First Thoughts on the Talley Picatinny Rail For Remington 700 Long Action with 8-40 Screws
The Talley Picatinny Rail For Remington 700 Long Action with 8-40 Screws promises a solid, reliable platform for mounting optics on one of the most popular bolt-action rifles ever made. With countless rifles chambered in various calibers, the Remington 700 is a staple in hunting camps and on the competitive shooting circuit. I’ve always valued a secure and repeatable optic mounting system, and the Talley name carries a reputation for quality that intrigued me.
I needed to replace the existing, somewhat flimsy, scope mount on my trusted Remington 700 long action hunting rifle. The old mount consistently shifted zero after a few range trips, which is unacceptable when pursuing ethical, long-range hunting. Upon receiving the Talley Picatinny Rail, my initial impressions were positive; the clean, black matte finish looked durable, and the overall design appeared robust.
Compared to other rails I’ve used, like those from Warne and Leupold, the Talley rail stood out due to its simplistic design and seemingly rock-solid construction. I chose this particular rail because I’d heard great things about Talley’s commitment to precision and their use of high-quality materials. Honestly, I was excited to get this rail installed and see if it lived up to its reputation for unwavering reliability.
Real-World Testing: Putting Talley Picatinny Rail For Remington 700 Long Action with 8-40 Screws to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Talley Picatinny Rail at my local shooting range and during a week-long elk hunt in the Colorado backcountry. The shooting range provided a controlled environment to assess the rail’s ability to hold zero with different ammunition and various scope adjustments. The elk hunt, on the other hand, presented real-world challenges, including temperature fluctuations, rough handling, and the potential for exposure to the elements.
The rail performed admirably in both environments. Installation was straightforward, and once the scope was mounted, it felt incredibly secure. Initially, I needed a few rounds to confirm zero at the range, but after that, the zero remained consistent throughout my testing.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including numerous range sessions and a successful hunting season, the Talley Picatinny Rail For Remington 700 Long Action with 8-40 Screws has proven its worth. There are no signs of wear and tear, and the black matte finish has held up well against scratches and abrasions. Cleaning is simple; I usually wipe it down with a lightly oiled cloth after each use.
Compared to my previous experiences with lower-quality scope mounts, the Talley rail is a revelation. It inspires confidence knowing that my scope is securely mounted and that I can rely on it to hold zero in any situation. It dramatically outperforms the old scope mount and has eliminated the headache of constantly re-zeroing my rifle.
Breaking Down the Features of Talley Picatinny Rail For Remington 700 Long Action with 8-40 Screws
Specifications
The Talley Picatinny Rail For Remington 700 Long Action with 8-40 Screws is designed specifically for Remington 700/721/722/725/40X Long Action rifles. It uses 8-40 screws for a secure and robust attachment. The rail is finished in a black matte color and is made from a high-quality material, which I believe to be aircraft-grade aluminum (although not explicitly stated by Talley).
The 8-40 screws are a significant upgrade over the more common 6-48 screws, offering increased thread engagement and therefore a more secure connection. This increased security is critical for maintaining zero, especially with larger, heavier optics or when shooting larger calibers. The black matte finish is both aesthetically pleasing and functional, minimizing glare and reflections that could spook game.
Performance & Functionality
The Talley Picatinny Rail excels in its primary function: providing a stable and reliable platform for mounting optics. Accuracy is significantly improved due to the rail’s ability to hold zero consistently. I haven’t experienced any issues with the rail shifting or loosening, even after firing hundreds of rounds.
The rail’s robust construction and secure mounting system translate directly into increased confidence and improved shooting performance. The only potential downside is that the lack of integrated recoil lug might be a concern for users with exceptionally high-recoil cartridges.
Design & Ergonomics
The Talley Picatinny Rail’s simple and functional design is a testament to its quality. The rail is lightweight, adding minimal bulk to the rifle. The smooth, snag-free edges prevent the rail from catching on clothing or gear.
The rail’s low-profile design doesn’t interfere with the bolt operation or cheek weld. Installation is straightforward, even for those with limited gunsmithing experience.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the Talley Picatinny Rail For Remington 700 Long Action with 8-40 Screws is built to last. The high-quality materials and meticulous construction ensure that it can withstand the rigors of field use. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only occasional cleaning to remove dirt and debris.
The durable finish resists corrosion and protects the rail from the elements. With proper care, this rail should provide years of reliable service.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Talley Picatinny Rail itself doesn’t come with any accessories beyond the necessary mounting screws. However, its Picatinny design makes it compatible with a vast array of aftermarket accessories, including scopes, red dot sights, magnifiers, and night vision devices. The compatibility with standard Picatinny accessories is a significant advantage, allowing users to customize their rifle to suit their specific needs.
Pros and Cons of Talley Picatinny Rail For Remington 700 Long Action with 8-40 Screws
Pros
- Provides a rock-solid platform for mounting optics.
- Easy to install and maintain.
- Compatible with a wide range of Picatinny accessories.
- Durable construction ensures long-lasting performance.
- Improves accuracy by maintaining consistent zero.
Cons
- No integrated recoil lug (may be a concern for high-recoil cartridges).
- Only available in black matte finish (may not match all rifles).
Who Should Buy Talley Picatinny Rail For Remington 700 Long Action with 8-40 Screws?
The Talley Picatinny Rail For Remington 700 Long Action with 8-40 Screws is perfect for hunters, competitive shooters, and anyone who values a reliable and accurate optic mounting system. It is especially beneficial for those using larger, heavier optics or shooting larger calibers where maintaining zero is paramount.
Those who should skip this product are individuals on an extremely tight budget and are willing to sacrifice long-term reliability for a cheaper alternative. Also, those who require a built-in recoil lug for extreme magnum calibers might want to explore other options that provide that feature. A must-have accessory is a quality torque wrench to ensure proper screw tightening during installation.
Conclusion on Talley Picatinny Rail For Remington 700 Long Action with 8-40 Screws
The Talley Picatinny Rail For Remington 700 Long Action with 8-40 Screws is a well-designed and well-executed product that delivers on its promise of providing a rock-solid optic mounting platform. The price is justified by the rail’s exceptional quality, durability, and ability to enhance shooting accuracy.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this rail to anyone looking to upgrade their Remington 700’s optic mounting system. If you’re tired of shifting zeros and unreliable mounts, invest in the Talley Picatinny Rail and experience the peace of mind that comes with knowing your scope is securely mounted and will hold zero no matter what. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the Talley difference!