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Hello. Ready to take the step

E

EchoLenix

Private
Minuteman
Mar 10, 2012
11
0
34
Hello, I guess it's time for my introduction on these forums. I've been researching and looking on these forums for a while now and I'm definitely ready to take the step and purchase a long range rifle. I have to say that this is one of the most informative, knowledgeable, and helpful community's I've seen. I'll admit that I do not own any type of firearm or have a lot of experience shooting, but I have always had an interest in long range shooting and I think it's finally time.


I'm looking into a Remington 700 chambered in .308, mainly for target shooting. My budget for a rifle system including glass, bipod, rail, rings, and a shitload of rounds is around $3,600 (let's just say I've been putting this off for a while). I know I have to walk before I can run, and need to go through hundreds of rounds before I know what I need, but I don't want to start off with a rifle I regret or can't build from in the future. I started looking at the r700 SPS TAC AAC-SD a while ago but not sure it's the right rifle. I was also looking at the milspec 5r 20" and 24" and just have a few questions:

What type of mildot scope would you suggest for the $500-800 range?
Other than lots of rounds and good glass, what would you suggest first thing I should do with a rifle like the SPS TAC or 5r? Throw out the X-mark?
I was interested in the H-S precision pst025 stock but I don't see much of them. Anyone know of their quality or really like them? I like the adjustable cheek and LOP.
Is it worth not getting the Remington 5r barrel now, and just waiting later to get a krieger or bartlein barrel farther in the future? And if I plan on shooting 175g rounds, would a lower twist rate like a 1:10 be preferable to a 1:11.25 or 1:12?
Barrel length? I know a 20" is lighter and easier to handle, but does an extra 4" provide enough fps or consistency out at long ranges to make a difference (shooting 175g).
I know some of these concerns aren't even relevant until I've fired off enough rounds, but I just want to be sure and have enough information to make the right decision. I don't want to go to GAP or a gunsmith right off the back until I have enough experience and build my preferences. Basically, as experienced shooters, if you were given my budget for your first rifle what would you focus on?

I know this is a lot of questions, but I just want to be sure. I'm passionate about getting into long range shooting and I want to do it right.
 
Re: Hello. Ready to take the step

Hi Echo,
I was in exactly the same spot you're in a couple of months ago. This site is a GREAT resource isn't it?
smile.gif


I went with an FN-SPR A1 (.308, 24"), a Sightron 10-50x60 MOA/MOA scope and I upgraded the trigger to a CG-Xtreme. I just reached the point where I can shoot a 1 MOA 10 round group at 200 yards. I seem to improve a little bit every time I hit the range.

I'm gonna sit back and watch this thread and see what the more experienced members have to say since I'm not experienced enough to recommend equipment to a new shooter. However I strongly recommend you look at the Sightron SIII line of scopes. Many feel they are just as good as scopes costing twice as much. I love mine.

Best of luck to you!
 
Re: Hello. Ready to take the step

I had and SPS Tac and it shot 175SMK and 178Amax loads fine. It shot sub .5 moa with handloads. The triggers are junk along with the stocks. Plan on replacing both and spending some decent money on optics and you will be fine until you get addicted to it and start spending every penny extra you have on it.
 
Re: Hello. Ready to take the step

Thanks IronMaidenFan,
I definitely will look into the Sightron SIII, and nice group! I also was looking into the FN-SRA A1 for the built in dbm and 20 moa rail.
 
Re: Hello. Ready to take the step

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: DrewinTejas</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I had and SPS Tac and it shot 175SMK and 178Amax loads fine. It shot sub .5 moa with handloads. The triggers are junk along with the stocks. Plan on replacing both and spending some decent money on optics and you will be fine until you get addicted to it and start spending every penny extra you have on it. </div></div>

Yea i was thinking of starting with 175SMK before I even think about getting into handloading, but what handload worked for you?
 
Re: Hello. Ready to take the step

Congrats on getting into the game Echo! This is a great site and there are a lot of people on here who are VERY talented shooters and can offer tremendous amounts of advice.

I know you are looking at the Remingtons but there is a Hide sponsor offering a great deal on a FN 308.

http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=3317427#Post3317427

I think this rifle would be hard to beat and is worth your consideration!
 
Re: Hello. Ready to take the step

Save yourself some money start with a Savage and you can do most of the upgrades yourself...ie. barrel swaps and the floating bolt head eliminates the need for truing the action.
 
Re: Hello. Ready to take the step

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: EchoLenix</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Thanks IronMaidenFan,
I definitely will look into the Sightron SIII, and nice group! I also was looking into the FN-SRA A1 for the built in dbm and 20 moa rail. </div></div>

I forgot to mention that I also sent my FN to Jeff at CDI to have his excellent bottom metal installed that accepts AI magazines.
 
Re: Hello. Ready to take the step

i have a 24" 5R and it's a .5 MOA rifle. Found a good load with 178 AMAX and 175 SMKs. It's a good kit and a tolerant chamber. The 1:11.25 twist is great with the 17x gr pills. For optics in the range, Viper PST or SS. I did throw out the x-mark and got a Rifle Basix at 2.5 lbs. High recommended.
 
Re: Hello. Ready to take the step

Personally I would prefer that fn over the remington, its just an awesome all around package for the money. Sure its more money initially, but it is a very very capable rifle from the box.
 
Re: Hello. Ready to take the step

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: IronMaidenFan</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: EchoLenix</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Thanks IronMaidenFan,
I definitely will look into the Sightron SIII, and nice group! I also was looking into the FN-SRA A1 for the built in dbm and 20 moa rail. </div></div>

I forgot to mention that I also sent my FN to Jeff at CDI to have his excellent bottom metal installed that accepts AI magazines. </div></div>

i see another thread on this, but would CDI be the only way to go for getting a 5 or 10 round mag? are there no other mags that fit the FN bottom medal? the FN SRA A1 is looking like a great deal right now but id definately want a 5-10 round mag in there.

Also, how is the FN trigger?
 
Re: Hello. Ready to take the step

I was in the same boat you were this time last year. I personally would recommend not buying a rifle right now, instead go and get some quality training. Head on down to K&M, Rifles Only, or Desert Tactical depending on your location.

Most of them will lend you a rifle to use for the course and you just pay for the ammo. I see this as having many benefits; first you will find out if this is something that interests you. Second, and most important, you will learn how to do it properly from the beginning. Lastly you will get to see all kinds of rifles and scopes up close and in person.

How you shoot is more important then what you shoot. Just my two cents.
 
Re: Hello. Ready to take the step

I will have to agree with Scoutsout,
I have an older model Savage 10FP short action .308 and I run a very economical Super Sniper fixed 10x 1/4'' adjustments with a mil reticle. This rifle and scope work excellent together for what I need, which is hunting and having a good time at the range. With FGMM 175gr factory ammo I can hang 1''moa - sub moa at 100yds all day long. I realize much better groups can be achieved but for the money I have spent and since I am still just a novice, I am very happy with my setup.
A lot can also be said for a persons base of fire. I spent a lot of nights laying on my living room floor practicing holding a spot on the wall while i slowly pulled the trigger. Until I had a sturdy base of aim it didn't matter what rifle or optic I owned I would not have been able to shoot worth a darn.
 
Re: Hello. Ready to take the step

I forgot to mention that I did have to put a bell and Carlson medalist tactical/varmint because the original accustock on my savage was not as ergonomic, but I was still able to pick up a well priced turn-key stock that is very comfortable.
 
Re: Hello. Ready to take the step

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: EchoLenix</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
i see another thread on this, but would CDI be the only way to go for getting a 5 or 10 round mag? are there no other mags that fit the FN bottom medal? the FN SRA A1 is looking like a great deal right now but id definately want a 5-10 round mag in there.

Also, how is the FN trigger? </div></div>

The FN advertised here comes with a 4 round DBM. However FN does sell a version of the SPR that accepts different "tactical" magazines but it so obscure that when you call them to ask about it, they don't even know it exists. The magazines are on FN USA's website and reference they work with a model A5M part numbers 75538 and 75540.

Since you're just starting out, you should just stick with the stock setup the upgrade once you're more comfortable with the rifle and put the money towards the best possible optic.

Regarding the trigger, the SPR uses a "pre '64" Win 70 action with a nice single stage trigger. The pull was a little heavy for me so I went with a lighter trigger spring from erniethegunsmith.com and all was fine. Then I installed an AR Gold trigger in my SR-15 and instantly got spoiled to the point that every other trigger in the world sucked. To make a long story short, my SPR is currently with the 'smith getting the barrel threaded and a CG-Xtreme 2 stage trigger installed. I should have it back in a few days and I will post a review of the trigger then.
 
Re: Hello. Ready to take the step

Where do you live? I suggest you find some like minds in the area and hook up with them before you buy anything. Actually handling a rifle are two before buying one will pay great dividends. Generally, fellow shooters are always willing to lend a newbie a hand...provided said newbie does not act like a tool.
 
Re: Hello. Ready to take the step

Remington 700 Mil Spec 5R and practice. 1)You will not be able to "out shoot it" for a long time. 2)It can be upgraded more ways than anyone can count. Yes, the trigger is garbage. Just upgrade to a Jewel. The HS Precision stock on it is good.
Good luck and have fun.
 
Re: Hello. Ready to take the step

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: PatrickChewing</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
I know you are looking at the Remingtons but there is a Hide sponsor offering a great deal on a FN 308.

http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=3317427#Post3317427
\ </div></div>

You think its worth the extra 350$ for the FN SPR a2/a4 on the taccord website? That's also a great deal. Is it just the A4 stock difference? cause thats only a $200 difference. Just wondering cause I prefer the A4 stock:

http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=3320265&page=1
 
Re: Hello. Ready to take the step

Since you are relatively new to shooting, I would also suggest getting a rifle in .22LR, in addition to the .308. It may sound silly, at first, but it will allow you to practice more and for cheaper than the .308. Actually, I think everyone should have one, regardless of their experience level. You would be surprised at what it will do to develop your fundamentals, as well as keeping your skills sharp, once you have more time behind the trigger.
 
Re: Hello. Ready to take the step

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: scoutsout</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Save yourself some money start with a Savage and you can do most of the upgrades yourself...ie. barrel swaps and the floating bolt head eliminates the need for truing the action. </div></div>

I agree 100%. I firmly belive you can get all you need for less than $2,000. Get a Savage, and find a Bushnell 6-24x 50mm 4200 Elite series scope, QD scope mounts and you're good to go for a rifle. In my opinion Savage offers the best value for your money.
 
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