USMC uses the Winchester M70 Floorplate and trigger guard because it is steel and stronger, plus is less likely to spring open in the bush due to a different latch system. Forcing five rounds in a standard Remington aluminum floorplate is a good way to bend it or cause it to pop open.
The Remington Custom Shop uses steel parts, but they will not sell any as I have asked, then cried, then wheedled, and then begged a number of years ago. Brownells now has some steel replacement parts, but they are not a true drop-in but require a degree of inletting and are pretty expensive.
A number of tactical riflesmiths do this modification to Remington Police and Varmint rifles. I know Iron Brigade Armory does it (
http://www.ironbrigadearmory.com )Hope this helps.
Ruger M77 (not MkII) owners used to be able to get a replacement steel floorplate and triggerguard as used on the magnums. It came in a blister pack like the magazines and sight blades, etc. I have a long action steel floorplate, but could not find the guard. I bought them for cheap for the Ruger M77 I never bought. I do not think Ruger still still offers them, but a call to the factory would tell.
[This message has been edited by 700PSS Shooter (edited May 21, 2000).]
[This message has been edited by 700PSS Shooter (edited May 21, 2000).]