For a custom build with a Remington 700 LA what gun should be looked at for the action, old or new? I would think like anything else, the older the better?

I'm not sure there's a lot of difference....just avoid the "J-Locks"

Once the action is blueprinted you won't know the difference. You can ditch the J lock on the new one by getting a new firing pin assembly, which would be a good choice anyway. You can get a new bolt shroud and no more J lock.

That said, I believe most smiths prefer the older triggers to work down for lighter pull.

You'd be better off by buying a Stiller compared to sinking the money into a 700 action then paying to have it all trued up. End costs are about the same. I've never heard a smith complain about a Stiller action.

quote:

Originally posted by Doc:
You'd be better off by buying a Stiller compared to sinking the money into a 700 action then paying to have it all trued up. End costs are about the same. I've never heard a smith complain about a Stiller action.

Just subtle differences between the old 700's and the new. You would be fine with either one. As far as triggers go, the new Remington X-Mark Pro triggers are quite a bit better than the old "Walker" style. However, both tune up equally well.