Re: Noobie to the hide. 700 sps questions
First of all, thanks for your service !!!
We are essentially in the exact same situation, and on the same track. I am maybe 2-3 weeks ahead of your actions. I am new to LR shooting as well, but I'm being guided by my brother who is an LEO sniper and competes nationally with a KMW .308 from Terry and often places very well, if not 1st. Obviously, he has close to $8K in his rifle, I want to spend maybe $3000 to $3500.
My build started 3 months ago:
I started with a 700P in .308 I bought slightly used for $700. Next was a Vortex Viper PST 4-16x50 FFP mil/mil ($800), EGW rings used ($75) and a Warne 20 MOA base used ($75).
As for the caliber, the .308 will easily shoot to 1000 yds and longer, the flight path just has a bit more arc than other cartridges like the 338 and the 6.5's. But, ammo is cheaper and easier to find.
As for NightForce scope, rings, and base, my brother WILL NOT use any other manufacturer. Not that USO, S&B, etc, aren't good, they are....just his opinion.
On the way next week is a McRee folding TMAG stock. This eliminates the need for bottom metal and the inletting that comes with it. I would also look at an AICS or KMW if you have the $$$. A little expensive, but what everyone says is true...buy what you want...and..."buy once, cry once". I initially wanted to build my .308 for less than $2,000, but its just not worth it. When you start shooting out to 1000 yards, every component of the rifle plays a role in accuracy. Even if it takes longer to finish, it's well worth buying quality stuff the first time.
Again, these are opinions and I am not the most knowledgeable guy on here, but we seem to be putting together very similar rifles.
OK, for accuracy, I have been using crap ammo and hitting a 8" plate at 300 yards easily with the stock 700P barrel. My brother is placing 3 rounds touching each other at 300 yards with the same crap ammo.
After my first competition next weekend, I will be sending the bolt to Terry at KMW for his bolt knob, and the barrel will be cut down to 22" and threaded for a suppressor.
Have fun.
I think you are on the perfect track to building a great first rifle. I have asked so many questions on what to get, this is where I landed and you seem to be doing the same.