First, my apologies as I’m certain this has been discussed before but I’ve not found anything in my search that directly addresses what I’m looking for. I have been reading the forums here at the hide for many years when I’m able to access the internet. However, this is my first post as I’m a bit of a Luddite and also live far enough into the backcountry that cell and internet access is limited. But I’m in town for a few days so I will take the opportunity to pick the brains of you far more experienced shooters and builders.
My build isn’t complicated but it is purpose driven and multifaceted. In particular, I need accuracy with manageable weight (yes I know AR10’s are heavy by nature). My primary purpose for the rifle will be predator control at 300-600m. It’s very possible to reach out to 1000 where I am but realistically the situation doesn’t arise often and my eyes aren’t what the used to be.
I expect to hump this rifle over rough mountain terrain both walking and on horseback or atv (Inland Northwest) and through harsh weather (-30 - 95). If it works out, this rifle may replace or compliment my existing utility rifles. So again, weight is important as is form factor. Small and compact is definitely preferred for the mountain environment.
The questions are:
- although I don’t anticipate exceeding 600m often, I’d like to be confident out to 800m...will 18” do it?
- what twist? (I’m beginning to load my own again and have a stockpile of 165 SST’s and 175 Berger’s that shoot great in an old GAP Rock I have...hopefully the new setup will like them too. Of course I’ll work up a new load if not)
- then of course, what make and model of barrel? Budget $250-400...maybe more if necessary.
Keeping in mind the rest of the build is as follows:
Thank you,
Trampero
My build isn’t complicated but it is purpose driven and multifaceted. In particular, I need accuracy with manageable weight (yes I know AR10’s are heavy by nature). My primary purpose for the rifle will be predator control at 300-600m. It’s very possible to reach out to 1000 where I am but realistically the situation doesn’t arise often and my eyes aren’t what the used to be.
I expect to hump this rifle over rough mountain terrain both walking and on horseback or atv (Inland Northwest) and through harsh weather (-30 - 95). If it works out, this rifle may replace or compliment my existing utility rifles. So again, weight is important as is form factor. Small and compact is definitely preferred for the mountain environment.
The questions are:
- although I don’t anticipate exceeding 600m often, I’d like to be confident out to 800m...will 18” do it?
- what twist? (I’m beginning to load my own again and have a stockpile of 165 SST’s and 175 Berger’s that shoot great in an old GAP Rock I have...hopefully the new setup will like them too. Of course I’ll work up a new load if not)
- then of course, what make and model of barrel? Budget $250-400...maybe more if necessary.
Keeping in mind the rest of the build is as follows:
- Aero Precision M5E1 matched upper and lower with Atlas S-One M-Lok 15” handguard
- CMT 2 Stage (2-4) trigger
- Aero lower parts kit
- Rifle length gas block, tube, buffer, etc.
- Blah, blah, blah...all the other little stuff like BCG, KNS anti-roll pins, etc...
- Haven’t decided on optics yet but I currently have a PMII, an old USO SN3, a Steiner, and a handful of Meopta and Leupolds. I’m getting older and as bad as I need good glass, I also need weight savings, so I’m looking for suggestions on glass too. Don’t need a PMII to shoot to 600m...yet. Never owned a NF but keep being steered I that direction. Some folks mentioning IOR also. Not wanting to spend S&B money on this build though until I decide if it checks all the boxes.
Thank you,
Trampero
