223 Weatherby Vanguard input

[Yosh]

Hey, I have the vanguard 2 in 223. Been shooting targets and groundhogs out to 300ish yards for past couple years. Dont expect to go any further. Any suggestions on budget upgrades? Or should I save for Tikka ? I currently use a rather cheap vortex 3-9. Scope is first thing on list.
Thanks for any thoughts

 

[RTH1800]

If it’s doing it’s job efficiently why change?
If it’s letting you down figure out where and correct it if you can.

 

[CaptNemo]

Upgrade the scope and mounts / rings if needed.
If the OEM stock doesn't fit you well, a chassis is worth considering if that model is made by Howa.

 

[RTH1800]

Keep in mind if you start down the trail of upgrades you will end up very deep in a rifle that might not still be exactly what you are looking for long term.
If you are shooting GH inside 500m a .204 will be much more deadly.

 

[BurnOut]

Assuming that the trigger is the same piece as the Howa HACT, mod the trigger (plenty of how-to vids on the Interwebz), scope upgrade (as was mentioned), and honestly, a Boyd's Pro Varmint stock in the finish of your choice. Perhaps a custom bolt knob if you're feeling frisky.

Other than that, shoot, and enjoy!

 

[Shankin]

Mod the trigger - free.

KRG Bolt Lift if your bolt handle isn’t threaded. They are advertised as being only for Remmy 700’s, but they are easily modded to fit the Howa/Vangaurds - $25-$30.

Atlas CAL bipod - $260-$320 on their site.

KRG Bravo chassis for a Howa 1500 if it’s still in the factory stock - $439.00 on the KRG website... might be had cheaper elsewhere.

Scope and rings as mentioned above - however much you are willing to spend.

Hand load if you aren’t already - you can spend I good bit here.... how far do you wanna chase the dragon?

 

[stilesg57]

.... how far do you wanna chase the dragon?

That’s the real question.

You definitely don’t need a Tikka. Mod the trigger, upgrade your glass, upgrade the stock, and that Howa will take you out as far as the .223 will go.

 

[Subwrx300]

Personally, I've owned several Howas/Vanguards. The first thing you can do to improve consistentcy is swap out the stock or at the very least bed the action. If it's a fiberglass stock, it is likely pretty good. If plastic, toss it and get a KRG Bravo, Manners stock, MDT chassis, or MPA chassis. I've watched multiple Howas go from .7-1.2 moa down to .5 or better by bedding into a quality stock.

Also check the trigger; if you have the HACT trigger it's pretty good as it sits but a Timney set to 1.5-2lbs could help considerably.

Beyond that, it's chasing the rabbit with handloads, better barrels, different bullets etc. All of which adds time and cost quickly.

 

[stilesg57]

Also check the trigger; if you have the HACT trigger it's pretty good as it sits but a Timney set to 1.5-2lbs could help considerably.

You can get the HACT down to 1.5-2lbs pretty easily yourself. No question I’d save the money and skip the Timney; put that cash towards a stock or better glass.