new shooter looking for advice

[shathisss]

I have decided to get a rifle to go target shooting for the most part. I have done some reading and looking back and forth, I would have to get everything needed. I am looking for opinions on what i have gone overboard on or what is not needed or where i have skimped to much maybe and of course what i have forgotten or if there is a better choice etc. I am not entirely sure if the stock is the correct one for the rifle or not same with the rings, if they would be high enough to clear. Like i said I am new so the range would start out short then hopefully be able to get out to 800 yards, course i realize that would not happen for some time. I would also be using factory ammo. No sense in trying handloads untill i know what I and the bullet are doing. Anywyas here is my list, any help would be appreciated.

Remington® Model 700™ SPS™ Varmint Rifle .308
SWFA SS 10x42 Tactical Riflescope Side Focus
SWFA SS All Fixed (NON HD) Power Advanced Shooter Kit
H-S Precision Pro-Series Rifle Stock Remington 700 BDL Short Action Tactical Vertical Grip Adjustable Length of Pull and Cheek Rest Varmint Barrel Channel Synthetic Black
Harris S-BRM Bipod Leg Notch Sling Swivel Stud Mount 6" to 9" Black
Pelican 1750 Scoped Rifle Gun Case with Solid Foam Insert and Wheels Polymer
Valdada IOR 1-Piece Heavy Duty Picatinny-Style Scope Base Remington 700 Short Action Matte
Valdada IOR 30mm Tactical Heavy Duty Rings Matte Low
Jewell Rifle Trigger Remington 700, 40X with Safety 1-1/2 oz to 3 lb Stainless Steel
Wheeler Engineering FAT (Firearm Accurizing Torque) Torque Wrench Screwdriver
Wheeler Engineering Level-Level-Level Scope Crosshair Leveling Tool
Tipton Range Box with Ultimate Rifle, Pistol Cleaning Kit
Site-Lite SL-100 Mag Laser Boresighter with SRL-100 Rifle Scope Reticle Leveler
Caldwell E-MAX Low Profile Electronic Earmuffs (NRR 23dB) Green
Caldwell Universal Deluxe Rear Shooting Rest Bag Nylon and Leather Filled
Wheeler Engineering 89-Piece Professional-Plus Gunsmithing Screwdriver Set

 

[JFComfort]

Re: new shooter looking for advice

Looks like you spent a lot of time planning this out! What your putting together is a good starting point. I would reload once you were done getting acquainted with your rifle!

 

[Oodin]

Re: new shooter looking for advice

I wouldn't bother with the laser boresighter.

 

[readytorock556]

Re: new shooter looking for advice

Look at the sps tacs or the LTR. Both have 20 inch barrels and are short and handy. U might wanna go that route. Both should be plenty accurate out to 800 yds with some Fed GM.


Also stay on the classified boards here and elsewhere and pick up some used gear from time to time, might save you a few bucks. Just bought a NIB SPS Tactical AAC the other day from a guy on the boards. This place is helpful...

 

[broke_again]

Re: new shooter looking for advice

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: shathis</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I have decided to get a rifle to go target shooting for the most part. I have done some reading and looking back and forth, I would have to get everything needed. I am looking for opinions on what i have gone overboard on or what is not needed or where i have skimped to much maybe and of course what i have forgotten or if there is a better choice etc. I am not entirely sure if the stock is the correct one for the rifle or not same with the rings, if they would be high enough to clear. Like i said I am new so the range would start out short then hopefully be able to get out to 800 yards, course i realize that would not happen for some time. I would also be using factory ammo. No sense in trying handloads untill i know what I and the bullet are doing. Anywyas here is my list, any help would be appreciated.

Remington® Model 700™ SPS™ Varmint Rifle .308
SWFA SS 10x42 Tactical Riflescope Side Focus
SWFA SS All Fixed (NON HD) Power Advanced Shooter Kit
H-S Precision Pro-Series Rifle Stock Remington 700 BDL Short Action Tactical Vertical Grip Adjustable Length of Pull and Cheek Rest Varmint Barrel Channel Synthetic Black
Harris S-BRM Bipod Leg Notch Sling Swivel Stud Mount 6" to 9" Black
Pelican 1750 Scoped Rifle Gun Case with Solid Foam Insert and Wheels Polymer
Valdada IOR 1-Piece Heavy Duty Picatinny-Style Scope Base Remington 700 Short Action Matte
Valdada IOR 30mm Tactical Heavy Duty Rings Matte Low
Jewell Rifle Trigger Remington 700, 40X with Safety 1-1/2 oz to 3 lb Stainless Steel
Wheeler Engineering FAT (Firearm Accurizing Torque) Torque Wrench Screwdriver
Wheeler Engineering Level-Level-Level Scope Crosshair Leveling Tool
Tipton Range Box with Ultimate Rifle, Pistol Cleaning Kit
Site-Lite SL-100 Mag Laser Boresighter with SRL-100 Rifle Scope Reticle Leveler
Caldwell E-MAX Low Profile Electronic Earmuffs (NRR 23dB) Green
Caldwell Universal Deluxe Rear Shooting Rest Bag Nylon and Leather Filled
Wheeler Engineering 89-Piece Professional-Plus Gunsmithing Screwdriver Set
</div></div>

Looks like you have a good start. Don't rule out the SPS AAC version. 1-10 twist and already threaded for a brake or suppressor. The stock is the right model for your barrel.

 

[rickp]

Re: new shooter looking for advice

shathis,
I would have done a few things differently.
As for a stock, I would have gone with an Accuracy International.
For scope I would have done a Shmidt & Bender or a Nightforce.
Get Badger Ordnance for base and rings.
For Bipod, everyone raves about the Atlas. I just ordered one so I'll be able to give you real review once I shoot with it.

These aren't cheap, but you'll be set for life with this. It reliable and proven.

Good Luck
R.

 

[kraigWY]

Re: new shooter looking for advice

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> I would reload once you were done getting acquainted with your rifle!</div></div>

I would reload <span style="font-weight: bold">TO</span> get acquainted with your rifle.

 

[viav13]

Re: new shooter looking for advice

Unless you plan on traveling with your rifle extensively I wouldn't get the Pelican case.

I own a 1750 and I think its the 1710, both of them are excellent cases, but really only good for heavy traveling. They get to be a big pain to take out every time you go out to the range.

I would recommend that you get a soft case. One that can be maybe doubled for a shooting mate. I personally use the 5.11 tactical Gun case. Its a nice easy case that holds everything I need in it. You could even take it a step further and by a drag bag.

Also you could probably hold off on the stock too. Like readytorock556 mentioned, just buy the SPS Tactical and have it glass bedded. I got one and it is a great gun for the money. I had some more work done to it, but all and all its a shooter. You can always do things later on it to improve accuracy; Getting it squared and trued, or put a larger mag in it, even detachable mags. Thats the great part of having a 700.

I would also have to recommend just check the "for sale/ trade" boards regularly on here. Lots of great deals and you might be able to find what you need for less. Way cheaper to buy a slightly used kit right now. Most people are selling home builds at a loss because they just need the money.

 

[gstaylorg]

Re: new shooter looking for advice

You have a very good list so far. +1 on viav13's comment regarding the weight of the Pelican. I have one for each of my weapons for long distance travel and so forth, but they're a little too much for routine range trips. If your stick comes with a lighter weight case, you'll be GTG. Also, I didn't clearly see a spotting scope listed, but you may want to think about it. Finally, don't forget some eye protection. Good luck!

 

[remiglockoholic]

Re: new shooter looking for advice

Hey Shathis,

I'm new to the forum just as you but i've been shooting a few years now, and honestly you can go out and spend 3-4g's up front and get the best of the best but where's the fun in that? I have a sps .308 and fresh out the box i was more than pleased with the bushnell 3200 10x. If you care to preserve your walet tinker around with some other folks rifles and optics and you may find you don't have to buy high end everything to have a pleasent experience from 100-800 yrds.

My .2cents

 

[Oodin]

Re: new shooter looking for advice

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Rickp</div><div class="ubbcode-body">shathis,
I would have done a few things differently.
As for a stock, I would have gone with an Accuracy International.
For scope I would have done a Shmidt & Bender or a Nightforce.
Get Badger Ordnance for base and rings.
For Bipod, everyone raves about the Atlas. I just ordered one so I'll be able to give you real review once I shoot with it.

These aren't cheap, but you'll be set for life with this. It reliable and proven.

Good Luck
R. </div></div>I disagree with everything Rickp said. As I understand your list, this is your first rifle of this sort. Get the starter gear you have listed (heck even leave the stock, stock, for now) until you figure out what you like.

Once you've "outgrown" this entry level gear, it can always be used on a .22 trainer or sold to another newbie.

ETA: Oh I also wanted to ask the OP if he's planning on "tactical" style shooting or just from a bench. If it's tactical shooting you've got planned, I wouldn't get the rear bag you've got listed either.

 

[JFComfort]

Re: new shooter looking for advice

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: kraigWY</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body"> I would reload once you were done getting acquainted with your rifle!</div></div>

I would reload <span style="font-weight: bold">TO</span> get acquainted with your rifle.

</div></div>

Your absolutely right! I worded it that way because I didn't want to open a can of worms. The OP said something like;

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Quote:</div><div class="ubbcode-body">No sense in trying handloads untill i know what I and the bullet are doing. </div></div>

 

[viav13]

Re: new shooter looking for advice

Come to think about it, you could probably hold off on the Jewell trigger too.

There is nothing wrong with the factory Remington trigger. Use it, learn it, gain the experience. Then if you really feel like a Jewell is what you "need," get one. But right off the bat I don't think its worth the extra cash. Better off spending it toward a precision barrel and chamber, smith work on the rifle, courses on how to use the rifle, or even a chrono.

All of those things would benefit you more than a Jewell trigger starting off.

 

[fdkay]

Re: new shooter looking for advice

You have obviously put a lot of thought into your choices and I can't really find fault with any of your choices.

The FAT is a decent unit, but limited in range, SOP for using a torque wrench is to stay out of the upper and lower 10% of the available value. Since it maxes out at 65 in lbs, you should not use above 58.5. Not really a deal killer though.
It is always good to have firearms specific tools, so no issues with the screwdriver selection.

I concur with holding off on the trigger and the pelican case.
Pelican cases are awesome for shipping, not so much for regular, day to day use. I use a MidwayUSA dragbag.
The new Remington triggers are NOT that bad. Easy to adjust, ONLY adjust the pull weight, and not below 3 pounds as they become inconsistent below that.

The SS 10X is a very good scope. HOWEVER, if you take the money saved on the Pelican case and invested it into glass, you could buy the Bushnell 3-12x FFP illuminated scope and have a much more flexible scope.

 

[ReaperDriver]

Re: new shooter looking for advice

Below are my changes based on ahving just gone through about a year ago what you are doing right now:

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: shathis</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
<span style="text-decoration: line-through">Remington® Model 700™ SPS™ Varmint Rifle .308 </span> <span style="color: #FF0000">SPS-T AAC-SD .308. Much more versatile and already threaded for a brake or can. I have a brake on my .308 and it makes a WORLD of difference.</span>

<span style="text-decoration: line-through">SWFA SS 10x42 Tactical Riflescope Side Focus</span> <span style="color: #FF0000">Get a Higher end glass with FFP like a Leupy, NF, IOR, Razor HD. Something in the max power range of 14/16/20/25x. DO NOT SKIMP ON GLASS! </span>

SWFA SS All Fixed (NON HD) Power Advanced Shooter Kit <span style="color: #FF0000">Sure</span>

<span style="text-decoration: line-through">H-S Precision Pro-Series Rifle Stock Remington 700 BDL Short Action Tactical Vertical Grip Adjustable Length of Pull and Cheek Rest Varmint Barrel Channel Synthetic Black</span> <span style="color: #FF0000">Get an HS-precision takeoff from a 700P or 5R. Good stock and big money saver until you find the type stock you like. Not everyone likes or can shoot an AI stock</span>.

Harris S-BRM Bipod Leg Notch Sling Swivel Stud Mount 6" to 9" Black <span style="color: #FF0000">Yes</span>

<span style="text-decoration: line-through">Pelican 1750 Scoped Rifle Gun Case with Solid Foam Insert and Wheels Polymer</span> <span style="color: #FF0000">Get a soft case or a drag bag with back-pack style shoulder straps. You'll thank me later</span>

<span style="text-decoration: line-through">Valdada IOR 1-Piece Heavy Duty Picatinny-Style Scope Base Remington 700 Short Action Matte</span> <span style="color: #FF0000">Seekins base and rings. almost 1/2 the price of Badger and just as good or better IMHO. I've heard IOR bases and rings have had issues in the past</span>
<span style="text-decoration: line-through">Valdada IOR 30mm Tactical Heavy Duty Rings Matte Low </span><span style="color: #FF0000">see above</span>

Jewell Rifle Trigger Remington 700, 40X with Safety 1-1/2 oz to 3 lb Stainless Steel <span style="color: #FF0000">I would never say no to a good trigger, but the X-Mark is really not all that bad. Maybe look at a Rifle Basix trigger if you want to swap. I hear they are about as good as a Jewell and much cheaper.</span>

Wheeler Engineering FAT (Firearm Accurizing Torque) Torque Wrench Screwdriver <span style="color: #FF0000">I have one, I like it</span>.

Wheeler Engineering Level-Level-Level Scope Crosshair Leveling Tool <span style="color: #FF0000">Sure</span>

Tipton Range Box with Ultimate Rifle, Pistol Cleaning Kit <span style="color: #FF0000">Probably overkill, but no big deal</span>

<span style="text-decoration: line-through">Site-Lite SL-100 Mag Laser Boresighter with SRL-100 Rifle Scope Reticle Leveler </span><span style="color: #FF0000">Not required</span>

Caldwell E-MAX Low Profile Electronic Earmuffs (NRR 23dB) Green <span style="color: #FF0000">Look at the Howard Light electronic earmuffs too. I love mine. very compact and low profile</span>

Caldwell Universal Deluxe Rear Shooting Rest Bag Nylon and Leather Filled <span style="color: #FF6666">fine for a bench. Also maybe get a Tab Gear bean bag for prone</span>

<span style="text-decoration: line-through">Wheeler Engineering 89-Piece Professional-Plus Gunsmithing Screwdriver Set </span><span style="color: #FF0000">WAY overkill. The FAT wrench and some Allen wrenches will be about all you'll ever need.</span> </div></div>

Take the money you can save on the pelican case, the gucci stock, the jewell trigger and all the other accessories and dump it into glass, ammo and reloading equipement. I cannot emphasize enough that reloading also will make you a better shooter, because the cheaper and BETTER ammo will get you to the range more often. If you're dumping $30-50 a box on 20 rounds of Match ammo every time you go to the range - you won't shoot as much and it won't be as much fun when all you're thinking is "there goes another $1.25" every time you pull the trigger.