I just put the first few rounds down the pipe of my new .223. I like the feel and weight of the rifle. The groups were between 1 and 1 1/2 inches. I was able to make a few touch but not on a regular basis. The only things I would like to change is the trigger pull ( a little to heavy for me) and the action is a little to tight. When the action is cycled the bolt is a kinda hard to close. Other than that I think it is a good all around rifle.

Are you using factory ammo? Sometimes bolts can be hard to close if the cartridge isn' t sized properly. If you are using factory ammo then it is probably just stiff because its new. Use will loosen it up over time.

Frizz... The ammo was factory loads. It is stiff with or without the shell in the chamber. It may take awhile to loosen up.
Mike

Check to make sure that the front stock screw is not too long. The last two Model 700' s that I have seen were protruding up into the locking recess, causing the bolt to be difficult to close. Back off of the front screw, and see if this helps. If it does, remove the screw and file a little bit off of it. Hope this helps.

I' ll take a look at that Statesman. Thanks
Mike

I love the Remington Model Seven,I own several of them and adjusting the trigger pull down will tighten up your groups! I do all of my own triggers,here is a site that will help,700 triggers and M7 triggers adjust the same way...
http://www.centerfirecentral.com/fixit.html

PJ... I have used that site for my Ruger trigger. I worked it down to about 2lbs and no creep. I am going to try the trigger job on the Model 7 I just wanted ta break it in first. Thanks for the reply...Mike