Description
I was up in a tree stand last November, the Missouri frost just starting to bite, when I realized something. All the fancy talk about rifles fades away when you need one shot to count. That’s the moment a rifle like the Remington 700 SPS 30-06 24 Barrel Synthetic Stock earns its keep. It’s not about flash; it’s about a proven action and a cartridge that’s been getting it done for over a century.
So, what is it? The Remington 700 SPS in 30-06 Springfield is a no-frills, centerfire bolt-action rifle built on one of the most trusted actions ever made. It features a 24-inch carbon steel barrel, a black synthetic stock, and a matte blue finish. Chambered in the legendary .30-06, it’s a ready-to-work platform for hunters and shooters who value reliability over ornamentation. At $590.50, it represents serious value in today’s market.
Let’s talk about that action. The Remington 700’s round receiver and dual opposing locking lugs are the gold standard for a reason. I’ve put hundreds of rounds through various 700s, and the SPS version maintains that solid, smooth feel. The bolt cycles cleanly, and the factory trigger—while not a premium aftermarket unit—is crisp and predictable for out-of-the-box performance. It’s a system that fits out of the box and just works, which is exactly what you want when you’re sighting in or tracking game.
The 24-inch barrel is a smart choice for the .30-06. This length allows the cartridge to burn its powder efficiently, maximizing velocity and flattening trajectory. That extra bit of barrel gives you a real advantage for longer shots across a bean field or out West. Paired with the lightweight synthetic stock, which weighs in at roughly 7.5 lbs unloaded, you get a rifle that’s easy to carry all day but stable enough to shoot well. The stock is basic Hogue OverMolded rubber—it’s grippy in all conditions and dampens recoil better than a cheap hollow plastic stock.
Here’s the thing—the .30-06 Springfield is arguably the most versatile American big-game cartridge ever conceived. From whitetail in the Ozarks to elk in Colorado, it has the bullet weight range (from 150 to 220 grains) and energy to handle it all. This rifle is a perfect vessel for that capability. The synthetic stock shrugs off rain, mud, and the bumps and scrapes of hunting season, which is a relief when you’re not worried about marring a beautiful walnut finish.
Specifications
| Model | 700 SPS |
| Caliber | .30-06 Springfield |
| Barrel Length | 24″ |
| Overall Length | 44.5″ |
| Weight | Approx. 7.5 lbs |
| Stock | Black Synthetic OverMolded |
| Magazine Capacity | 4+1 (internal box magazine) |
| Finish | Matte Blue |
Pros: Legendary 700 action reliability. The .30-06 is wildly versatile and readily available. The 24″ barrel optimizes ballistics. The synthetic stock is durable and weatherproof. Excellent price point for a proven rifle. Massive aftermarket support for stocks, triggers, and optics bases.
Cons: The stock is functional but lacks premium fit/finish. The factory trigger, while good, invites an upgrade for precision work. The matte blue finish requires maintenance to prevent rust. It’s a basic starting platform—you’ll need to add optics and likely a sling.
This rifle is for the practical hunter or shooter. It’s for the Missouri deer hunter who needs a rifle that will go from the truck to the treestand without complaint, season after season. It’s for the shooter who wants a bedrock-reliable action to build a custom rifle upon, knowing the 700 platform has endless options from brands like Magpul for stocks or Timney for triggers. It’s not a showpiece; it’s a tool. And a very effective one.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this rifle ready to hunt right away?
A: Almost, but not quite. It comes with a factory-installed scope base (weaver-style), but you will need to mount a scope, rings, and likely a sling. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases, so factor that in when ordering. Once you’ve added your preferred optics, it’s a complete system.
Q: How does the .30-06 compare to popular modern rounds like 6.5 Creedmoor?
A: The .30-06 hits harder with heavier bullets, making it superior for larger game like elk or moose. The 6.5 Creedmoor has less recoil and can be slightly flatter shooting at very long range with specific loads. For most North American big game, especially inside 400 yards, the .30-06 is still a top contender with a much wider selection of affordable ammunition.
Q: Can the stock be easily replaced?
A: Absolutely. The Remington 700 has the most extensive aftermarket in the rifle world. This SPS model uses a standard Remington 700 long action, so it’s compatible with hundreds of stock and chassis systems from brands like Bell & Carlson, HS Precision, and Magpul for their Hunter 700 stock.
If you’re looking for a dependable, no-nonsense rifle that puts performance first, the Remington 700 SPS is a cornerstone of American hunting. This specific configuration in .30-06 with the 24-inch barrel is a classic for good reason. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. See the full details on our site.
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