I would like to know if you could have one rifle for ELR what would it be? What caliber? Scope? Why would you choose the combo that you did?
- Thread starter Shoottothrill
- Start date
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
I have a limited experience with this sort of deal, but I know what I would WANT. The reasons for the "want" can be debated, but it's a matter of opinion and application
I'd like a 300 Norma Mag fluted heavy barrel, suppressed of course. Topped with a March 8-80 tucked nicely into a DTA HTI Chassis
Reason for the caliber would be the lesser cost of .30 cal bullets and barrels compared to 338, 375, 408, 416 and 50.
Brass isn't ridiculous and barrel life isn't terrible considering the rounds per year that it would see from ME as a hunter.
Recoil suppressed is minimal and it can be run on a standard Long Action.
Optic choice is less definitive, but I like the option of a 10x zoom range.
With Bushnell offering a 4-30 and March offering 5-50 and 8-80...I think its only a matter of time before the benefits are realized. The biggest reason no one chooses the 8-32 and 12-42 Nightforce NXS optics is the limited lower range, and lack of elevation travel.
I'm not saying 80x is necessary, but I know that looking at 1 mile and farther through a 60x spotting scope is nice compared to a 25x on a rifle optic, so why not have the best of both worlds?
Even the 5-50 on an ELR optic is advantageous. Using 5x for 1-200 yard hunting and 50x for spotting game at ELR. What's not to like as long as the optic stays clear across the entire zoom range. Something that used to be a crap shoot.
I have a limited experience with this sort of deal, but I know what I would WANT. The reasons for the "want" can be debated, but it's a matter of opinion and application
I'd like a 300 Norma Mag fluted heavy barrel, suppressed of course. Topped with a March 8-80 tucked nicely into a DTA HTI Chassis
Reason for the caliber would be the lesser cost of .30 cal bullets and barrels compared to 338, 375, 408, 416 and 50.
Brass isn't ridiculous and barrel life isn't terrible considering the rounds per year that it would see from ME as a hunter.
Recoil suppressed is minimal and it can be run on a standard Long Action.
Optic choice is less definitive, but I like the option of a 10x zoom range.
With Bushnell offering a 4-30 and March offering 5-50 and 8-80...I think its only a matter of time before the benefits are realized. The biggest reason no one chooses the 8-32 and 12-42 Nightforce NXS optics is the limited lower range, and lack of elevation travel.
I'm not saying 80x is necessary, but I know that looking at 1 mile and farther through a 60x spotting scope is nice compared to a 25x on a rifle optic, so why not have the best of both worlds?
Even the 5-50 on an ELR optic is advantageous. Using 5x for 1-200 yard hunting and 50x for spotting game at ELR. What's not to like as long as the optic stays clear across the entire zoom range. Something that used to be a crap shoot.
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
My back burner has a .280 Rem LR project that is not moving as quickly as I would like.
I think it embodies a principle similar to converting a .308 into a .260 to get better usage out of the chamber capacity, but also does it with a more LR-friendly .30-'06+ chamber capacity, while still keeping energies and implements better within the realm of basic reason.
I find that 6-24x40 optics serve adequately at 1Kyd distances. I use an inexpensive Tasco VAR624X42M, which is a SFP Mil-Dot scope with about 75MOA of vertical in 1/4MOA clicks. Works a lot better than the under $100 price tag might indicate.
Greg
My back burner has a .280 Rem LR project that is not moving as quickly as I would like.
I think it embodies a principle similar to converting a .308 into a .260 to get better usage out of the chamber capacity, but also does it with a more LR-friendly .30-'06+ chamber capacity, while still keeping energies and implements better within the realm of basic reason.
I find that 6-24x40 optics serve adequately at 1Kyd distances. I use an inexpensive Tasco VAR624X42M, which is a SFP Mil-Dot scope with about 75MOA of vertical in 1/4MOA clicks. Works a lot better than the under $100 price tag might indicate.
Greg
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
I know were talking rifles here, but it's the package that gets you there... or limits you.
C_bass, you realize that those March scopes only have 60 MOA of internal elevation? When we shot 2300 yds. with my WM, I had a Vortex Razor on a 35 MOA rail, topped out and still had to hold (IIRC) about 5 or 6 mils on the reticle. That scope has 125 MOA of internal adjustment.
Flat shooting cartridge, high BC bullets for the caliber available that stay stable thorough transonic and enough optic to see and still have the internal elevation required... these 3 qualifiers alone limit the options.
I shot a 300WM because it's what I had. But every time we have this discussion, I keep coming back to it because realistically the number of times I have access to 2K yards are actually fairly small and it's really handy to have a rifle that I can use for a lot of other things and not feel like I'm wasting $5/rd. The 300WM or any of the 7 mags. will get you all of a mile at most DA's and are very inexpensive to load for with a myriad of bullets to choose from. They won't stick with the larger custom cartridges in .30 or .338, but it all depends on what your priorities are.
If you can afford to have a rifle *just* for 2-2.5K yd. days, get a 375 CheyTac and be done with it.
John
I know were talking rifles here, but it's the package that gets you there... or limits you.
C_bass, you realize that those March scopes only have 60 MOA of internal elevation? When we shot 2300 yds. with my WM, I had a Vortex Razor on a 35 MOA rail, topped out and still had to hold (IIRC) about 5 or 6 mils on the reticle. That scope has 125 MOA of internal adjustment.
Flat shooting cartridge, high BC bullets for the caliber available that stay stable thorough transonic and enough optic to see and still have the internal elevation required... these 3 qualifiers alone limit the options.
I shot a 300WM because it's what I had. But every time we have this discussion, I keep coming back to it because realistically the number of times I have access to 2K yards are actually fairly small and it's really handy to have a rifle that I can use for a lot of other things and not feel like I'm wasting $5/rd. The 300WM or any of the 7 mags. will get you all of a mile at most DA's and are very inexpensive to load for with a myriad of bullets to choose from. They won't stick with the larger custom cartridges in .30 or .338, but it all depends on what your priorities are.
If you can afford to have a rifle *just* for 2-2.5K yd. days, get a 375 CheyTac and be done with it.
John
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jrob300</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I know were talking rifles here, but it's the package that gets you there... or limits you.
C_bass, you realize that those March scopes only have 60 MOA of internal elevation? When we shot 2300 yds. with my WM, I had a Vortex Razor on a 35 MOA rail, topped out and still had to hold (IIRC) about 5 or 6 mils on the reticle. That scope has 125 MOA of internal adjustment.
John </div></div>
Yes sir, and it's a huge hamstringing hurdle...but that was actually my only reason behind using the bullpup chassis.
When you introduce a 40 MOA rail to a rifle with a long barrel, many times you run into an issue of having the muzzle or suppressor show up in your field of view. Shortening the length, decreases that risk.
I'm not suggesting its ideal, but for my skill set and the ballistics of the caliber...2000 wouldn't be an issue and 2500 would only require minimal hold over.
Using the reticle to full potential would greatly extend that.
If you wanted to up the ante and go with the larger action, then yes, I would agree the 375 would be a fine choice.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jrob300</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I know were talking rifles here, but it's the package that gets you there... or limits you.
C_bass, you realize that those March scopes only have 60 MOA of internal elevation? When we shot 2300 yds. with my WM, I had a Vortex Razor on a 35 MOA rail, topped out and still had to hold (IIRC) about 5 or 6 mils on the reticle. That scope has 125 MOA of internal adjustment.
John </div></div>
Yes sir, and it's a huge hamstringing hurdle...but that was actually my only reason behind using the bullpup chassis.
When you introduce a 40 MOA rail to a rifle with a long barrel, many times you run into an issue of having the muzzle or suppressor show up in your field of view. Shortening the length, decreases that risk.
I'm not suggesting its ideal, but for my skill set and the ballistics of the caliber...2000 wouldn't be an issue and 2500 would only require minimal hold over.
Using the reticle to full potential would greatly extend that.
If you wanted to up the ante and go with the larger action, then yes, I would agree the 375 would be a fine choice.
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
C_bass, just to be clear... I took no issue with your choice of *caliber*. I would LOVE to build a really big .30. It's just impractical on *my* budget. Not everyone here is limited that way
John
C_bass, just to be clear... I took no issue with your choice of *caliber*. I would LOVE to build a really big .30. It's just impractical on *my* budget. Not everyone here is limited that way
John
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
Put Me down for .338 LM I have allot invested in it and It is a great shooter. I have not tried to buy brass for it recently so that could be a factor. I would have to say that .300 Win Mag would be hard to beat as a best overal round.
Put Me down for .338 LM I have allot invested in it and It is a great shooter. I have not tried to buy brass for it recently so that could be a factor. I would have to say that .300 Win Mag would be hard to beat as a best overal round.
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jrob300</div><div class="ubbcode-body">C_bass, just to be clear... I took no issue with your choice of *caliber*. I would LOVE to build a really big .30. It's just impractical on *my* budget. Not everyone here is limited that way
John </div></div>
I didn't take offense. I'd love to build a .375...that would be bitchin, I've sent lead with a 338 Norma and the .416 Barrett, but it's also impractical on my budget. A big .30, (even a wild cat of sorts) would be a lot easier on the wallet than the big boomers.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jrob300</div><div class="ubbcode-body">C_bass, just to be clear... I took no issue with your choice of *caliber*. I would LOVE to build a really big .30. It's just impractical on *my* budget. Not everyone here is limited that way
John </div></div>
I didn't take offense. I'd love to build a .375...that would be bitchin, I've sent lead with a 338 Norma and the .416 Barrett, but it's also impractical on my budget. A big .30, (even a wild cat of sorts) would be a lot easier on the wallet than the big boomers.
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
Are the Allen Mags anything to look at?? I've shot one in 7mm and 338 and they seem to fit the bill.
Are the Allen Mags anything to look at?? I've shot one in 7mm and 338 and they seem to fit the bill.
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
My favorite weapon for shooting ELR? The Swiss army knife. Hell yeah!
My favorite weapon for shooting ELR? The Swiss army knife. Hell yeah!
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
Kirby Allen is most definitely top notch. Equal to Shawn Carlock. And considering his .338AM with 300 SMKs at ~3400fps reaches 3000+ yds supersonic, Id say its ok for LR. Its not cool to have a barrel burner though didnt ya know? lol j/k
BTW, anyone here have a .416 Barrett? What velocities are you getting? The consensus here a few years ago was velocities were quite disappointing and to go with a Cheytac..
Kirby Allen is most definitely top notch. Equal to Shawn Carlock. And considering his .338AM with 300 SMKs at ~3400fps reaches 3000+ yds supersonic, Id say its ok for LR.
BTW, anyone here have a .416 Barrett? What velocities are you getting? The consensus here a few years ago was velocities were quite disappointing and to go with a Cheytac..
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
^^Kinda what I thought but I like second opinions.
^^Kinda what I thought but I like second opinions.
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jbhotrodder</div><div class="ubbcode-body">BTW, anyone here have a .416 Barrett? What velocities are you getting? The consensus here a few years ago was velocities were quite disappointing and to go with a Cheytac.. </div></div>
I've had the pleasure of shooting the M99 in .416...suppressed even, but I don't have access to the dope for the day. Something like 19 minutes at 1150 yds with the 395 factory ammo...but don't quote me.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jbhotrodder</div><div class="ubbcode-body">BTW, anyone here have a .416 Barrett? What velocities are you getting? The consensus here a few years ago was velocities were quite disappointing and to go with a Cheytac.. </div></div>
I've had the pleasure of shooting the M99 in .416...suppressed even, but I don't have access to the dope for the day. Something like 19 minutes at 1150 yds with the 395 factory ammo...but don't quote me.
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
In most cases, .338LM fits nicely - doesn't require a big rifle like a .50BMG, blast and recoil are low enough that shooting 100 rounds in a session isn't unreasonable, and good shooters can make hits at a mile with it while really good shooters can take it beyond a mile. The .375CT is still king of the hill, but I don't think it's balanced in all those areas the way .338LM is.
In most cases, .338LM fits nicely - doesn't require a big rifle like a .50BMG, blast and recoil are low enough that shooting 100 rounds in a session isn't unreasonable, and good shooters can make hits at a mile with it while really good shooters can take it beyond a mile. The .375CT is still king of the hill, but I don't think it's balanced in all those areas the way .338LM is.
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
A Defensive Edge LRKM chambered in .338 Terminator +P. 32" tube. 5 port DE brake, Topped with a 60 moa rail and a Nightforce ATACR in MOA. Sending the 300 gr Berger OTM's. I should have it soon, or by early spring anyway. It's been ordered for 6 months now.
I shot the prototype LRKM to 2550 yards and was so impressed I ordered one.
Jeff
A Defensive Edge LRKM chambered in .338 Terminator +P. 32" tube. 5 port DE brake, Topped with a 60 moa rail and a Nightforce ATACR in MOA. Sending the 300 gr Berger OTM's. I should have it soon, or by early spring anyway. It's been ordered for 6 months now.
I shot the prototype LRKM to 2550 yards and was so impressed I ordered one.
Jeff
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
Jeff, Sounds like an awesome rig.
What's the MV with 300gr Berger in that rifle?
Jeff, Sounds like an awesome rig.
What's the MV with 300gr Berger in that rifle?
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jbhotrodder</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
BTW, anyone here have a .416 Barrett? What velocities are you getting? The consensus here a few years ago was velocities were quite disappointing and to go with a Cheytac.. </div></div>
sure have, we chrono'd it last year pushing the 395 solids over 3200... add the Elite Iron Windtalker, and you've got yourself a boomer that literally hisses, and is a pleasure to shoot... been so damn busy with filming, I haven't gotten to work with her much, I've taken my Norma to over 2K with the 300 OTM's successfully, I NEED to take the 99 past 3K, I just want to document it all, so when the bs flag gets thrown, I've gotten some back up... I can also advise, I don't have the reloading components for the 416 but if you shoot like us, you better start investing.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: jbhotrodder</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
BTW, anyone here have a .416 Barrett? What velocities are you getting? The consensus here a few years ago was velocities were quite disappointing and to go with a Cheytac.. </div></div>
sure have, we chrono'd it last year pushing the 395 solids over 3200... add the Elite Iron Windtalker, and you've got yourself a boomer that literally hisses, and is a pleasure to shoot... been so damn busy with filming, I haven't gotten to work with her much, I've taken my Norma to over 2K with the 300 OTM's successfully, I NEED to take the 99 past 3K, I just want to document it all, so when the bs flag gets thrown, I've gotten some back up... I can also advise, I don't have the reloading components for the 416 but if you shoot like us, you better start investing.
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
I say to with a 338 edge and top it with a nightforce.
I say to with a 338 edge and top it with a nightforce.
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: MontanaMarine</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Jeff, Sounds like an awesome rig.
What's the MV with 300gr Berger in that rifle? </div></div>
Thanks, not sure yet as mine will be the first .338 Terminator +P. But I will be pretty disappointed if I am not north of 3150 by a ways.
Jeff
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: MontanaMarine</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Jeff, Sounds like an awesome rig.
What's the MV with 300gr Berger in that rifle? </div></div>
Thanks, not sure yet as mine will be the first .338 Terminator +P. But I will be pretty disappointed if I am not north of 3150 by a ways.
Jeff
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
That's impressive. Should be some serious LR medicine.
That's impressive. Should be some serious LR medicine.
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: MontanaMarine</div><div class="ubbcode-body">That's impressive. Should be some serious LR medicine. </div></div>
We will have to go out and try it on some of your favorite rocks.
Jeff
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: MontanaMarine</div><div class="ubbcode-body">That's impressive. Should be some serious LR medicine. </div></div>
We will have to go out and try it on some of your favorite rocks.
Jeff
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
You bet, just let me know when!
You bet, just let me know when!
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
What are you considering long range? There are a ton of calibers that can reach out to 2000yds.
7mms
30 cals
338s
375s
it really depends on what you consider long range...I love the 7mm wildcats shooting the high BC bullets 7mm are known for like the 180, or 30 cal wildcats...the wildcats like 300RUM or 30-378 (to name two) can throw the heavier 30 cal bullets at sick velocities...hard to beat a 338 though...eaisly reach beyond a mile.
My vote goes to a 338 or 375 wildcat...they are awesome rounds! yes expensive but hard to beat.
What are you considering long range? There are a ton of calibers that can reach out to 2000yds.
7mms
30 cals
338s
375s
it really depends on what you consider long range...I love the 7mm wildcats shooting the high BC bullets 7mm are known for like the 180, or 30 cal wildcats...the wildcats like 300RUM or 30-378 (to name two) can throw the heavier 30 cal bullets at sick velocities...hard to beat a 338 though...eaisly reach beyond a mile.
My vote goes to a 338 or 375 wildcat...they are awesome rounds! yes expensive but hard to beat.
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
I have tried this many of these
1 .284 BAER
3 .308 BAER
8 300 WIN - Still own one , who doesn't
5 300 Ultra
4 338 lapua
1 30/338 lapua
But I have settled on a 300 Norma Mag ( Thanks Dave Tooley for the advice) and have never look back
I have tried this many of these
1 .284 BAER
3 .308 BAER
8 300 WIN - Still own one , who doesn't
5 300 Ultra
4 338 lapua
1 30/338 lapua
But I have settled on a 300 Norma Mag ( Thanks Dave Tooley for the advice) and have never look back
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
I have a .416 Barrett a AX338 lap and a 300RUM. All will go ELR but it all depends on the accuracy you are looking for and the budget you have to feed them. I reload so it's not bad but out of these three, I find the AX to be the better platform. That being said, there is a huge difference in cost for these as a 300RUM is relatively inexpensive. The Barrett is around 5k while the AX came in at 14k. Now back to the original question, if I could only have one, it would be the 338
I have a .416 Barrett a AX338 lap and a 300RUM. All will go ELR but it all depends on the accuracy you are looking for and the budget you have to feed them. I reload so it's not bad but out of these three, I find the AX to be the better platform. That being said, there is a huge difference in cost for these as a 300RUM is relatively inexpensive. The Barrett is around 5k while the AX came in at 14k. Now back to the original question, if I could only have one, it would be the 338
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
I just finished my new long range "Old School" rifle. A Weatherby long magnum action. Shillen heavy Chrome Molly barrel 30" long. J&P muzzle brake and a modified synthetic Winchester stock,glass bedded.
I chose a cartridge I have always had good luck with, hoping some day a "proper" bullet was made. And a powder to push it.
My rifle is in 8MM Remington Magnum. With the new bullets from Sierra and Hornandy weighing 200 grains and over a charge of St. Marks-Hodgdon 100V, I can push the bullet to almost 3,350 FPS with a chamber pressure of 49,000 PSI. Rumor has it one of the bullet makers has a 220 grain match bullet in the works. That would be nice.
The final scope is still up for grabs. I'm using a 20 power Eagle Eye Optic now to work up a good long range load. The scope has 25 MOA of adjustment. It does an OK job so far.
The rifle is still being broken in. A steel gong set to 1,400 yards was easy to hit after the spotter doped the wind right.
When our windy season is over in a few weeks, I'll join the ranges Mile-Club and see how the rifle shoots.
So far the new powder and bullets really seems to be a good combination.
Brass is still around and not expensive compared to other calibers. The recoil is tamed down too almost nothing due to the brake, the rifle is still light enough it can be humped into the bush by my old bones. And you hunters know what a great cartridge the 8MM Remington Magnum really is.
I just finished my new long range "Old School" rifle. A Weatherby long magnum action. Shillen heavy Chrome Molly barrel 30" long. J&P muzzle brake and a modified synthetic Winchester stock,glass bedded.
I chose a cartridge I have always had good luck with, hoping some day a "proper" bullet was made. And a powder to push it.
My rifle is in 8MM Remington Magnum. With the new bullets from Sierra and Hornandy weighing 200 grains and over a charge of St. Marks-Hodgdon 100V, I can push the bullet to almost 3,350 FPS with a chamber pressure of 49,000 PSI. Rumor has it one of the bullet makers has a 220 grain match bullet in the works. That would be nice.
The final scope is still up for grabs. I'm using a 20 power Eagle Eye Optic now to work up a good long range load. The scope has 25 MOA of adjustment. It does an OK job so far.
The rifle is still being broken in. A steel gong set to 1,400 yards was easy to hit after the spotter doped the wind right.
When our windy season is over in a few weeks, I'll join the ranges Mile-Club and see how the rifle shoots.
So far the new powder and bullets really seems to be a good combination.
Brass is still around and not expensive compared to other calibers. The recoil is tamed down too almost nothing due to the brake, the rifle is still light enough it can be humped into the bush by my old bones. And you hunters know what a great cartridge the 8MM Remington Magnum really is.
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Rapidrob</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I just finished my new long range "Old School" rifle. A Weatherby long magnum action. Shillen heavy Chrome Molly barrel 30" long. J&P muzzle brake and a modified synthetic Winchester stock,glass bedded.
I chose a cartridge I have always had good luck with, hoping some day a "proper" bullet was made. And a powder to push it.
My rifle is in 8MM Remington Magnum. With the new bullets from Sierra and Hornandy weighing 200 grains and over a charge of St. Marks-Hodgdon 100V, I can push the bullet to almost 3,350 FPS with a chamber pressure of 49,000 PSI. Rumor has it one of the bullet makers has a 220 grain match bullet in the works. That would be nice.
The final scope is still up for grabs. I'm using a 20 power Eagle Eye Optic now to work up a good long range load. The scope has 25 MOA of adjustment. It does an OK job so far.
The rifle is still being broken in. A steel gong set to 1,400 yards was easy to hit after the spotter doped the wind right.
When our windy season is over in a few weeks, I'll join the ranges Mile-Club and see how the rifle shoots.
So far the new powder and bullets really seems to be a good combination.
Brass is still around and not expensive compared to other calibers. The recoil is tamed down too almost nothing due to the brake, the rifle is still light enough it can be humped into the bush by my old bones. And you hunters know what a great cartridge the 8MM Remington Magnum really is.
</div></div>
This is an awesome addition to this post. I've never personally thought about 8mm. Sounds like is should be a winner with the heavier pills. What's the BC of the bullets your currently using? I hope to hear more about this round. Please post in this forum some of your shooting experiences with this round and your rifle.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Rapidrob</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I just finished my new long range "Old School" rifle. A Weatherby long magnum action. Shillen heavy Chrome Molly barrel 30" long. J&P muzzle brake and a modified synthetic Winchester stock,glass bedded.
I chose a cartridge I have always had good luck with, hoping some day a "proper" bullet was made. And a powder to push it.
My rifle is in 8MM Remington Magnum. With the new bullets from Sierra and Hornandy weighing 200 grains and over a charge of St. Marks-Hodgdon 100V, I can push the bullet to almost 3,350 FPS with a chamber pressure of 49,000 PSI. Rumor has it one of the bullet makers has a 220 grain match bullet in the works. That would be nice.
The final scope is still up for grabs. I'm using a 20 power Eagle Eye Optic now to work up a good long range load. The scope has 25 MOA of adjustment. It does an OK job so far.
The rifle is still being broken in. A steel gong set to 1,400 yards was easy to hit after the spotter doped the wind right.
When our windy season is over in a few weeks, I'll join the ranges Mile-Club and see how the rifle shoots.
So far the new powder and bullets really seems to be a good combination.
Brass is still around and not expensive compared to other calibers. The recoil is tamed down too almost nothing due to the brake, the rifle is still light enough it can be humped into the bush by my old bones. And you hunters know what a great cartridge the 8MM Remington Magnum really is.
</div></div>
This is an awesome addition to this post. I've never personally thought about 8mm. Sounds like is should be a winner with the heavier pills. What's the BC of the bullets your currently using? I hope to hear more about this round. Please post in this forum some of your shooting experiences with this round and your rifle.
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Bhobbs</div><div class="ubbcode-body">.30-06
Well my only ELR capable rifle can count as my favorite right? </div></div>
Same story here Bhobbs, mine is my 260
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Bhobbs</div><div class="ubbcode-body">.30-06
Well my only ELR capable rifle can count as my favorite right? </div></div>
Same story here Bhobbs, mine is my 260
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
Both bullets are showing a BC of .520. Not the best out there, but so much better than in the past.
The really outstanding addition is Hodgdons 100V powder. Being one of the new Hybrid propellants from St.Marks, it is hitting the shooting world like a bomb. You get the highest velocities you have ever seen with low chamber pressures. Data is being formulated by shooters and the feed back is very positive. So far I have seen no pressure signs and I have not worked up the max load yet. Once I get this barrel "broken-in" I hope to see some impressive down range results.
Both bullets are showing a BC of .520. Not the best out there, but so much better than in the past.
The really outstanding addition is Hodgdons 100V powder. Being one of the new Hybrid propellants from St.Marks, it is hitting the shooting world like a bomb. You get the highest velocities you have ever seen with low chamber pressures. Data is being formulated by shooters and the feed back is very positive. So far I have seen no pressure signs and I have not worked up the max load yet. Once I get this barrel "broken-in" I hope to see some impressive down range results.
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
How would yall with the .416 Barrett compare it to the .375 Cheytac? Because theres some .375 Cheytac-Imp`s out there that are just about perfect for ELR imo. Kiwi Greg on longrangehunting is launching 425gr CE solids at 3100fps in his .375 DCM. Not sure on the numbers for that one but Id think that would be supersonic out past 3000+ yards?? Not trying to rag on yalls rifle but a few years ago I dont think there was a single person on SH that gave a vote in favor of the .416.
How would yall with the .416 Barrett compare it to the .375 Cheytac? Because theres some .375 Cheytac-Imp`s out there that are just about perfect for ELR imo. Kiwi Greg on longrangehunting is launching 425gr CE solids at 3100fps in his .375 DCM. Not sure on the numbers for that one but Id think that would be supersonic out past 3000+ yards?? Not trying to rag on yalls rifle but a few years ago I dont think there was a single person on SH that gave a vote in favor of the .416.
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
Here is the new rifle:
The barrel is a custom taper and weighs six pounds. It has a crown to match the muzzle brake mating surface with no indexing washer. The barrel is stressed relieved.
The stock is a Winchester Model 70 synthetic fully glass bedded and tuned for barrel nodes. Gun-Kote OD green was painted onto the surface and baked on.
The muzzle brake is made by J&P and has been reamed .040 larger than the .323 bullet.
The trigger has been set to two pounds.
The action is a Wetherby/Howa Long action. The bolt and lugs have been honed to match.
The receiver's right side has been relieved to allow a loaded round to be ejected.
The chamber was cut with a custom reamer giving me the throat and lead I wanted. My rounds are not made to Remington specs and will not fit in the 700 action.
Here is the new rifle:
The barrel is a custom taper and weighs six pounds. It has a crown to match the muzzle brake mating surface with no indexing washer. The barrel is stressed relieved.
The stock is a Winchester Model 70 synthetic fully glass bedded and tuned for barrel nodes. Gun-Kote OD green was painted onto the surface and baked on.
The muzzle brake is made by J&P and has been reamed .040 larger than the .323 bullet.
The trigger has been set to two pounds.
The action is a Wetherby/Howa Long action. The bolt and lugs have been honed to match.
The receiver's right side has been relieved to allow a loaded round to be ejected.
The chamber was cut with a custom reamer giving me the throat and lead I wanted. My rounds are not made to Remington specs and will not fit in the 700 action.
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
RANGE REPORT 2/13/13
I was able to get to the range today and try out some loads. It was cold and windy. Clear sky. I brought 80 rounds with me and my shooting-partner,Scotsman, showed up just to spot for me.
I did not zero the scope other than to make sure the adjustable mounts for the scope we centered on the receiver.
My first shot was at a small gong set too 200 meters. It was off target at 7 o'clock 10" out. A few clicks of the dials and it was hitting dead center. At 200 meters the bullet struck the target the same time you heard the report. The FMJ 150 grain bullets were blowing holes through the 3/4" mild steel gong as if it was not there.
We moved the target out to 500 meters and Ron doped the wind for me. The pulled Turk 150 grain bullets are moving so fast that they are still blowing holes through the target even at 500 meters. Not wanting to make Swiss-Cheese out of my target, I went to the 185 grain Remington Core-Loc flat base, soft point bullet. This was over 82 grains of IMR-4831 powder.
The J&P muzzle brake is loud as one would expect, but the good news is,there is no recoil. I'm talking less than shooting an AR-15 with 55 grain bullets. A light weight .22 Hornet load recoils more when I shoot the Turk 150 grainers.
As I wrote, it was windy. 15 MPH pretty steady,left to right.
The speed of the bullet is so fast that wind was not a problem at 500 meters.
Firing from the bench and really taking my time between shots we found my rifle was shooting 2 1/2" groups at 500 meters!
And this while fire-forming the brass to my chamber! After 50 rounds down range to break in the new barrel, we drove down and took cell phone photo's of the groups I shot. Still ,some of the soft pointed bullets were blowing holes right through the plate!
Ron my spotter told me afterword that none of the bullets 150-200 grainers had ever left his line of sight due to the flat trajectory.
It was too windy for the CHRONI to be set up. I can only guess at the velocity by my computer program.
The long barrel did what I designed it to do. All of the heavy charges of normal and .50 BMG powders burned fully. The barrel did not string any of the shots. If I did my part, all rounds stayed close to one another. Barrel heat after 50 rounds in 30 minutes was not excessive, and you could grab the barrel and hold it in your hand. There is no build up of deposits on the muzzle brake. This is another plus.
Now I have to tweak my loads. Play with primers,bullet seating depth, change powders and bullets weights to see just what the rifle will do.
I will post the crappy cell phone photos later on tonight. I don't have the chip reader with me.
In all, I am very happy with the build. With the new powders and bullets I hope this will be one of the best rifles I have ever owned.
RANGE REPORT 2/13/13
I was able to get to the range today and try out some loads. It was cold and windy. Clear sky. I brought 80 rounds with me and my shooting-partner,Scotsman, showed up just to spot for me.
I did not zero the scope other than to make sure the adjustable mounts for the scope we centered on the receiver.
My first shot was at a small gong set too 200 meters. It was off target at 7 o'clock 10" out. A few clicks of the dials and it was hitting dead center. At 200 meters the bullet struck the target the same time you heard the report. The FMJ 150 grain bullets were blowing holes through the 3/4" mild steel gong as if it was not there.
We moved the target out to 500 meters and Ron doped the wind for me. The pulled Turk 150 grain bullets are moving so fast that they are still blowing holes through the target even at 500 meters. Not wanting to make Swiss-Cheese out of my target, I went to the 185 grain Remington Core-Loc flat base, soft point bullet. This was over 82 grains of IMR-4831 powder.
The J&P muzzle brake is loud as one would expect, but the good news is,there is no recoil. I'm talking less than shooting an AR-15 with 55 grain bullets. A light weight .22 Hornet load recoils more when I shoot the Turk 150 grainers.
As I wrote, it was windy. 15 MPH pretty steady,left to right.
The speed of the bullet is so fast that wind was not a problem at 500 meters.
Firing from the bench and really taking my time between shots we found my rifle was shooting 2 1/2" groups at 500 meters!
And this while fire-forming the brass to my chamber! After 50 rounds down range to break in the new barrel, we drove down and took cell phone photo's of the groups I shot. Still ,some of the soft pointed bullets were blowing holes right through the plate!
Ron my spotter told me afterword that none of the bullets 150-200 grainers had ever left his line of sight due to the flat trajectory.
It was too windy for the CHRONI to be set up. I can only guess at the velocity by my computer program.
The long barrel did what I designed it to do. All of the heavy charges of normal and .50 BMG powders burned fully. The barrel did not string any of the shots. If I did my part, all rounds stayed close to one another. Barrel heat after 50 rounds in 30 minutes was not excessive, and you could grab the barrel and hold it in your hand. There is no build up of deposits on the muzzle brake. This is another plus.
Now I have to tweak my loads. Play with primers,bullet seating depth, change powders and bullets weights to see just what the rifle will do.
I will post the crappy cell phone photos later on tonight. I don't have the chip reader with me.
In all, I am very happy with the build. With the new powders and bullets I hope this will be one of the best rifles I have ever owned.
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 78steeler</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I would like to know if you could have one rifle for ELR what would it be? What caliber? Scope? Why would you choose the combo that you did? </div></div>For what kind of ELR shooting? How E is the LR?
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: 78steeler</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I would like to know if you could have one rifle for ELR what would it be? What caliber? Scope? Why would you choose the combo that you did? </div></div>For what kind of ELR shooting? How E is the LR?
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
Most of the guys are starting at 1,000 yards and going out to a mile or so.
The rifle I just built will be my mile rifle.
Most of the guys are starting at 1,000 yards and going out to a mile or so.
The rifle I just built will be my mile rifle.
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
Any .300WM will do it with the right bullets, and cheaply.
Otherwise, I'd go with a custom-barreled AWM in .338.
TBAC .338BA
And a 5-25 of your choice: Either an older SB or the new Steiner/MSR.
Why? Reliability. Durability. Factory Ammo availability.
Any .300WM will do it with the right bullets, and cheaply.
Otherwise, I'd go with a custom-barreled AWM in .338.
TBAC .338BA
And a 5-25 of your choice: Either an older SB or the new Steiner/MSR.
Why? Reliability. Durability. Factory Ammo availability.
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
Would 1500 be considered elr?? If so mines a 6.5 Creedmor. .300 win mag with a 208 amax too
Would 1500 be considered elr?? If so mines a 6.5 Creedmor. .300 win mag with a 208 amax too
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
140 vld at 2880 27" bartlein
140 vld at 2880 27" bartlein
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
375 Cheytac with a 5.5-22X Nightforce. 1-10 twist Krieger barrel on a Stillers TAC 408 action.
375 Cheytac with a 5.5-22X Nightforce. 1-10 twist Krieger barrel on a Stillers TAC 408 action.
Re: Favorite rifle, caliber, for ELR shooting?
I picked up a Vortex scope and tried my loads for grouping at 200 meters. If the loads perform at this close distance, they should hold true at much further range as long as the stay super-sonic.
I fired the round over a Chronie and was getting 3,100 fps with a 200 grain Sierra Match King. No pressure signs, i can push the bullet faster.
Five shots after a sighter shot at 3 o'clock,200 meters.
I picked up a Vortex scope and tried my loads for grouping at 200 meters. If the loads perform at this close distance, they should hold true at much further range as long as the stay super-sonic.
I fired the round over a Chronie and was getting 3,100 fps with a 200 grain Sierra Match King. No pressure signs, i can push the bullet faster.
Five shots after a sighter shot at 3 o'clock,200 meters.
AWSM 338 LM - 1-in-10, 27" "factory" barrel, S&B 5-25 MSR, Spuhr 13 MIL mount
300g Lapua Scenar @ 2790 fps via 91.5g H1000, 3.720 OAL, CCI #250, Lapua brass with .004 neck tension.
300g Lapua Scenar @ 2790 fps via 91.5g H1000, 3.720 OAL, CCI #250, Lapua brass with .004 neck tension.
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For an all around caliber, I live and will die by the 338 Lapua. Ward B swears by the 338 Norma. Chris K (God rest) did a lot of killing with a GAP 300 Win Mag. Monty LC sent a load of Hajis to the 72 Virgins Dating Service with an EDM 408. Steve R likes his DTA 375. For the best ballistics out past 3000 yards the 408 is unbeatable. Nothing even comes close but the 375. It will be interesting to see what the results are once DTA gets their 408 HTI out to market and shoots a side by side comparison with their 375 and 408 systems out to 3600 yards. Nick Y will be the go to guy for that shoot off. For a scope I would take a hard look at US Optics and NightForce. There are many very good US manufactured scopes, no real need to go foreign import for good glass, but it is your time and money. We are shooting an EDM 408 with 45 MOA rail, and the Surgeon 338 with 50 MOA, 56mm. No scope/barrel interference, both long barrel rifles. To each his own at the end of the day.
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338 lapua Imp,A-5 stock,Surgeon single shot action,30" 1:9:5 broughton or brux, 300 berger otm
cheaper to shoot than my 375-408!
cheaper to shoot than my 375-408!
x2 for the 300 norma
