Agonizing over new build

[CTK]

Why didn't you just re-stock the .280 AI? Sounds like what you want, just a different feel.

Considered it. Had some small other changes that I wanted to make. I stupidly had the bolt handle bent to Remington style. I would have had a hard time selling the stock for a Borden action with a swept bolt handle. Someone got a nice rifle for a good price. New stock bedded by a pro would have cost over a grand with shipping. If I was not having fun with my obsessive quest for perfect hunting rifles, I would collect and hunt pre-64 70's. I would make money if I ever sold them. I am not this smart.

 

[CTK]

Your chambering choices a very close to each other but IIWY, I'd go with 7MM SAUM, 280 AI, and .284 if brass is not an issue. Barrel wise, I'd go faster than 1:9" ... but that's me.

The BHA actions are awesome, I have the SR2 LA in my .30 LARA and loved it. I think you will do the same.

Good luck!

I was thinking 1:8.5". I own and really like my SR2 that is on my 6.5x47. I am very unlikely to shoot anything under a 160gr bullet out of this build.

 

[RockyMtnMT]

I am planning the same basic build. I have a win mod 70 standard long action on hand for the build. I am going to do a Proof carbon sendero light at 24" plus small Pain Killer brake. Pretty sure I am going with the McMillan Game Warden light without adj cheek. Current action is blind so I am not sure if I want to mess with aquiring new bottom metal.

This will be in 280AI with the intention of running our 143g Hammer Hunter. This bullet needs 9" twist but I may go with 8 just in case I want to run our 177 or 155. The 143g @ 3100+ will make this rifle capable to 700-800 for anything we have out west. That is as far as I expect this light build to go so the only reason I will mess with the heavier bullets would be to shoot rocks and such. So still a bit undecided on the twist. I have other rifles for reaching further out. May just stay with the 9" twist.

Steve

 

[CTK]

I am planning the same basic build. I have a win mod 70 standard long action on hand for the build. I am going to do a Proof carbon sendero light at 24" plus small Pain Killer brake. Pretty sure I am going with the McMillan Game Warden light without adj cheek. Current action is blind so I am not sure if I want to mess with aquiring new bottom metal.

This will be in 280AI with the intention of running our 143g Hammer Hunter. This bullet needs 9" twist but I may go with 8 just in case I want to run our 177 or 155. The 143g @ 3100+ will make this rifle capable to 700-800 for anything we have out west. That is as far as I expect this light build to go so the only reason I will mess with the heavier bullets would be to shoot rocks and such. So still a bit undecided on the twist. I have other rifles for reaching further out. May just stay with the 9" twist.

Steve

I prefer a blind magazine. The only reason that I built my last one BDL is for my assumption that if I wanted to sell it, most would prefer BDL.

 

[RockyMtnMT]

I prefer a blind magazine. The only reason that I built my last one BDL is for my assumption that if I wanted to sell it, most would prefer BDL.

Interesting...not sure that I have a strong opinion on it. I think I will stay blind just to save the money. Not that I am looking at a cheep build. Just not sure it is worth the money to change what I have on hand.

If you don't mind, why do you like the blind mag?

Steve

 

[CTK]

Interesting...not sure that I have a strong opinion on it. I think I will stay blind just to save the money. Not that I am looking at a cheep build. Just not sure it is worth the money to change what I have on hand.

If you don't mind, why do you like the blind mag?

Steve

I had one on a NULA rifle. It is simpler and, in theory, makes the stock stiffer. Only real disadvantage is that the magazine well area cannot be cleaned without pulling the stock. Not really a big deal if you use a bore guide when cleaning. I have been happy with the PTG Oberndorf aluminum bottom metal. Supposedly the Hawkins is even better and only slightly more expensive.

 

[midnightmalloy]

Ok my turn, before I start I wanted to say that this type of thread is what used to be on this forum all the time and it is fun to help someone with suggestions when they are knowledgeable themselves.

Back on topic.

My suggestion would be a Defiance XM action and a 7mm saum shooting the 175 berger. Blind mag as that's your preference 26" proof SENDERO carbon barrel or a #3 or 4 steel barrel. No brake. 3-15 or 3-18 scope. For a stock, and taking your preferences into account, I would suggest the mcmillan sako varmint stock. https://mcmillanusa.com/mcmillan-rifle-stocks/hunting-stocks-sako-varmint/

Check it out and let me know what you think!

 

[CTK]

Ok my turn, before I start I wanted to say that this type of thread is what used to be on this forum all the time and it is fun to help someone with suggestions when they are knowledgeable themselves.

Back on topic.

My suggestion would be a Defiance XM action and a 7mm saum shooting the 175 berger. Blind mag as that's your preference 26" proof SENDERO carbon barrel or a #3 or 4 steel barrel. No brake. 3-15 or 3-18 scope. For a stock, and taking your preferences into account, I would suggest the mcmillan sako varmint stock. https://mcmillanusa.com/mcmillan-rifle-stocks/hunting-stocks-sako-varmint/

Check it out and let me know what you think!

Pretty close to what I was thinking! The McMillan Sako Varmint is the same stock as the McMillan Remington Hunter. It has a wider fore end than the McMillan Hunter. I am not hung up on blind mag but think they are a viable option. Was considering Krieger for this build. They will only build a SS barrel in "4.5" contour or larger. Apparently a 4.5 contour is a #5 contour that tapers to the muzzle diameter of a #4. Looking into the SAUM a little further.

 

[CTK]

I am guessing that the SAUM still needs a long or "medium" action for high BC bullets. The brass is essentially the same price as Nosler 280AI brass. Nosler load data has it a basic twin to the 280ai. What advantages do people attribute to the SAUM over the 280AI? I am somewhat of a believer in the short and fat case based on my experience with the 6.5x47.

 

[CTK]

Just figured out the XM action is Defiance's answer to the short action cartridge with a long bullet.

 

[FEENIX]

For deer at 4-500 yds you already have the perfect gun. The 6.5x47 will be perfect at these ranges. Mine with a 130 Berger carries enough velocity and energy out to 700 yds on deer size game.

Agreed! However, because elk is in the mix ...

I shoot no varmints and will likely never shoot a Bear, Moose, or anything in Africa. Whitetail, Coyotes, Mule Deer, Elk, and Antelope will probably be it.

... if the .284 cal chamberings esp. the 7MM SAUM with the heaviest bullet it can propel accurately, I would pick it, but that just "me". Shot placement is still the key.

Cheers!

 

[FEENIX]

Just figured out the XM action is Defiance's answer to the short action cartridge with a long bullet.

I don't think you can go wrong with either actions. IIWY, since you already have a BHA, I'd give the Defiance a good try, but that's just me.

Cheers!

 

[soundwaves]

l strongly recomend you looking in to the 6.5CreedMoor. l have been reading on the internet that it is a great hunting round. it is good for anything from rabbits to eliphants out to 800 yards..!!!

 

[BEEMAN]

Oops didn't see elk was in there. That changes things. Guess that's a good problem and a good excuse for multiple guns.