Detachable Mag vs Internal: Pros & Cons?

[BG_Bashar]

So, I'm putting together a rifle. I recently picked up an FN PBR .308 barreled action and a Bell & Carlson stock. I'm debating between a PTG Oberndorf bottom metal, or holding out until July for the PTG Winchester S/A Stealth bottom metal which accepts AICS mags.

I'm far more likely to be shooting at four-legged critters than two. I don't care if something looks tacti-cool, as long as it's practical and effective. I'm not high-speed, low-drag; I'm just a regular guy. I can see some pros & cons for detachable mag vs internal, myself, but I'm curious what more experienced shooters here have to say on the subject.

Det Mag:

• Quick ammo change/reload
• Higher capacity (10 vs 4-5)

Internal:

• Lower profile
• Harder to lose the mag
• Lighter weight(?)

I'm sure there are aspects and considerations I've overlooked, or are completely wrong about. Anyone more knowledgeable care to share?

 

[Lowlight]

It's 2013, there is very little reason to use a rifle without a detachable magazine. Use a mag....

 

[Swift]

If you stay within SAAMI spec, there's(normally) less chance of a feeding issue due to mag/dbm compatability and install related issues. It will also cost a couple hundred bucks to switch to a bottom metal setup and the stock will need to be opened up by a smith or someone with a mill. You'll also encounter less interference when riding a pack.

The upside to mags is quicker into battery, more capacity, and longer seating lengths. Normally, internal mags do well in hunting applications and for tac matches, competition, or professional use, bottom metal rules the roost.

 

[BG_Bashar]

It's 2013, there is very little reason to use a rifle without a detachable magazine. Use a mag....

So, what you're saying is that the detachable mag is the current Gold Standard of the modern age? I might as well wait for it: PTG's Winchester bolts won't be in full production until July anyway.

The barreled action I have...the barrel is beautiful, the receiver is beautiful...the bolt body, however, looks like hammered shit. I'm guessing it was cast in one piece, then machined (I use the term loosely); pits and inclusions everywhere. The two-piece scope mount (again, term used loosely) is very shoddy, but that's easily changed.

Thanks for the input.

 

[Swift]

So, what you're saying is that the detachable mag is the current Gold Standard of the modern age? I might as well wait for it: PTG's Winchester bolts won't be in full production until July anyway.

The barreled action I have...the barrel is beautiful, the receiver is beautiful...the bolt body, however, looks like hammered shit. I'm guessing it was cast in one piece, then machined (I use the term loosely); pits and inclusions everywhere. The two-piece scope mount (again, term used loosely) is very shoddy, but that's easily changed.

Thanks for the input.

Scope mounts are another conversation. If they're not well made, it's almost a must to switch, preferably to a 1 piece base, although with an internal mag a quality 2 piece set won't interfere so much. Optics mounting is often overlooked and shoddy bases and rings can make a $5,000 rig shoot like a musket.

 

[kenJ]

So, I'm putting together a rifle. I recently picked up an FN PBR .308 barreled action and a Bell & Carlson stock. I'm debating between a PTG Oberndorf bottom metal, or holding out until July for the PTG Winchester S/A Stealth bottom metal which accepts AICS mags.

I'm far more likely to be shooting at four-legged critters than two. I don't care if something looks tacti-cool, as long as it's practical and effective. I'm not high-speed, low-drag; I'm just a regular guy. I can see some pros & cons for detachable mag vs internal, myself, but I'm curious what more experienced shooters here have to say on the subject.

Det Mag:

• Quick ammo change/reload
• Higher capacity (10 vs 4-5)

Internal:

• Lower profile
• Harder to lose the mag
• Lighter weight(?)

I'm sure there are aspects and considerations I've overlooked, or are completely wrong about. Anyone more knowledgeable care to share?

 

[Hawk in WY]

If you stay within SAAMI spec, there's(normally) less chance of a feeding issue due to mag/dbm compatability and install related issues. It will also cost a couple hundred bucks to switch to a bottom metal setup and the stock will need to be opened up by a smith or someone with a mill. You'll also encounter less interference when riding a pack.

The upside to mags is quicker into battery, more capacity, and longer seating lengths. Normally, internal mags do well in hunting applications and for tac matches, competition, or professional use, bottom metal rules the roost.

I agree with this.

My hunting rifles are all bdl. Range rifles are dbm.

Not mentioned yet is how uncomfortable it is carrying a rifle with the magazine sticking out the bottom when it's in your hands.

The perfect compromise for hunting may be the Hawkins Hunter bottom metal with flush fitting magazines. Magazine capacity is fine for hunting but limited for the range.

Go bdl for your purpose.

I am surprised no one has mention you will probably be happier with a supplier other than PTG.

 

[stello1001]

@kenJ

Are you just here to resurrect old threads?

 

[Downtown]

I think Frank sums this issue up well..."It's 2013, there is very little reason to use a rifle without a detachable magazine. Use a mag....".

 

[BORD]

That was quite the thread ressurection, I started reading it without realizing how old it was, and got to Frank’s “It’s 2013…..”. post….