Building a custom bolt action rifle.

[Vitorum]

So I don't mean to be misleading by my heading. I'm actually having someone build it for me. I would rather a professional take on the precision work that I desire considering they are much more qualified. Also the caliber I'm wanting doesn't exist in a modern rifle I can build to my desired design. I have found two companies that will build custom rifles one of which has already contacted me and given me an estimation on my desired build. I just need to know who I can get the best deal from and if they are reliable. So far http://www.hankinscustomrifles.com/ has replyed and I'm still waiting to hear back from http://jenseprecision.com/. I know jense has built customers rifles who are part of this forum. There is a link from his sight to this forum. Here is the email I sent out

"<span style="color: #000066">Hello I was looking over your website and was very impressed with you work. While I'm not what you would call a precision marksman by any means I definitely hope to improve that. The way I see it, I would rather spend a little more money on a custom rifle that I will one day be able to utilize at maximum potential instead of learning on a factory rifle and then buying and replacing parts for better more effective ones. I'm a big fan of the Remington 700 rifle. But unfortunately for me my particular desired caliber to shoot doesn't exist on any of their formats or any other modern day bolt action that I'm aware of. So I was wondering if you are able to build a rifle from the ground up for me. I'm not as familuar with bolt actions as AR-15s so please bare with me on my attempts at describing what I would like. I would like a decent bolt action rifle featuring the fallowing parts: caliber = 7.62x54r, 26" Stainless steel fluted bull barrel with a thread pattern to accept the proper comp/suppressor for 7.52x54r bullet, 2lb trigger, a decently smool action with oversized tactical knob, 10 round box magazine, full picatinny scope mount, Burris 8-32X50mm Black Diamond Rifle Scope (Most affordable one you can find, optics planet has them discounted right now for $800...dont know if you couple get one cheaper?) and finally a bell and carlson tactical stock in flat black. Please keep in mind that I'm trying to figure out the best price I can get so I have asked other designers as well. Also I'm in the process of building a $3k AR-15 so it might be quite some time before I have the funds to have you build this ( If at all possible) rifle for me. Please let me know as soon as you can, but to your convenience . It would be most appreciated. Also please let me know how much I would be looking at paying for this build. If there is any advice or additional information/parts you would like to inform me of please feel free to do so. I'm not sure if it is possible considering my lack of complete knowledge concerning these rounds but I want to be able to reach 1000 yards one day with this rifle. I'm more of a plinkster right now and I know there are better rounds out there but I like to stay on the affordable side of ammo considering my income. But I would love a really nice rifle at a reasonably affordable price. Thank you so much for your time. I hope to hear from you soon and that you are able to accommodate my request. Have a great day</span>. "

Here is what Mr. Henkins sent in reply for the Rifle build only, <span style="font-weight: bold"><span style="font-style: italic">Scope not included in price</span></span>:

"<span style="color: #000066">> Yes I can build that rifle for you,,, the cost would be around $2500.00 give or take a few.

> When you are ready to build let me know.....</span> "

Now do you think that is a reasonable price considering my request? I only ask because I don't want to get ripped of and like I said I've also contacted Jense Precision as I previously stated just to get a comparison. Let me know what you think. Thanks so much and sorry for the long read.

 

[Wylie Custom]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

If the gunsmith is supplying all parts minus the scope then it seems about normal. I could buy all the parts and send them to a smith for about that price except I would have a custom action.

 

[Shortdraw]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

The 7.62x54 is a poor choice for a custom rifle. Trying to save money on ammunition is not going to give you the precision you want to shoot at any distance. Not to say it can't be done but there are many many better choices out there. Spend a few months here reading and your build specs will change. You will thank me later.

 

[Vitorum]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

Well I have actually been around for a little over a year so far but I've been so focused on my AR-15 build I'm just burnt out on trying to build a custom bolt action. I would prefer the 308 but It's a lot more expensive. I want a round that will reach out to 1000 yards and has the power to bring down large game in case I decide to take up hunting one day. What kind of custom action would you guys recommend. I've search around and it seems to be a lot harder to find what I want from a bolt action then an AR-15. I want to spend a little as possible on ammo only because I don't make very much but I want to shoot a lot. What caliber would you recommend for what I described

 

[yote_slayer31]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

22LR. Its cheep and killed more deer than a 308.

 

[Vitorum]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Big_Country31</div><div class="ubbcode-body">22LR. Its cheep and killed more deer than a 308. </div></div>

lol got them. I dont think they can reach 1k yards though *wink*

 

[STR]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

Barrel you described, about $400.00, Remington action new from a donor rifle about $500.00, Timnry trigger, about $150.00, NF rail, $150.00, high quality stock from McMillan or Manners about $700.00, bottom metal to accept a DBM with 10 rounds is about $350.00.

For a total of $2250.00 in parts, yeah, I'd say he's giving his work away.

What you described is more around $3200.00 from a quality builder.

Not being a smart ass, so please don't be insulted, but when you call a custom shop and tell them you have little money to spend on a custom toy, and then add that you're actually just window shopping (wasting his time), is not the thing to do.
Now all the great smiths on this site know you are just window shopping, instead of buying.

Do as you please, but I would read a lot of what's on this site, as there is a lot of great info here about what you want. No one wants to get ripped off, but I can assure you that a good quality smith will not do that. His reputation as a builder, business man, and gentelman depend on his service to his customer.

I wish you the best of luck if you seek a gunsmith outside of here, because you don't need luck if you hire any of the very well known ones on Snipers Hide.

 

[Vitorum]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: STR</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Barrel you described, about $400.00, Remington action new from a donor rifle about $500.00, Timnry trigger, about $150.00, NF rail, $150.00, high quality stock from McMillan or Manners about $700.00, bottom metal to accept a DBM with 10 rounds is about $350.00.

For a total of $2250.00 in parts, yeah, I'd say he's giving his work away.

What you described is more around $3200.00 from a quality builder.

Not being a smart ass, so please don't be insulted, but when you call a custom shop and tell them you have little money to spend on a custom toy, and then add that you're actually just window shopping (wasting his time), is not the thing to do.
Now all the great smiths on this site know you are just window shopping, instead of buying.

Do as you please, but I would read a lot of what's on this site, as there is a lot of great info here about what you want. No one wants to get ripped off, but I can assure you that a good quality smith will not do that. His reputation as a builder, business man, and gentelman depend on his service to his customer.

I wish you the best of luck if you seek a gunsmith outside of here, because you don't need luck if you hire any of the very well known ones on Snipers Hide. </div></div>

Ok, no problem. Thanks for the advice.

Where could I find one of the smiths on here once I'm ready to build?

 

[Vitorum]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

What are some good websites to buy custom parts for a bolt action rifle?

 

[ranger1183]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

<span style="font-weight: bold"><span style="font-style: italic">RUN</span></span>, do not walk away from the 7.62x54R for a custom build.

I have a very strong mauser action specifically built for rimmed cartridges "blow up" in my face yesterday shooting surplus 7.62x54R. The stuff I was shooting is Bulgarian Yellow tip, 182 grain, 1955 manufacture.

http://62x54r.net/MosinID/MosinAmmo016.htm

The extractor became shrapnel in my face on the 9th shot. I'm lucky to still have my vision. Excellent quality reamer (JGS), barrel (Krieger) and action (Mauser).

I think the temptation to use surplus ammo, which is why I built the rifle in the first place, is to great. Pick another cartridge and forget about any mystique regarding the "Russian .30-06" (7.62x54R). It's hype and NOT worth the risk.

 

[STR]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: ranger1183</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><span style="font-weight: bold"><span style="font-style: italic">RUN</span></span>, do not walk away from the 7.62x54R for a custom build.

I have a very strong mauser action specifically built for rimmed cartridges "blow up" in my face yesterday shooting surplus 7.62x54R. The stuff I was shooting is Bulgarian Yellow tip, 182 grain, 1955 manufacture.

http://62x54r.net/MosinID/MosinAmmo016.htm

The extractor became shrapnel in my face on the 9th shot. I'm lucky to still have my vision. Excellent quality reamer (JGS), barrel (Krieger) and action (Mauser).

I think the temptation to use surplus ammo, which is why I built the rifle in the first place, is to great. Pick another cartridge and forget about any mystique regarding the "Russian .30-06" (7.62x54R). It's hype and NOT worth the risk. </div></div>


Correct, this has it's place in the world, but it's not at home in a precision rifle.
Mark Gordon at Short Action Custom or William Roscoe at LA Precision are both extremely good rifle builders, business men, and gentelmen that care about their customers. They run their own business, and do the gun building them selves. There are other good ones here, but I can only recommend the ones I feel I know well enough.


They are very, very busy, so when you are ready to build, give either a call. You will not be sorry. Again, best of luck, and welcome to the addiction of precision.

 

[Vitorum]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: ranger1183</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><span style="font-weight: bold"><span style="font-style: italic">RUN</span></span>, do not walk away from the 7.62x54R for a custom build.

I have a very strong mauser action specifically built for rimmed cartridges "blow up" in my face yesterday shooting surplus 7.62x54R. The stuff I was shooting is Bulgarian Yellow tip, 182 grain, 1955 manufacture.

http://62x54r.net/MosinID/MosinAmmo016.htm

The extractor became shrapnel in my face on the 9th shot. I'm lucky to still have my vision. Excellent quality reamer (JGS), barrel (Krieger) and action (Mauser).

I think the temptation to use surplus ammo, which is why I built the rifle in the first place, is to great. Pick another cartridge and forget about any mystique regarding the "Russian .30-06" (7.62x54R). It's hype and NOT worth the risk. </div></div>

OMG! That's crazy man. I' glad you informed me of this and even more importantly that you were not hurt. Well I'm sold. That's enough to scare me. 308 it is then. That was my second choice.
I've only ever heard and experienced good things about it. It's not to expensive when you put it that way.

 

[Vitorum]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: STR</div><div class="ubbcode-body">


Correct, this has it's place in the world, but it's not at home in a precision rifle.
Mark Gordon at Short Action Custom or William Roscoe at LA Precision are both extremely good rifle builders, business men, and gentelmen that care about their customers. They run their own business, and do the gun building them selves. There are other good ones here, but I can only recommend the ones I feel I know well enough.


They are very, very busy, so when you are ready to build, give either a call. You will not be sorry. Again, best of luck, and welcome to the addiction of precision. </div></div>

"Addiction of Precision"

love it. Thanks for the references. Do you also have some websites you would recommend that sell custom bolt action parts?

 

[STR]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

Stiller Precision, Surgeon Rifles, Defiance Machine, Kellby Actions, are a good start for actions. There are others. Bartlien Barrels, Kreiger barrels, Brux barrels, Broughton barrels, are some of the best barrel company's. McMillan, Manners are my two favorite stock builders. Timney, Jewell, and Rifle Basix would be triggers of choice for me. APA, or Holland for muzzle brakes. Factory bolt guns, Remington, Winchester, Tikka, Savage. Badger ordnance, for some acc. CDI also very good. Hope this helps some.

 

[longguntoter]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

ranger1183, I have had the ComBloc 7.62x54r blow up in my Mosin before. I had the copper washed stuff (Chinese I think)blow the base right smack off the rest of the case before! At first I thought it was the rifle's head spacing or something, but after that one round nearly burned my face off I decided not to shoot any more of the 100 rounds or so I had left. My brother wanted it to shoot in his M44, so I gave it to him. The same thing happened to him the next week when he went to the range! It did not damage my gun and now I only shoot Wolf, Brown/Silver Bear, or Sellier and Ballot. That old Russian cartridge is ballistically on par with the .30-06 I would agree. I would think it might have a little more chamber pressure than the .308, but I don't know that for sure.

 

[exhogflyer]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

Everyone wants a custom built, all out precision rifle.But in 308, if you are on a budget and want to maybe hunt or wack steel at 1k, just go BUY a quality factory rifle.Put on a quality scope,load ammo, practice and be done with it.You'll save about $1000....

 

[Vitorum]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: STR</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Stiller Precision, Surgeon Rifles, Defiance Machine, Kellby Actions, are a good start for actions. There are others. Bartlien Barrels, Kreiger barrels, Brux barrels, Broughton barrels, are some of the best barrel company's. McMillan, Manners are my two favorite stock builders. Timney, Jewell, and Rifle Basix would be triggers of choice for me. APA, or Holland for muzzle brakes. Factory bolt guns, Remington, Winchester, Tikka, Savage. Badger ordnance, for some acc. CDI also very good. Hope this helps some. </div></div>

Nice! Thanks so much man.

 

[STR]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Exhogflyer</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Everyone wants a custom built, all out precision rifle.But in 308, if you are on a budget and want to maybe hunt or wack steel at 1k, just go BUY a quality factory rifle.Put on a quality scope,load ammo, practice and be done with it.You'll save about $1000.... </div></div>

You'll save more than that. An FN PBR for about 1 K or so, and about $1200.00 in glass, and you're in the game for under your budget. I still have mine, and still happy with it. It's basically a Winchester Model 70 with a Leupold Mark 4 fixed 10x scope on it. It shoots 1/2 to 3/4 MOA consistently out of the box. You want to save a little more, go Savage. Spend extra money on reloading equipment, and work on a load. It won't be long, and you'll have it shooting 1/2 MOA consistently.

 

[Vitorum]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: STR</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Exhogflyer</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Everyone wants a custom built, all out precision rifle.But in 308, if you are on a budget and want to maybe hunt or wack steel at 1k, just go BUY a quality factory rifle.Put on a quality scope,load ammo, practice and be done with it.You'll save about $1000.... </div></div>

You'll save more than that. An FN PBR for about 1 K or so, and about $1200.00 in glass, and you're in the game for under your budget. I still have mine, and still happy with it. It's basically a Winchester Model 70 with a Leupold Mark 4 fixed 10x scope on it. It shoots 1/2 to 3/4 MOA consistently out of the box. You want to save a little more, go Savage. Spend extra money on reloading equipment, and work on a load. It won't be long, and you'll have it shooting 1/2 MOA consistently.
</div></div>

Sounds like a good idea. But I atleast want a light trigger pull, smooth action, and short lock time. Can I get this out of a remington 700 varmint sp. That's the model I really love and I want the burris black diamond 8-32x50mm unless there is a cheaper scope I could buy to reach out to 1k yards?

 

[STR]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

My experience with Remingtons as of late are this. Some shoot extremely well out of the box, and some not so good at all. High end Remy or low end like the SPS model. That's why I said FN, because in my limited experience with the model 70, they have all shot well out of the box. True that if the Remy doesn't shoot well, any good gunsmith can correct that, but the idea is to minimize expense, correct?? I would personally buy Remington for myself, but for me it does not matter how it shoots. I have the means at home to correct any issues. BTW, if the precision bug really bites you, don't worry about what you buy, because you will be buying another, and another will follow. It won't matter that you think you can't afford it. You'll sell your blood like a crack addict to get it, LOL. If you don't believe me, just ask around here a little. I go a weekend without trigger time, and im fit to be tied the following week.

 

[Vitorum]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: STR</div><div class="ubbcode-body">My experience with Remingtons as of late are this. Some shoot extremely well out of the box, and some not so good at all. High end Remy or low end like the SPS model. That's why I said FN, because in my limited experience with the model 70, they have all shot well out of the box. True that if the Remy doesn't shoot well, any good gunsmith can correct that, but the idea is to minimize expense, correct?? I would personally buy Remington for myself, but for me it does not matter how it shoots. I have the means at home to correct any issues. BTW, if the precision bug really bites you, don't worry about what you buy, because you will be buying another, and another will follow. It won't matter that you think you can't afford it. You'll sell your blood like a crack addict to get it, LOL. If you don't believe me, just ask around here a little. I go a weekend without trigger time, and im fit to be tied the following week. </div></div>

OMG! I'm laughing so hard at your last statement as I know for a fact it is true. I can never stop buying a new gun. I sell stuff just so I can scrape together enough to barley buy them. It's sad. It's a disease. Firearm fever.


BTW sorry to keep asking this but is there a decent leupold scope capable of utilizing at 1k yards?

 

[Brawny]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

Take a look at this scope http://www.opticsplanet.net/vortex-viper-pst-6-24x50-rifle-scopes.html , you would save a bit and the quality is excellent for the price. My advice to you would be to buy an FN, and with the savings buy yourself a nice reloading kit so you can afford to shoot more. Also, try to save up for some training courses if you really intend to get involved in long range precision shooting.

 

[Vitorum]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Zwhetz</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Take a look at this scope http://www.opticsplanet.net/vortex-viper-pst-6-24x50-rifle-scopes.html , you would save a bit and the quality is excellent for the price. My advice to you would be to buy an FN, and with the savings buy yourself a nice reloading kit so you can afford to shoot more. Also, try to save up for some training courses if you really intend to get involved in long range precision shooting. </div></div>

Alright! sounds great. Thanks so much to all. You have been so helpful. I really appreciate it.

 

[STR]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Zwhetz</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Take a look at this scope http://www.opticsplanet.net/vortex-viper-pst-6-24x50-rifle-scopes.html , you would save a bit and the quality is excellent for the price. My advice to you would be to buy an FN, and with the savings buy yourself a nice reloading kit so you can afford to shoot more. Also, try to save up for some training courses if you really intend to get involved in long range precision shooting. </div></div>

Very good advise. These are a great combo that works great.

 

[Vitorum]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

Are the FN a2s better than, say the remington 700 varmint sf, that is much more affordable and I like the way the remington looks and feels better.

 

[exhogflyer]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

Also take a look at Savage, specifically the Long Range series.Nice mix of calibers, very accurate, and good triggers.

 

[Vitorum]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Exhogflyer</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Also take a look at Savage, specifically the Long Range series.Nice mix of calibers, very accurate, and good triggers. </div></div>

Ya I really love this model fitted with the muzzle brake, fluted barrel and box magazine - 10/110 FCP HS Precision

Also, will the difference between 24" barrel vs 26" barrel make much of a difference when it comes to the velocity of the bullet, considering the round is the same grain and caliber?

 

[steve123]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

Xris,

Here's my advise. Don't spend big money on a nice rifle and put crappy ammo in it. It's just not right on so many levels. The irony ? For some reason the only loose example I can think of right now is having a incredibly beautiful women that weighs 800 lbs. Maybe folks can help me out with better examples

Also why spend $3000 on a AR? You can spend half that and have a very nice AR which will shoot less than MOA. If you don't reload then some funds can be put to that end. It's very satisfying to work up a good load for your guns and saves a ton of money in the long run.

Value in a tactical rifle.

http://www.eurooptic.com/sako-trg-22-black-stock-phosphate-metal-260-rem-eurooptic-exclusive.aspx

Since I own/owned some very nice custom tactical rifles and have shot many of the better examples out there I wanted to share my personal experience. Every one of them has certain things about them that are likes and dislikes.

I have come to the conclusion TRG's are hard to beat overall after buying one a few months ago. They are a nice mix of light weight, excellent ergo's, class leading trigger, very slick bolt feel, feeding, ejection, good accuracy, and are designed to be a real world Sniper rifle to begin with.

My most glaring impression with the TRG is that one could spend twice the price and gain little if anything or almost as much on a dolled up POS.

 

[Vitorum]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: steve123</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Xris,

Here's my advise. Don't spend big money on a nice rifle and put crappy ammo in it. It's just not right on so many levels. The irony ? For some reason the only loose example I can think of right now is having a incredibly beautiful women that weighs 800 lbs. Maybe folks can help me out with better examples

Also why spend $3000 on a AR? You can spend half that and have a very nice AR which will shoot less than MOA. If you don't reload then some funds can be put to that end. It's very satisfying to work up a good load for your guns and saves a ton of money in the long run.

Value in a tactical rifle.

http://www.eurooptic.com/sako-trg-22-black-stock-phosphate-metal-260-rem-eurooptic-exclusive.aspx

Since I own/owned some very nice custom tactical rifles and have shot many of the better examples out there I wanted to share my personal experience. Every one of them has certain things about them that are likes and dislikes.

I have come to the conclusion TRG's are hard to beat overall after buying one a few months ago. They are a nice mix of light weight, excellent ergo's, class leading trigger, very slick bolt feel, feeding, ejection, good accuracy, and are designed to be a real world Sniper rifle to begin with.

My most glaring impression with the TRG is that one could spend twice the price and gain little if anything or almost as much on a dolled up POS.



</div></div>

Well if you had read my later posts you would see I have taken the advice not to build a nice rifle that shoots crappy ammo. As far as the AR-15 goes, there is no way around it. Not for my desires anyways. Your very correct in stating I could build a great one for much less. Now when it comes to the TRG I actually am going to look into that. Sounds tempting. Thanks for link.

 

[steve123]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Xris</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: steve123</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Xris,

Here's my advise. Don't spend big money on a nice rifle and put crappy ammo in it. It's just not right on so many levels. The irony ? For some reason the only loose example I can think of right now is having a incredibly beautiful women that weighs 800 lbs. Maybe folks can help me out with better examples

Also why spend $3000 on a AR? You can spend half that and have a very nice AR which will shoot less than MOA. If you don't reload then some funds can be put to that end. It's very satisfying to work up a good load for your guns and saves a ton of money in the long run.

Value in a tactical rifle.

http://www.eurooptic.com/sako-trg-22-black-stock-phosphate-metal-260-rem-eurooptic-exclusive.aspx

Since I own/owned some very nice custom tactical rifles and have shot many of the better examples out there I wanted to share my personal experience. Every one of them has certain things about them that are likes and dislikes.

I have come to the conclusion TRG's are hard to beat overall after buying one a few months ago. They are a nice mix of light weight, excellent ergo's, class leading trigger, very slick bolt feel, feeding, ejection, good accuracy, and are designed to be a real world Sniper rifle to begin with.

My most glaring impression with the TRG is that one could spend twice the price and gain little if anything or almost as much on a dolled up POS.



</div></div>

Well if you had read my later posts you would see I have taken the advice not to build a nice rifle that shoots crappy ammo. As far as the AR-15 goes, there is no way around it. Not for my desires anyways. Your very correct in stating I could build a great one for much less. Now when it comes to the TRG I actually am going to look into that. Sounds tempting. Thanks for link. </div></div>

I read your replies. Sorry, I was putting an emphasis on the ignorant desire to do such a thing and I'm not referring to the AR. Please don't take it wrong. Ignorance means "not knowing".

I also gave the link specific to the rifle and "the cartridge" for a reason. Namely things like ballistic coefficient, velocity, wind drift, energy at distance and recoil. I suggest you do some research about the subject before you make your final decision.

 

[Vitorum]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: steve123</div><div class="ubbcode-body">

I read your replies. Sorry, I was putting an emphasis on the ignorant desire to do such a thing and I'm not referring to the AR. Please don't take it wrong. Ignorance means "not knowing".

I also gave the link specific to the rifle and "the cartridge" for a reason. Namely things like ballistic coefficient, velocity, wind drift, energy at distance and recoil. I suggest you do some research about the subject before you make your final decision.
</div></div>

I figured that's what you did with the link and I actually have started reading about the 260 a bit. No offence taken to the comment concerning ignorance. It's true I am about certain components of the bolt action rifle and such or else I would not have asked for assistance. I appreciate all you advice and will keep it in mind during my read.

What optics might you suggest for making such a shot at 1k yards?

 

[Furtaker_.223]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

Once you get it built, get ready. You will not want to shoot any other rifle other than a custom. This is the way I started, built one, then another, then bought a TRG, now wanting to build another.

Wife not wanting to talk to me, Priceless...... Just saying..LOL

Please post the pictures of the final build when you decide and get it built.

 

[matthewusmc8791]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

XRIS, you might want to read this topic here if that all you want is a 1000yard gun. You forgot to tell us at what size target?? a groundhog or a 4'x4' board. IF just a big old 4'x4' target you don't need to waste money on any sort of custom gun.

Read this!!
http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthreads.php?ubb=showflat&Number=3029174#Post3029174

Darrell being on the US team might know a thing or two. Read and absorb and do what ya want, but when someone says way better than a 1/2 moa gun that should make ya stop and re-read what was said.
I'm thinking and certainly not reading or seeing reps/companymen coming on here discussing how accurate their factory rifles are. Where’s Remy, Win, CZ, etc... Especially a rifle in the $800 range...

JMTC.

 

[lessthanfour]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

feeding a custom rifle surplus ammo is like taking a supermodel on a date to McDonalds, its like letting your wife drive your Bugatti, its like working out and eating junk food, just don't do it lol. military uses .308 so everybody follows, if you don't reload get one because the ammos cheap. if you do reload look for something in the 6.5-7mm mark(although there's nothing wrong with a .308). you don't need a custom setup, a QUALITY stock rifle will do. my vote is for savage, also don't cheap out on rings or a scope. this setup will be <2000 and use the rest on ammo...its not cheap

 

[XxMerlinxX]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

Ok, here's my .02 cents on what you should get.

My first .308 was a Rem 700 SPS Varmint, it was an okay rifle, would shoot a little over an inch at 100 yards, and I could've probably hunted with it if I wanted. There was a lot about it that was just ok. The stock wasn't great and felt a little cheap, the trigger wasn't great it was kinda rough and heavy, the accuracy wasn't great even though I'm an okay shot, basically it would've taken a lot of extra work to get close to a "precision" build. I ended up selling it.

I'm now in the process of building up a Rem 700 AAC-SD . Out of the box it shot a .71" 5 shot group at 100 yards. I don't know why it is, but I've yet to see an AAC-SD on here shoot a group bigger than 1moa, so far they've all been shooters. It has the X-Mark Pro trigger on it, which for a factory trigger I think is pretty good. A lot of people will say the Hogue stock that comes on it is crap, but I haven't had a problem with it. I am replacing it with a HS Precision though. The barrel is threaded for either a brake or a suppressor if you ever decide to go that route. IMHO, it's the best bang for your buck rifle on the market right now at around $635.

If you did decide that you didn't like the stock, I would suggest a Bell & Carlson Tactical Medalist Style 3 w/Hook currently at $205. These are a great budget stock, with lots of extra features that you normally find on more expensive stocks.

For a base, I recommend the EGW HD 20 MOA Base for $63. It's one of the lower scope bases on the market and does everything the higher end bases do for half the price.

For rings, I like Burris XTR Lows at $58. Again, these are great rings that do everything the top dollar rings do, but for half the price.

For glass, right now the $950 Viper PST 6-24x50 is really hard to beat when considering features to dollars. It's got enough clarity, internal range, and magnification to get you out to 1k yards with a FFP reticle to boot. If you decide you don't want the FFP reticle, that would knock $200 off the price of the scope. FFP or SFP is really a personal decision and is probably a discussion best left for another thread.

So after that's all said and done, your total package cost will range from $1700-$2000 depending on which scope you want and whether you want any extra small accessories like a bolt knob or flip caps. That leaves you a good $500-$800 for a reloading setup or a ton of Federal Gold Medal Match ammo.

 

[steve123]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Xris</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: steve123</div><div class="ubbcode-body">

I read your replies. Sorry, I was putting an emphasis on the ignorant desire to do such a thing and I'm not referring to the AR. Please don't take it wrong. Ignorance means "not knowing".

I also gave the link specific to the rifle and "the cartridge" for a reason. Namely things like ballistic coefficient, velocity, wind drift, energy at distance and recoil. I suggest you do some research about the subject before you make your final decision.
</div></div>

I figured that's what you did with the link and I actually have started reading about the 260 a bit. No offence taken to the comment concerning ignorance. It's true I am about certain components of the bolt action rifle and such or else I would not have asked for assistance. I appreciate all you advice and will keep it in mind during my read.

What optics might you suggest for making such a shot at 1k yards? </div></div>

I prefer FFP scopes with at least 60 moa total elevation adjustment.

Based off reviews, the least inexpensive scope I'd consider buying is the Vortex PST. If you plan on hunting the 4-16 to take advantage of low mag if needed. For match use and shooting steel the 6-24.

Next tier up would be Bushnell HDMR 3.5-21 or SWFA SS 5-20. They have different features. I chose the HDMR because I like Horus reticles and using holdovers and holdoffs primarily. The SS has 10 mil knobs which I prefer for dialing and illume which apparently isn't well executed from what I've read but still is useful when needed. Both have good glass. I can vouch that the glass on the HDMR is above it's price point.

Nightforce-F1 and Vortex Razor compete against each other. I own/owned both. Kept the Nightforce. The 10 mil knobs, Horus reticle and glass won. The Razor is a nice scope though with few faults.

Then there's the cream of the crop top tier scopes. S$B, Hen$oldt, Premier$, U$O and March$. For now S$B 5-25 PMII takes top choice for me. Maybe March 6-24 or 5-40 FX but I'd have to get behind one first. I put $ there because I'm disgusted that I can't afford one on all my rifles.

 

[Vitorum]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: furtaker_.223</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Once you get it built, get ready. You will not want to shoot any other rifle other than a custom. This is the way I started, built one, then another, then bought a TRG, now wanting to build another.

Wife not wanting to talk to me, Priceless...... Just saying..LOL

Please post the pictures of the final build when you decide and get it built. </div></div>


lol "Wife not wanting to talk to me, Priceless" hahaha love it...will post pics once complete.

 

[Vitorum]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: steve123</div><div class="ubbcode-body">

I prefer FFP scopes with at least 60 moa total elevation adjustment.

Based off reviews, the least inexpensive scope I'd consider buying is the Vortex PST. If you plan on hunting the 4-16 to take advantage of low mag if needed. For match use and shooting steel the 6-24.

Next tier up would be Bushnell HDMR 3.5-21 or SWFA SS 5-20. They have different features. I chose the HDMR because I like Horus reticles and using holdovers and holdoffs primarily. The SS has 10 mil knobs which I prefer for dialing and illume which apparently isn't well executed from what I've read but still is useful when needed. Both have good glass. I can vouch that the glass on the HDMR is above it's price point.

Nightforce-F1 and Vortex Razor compete against each other. I own/owned both. Kept the Nightforce. The 10 mil knobs, Horus reticle and glass won. The Razor is a nice scope though with few faults.

Then there's the cream of the crop top tier scopes. S$B, Hen$oldt, Premier$, U$O and March$. For now S$B 5-25 PMII takes top choice for me. Maybe March 6-24 or 5-40 FX but I'd have to get behind one first. I put $ there because I'm disgusted that I can't afford one on all my rifles.

</div></div>

Sounds great! thanks for all the info. Most beneficial.

 

[RemingtonSPS]

Re: Building a custom bolt action rifle.

If you cant have the complete custom rifle built that you're after with the scope, base, and rings for $2200 than your doing something wrong. You should be able to get an aftermarket barrel, stock, bedding, trigger tune, blueprinting, cheekpiece, scope rings, base, threading and chambering, etc. If you don't believe me pm me and i'll give you a price breakdown.

There are better cartridges for 1,000 yds than the .308. However if you don't handload you cant beat the .308w for cheap match ammo. Palmetto has Federal GMM for $19 a box. It doesn't do great past 600 but unless you plan to reload or spend more on ammo it is a good choice. If you want great factory ammo that is competitively priced and great long range ballistics than look at the 6.5 Creedmoor. There are lots of factory chamberings in that cartridge.

Or handload and the world is your oyster for cartridges.

Seriously though i can help you put together a 1,000yd custom gun with optics for less than $2200. Pm for details.