Custom precision rifle build question

[A5scott]

So, let me preface this by saying that I'm 110% happy with my choice of build, and I can't wait to order another rifle from this particular precision rifle builder in the future. They are all awesome, cool people and generous with their time answering questions.
I'm a lefty, which is mainly why I went the route I did.

that said, the rifle was supposed to take 8 to 12 weeks, and after 13 plus weeks, I emailed asking for an update, no biggie either way if another couple weeks are needed, I just wanted to know in order to prepare for a match. The reply email says they are waiting on a lefty action, and will probably take 2 weeks maybe more, then once in hand, 2-3 weeks to complete. So I'm thinking it will be like 6-7 weeks before I have it. I'm leaving on a cross country trip in end of August, and I need to develop a couple loads.

I found a lefty Kelbly's atlas tactical SA in stock at OTM, which is what the build is waiting on.

Am I a D or a douche if I give the builder the heads up? I'm very patient and understanding, and not upset at all, I'm just trying to troubleshoot the situation.

Thanks for any insight.

Scott

 

[hamstur]

first bit of advice is never plan events around a custom rifle order. 90% chance all you'll get is disappointment unless you're a preferred customer.

If the builder ordered direct from manufacturer there is margin built into pricing. i.e. action might be 1100 from OTM, and your smith is charging you 1100 ... but maybe it cost them 1000. if you think the buying the action from otm yourself might accelerate the build, then call the smith. maybe they charge you nominal cancellation fee on the action they bought for you, maybe they don't.

It would be unreasonable to give the smith a "heads up" ... what would they do ... buy it from otm for you at msrp + shipping?

 

[black5.3]

Yeah i say wait it out and cut your losses on the match. The builder may feel rushed by you or take you for a d bag. If im investing that much money in a custom im going to let the builder use his trusted sources and not rush him. When people get rushed or feel the pressure, mistakes will sometime follow. Sounds like you may need to go buy a designated hunting rifle and work up a load for it.

 

[A5scott]

Thanks for the responses. I'll wait it out. no biggie. I can always get copper creek load development kits and have them sent to my buddy in CA. I can also share my friends rifle for range trips and a match.

thanks again,
scott

 

[RampedRaptor]

I would pay the extra money and get an action in their hand. You have a significant trip lined up and can possibly have a custom build done in time for your trip.

 

[Sendit6.5]

I'm going to be the odd man out and say that I'd share my concern with the GS. It's ALL in your wording and your approach! If you are polite and reasonable there should be no negative "pressure" applied. Can't (or damn sure shouldn't) hurt to explain your situation and offer to purchase the available action and have it sent directly to the GS, to speed up the process, if at all possible.

If asking a question or making a suggestion to your GS is going to ruffle his feathers or result in a 'less than' rifle, you picked the wrong GS!


Sent from my iPhone using Tapatalk

 

[A5scott]

thanks again for the input everyone... They are definitely NOT the wrong rifle builder. Good people, excellent builds, and I don't see them getting upset by me asking a question.

If in two weeks they don't have the lefty action, and don't have a delivery date, I'll ask them.

Scott