Wilson Combat has announced its entry into the Remington 700-pattern action replacement barrel market, offering a new option for competitors and enthusiasts looking to rebarrel an existing rifle or replace a worn factory barrel. The initial product line focuses on popular precision rifle chamberings, providing specific configurations for both .308 Winchester and 6.5 Creedmoor.
Currently, Wilson Combat’s product listings detail three distinct barrels. For the .308 Winchester, a 20-inch barrel with a 1:10 twist rate is available. In 6.5 Creedmoor, two length options are offered: a 20-inch and a 22-inch barrel, both featuring a 1:8 twist. Each of these launch configurations is listed at US$399.95. The company has also indicated plans for additional Creedmoor chamberings, specifically .25 Creedmoor and .22 Creedmoor, though these are not part of the initial release.
The manufacturing process for these barrels involves button-rifled, honed 416R stainless-steel blanks. Wilson Combat states that these blanks undergo a stress-relieving process both before and after rifling, a critical step for consistent accuracy and barrel longevity. The chosen profile adheres to the standard Remington factory contour, a design decision that will resonate with many shooters. This contour is intended to allow for direct fitment into factory-contour stocks and compatible chassis systems without requiring additional inletting, potentially simplifying the rebarreling process for those who wish to retain their existing stock or chassis rather than undertaking a full rifle rebuild around a heavier custom profile.
Further details on the barrels include a muzzle threaded to the common 5/8×24 pitch, featuring a recessed crown. An optional low-glare Armor-Tuff finish is also available, providing an aesthetic and protective coating that can be advantageous in various shooting conditions. It is important for potential buyers to note that these barrels are not designed for simple, user-level screw-on installation. Wilson Combat explicitly states that the chamber is cut ready for final headspacing, necessitating professional gunsmith installation. This means the rifle's action, chamber, and final headspace must be precisely handled by a qualified gunsmith to ensure safe and accurate operation. Shooters are advised to confirm the exact fit and configuration compatibility for their specific Remington 700-pattern action prior to ordering.
The initial selection of barrel lengths—20 and 22 inches—suggests a focus on practical applications for both hunting and precision rifle setups. By concentrating on these common lengths and the factory contour from the outset, Wilson Combat appears to be targeting a segment of the market that prioritizes straightforward upgrades and retention of existing rifle components, rather than offering an exhaustive array of custom contours and lengths immediately. This approach provides a clear, accessible option for those seeking a quality replacement barrel for their Remington 700-based rifle.
