remington 700 platform. The rigid aluminum chassis provides a solid bedding surface for the action, minimizing flex and maximizing shot-to-shot consistency. The adjustable cheek riser allows for perfect eye alignment with optics, and the length of pull adjustment ensures a comfortable and stable shooting position.
The rifle functions flawlessly in this chassis. The enhanced ergonomics translate to improved control and faster follow-up shots. The integrated AICS-pattern magazine well feeds reliably, with no issues experienced during testing.
Design & Ergonomics
The Magpul Industries Pro 700L Lite LA Stock Remington 700 Rifle boasts a well-thought-out design, prioritizing both functionality and shooter comfort. The polymer surfaces provide a comfortable and secure grip, even in wet conditions. The overall weight is well-balanced, making the rifle easy to handle and maneuver.
The chassis is remarkably user-friendly. Installation is straightforward, and the adjustments are intuitive and easy to make. The inclusion of two different grip options allows shooters to customize the feel of the rifle to their personal preference.
Durability & Maintenance
The robust construction of the Magpul Industries Pro 700L Lite LA Stock Remington 700 Rifle suggests it will withstand years of use. The polymer surfaces are resistant to scratches and abrasions, and the aluminum chassis is protected by a durable hard anodized finish. The chassis is simple to clean and maintain.
Regular cleaning with a mild solvent and a soft cloth is all that’s needed to keep it in good condition. The design is relatively simple, with few small parts that could be easily damaged or lost.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Magpul Industries Pro 700L Lite LA Stock Remington 700 Rifle features numerous M-LOK slots for attaching accessories. This allows users to easily mount lights, lasers, bipods, and other essential gear. The integrated AICS magazine well is compatible with a wide range of magazines.
The user can customize the grip and add sling attachments using the provided options. Aftermarket triggers are also compatible due to the large trigger guard.
Pros and Cons of Magpul Industries Pro 700L Lite LA Stock Remington 700 Rifle
Pros
- Significantly improved ergonomics compared to factory stocks. Adjustability allows for a custom fit, enhancing comfort and accuracy.
- Reduced weight compared to full-size chassis systems. Makes it ideal for hunting and other applications where mobility is important.
- Solid aluminum chassis provides a stable bedding surface for the action. Enhances accuracy and shot-to-shot consistency.
- Ambidextrous design caters to both left- and right-handed shooters. Adds versatility and convenience.
- M-LOK slots allow for easy attachment of accessories. Provides extensive customization options.
Cons
- Some shooters may prefer a more traditional stock design. The modular look isn’t for everyone.
- The price point may be a barrier for budget-conscious buyers. Though, the performance justifies the cost.
Who Should Buy Magpul Industries Pro 700L Lite LA Stock Remington 700 Rifle?
The Magpul Industries Pro 700L Lite LA Stock Remington 700 Rifle is perfect for hunters seeking to improve the accuracy and ergonomics of their Remington 700 long action rifles without adding excessive weight. It’s also well-suited for competitive shooters looking for a customizable and stable platform. Anyone wanting a more modern shooting experience will also appreciate this stock.
This product might not be ideal for shooters who prefer a traditional wooden stock or those on a very tight budget. It might also be overkill for casual shooters who only use their rifles occasionally.
A must-have accessory is a high-quality bipod to take full advantage of the increased stability. Also, consider a quality optic to maximize accuracy potential.
Conclusion on Magpul Industries Pro 700L Lite LA Stock Remington 700 Rifle
The Magpul Industries Pro 700L Lite LA Stock Remington 700 Rifle is a well-designed and executed chassis system that offers a significant upgrade over factory stocks. It provides a balance of performance, adjustability, and weight savings. The price is justified considering the enhanced accuracy, ergonomics, and customization options.
I would absolutely recommend this chassis to anyone looking to improve the performance of their Remington 700 long action rifle. It’s a worthwhile investment that will pay dividends in terms of accuracy, comfort, and overall shooting experience. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the difference for yourself!