First post - I searched first!

[CBRpilot]

I've browsed the forums a bit here and there over the last year as I toyed with getting into longer range shooting. I searched for a while, trying to find information for the best possible way to mount optics to my X-bolt in .300 WSM. I know it's not the most popular round, but it has good enough ballistics for me to not consider the cost of upgrading my rifle quite yet.

So the X-bolt has a "unique" (re: pain in my ass) bolt pattern to mount rings to. I'm selling my Nikon Monarch 4-12x44 w/ BDC reticle for something more fitting to shooting 500+ yards. I haven't purchased yet, but I'm pretty set on Vortex Viper PST 6-24x50 for my optics. As I've learned, optics are only as good as the system they're mounted to, and with the rifle not changing, the only other variable is how I mount it. I haven't found any *GOOD* basic ring style setups for this action. I think I want to rail mount with a 20 MOA Badger rail and either Badger or Aadland Dual Lug rings. However, I also feel that adding one more link between the rifle and the optic only leaves more room for error.

Could I get some opinions are how to best mount this Vortex scope to the X-bolt action? Price isn't necessarily a deterrent at this point, I just want to have the most solid possible setup. Thanks in advance for any help/pointers.

 

[strike33]

you might want to check out Murphy precision for a base. I have no idea off the top of my head if they make one fur the xbolt but they offer quite a a few options and do custom work as well.

 

[CBRpilot]

Murphy does make the 0, 10, and 20 MOA bases for the X-bolt. I read in a post earlier (from a couple years ago) that in order to use a picatinny mounted optic with my action, it requires cutting some of the material from the outside lugs using a dremel tool, otherwise you can't clamp to the rail properly. I would hate to pay $120-$160 for the rail from Murphy, only to mount and then CUT the bolts after installing. I'd imagine that the bolts would be damn near impossible to remove after that...which is why I'm getting frustrated. Maybe someone has gone this route before and could shine some more recent light on it.

 

[beretta_man11]

if you don't want to add a pic rail, check out talley's 30mm rings, i've had really good luck with them!

 

[WhiteHorze]

I've looked at the Xbolt and yeah, you're screwed.

Seriously, unless this is a 1/2 MOA rifle, don't chop it. Start with a Savage or a Remington and save yourself the headaches...