Intro and help with accessorizing a Sako TRg-42

[SigsauerP229]

Hi everyone,

I recently posted a couple replies here but I have been reading on this forum for sometime. I thought I should introduce myself and ask some of the questions I've been considering for a new build.

I'll start with a few questions first before I introduce myself.

I'm going to purchase a Sako TRG-42 .338 Lapua from Europtics in the very near future. They seem like a very helpful bunch from the phone calls and they seem to have the best pricing.

I'm going to buy a bare model at first.

I've talked to a few Sako TRG-42 owners and they have recommended against a Harris Bi-Pod. So my first question is what is the best Bi-Pod that will hold up and won't cause issues but doesn't cost as much as the Sako Bi-Pod?

Next question is what is the best base that doesn't demand the Sako price?

I know this next question might need to be placed in the suppressor forum but I figured I'd ask it here first to minimize the post number. I was curious if the YHM suppressors affect accuracy or POI much as they are a bit heavy. I was also curious how good their QD muzzle brake works when the suppressor isn't attached.

My last question is a scope related question.

I need to keep the accessories as cheap as possible for now as this is a very pricey purchase for me right now.

I'm thinking I will start with a cheaper scope and upgrade in the future.

My choices so far are from cheapest to most expensive.

SWFA SS 16X
IOR 6-24X50
Leopold Mark 4 LRT 8.5X25
USO 17X
USO 5-25

The USO 5-25 is something I can't afford right now. The others I probably could. My train of thought is thought that maybe I should get the cheapest one for now and then I'd be able to get the USO 5-25 sooner as I wouldn't be into it as much. Or should I get one of the middle 3 and just keep it on the gun. The Mark 4 scope is the only higher end scope I have shooting experience with. I've played with the IOR and it's really nice but ridiculously heavy.

So now that I have got all my questions out of the way I'll introduce myself.

I've been shooting since I can remember and I competed for several years in CMP matches, and went to a few rendezvous, as well as some SASS shoots. The rendezvous and SASS shoots were something I mainly did as a way of spending time with my father. I enjoyed shooting muzzle loaders and single action revolvers but the CMP matches were more my thing. I enjoy hunting with muzzle loaders and bows for the sport of hunting. I’m not really into competing with the muzzle loaders and SASS matches.

I bought and had a Rem 700 Sendero .300 Win Mag customized when I was about 18yrs old. My father was never really into the long range shooting, so I never took off with it. Being 18yrs old I had to pay for the reloading components myself as it was a round he didn't shoot. After awhile I sold it due mostly too cost.

Now I'm in my mid 30's and I can afford to shoot a long range rifle. My dad past and left me all his re-loading gear, which I still need to get and setup.

I recently jumped back into the long range game having bought a 700 5r Milspec. I have a 20moa Badger base on it and ARC rings, with a Leopold 6.5X20 Mk 4 ERT scope. I'm getting 1/2 moa or less when I'm doing part.

I also have another 700 PSS in .308 coming that is slightly used with a Leupold Mk 4 rings, no base, and a leupold Mk 4 LRT illuminated 3X10. I have an A5 stock with a few other customizations planned for these rifles. I bought two so I could have one on hand while the other gets some custom treatments. I also plan to let my 8yr old daughter shoot one with me. She's shooting AR's now but when she can handle the recoil of the .308 suppressed I'll move her up if she shows interest. I'm sure she will as she loves blowing stuff up.

I have some .338 re-loading questions but I'll ask those in the reloading section.

Thanks for any help given and it's nice to be a member of such a helpful forum.

I thought I'd post a few pictures and videos of my interest in shooting and my daughter and me shooting together, so you all could get to know me a bit.

My 5r Milpsec:

My PTR MSG91:

My little one shooting a BCM 20" that I built for her:

Me shootign a Noveske AR pistol:

My daughter shooting a reactive target with her BCM:
<object width="425" height="350"> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/xdC0jloWBuA"></param> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/xdC0jloWBuA" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="350"> </embed></object>
My daughter shooting my RRA Operator: <object width="425" height="350"> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/hzxuSWLzA4c"></param> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/hzxuSWLzA4c" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="350"> </embed></object>
Daughter filming me shooting my RRA Operator:
<object width="425" height="350"> <param name="movie" value="http://www.youtube.com/v/I6abiH-DkwU"></param> <param name="wmode" value="transparent"></param> <embed src="http://www.youtube.com/v/I6abiH-DkwU" type="application/x-shockwave-flash" wmode="transparent" width="425" height="350"> </embed></object>
Some of my other toys:

 

[Will Fennell]

Re: Intro and help with accessorizing a Sako TRg-42

On my TRG, after trying the factory bipod, then Versa Pod, then Harris, then finally the ATLAS, I have sold all the rest, and kept the Atlas.

I used and recommend a picatinny base from Richard Near at NEAR mfg.

I am VERY pleased with my Nightforce NXS F1.

That should have you covered....

 

[TEAMSENDIT]

Re: Intro and help with accessorizing a Sako TRg-42

I use the factory trg bipod and absolutely love it buy the harris and when you can afford it upgrade, but only if you are predominantly a field shooter because that is where it really shines.

Scope i recommend the bushnell hdmr in the group buy section at its price it will be tough to beat.

near rail all the way!!!

 

[uncledog57]

Re: Intro and help with accessorizing a Sako TRg-42

That's one cute little girl you have there! What a joy to spend time with your kid while shooting. Your a lucky dad!

 

[Yasherka]

Re: Intro and help with accessorizing a Sako TRg-42

So:
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I've talked to a few Sako TRG-42 owners and they have recommended against a Harris Bi-Pod. So my first question is what is the best Bi-Pod that will hold up and won't cause issues but doesn't cost as much as the Sako Bi-Pod?</div></div>
Don't discount the Harris, I have used one on mine and have found it to have no real problems. Recently I was finally able to get the Anschutz adapter from Mile High (thanks guys!) and can now put my Atlas on it. The Atlas is very much preferable simply because it is a better product....and one you pay for. But you can get a Harris that will serve you well until you feel like upgrading.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Next question is what is the best base that doesn't demand the Sako price?</div></div>
Most big-name manufacturers make a base for the 22/42. I have a Badger 20 moa. Hard to go wrong with Badger
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I was curious if the YHM suppressors affect accuracy or POI much as they are a bit heavy. I was also curious how good their QD muzzle brake works when the suppressor isn't attached.</div></div>
The POI shift is pretty significant: My POI shifted about 2.5 moa to the six-o'clock when I added the adapter, and ANOTHER 3 moa when the suppressor was mounted. On the upside, accuracy did not suffer a whit once the shift was taken into account, and the YHM suppressor vastly decreases recoil...probably to the level of a .308. The adapter/brake, not so much. It will pound you. It may be worthwhile to invest in the Sako brake, or one of the better aftermarket brakes (a la Fat Bastard).

My setup (Whittington Center):

A 600 yard group on steel with the YHM suppressor:

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I'm thinking I will start with a cheaper scope and upgrade in the future.
</div></div>
I think in your situation the IOR 6-24X50 would probably work best. They are relatively inexpensive and, while I am a strong advocate of the SWFA offerings, You'll appreciate the extra magnification at distance. Another option might be the Vortex PST 6-24, a friend of mine shoots it on his .338 and loves it.

If you are interested in reloading PM me and I'll give you a recipe or two.

 

[jbell]

Re: Intro and help with accessorizing a Sako TRg-42

I too recomend the Near base. I think the Harris is servicable, but to me the factory bipod takes the TRG to another level. I also would recomend the NF for your optics, along with their rings.

 

[Bacarrat]

Re: Intro and help with accessorizing a Sako TRg-42

The Harris works and along with anything else you can put under the rifle. I personally like the factory bipod. Base, you can go with Near, Warne or get a Badger, and I also happen to have a 20 MOA Badger for sale too.

If you want to spend the big bucks go with the Spuhr. Nothing wrong with the other base and ring setups, I like the clean look of the mount right on the rifle. As for optics, I would start with a NF. The rifle deserves it!

 

[Arbiter]

Re: Intro and help with accessorizing a Sako TRg-42

Completely off topic...what cheekpiece/rod attachment is that on your Hungarian AK? Never seen one before like that, and wondered if it was custom or if they're available for sale...

 

[Massoud]

Re: Intro and help with accessorizing a Sako TRg-42

One option I didn't see mentioned is the Spuhr one piece mount. It's a base/rings combo with 24moa cant, so you don't need to buy a separate base and rings. This can be very handy and it is a very nice piece of kit. Us and TNVC carry them for the TRG.

One comment on your optic choices, I would personally stay away from a fixed 16 as it can become cumbersome to have that much mag as your only option. Some good new options are the HDMR as mentioned and the SSHD 5-20 from SWFA which I have found to be a good scope. Good luck,
Justin

 

[SigsauerP229]

Re: Intro and help with accessorizing a Sako TRg-42



Wow,

Thanks for all the info, very helpful.

The main reason I wasn't considering the Harris is because of where it mounts. The gentlemen who told me not to use one informed me that his Harris was mounted to the bottom accessories rail, which resulted in recoil being transmitted through the composite part of the stock where as the Sako connects directly to the aluminum chassis. After awhile he said the composite started cracking and he switched to one that connects to the aluminum chassis.

I didn't ask how many rounds this took but I know he has well over 2000 through the gun.

Of some of the other bi-pods listed do any connect to the aluminum chassis like the Sako or do they all connect to the bottom rail? Has anyone put a couple thousand rounds down range and had the composite crack from using a Harris or a bi-pod that connects to the rail?

TeamSendit,

I'll check out the group buy for the Bushnell. Thanks.

Uncledog57,

Thank you for the compliment. She is my pride and joy and I love spending time with her and she shows a lot of potential with shooting. I figure even if she doesn't become as passionate about it, it will teach her to be focused and she will learn firearm safety. As it is now she really enjoys shooting bows and guns.

I can get the factory Sako bi-pod for $400, is this the best price out there?

Yasherka,

Nice rifle and thanks for all the info. What does the Anschutz adapter connect to the aluminum chassis or the pic rail?

Thanks for the help on the suppressor too, I'm not just considering the YHM brake but the YHM suppressor as well. I figured I wouldn't get the Sako brake if I ended up with the YHM suppressor but all these parts and the gun will brake me so I was thinking I'd get the YHM brake and then the suppressor in a few months. Will it be that intolerable with this brake alone? Does it at least lower it to about the recoil of a Rem Sendero 700 .300 Win Mag. I'm not a recoil sensitive person but I don't want to have to stop shooting after 20 rounds either.

It looks like I'd have to have the Fat Bastard brake re-threaded if I'm correct? I didn't see an 18X1 thread option for the Sako's.

Buy the way that is an amazing 600 yard group.

I'll check out the Near Bases and again thank you everyone. You’ve been a great help.

 

[SigsauerP229]

Re: Intro and help with accessorizing a Sako TRg-42

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Arbiter</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Completely off topic...what cheekpiece/rod attachment is that on your Hungarian AK? Never seen one before like that, and wondered if it was custom or if they're available for sale... </div></div>

It's made by AMD-65 http://www.amd65tech.com/
They work great and made the gun much more comfortable to shoot and you finally have a cheek weld. They leave a nice black mark from the neoprene on your cheek so be sure to wash before you leave the range.

 

[SigsauerP229]

Re: Intro and help with accessorizing a Sako TRg-42

Massoud,

I'll check that mount and scope out.

Thank you.

 

[Yasherka]

Re: Intro and help with accessorizing a Sako TRg-42

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: SigsauerP229</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Nice rifle and thanks for all the info. What does the Anschutz adapter connect to the aluminum chassis or the pic rail?
</div></div>It attaches to the accessory rail, no possibility of cracking.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: SigsauerP229</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Thanks for the help on the suppressor too, I'm not just considering the YHM brake but the YHM suppressor as well. I figured I wouldn't get the Sako brake if I ended up with the YHM suppressor but all these parts and the gun will brake me so I was thinking I'd get the YHM brake and then the suppressor in a few months. </div></div>
The brake is actually the QD mount for the suppressor, and they are sold together. You can put the mount/brake on the Sako while you are waiting for your paperwork to clear.

Personally I am not a fan of the YHM brake as a standalone. Others have said it reduces recoil a great deal as opposed to not having a brake at all, but not having shot a brakeless .338 I couldn't say. However, it is not even close to being in the same category as the Sako brake, or having the YHM suppressor mounted. I have kept my Sako brake in case I travel to a state that is not suppressor friendly.<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: SigsauerP229</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
Will it be that intolerable with this brake alone? Does it at least lower it to about the recoil of a Rem Sendero 700 .300 Win Mag. I'm not a recoil sensitive person but I don't want to have to stop shooting after 20 rounds either.
</div></div>Dunno. I am not sure of your tolerances and I may be a complete pussy compared to you, but shooting with just the YHM brake started giving me a bad flinch after about 5 rounds.
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: SigsauerP229</div><div class="ubbcode-body">It looks like I'd have to have the Fat Bastard brake re-threaded if I'm correct? I didn't see an 18X1 thread option for the Sako's. </div></div>Give them a call, maybe they can do a one-off for you, or you could always cut the Sako barrel and rethread it.

 

[SigsauerP229]

Re: Intro and help with accessorizing a Sako TRg-42

Yasherka,

Maybe he just had a little bad luck with his stock.

I was thinking of buying the brake now from YHM until I had the extra money and then I'd just sell the one that came with the suppressor when I could afford it. From the sounds of it though I'd be better off buying the Sako brake and selling that when I get the can.

I don't want to re-thread the barrel but I will see if Fat Bastard has any in 18X1.

Thanks again.

 

[SigsauerP229]

Re: Intro and help with accessorizing a Sako TRg-42

I guess I'll ask a couple reloading questions while I have this thread going. I was wondering what is the most accurate factory ammo that has good reloadable brass and doesn't demand the highest price tag?

I've read a couple complaints of the Hornady having to soft of cases, is this true. How is the Corbon Match 300gr. It seems to have a better price but I don't know how good the brass is.

Thanks

 

[texasleftychef]

Re: Intro and help with accessorizing a Sako TRg-42

Having both a TRG 22 and 42 in .308 and .300wm, here are my thoughts:

I highly recommend the Spuhr one piece mount as it can be had for around $300 used or if you choose to go the rail mount, the NEAR base ($175)is the only one I would even consider. Once you get it though you still need rings and that's probably at least another $125 and you are back to the price of the Spuhr.

As for the bipod, I'd look for a used factory SAKO and not bother with all of the others. It just fits the gun so well.

For your scope, it sounds like you have about a $1200 budget which you should be able to get most anything you mentioned other than the USO. They are all good. It's just what you prefer. I'd recommend that you get something in the classifieds here and save some money.

You may see a common theme here in my post about buying used. It's been my experience that most accessories for the TRG are made damn good from the get go and even the abused stuff is still in great condition. That and the fact that most of guys here treat their stuff kindly and it's in like new condition. I've managed to equip both of rifles with products exclusively bought used on the BST section here and saved a ton of money.

Others may disagree....

Good Luck

Eric

 

[Johnny Lately]

Re: Intro and help with accessorizing a Sako TRg-42

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: SigsauerP229</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I was also curious how good their QD muzzle brake works when the suppressor isn't attached.</div></div>

I have a .338 YHM brake on my 300WM and it makes recoil non existent. I can shoot the 300 all day long. I also have a Limbsaver on it though. But the brake does an excellent job.

 

[texasleftychef]

Re: Intro and help with accessorizing a Sako TRg-42

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: SigsauerP229</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I guess I'll ask a couple reloading questions while I have this thread going. I was wondering what is the most accurate factory ammo that has good reloadable brass and doesn't demand the highest price tag?

I've read a couple complaints of the Hornady having to soft of cases, is this true. How is the Corbon Match 300gr. It seems to have a better price but I don't know how good the brass is.

Thanks</div></div>

As for your reloading:

I would further recommend that you suck it up and get some blank Lapua brass from the get go and just start loading. That way your case prep is almost nonexistant and you won't have weight sort it unless you get a terrible batch. It's more expensive but you get what you pay for and depending upon your tools, save you money in the long run.

You may already have dies but for those I like the Forester neck bump die and the Forester Micrometer seating die.

I've never loaded .338 so I can't comment on powder or primers or bullets...

Hope this helps.

Eric.