Tuesday, December 18, 2018

Kwik Klip Conversion

My 35 Whelen Remington 700 Classic project is nearing an end.  What started out as a somewhat rough Rem 700 Classic has slowly turned into what just might be my all time favorite rifle. You can follow the progression here, and here.

As a final touch I decided to replace the standard internal magazine and hinge-plate with a removable magazine. My choice of conversion was the Kwik Klip conversion for Long Action Rem 700; mainly because it was easy to obtain and most of the reviews I read were positive.

Kwik Klip for Rem 700 Long Action
I placed my order through T. E. C Trade Ex Canada Inc. I placed my order on a Monday and received the kit in one week. The price was the cheapest I could find in Canada.

During installation I ran into an immediate problem because the Bell and Carlson stock needed a bit of sanding in order for the bottom metal to fit. After a bit of work things came together well with a surprisingly snug fit despite there being a bit of space around the rear.   (See photo)  The kit comes with shims that I used to level the kit with the bottom of the stock. (the photo shows the fit before shims were used)

Next came the inevitable ammunition feed test ... which didn't go well. The first 2 rounds fed perfectly, but the last always slipped downward and off of the bolt face. A quick check online solved the problem though ... all it took was a slight bending open of the top of the magazine housing. The cartridges now fed perfectly.

Overall I am pleased. The Kwik Klip metal has a shine, which matches my Remington bluing, and the basic fit and finish of the kit is good.

The conversion to removable magazine is the final change I envision making to the Whelen. It's been an enjoyable journey.

Kwik Klip Long Action installed in Bell and Carlson Stock