I have a Remington 700 VLS (laminated stock) how tight should I torque the actions screws.

When I contacted Remington about this some time ago they advised 40 in/lbs, front and back.

Winchester told me "minimum" 25 in/lbs front and back, and the center just tight enough to stay in. I've used 12 in/lbs on it and to keep things straight I use 40 in/lbs on the front and rear of them as well. That's "at least" 25 in/lbs.

Ruger told me 45 in/lbs.

My theory on tightening ALL screws is to twist 'em until I strip the threads and then back off a quarter turn.

JohnTheGreek

What about when a rifle is pillar-bedded. I've seen where some recommend up to 90 for these. What's the scoop here.

RSY

I usually tighten my action screws to 35 inch pounds. Seems to work.

Bob257

I use 60 to 65 in-lbs, but that's on a rifle with an aluminum action bedding block. I've not had my wood stocked rifles apart yet, so I really haven't thought about it. 60 is probably too tight on wood.....

JohntheGreek, you forgot to mention to locktight the bolts after you back off from striping them.

What brand of torque wrench and size are you using? Most torque in/lb wrenches I've been able to locate are 3/8" drive, large, and dont seem to be well suited for gun work. Any suggestions?

Quit worrying about using a torque wrench and do what JBelk told me a long time ago. "One grunt tight".