Remington 700 drop-in bolt?

[herkyguy]

I have a Remington 700 SPS and am interested in a new bolt assembly. It seems I can find some online in the $200-$300 range. Specifically, I'd like one with a handle more easy to quickly manipulate. To compare, I also have a Winchester Model 70 and I prefer the feel of that bolt handle much more than the stock 700 bolt handle. It protrudes outward a bit more.

Now, I know one may be more smooth of an action than the other, but I would like something easier to get my hands around and cycle without taking too much time and effort.

Can I simply buy a new bolt and drop it in? Does this change any of the internal tolerances? Any dangers in doing this? Thanks.

 

[dubbleA]

No you can not simply change bolts and call it good. The headspace will most likely need to be adjusted when changing bolts. If you really want to go with another bolt do it when you change the barrel out.
You could also consider having an aftermarket knob installed to your liking to increase leverage. Just some thoughts.

 

[jmr40]

Bolt handles are farily easiy replaced, not the whole bolt. Remington 700's are a little more complicated than some others because they are brazed onto the bolt vs others that are threaded and easier to replace.

 

[herkyguy]

I don't know much about head spacing but that is what I was worried about. It would nice if I could simply change out the handle, but I can't. Probably just gonna deal with it as is then as I doubt I'll be changing the barrel anytime soon.

 

[creeper1956]

In years gone by, I've ground the knob down to a workable, relatively round stem, ran an appropriately sized die over it and threaded on a short extension... usually made from either brass, aluminum, silver, plastic and even hardwood. Them what I did this little mod for never had issue with it as far as I know... and it's certainly not that hard to do if you have a bit of mechanical aptitude and a tap & die set.

Cheers,
C

 

[v8stang289]

I used a grinder with a 40 grit flap wheel and some files to grind the "ball" on the 700's bolt handle down to a stem. Then I threaded it with a 5/16-24 die and installed a EGW teardrop bolt handle. It was fairly simple and inexpensive and turned out fairly well I think. It's definitely easier to manipulate the bolt now.