New rifle build dilemma

[Jeff in TX]

I’m looking to build a new rifle for prairie dogs and ground hogs. I’m going to have Chad Dixon do another build for me. What I know I’m going with is a left-handed McMillian M40A3 stock, Brux SS 24 to 26”straight taper to .920” barrel, threaded for suppressor.

I’m stuck on the action and caliber. I can’t decide whether to go with 22-250, .223, .243, 6.5 creedmoor or .308 win. On the ranch we can shoot 1000+ yards and the same thing if I go back east to shoot groundhogs. Realistically most shots are less than 600 yards.

As for what action to use is the bigger question? I flat out love the slick as snot buttery feel of the Tikka action and can pick up a LH Tikka rifle to cannibalize for a hair over $600.00. I would also be adding a custom remington type recoil lug to the build. Or do I go with a custom action/trigger at twice the price or more, but which left-handed action? The money saved going with the Tikka would go towards the glass which I’ll tackle later. After shooting my Tikka for 4 years now I'n not a fan of Rem or Savages actions.

Either way Chad builds it (Tikka or custom action) I should have a solid 1/2” moa or better rifle. Both will function flawlessly. I’m leaning towards a .243 build using the Tikka action. Having said that I’m not completely sold.

Thoughts?

 

[jasonk]

Re: New rifle build dilemma

I like your game plan, 243 on the Tikka has no flaws. That was going to be my suggestion after reading 3/4 of your post, then got to the end and saw that's where you were headed anyways.

I'd do a 1-7.5" twist on the barrel, fyi. You'll be able to shoot it all from the lighter V-max's to the heavy Dtacs.

 

[buster hindend]

Re: New rifle build dilemma

If it were something that, as you mentioned, may be used for PD's I would look at doing a 223 AI in an 8 twist barrel and shoot the 75 Amax. I know couple of guys that took theirs this year to OR to shoot sage rats and rock chucks. They say don't worry about fireforming brass because they told me that there fireforming loads are accurate enough to hunt with. One shot a sage rat right at 800 yards. They sent me pictures of rock chucks taken at the 650 yard range. The 75 Amax have a BC of 0.435. I liked the idea so much I'm having one built myself.

This way you could shoot a lot of rounds without having to use as much powder as a 22-250 or 243 and still get plenty of long range capabilities. If your shooting nothing any larger than ground hogs, 223AI is plenty enough.

 

[PatrickChewing]

Re: New rifle build dilemma

Yep, a 243 would be mighty nice!

 

[jonthomps]

Re: New rifle build dilemma

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: PatrickChewing</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Yep, a 243 would be mighty nice! </div></div>

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