Is this a good place to start

[savageeaglenavy]

I have been researching a lot on this to ensure I have a clue as lr shooting is a different animal. I found a 308 savage in a A5 stock. I initially thought that due to not being able to dish out $4000 for a GAP that I would start slow. So please lend a moment to help point my build in the right direction. The savage is 1200 bucks and I would eventually want to get a better barrel, tune the action, trigger, bedding.....etc. But after a lot of research I do not know if that is the way to go as 6mm, 7mm, 284 are a lot better. The only thing holding me back from going with other then .30 loads is I do not have any reloading equipment. I thank you for your input.

 

[savageeaglenavy]

Re: Is this a good place to start

One thing that I understand is the physics and after reading several great articles on this site the 308 sure is a fat cat compared to the sleek and high BC 260-280 calibers. But still the reloading issue is there that I cannot afford as now.

 

[sib1948]

Re: Is this a good place to start

Get out and buy Sierra MK in 168 or 175 gr., then go out and start shooting. You'll need a scope with rings on at least 20 MOA canted base, if you plan to get out near 1000 yds. Since you do not reload, stick with quality match ammo. Worry about changing barrel after a lot of shooting. You'll then have a better idea what you eventually want or need. Try to link up with other LR shooters in your area and keep reading here. Lots to learn. Good used scopes and other things sold here on the Hide, including whole rifles already set up. Good Luck

 

[Rabbitz]

Re: Is this a good place to start

If you like the savage I say go for it! Beings that you do not reload yet I would go with the .308 in a heartbeat. It sounds like you are just getting into lr shooting and this round will teach you a hell of a lot for alot less. When and if you decide to upgrade the barrel you can have her chambered in any number of rounds such as .260 etc...Don't get hung up on all the fancy stuff such as custom builds right out of the gate. Shoot the hell out of it learn alot and then make your call to upgrade it as $$ permits.

 

[savageeaglenavy]

Re: Is this a good place to start

After talking to my wife about this she says she has already found Nd plans to buy a hornady lock N load loader with all the options. I know that this is not like RCBS but it would be a good start. This brings other options to lite. I need to look at the ballistics again because the gun I build needs to be double duty for lr matches eventually and deer hunting. So far the list is 260, 284 or othe short action 7mm's.
from that list are pitfalls for example ones that would have to be complete custom which I can't do. I need a starting point that I can trick out a little at a time. What would you choose for a hunting and f class match that I can start from a rem700 or savage rifle. Thank you for your input as all of it helps.

 

[sib1948]

Re: Is this a good place to start

Check out the sticky above on all calibers. Great information you won't find anywhere else. May help you with your decision.

 

[xXlojackXx]

Re: Is this a good place to start

Nothing wrong with Hornady presses. I have and use one with great results.

If you want a rifle that your can build as your learning curve grows, with PLENTY of options to choose from, you can't beat a Rem 700. For me, I started with an FN SPR A3G in .308 and learned to shoot with that. Then I picked up a Rem Sendero in .300 RUM to get into the big bore .30 cal ranges. Shot that set up for a while, with groups at .457" @ 100 yards, it was a hammer for a factory rifle. It's currently getting rebarreled and chambered for a .338 Edge so I can get out 1500 yards or more.

My point being, get a platform like a Rem 700 in .308 and shoot the shit out of it. 3,000-5,000 rounds. Then rebarrel to a .260 or whatever you desire as your skill and knowledge grow with the learning curve.

 

[savageeaglenavy]

Re: Is this a good place to start

I thank you for your comments and that is a good point to burn out the 308 reloading and experimenting with loads so when I get one like below I would be ready. This is an option


i have looked extensively into calibers and I really like the 284 and the 7saum. I know those are big boys but that lies te question.

Is there a rem 700 or savage in 7mm or .30 caliber that can be modified to the above weapons.

I need the build to be able to be done in stages.

I know the stock and barrel for both weapons but that is several steps ahead.

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