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Another "which rifle?" question...stick with me

BravoSector1

Sergeant
Supporter
Full Member
Minuteman
  • Oct 26, 2011
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    Idaho
    Okay Gents. I'm that guy. The guy that shows up about every two days here and asks "which rifle of those I'm discussing should I choose". Yes, I've used the search engine and dug up a wealth of knowledge and I've done my homework on the platforms but I'm looking for your opinions.

    USE: This is a paper puncher/steel ringer out to 1k throughout the year (1-2 range trips a month at 40-50 rounds fired per session) with a hunting trip or two for medium to big game each year. Tactical training/shooting may be an option down the road but uncle sam has to this point kept me far to busy to engage in said activities.

    CALIBER: .308 win. I know I can get into a .338 lapua magnum for the same $$$ but I'm feeding a .50BMG already and I'm reloading for the .308 and have an ample stock of FGMM on hand so that's that.

    UNIQUE ISSUES: I'm right handed...but left eye dominant. I fire all long arms left handed and have so since I was a young and have operated in the field with issued weapons with zero issues to date so design of the rifle may/may not come into play. I bring this up because platforms like the DTA SRS look good to me but they are not lefty friendly. I've seen the videos...and the bullpup configuration they offer just won't work for me. (build a lefty...and they will come!)

    OPTICS: I've got a Nightforce NXS 12-42x56 (that I tried to sell to one of you...and not one of you would bite!) that I know is limited in adjustment so a 20-30 MOA rail will be needed to get me out to 1k.

    So...

    Sako TRG-22: Delivered for $2,995. I know the accessories are expensive...noted. 1/11 twist should do well even for the heavy rounds. Barrel is already threaded and I've got a suppressor on hand so that's a plus. Detachable magazine fed already...a plus. Overseas manufacturer? Don't know if this will be an issue. The amount of rounds I'm putting through this weapon...it won't need to be rebarreled for some time. For accuracy and reputation the weapon seems to speak for itself.

    FNH SPR A3G: Delivered for $2,890. Accessories will be on the less expensive side. I'll have to purchase the FN TBM kit to run detachable mags in the A3G and that's going to run into the $400 range. Cold hammer forged chrome lined barrel. At my use rate I may not have to rebarrel this thing...ever. It's not threaded. Another $100 shop job.

    I'm open to other suggestions but please note that I'm not looking for the $6k+ rifles. I don't compete...it's just not needed and I can apply more time in effort on ammo, training and range time. I've looked at the Barrett MRAD...too bad they havn't offered one in .308. Any input on these rifles would be greatly appreciated.

    Bravo
     
    Re: Another "which rifle?" question...stick with me

    Right now the best value on the market is the AI AE MKIII. If you don't need a folder they start at $3600(http://www.eurooptic.com/accuracy-intern...ixed-stock.aspx). If you are military call Mile High shooting and talk to Randy. I got my AW 260 through him for a great deal(nice military discount). He will also have a nice selection of barrel options for your 308.

    This might start some shit here and that's not my intent, but I would take anything over an FN and an AI over a Sako any day of the week. Yes I have shot the others and now shoot my AW and Howa 308 Varmint. Also with the AI there are more options to tailor it to you and your style of shooting.

    However if it was just between the two(Sako and FN) I would say go Sako. The action is 10x better, and how many guys on here aside from the AI crowd talk shit on Sako. Just my $0.02
     
    Re: Another "which rifle?" question...stick with me

    imho you have two phenomenal options near your price range TRG or an AI. Unless you have more than 300++? boxes of FGMM or unlucky cleaning technique/tools, you probably won't have to worry about rebarreling.

    or, why not buy a Tikka T3 Sporter in left hand, dump the NF, buy a S&B 3-20 and almost "have it all" for near the same $$? Lighter, more versatile glass, and a rifle better suited for a lefty?

    I know nothing about FN rifles-still doesn't make me want one.
    grin.gif
     
    Re: Another "which rifle?" question...stick with me

    I would consider a out of the box Remington 5R, with you budget you can put it in a nice AI stock of your choice. Trust me it will do the job out to 1K. For ringing steel, I would not discount an AR-10. Get one with a 20-24 inch barrell and have some fun. As alawys YMMV, and you asked for opinions.
    Rob.
    PS, I am left eye dominant as well. I do not own a left handed weapon. But I do suffer with a shotgun.