DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

[sdman11890]

Well... I'm looking to build my first long range bolt gun. I'm liquidating some guns that haven't seen the light of day in a while for a .260.

I had it all nailed down with Mark at SAC what the build was gonna be...
Supply SAC Alpha 11, Medium Length, 20 MOA rail, double pinned recoil lug...$1200
Supply Bartlein 6.5 cal M40 barrel...$330
Install your trigger...$000
Chamber barrel to your specs, fit to action, time curvature of bore to 12 o'clock position of action...$310
Cut to length, crown and thread...$110
Custom thread protector...$65
Cerakote all metal up to 2 colors...$250

But then I sold my 308, so I'm looking at a full custom build, which I'm guessing will add a couple grand, with a chassis for $1200 plus, a trigger for $200ish, etc.

That brings the cost of this build darn close to a DTA SRS. I see they make one in 260, and Mark at SAC makes a barrel for them too.

I'm torn. I could have a DTA in not a whole lot of time, once I get the money together. The SAC would take 8-10 months... I don't like not having a good rifle!!

What say you all? DTA or custom build?

ETA: To all of you saying I should get behind one, I have! My cousin has the really short one in 308. It's a blast, that's for sure! I love shooting it, and I shoot it pretty well. Just trying to determine if I'll gain a ton from going custom or if I should spend an extra few hundred bucks and save myself six months to get a rifle.

 

[bward]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

Go with the custom, it will be a lot nicer than a DTA. I've been down the DTA road, as well have 3 other friends, and we have all sold them.

 

[poison123]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: bward</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Go with the custom, it will be a lot nicer than a DTA. I've been down the DTA road, as well have 3 other friends, and we have all sold them. </div></div>

While I do agree with bward.


My suggestion is to find a DTA to at least sit behind and see if you like the ergo of it, over a normal rifle.

 

[jpspeeddemon]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

definetly try the DTA before you buy one, i shot one several times and didn't like the bull pup design.

Can't go wrong with a SAC either as it will likely be more accurate than the DTA

 

[sdman11890]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

My cousin has a DTA SRS Covert, and I've shot it a few times. It's nice. The bolt doesn't really feel smooth, and I don't really like the plastic feel... but I do love the ability to basically have a new match grade rifle for $1500.

But I don't think I really need more than one long range rifle... but then again I didn't think I'd need a first one!

 

[Goin'Hot]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

I was VERY CLOSE to getting a DTA chassis and having Mark chamber a barrel for me. My sticking point is the lack of an adjustable cheek piece on the current chassis. I'm holding off until they offer one. Mark usually has a chassis in stock and he currently has some 6.5 barrels ready to chamber. Linky

 

[Flynn]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

The DTA isn't something I would buy without being able to handle one first..I contemplated one, but decided to wait for a custom from Mark.

 

[coldboremiracle]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

You definitely should get behind the DTA before buying one, to make sure it fits you. But you will love it if it does. Especially if you have Mark turn you up a .260 barrel for it. I can tell you first hand, two of the finest professional vendors I have used in this industry are DTA, and SAC. So putting the two together for a rifle makes sense.

 

[jpspeeddemon]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

also, if u like the switch barrel capability, check out an AI

 

[TheNewRoman]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

Go with a custom, because in the end it will feel just right and work hopefully the exact way you want it to.
Plus DTA is way to over priced, because it's a commercial firearm at the price point of a custom. Now if it was say about 2 grand for one which i'm sure they could sell those for and still make profit, then I'd buy one in a heart beat.
Also anyone know why DTA rifles cost so much because the material don't seem to be something special like carbon fiber or titanium, and the manufacturing process i can't imagine being any worse than a normal companys.

 

[PSYOPS]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

How about a DTA chassis with a SAC barrel!!!

...best of both worlds!

 

[PRDRIVER]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

I have a DTA SRS in .260.

There is not question that the bolt on a custom rifle will be noticeably smoother than the bolt on the DTA.

I also recommend getting behind one before purchasing one.

As for the adjustable cheek riser, I have never had a need for one nor have any of the individuals that I have let shoot it.

The ability to swap out calibers was the big selling point for me along with the compactness of the rifle. The SRS balances very well and the bullpup design helps it feel significantly lighter when performing positional shooting.

I have the factory DTA .260 barrel and it shoots 1/2 MOA or better with all the loads that I have tried.

 

[coldboremiracle]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: TheNewRoman</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Go with a custom, because in the end it will feel just right and work hopefully the exact way you want it to.
Plus DTA is way to over priced, because it's a commercial firearm at the price point of a custom. Now if it was say about 2 grand for one which i'm sure they could sell those for and still make profit, then I'd buy one in a heart beat.
Also anyone know why DTA rifles cost so much because the material don't seem to be something special like carbon fiber or titanium, and the manufacturing process i can't imagine being any worse than a normal companys. </div></div>
You seem to know so much, why havent you started your own company? Im sure you could duplicate dta's success and product for 2 grand and still make money.

 

[Bruiser_Joe]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

and i assume you think the AIAW is overpriced as well?

 

[JFComfort]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

My friend Dane and I have done a few DTA barrels in 6.5mm Creedmoor and 6XC. I like the fact we can do the barrels ourselves and the one chassis, one scope idea. My friend Tyler competes with a DTA SRS and does well with it.

If it fits and works for you, run with it and don't look back. If your not convinced than a SAC rifle isn't a bad runner up. Maybe something on the hide will pop up and you don't have to wait the long ass wait time.

 

[Bruiser_Joe]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

i have some pretty high end customs as well as a DTA and a AIAW, the DTA is a great system, you cannot go into shooting or having one expecting it to feel like a handbuilt rifle, it sure as hell shoots like one though. also it would be like being used to a ar15 and then shooting a aug, the manual of arms is completely diferent. if you go in with a open mind it is a extremely capable and simple weapon system with a large number of upsides. If i had to sell all my bolt guns but two, you can bet the ones that would most likely be left would be my DTA and my AI, "custom" or not.

 

[PRDRIVER]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

My DTA has eliminated a number of my bolt action rifles. I am looking to make up a 22-250 barrel for it and then my varmint rig will be up for sale too.

 

[Dogtown]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

I'm with RMW on this. After a year with my Gen 1 SRS, I ended up selling my .408 Windrunner and .308 SR90 - the two bookends of my bolt rifle collection. Now with a single chassis I can go from a short 16" .308WIN, standard 22" .308WIN, .260REM or 6.5x47L or up to larger .300WM or .338LM - one chassis, one scope, many rifles. In the end I think it's more economical.

Pricewise you could compare an SRS to an MRAD or AI AX, but one of the key differences (and what I think is still a major selling point) is that several different cartridge conversions are available for the SRS and have been for some time. The MRAD for example, has been available for well over a year now but conversion kits for other cartridges are still unavailable in volume. The conversion process on the SRS is fast and easy enough that it's completely doable to take multiple conversion kits out to the range to shoot in a single session, if that's what you want to do. Making a custom conversion is supported as well by getting a barrel extension to fit the barrel to (of course support for bolt and magazine are the only limitation).

But the major factor on the SRS for most people is the one intangible one - does the bullpup configuration give me problems? There's no way around that and it's definitely different from shooter to shooter with no way to determine beforehand if it'll be favorable or not. I think it's much better balanced than a standard configuration and like having a more compact rifle with a full length barrel. But some will have trouble with the ergonomics or cycling the action. I think changing the mags is a non-issue as it's not employed like an assault or battle rifle where the body motion and manipulation would feel weird. Lefties can also have an issue with the bolt location, but again, that's just a "your mileage may vary."

So there are lots of facets to think about in that regard. Having a compact rifle is often low on the list of priorities, but you're wanting to "have many rifles in one" it's hard to beat an SRS. Get behind one if you can.

 

[excess]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

I have had another custom waiting to be built at one of the well respected smiths here for awhile. Meanwhile I acquired a DTA chassis, a few conversion kits, and a scope for it. When I finally took the DTA out and shot it for the first time ( 308 kit ), well, I wondered why the hell I was spending time and money on a custom. Meaning, I'm really impressed with the DTA. First time out with it and I shot a group that was approaching 1/2" at 200 yards.

I'm hoping when finished my custom outdoes it!

 

[sdman11890]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

Wow... overwhelming support for the DTA. I'm gonna have to think long and hard about this... I'm thinking a 260 or 6.5x284 for competitions, and a 308 for practice for starters. Maybe picking up a 338LM when I get a chance. The problem is, the suburbs of Chicago don't have a lot of room where I can really stretch its legs.

 

[Bradu]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

Glad this is being discussed, I have been trying to decide what my next rifle is going to be. It's most likely either going to be a custom out of the classifieds or a dta.

 

[redbullitt]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

The DTA takes some getting used to. I shoot my covert and a GAP Hospitaller. The surgeon 591 is beautiful, smooth, and very fine. BUT it is a different type of rifle. My DTA has a good trigger (not like the GAP tuned Shilen, but not far off) that is great for a practical rifle. It is not a bench gun.

I like the DTA because even with my suppressor mounted, it is quite a bit shorter than my GAP with a 22 inch barrel. It is tough to argue with that. VERY handy.

Caliber conversions and using one rifle consistently, are great reasons as well. Not something to overlook in your consideration. 338 lapua to 260 rem? Yes please.

 

[mhines]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

I would say either is a great gun but it is all in what you want to do with it.

I use my DTA as my only gun. For hunting / competition and long range shooting. I use the 308 for FTR and hunting then 338 for long range fun.

Since it is my only rifle I am very used to the positioning and trigger. Also only have to know one scope. So from a practice point of view, it is great.

But if you are just doing one thing then almost for sure you can build a single purpose gun which will be perfect for that role. The DTA is more of a jack of all trades. That isn't saying it can't hold it's own against other guns. In my 2 FTR comps I have placed 4th then 3rd with it. And I am still really new to long range shooting(read I really suck at reading wind).

Personally, I love mine and have no intentions of replacing it anytime soon.

ps. my next barrel will be coming from SAC

so like I said I don't think you can go wrong with either.

 

[JFComfort]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

So where do most of you guys get your barrel conversions? I know DTA wants a freaking arm and a leg for their armorer's kit, extensions, magazines... well everything.

What does APA, Freedom Gun Works or SAC charge you guys for one?

 

[Pusher591]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

S.A.C!!!!

Mark builds an amazing rifle, a custom just feels unique and special. When it's yours, it's yours. I'm not a big DTA fan but like someone else said, the best of both worlds would be a DTA with a SAC chambered Bartlein

 

[-Snyper-]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

I struggled as well with wether to purchase a DTA chassis or a custom. I wasn't able to get behind the gun before purchasing, due to no one around had a DTA.

I'm in full agreement with the others, you better test drive one before purchasing. What I've found is people either love them or hate them. No in between.

I took a chance and purchased one and just so happen to love it. As you can tell, I have lot's of barrels, and a lot more room in my gun safe now that I've sold all the customs and replaced them with just conversations.

As for SAC, you will not find a better guy to build either a custom or a DTA. I have 2 of his barrels for my DTA, and they are awesome.

Hope this helps

 

[bribri]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

My advice to you is: Shoot your buddy's DTA again and go over the pros and cons of it, and see which one out weighs the other.

If you like the DTA and you see yourself getting another rifle say for extended long ranges. Then its a no brainer get the DTA. If you see yourself only ownig one rifle, then I would steer away from the DTA.

I have a Gen 1 DTA with a factory 338 Lapua conversion and a custom 6.5X47 Lapua conversion. When zeroed @ 100 yards with my 6.5 conversion suppressed, there is no change in POI when I change out to the 338 conversion.

As far as accuracy goes, both my conversions are sub moa. How much more do you need?


Check out some of my videos:

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These are 9 out of 20 shots that impacted at one mile with the 338 conversion, it took me 5 shots to walk in the misses.

 

[Tactical_Tom]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

The SRS is more like a good factory rifle in terms of fit and finish. Like a Remington R5 or other rifles in the $1000 range. It does shoot really well but looking at it you can tell that its simple not build like a custom rifle. I also think that for the price they should have nitrated the barrel the coating on mine isn't the best. Still there is nothing else like it as long as the grip works for you its a great rifle. I have a Lawton which has even worse fit and finish and shoots better so looks aren't everything. I do kind of feel like if the gun was being mass produced and they made say 100K+ a year then it would sell for $1500 - $2500.

 

[bribri]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jpspeeddemon</div><div class="ubbcode-body">also, if u like the switch barrel capability, check out an AI </div></div>

True, but you still can't change barrels in the field, or do it in less than a few minutes like the DTA. You also can't go from a standard bolt face caliber to say a 338 magnum bolt face caliber in a AI.

So I would say the DTA is in a class all alone, when it comes to switch caliber designs.

 

[sdman11890]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: bribri</div><div class="ubbcode-body">My advice to you is: Shoot your buddy's DTA again and go over the pros and cons of it, and see which one out weighs the other.

If you like the DTA and you see yourself getting another rifle say for extended long ranges. Then its a no brainer get the DTA. If you see yourself only ownig one rifle, then I would steer away from the DTA.

I have a Gen 1 DTA with a factory 338 Lapua conversion and a custom 6.5X47 Lapua conversion. When zeroed @ 100 yards with my 6.5 conversion suppressed, there is no change in POI when I change out to the 338 conversion.

As far as accuracy goes, both my conversions are sub moa. How much more do you need?


Check out some of my videos:

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These are 9 out of 20 shots that impacted at one mile with the 338 conversion, it took me 5 shots to walk in the misses.

</div></div>

Alright you convinced me! Time to start pinching pennies. I'm gonna need a 260, 308, and 338 in a Gen 2 chassis.

Oh and someone to buy a spare kidney!

Seriously though, already sold an AR, working on selling some other stuff to get at least a chassis coming my way!

 

[bribri]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

If you reload, I would get the 260 conversion first, and I would get it from SAC.

 

[excess]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

SAC talked about doing some 6.5 CM barrels on a group buy, may be a reason to get the CM over the 260

 

[poison123]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: bribri</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jpspeeddemon</div><div class="ubbcode-body">also, if u like the switch barrel capability, check out an AI </div></div>

True, but you still can't change barrels in the field, or do it in less than a few minutes like the DTA. You also can't go from a standard bolt face caliber to say a 338 magnum bolt face caliber in a AI.

So I would say the DTA is in a class all alone, when it comes to switch caliber designs. </div></div>

Incorrect, AI AX PSR

 

[Dogtown]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

I think the point that was trying to be made about caliber conversions on the SRS is the fact that many are and have been available for it since the rifle started shipping in 2009. Initially it was four but now there are seven available, not to mention 3rd party options. Quick change caliber conversions are an option announced on the MRAD, but more than a year later none seem to be available other than .338LM. The AI PSR apparently will ship with different conversions, if that's what you're referring to. Until then, the wide availability of conversions with the SRS, in my opinion, is a major advantage (if the "one chassis, many rifles" idea is your desire).

 

[bribri]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

I apologize, I was unaware of the AI AX PSR's existence.

But it does cost around $16,000, and isn't available until the end of 2012. According to what I found.

 

[poison123]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: bribri</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I apologize, I was unaware of the AI AX PSR's existence.

But it does cost around $16,000, and isn't available until the end of 2012. According to what I found. </div></div>

That wasn't the point though.

 

[Jedi]

Re: DTA SRS vs. SAC Custom

I,m a big DTA fan but as they cant fig out how to make a left hand version
I went custom
RTS chassis
Defiance mutant action
Huber trigger
Broughton 5C barrel
Razor scope

hopefully it will be in my hands next week