How to replace a Remington 700 stock
A factory stock can split around the recoil pad, lose its shape or become uncomfortable after years of use. Replacing it on a Remington 700 can restore a secure fit, improve cheek contact and make the rifle easier to shoulder without changing its barrel or action.
The 700 has been produced in many models and action lengths, so the replacement is not always a direct swap. Check the rifle’s exact model, calibre and stock configuration, then follow its parts diagram or the advice of a qualified gunsmith.
Confirm the exact Remington model
Start with the identification label beneath the stock and the serial-number markings on the action. Record the full model designation rather than relying on the calibre alone. Australian shooters commonly encounter .308 Winchesters labelled in 7.62 mm NATO, while hunting rifles may also chamber .222 or .223; the receiver marking is the reliable starting point.
Remington 700 stocks vary between standard-action, short-action and Mountain Magnum rifles. Factory furniture from an SPS may not suit an ADL, BDL or tactical model because the action length, bolt clearance, comb profile and inletting can differ. The trigger and trigger-safety components must also be compatible, since incorrect geometry can interfere with the bolt or prevent the safety from engaging properly.
A stock must also be lawful to acquire and transport in your state or territory. Australians generally speak of a firearm licence rather than a concealed-carry permit, and requirements vary between bodies such as the NSW Firearms Registry, Victoria Police and Queensland Police licensing units. A related Remington article on the concealed carry permit guide explains a United States permit system, but it is not a substitute for Australian licensing requirements.
Prepare the firearm and work area
Work on an unloaded rifle in a clear, well-lit area. Follow the owner’s manual for unloading, open the action and verify that the chamber is empty. Keep ammunition in a separate location, maintain a safe muzzle direction and use a bench tray so screws cannot disappear into the gaps around the bench.
A qualified Australian gunsmith or licensed firearms dealer is often the simplest option, particularly with an older or unfamiliar action. Contact the business before travelling because firearms transport rules differ by jurisdiction. Australia Post does not accept firearms, and a suitable approved carrier and locked hard case may be required rather than ordinary vehicle transport.
Use a properly padded gun vise that supports the action without clamping the barrel. Protect the finish with clean material, keep the owner’s manual and parts diagram nearby and photograph the original stock before removing it. Do not use force against the barrel, bolt or receiver if the stock does not release as expected.
Remove and fit the replacement stock
On many 700 models, the stock is attached by screws passing upward through the recoil pad. Mark their positions before removal, withdraw them evenly and keep each screw with its corresponding stock. Adjustable or specialist factory stocks can use a different arrangement, so the screws or holes visible on one rifle should not be assumed to apply to another.
Do not insert a generic takedown screw unless Remington specifies it for that exact model. An incorrect screw can engage the firing mechanism or damage the action. If the stock remains tight, stop and check the parts diagram or have a gunsmith identify the retaining points.
Dry-fit the replacement without tightening it fully. The action screws should align cleanly, with no visible gap, binding or sideways movement. Never enlarge receiver holes or force an incompatible stock into place. Small alignment problems may require shimming or professional inletting, particularly with an older action or a premium adjustable stock.
Once aligned, tighten the retaining screws evenly to the engagement specified in the manual. Avoid over-torquing stripped screws, and replace damaged or corroded hardware with the correct factory-style part. Use thread-locking compound only where the manufacturer recommends it. Confirm that the trigger, safety, bolt stop, sling swivel and accessory rail all operate without touching one another.
Compare the main replacement options
The right choice depends on weight, adjustability, recoil management and the way the rifle is carried. A heavier stock may steady a large-calibre hunting rifle, while a lightweight option can suit a bush or field setup.
| Stock style | Main benefits | Important checks |
|---|---|---|
| Factory-pattern replacement | Familiar fit, predictable cheek weld and established parts support | Exact model and action must match |
| Adjustable aluminium stock | Adjustable comb, length of pull and sometimes cast or elevation | Added weight, protruding hardware and correct stop position |
| Lightweight synthetic stock | Easier carrying and good stability in humid conditions | Fixed comb and limited sling or rail compatibility |
| Premium ergonomic stock | Full cheek support, improved recoil absorption and refined fit | Higher cost, weight and possible specialist ordering |
| Short-stock custom option | Can improve handling for a correctly matched compact action | Must never be forced onto a standard-length action |
A same-model factory-pattern stock is usually the most straightforward option, but it may not address comfort problems. A left-handed Remington action or an older serial number can be harder to find, and specialist parts may need to be imported or made to order. Australian dealers usually quote in Australian dollars, while gun-show sellers may require a current physical or digital licence as specified locally.
Complete the safety and ownership checks
Before firing the rifle, inspect the entire installation with the action unloaded. Cycle the bolt, operate the safety and trigger, and check that the bolt head can lock in the firing position. Look through the barrel from the rear, inspect the chamber and verify that no packing, metal swarf or screw fragments have entered the action.
- Record the model, serial number, calibre and action length
- Confirm every stock component matches the approved parts diagram
- Inspect screws, recoil pad, cheek riser and sling studs for movement or damage
- Verify bolt clearance, trigger reset, safety operation and stock rigidity
- Recheck the scope or rail alignment and confirm the previous zero
- Store and transport the completed rifle under the applicable Australian rules
After reassembly, the rifle should receive the same checks as one returning from maintenance. The action and barrel have not moved, but a different comb or accessory rail can change the shooter’s cheek weld and scope position. Start with cautious unloaded checks, then use normal eye and hearing protection and re-confirm the zero at a suitable range before relying on the sighting picture.
Storage is equally important after the replacement. Our guidance on safe or vault security provides useful general principles, while Australian shooters must follow their state or territory legislation, storage requirements and insurer conditions. Keep the stock secure against moisture and inspect it periodically for compression, cracking or loosened screws.
Ready to refresh a worn rifle? Review the Remington Firearms Store catalogue and current stock availability, then confirm compatibility before ordering. Set up a customer account for order tracking, check available military or cryptocurrency discount terms, and use the retailer’s 24/7 support for product or order assistance. Review shipping, cancellation and refund policies carefully, and confirm that fulfilment is lawful and available for your Australian location.