Medium Actions for hunting

[BrentM]

Imho it depends on the cartridge and powder fill rate. I see no benefit in the prc personally but I run a short action with a aics magazine with 2.955 coal. If you are running a cartridge that requires a bullet and powder combo that is compresing the powder charge then I see a benefit that reduces pressure spikes etc. Otherwise, I'm the prc, I've zero advantage so far.

 

[jrock]

My two bits on this topic is that a medium action is just trying to fit a longer mag. Modifying a SA as noted with longer mag boxes covers most of the short mag options. For the case where it doesn't with the biggest caliber/longer bullets, then a LA provides more versatility and options down the road. Plus, it appears that medium action parts (mag box and bottom metal) cost quite a bit more than modifying a SA. Its not an apples to apples comparison but I think I make my point. If Medium action parts were just as cost effective as SA or LA, then I would start to recommend them.

 

[rustyshackleford]

I'm not certain but the first modern intermediate length action was the WSM action from winchester I believe and it allows 3-3.050". Then of course the OG mauser was setup for a 3" cartridge. Seems to me a 7x57 AI in original mauser length action would be a dandy. Kind of funny how far we've come right?

 

[jrock]

Why not just use a long action for those calibers? There's only a tiny weight difference, you don't need to redesign anything, and it's even more future proof as even longer bullets are going to be made. So what would the downside of using a long action be?

Exactly. Unless its weight, there isn't much of a point. Feed rails and such may play a roll in feeding but can be solved with a bit of tuning.
If I consider detachable mags, then it also seems to point to skipping over the MA and going to a LA.

 

[XLR Industries]

Exactly. Unless its weight, there isn't much of a point. Feed rails and such may play a roll in feeding but can be solved with a bit of tuning.
If I consider detachable mags, then it also seems to point to skipping over the MA and going to a LA.

It is not just the feed rails but also the ribs. You can tune the rails to feed pretty well but as soon as the ribs allow the next cartridge down to slide forward you are SOL. I thought the same thing and built a 6.5 PRC on a long action. It feeds great if you slam the bolt like you are mad at it but as soon as you go slow there is enough drag to have the next round follow until it contacts the ribs. Accurate mag just came out with a 3.850 long action mag which has the ribs WAYYYY back there so that is a solution. It seems like it is always easier though to run a shorter action when it comes to feeding. Less wiggle room for rounds to move around.

 

[reubenski]

Medium length actions have been available for a while now. The actions have never been to hold up. The thing that kept people away is compatible bottom metals and magazines. And plug and play stocks. Without having to order a flat top and then spend $600 in machining and bedding. Hawkins Hunter magazines and BM are the thing that is going to make the use of medium length actions feasible.

 

[jrock]

Tuning feeding sucks. Its best to steer clear if at all possible

 

[b6graham]

It is not just the feed rails but also the ribs. You can tune the rails to feed pretty well but as soon as the ribs allow the next cartridge down to slide forward you are SOL. I thought the same thing and built a 6.5 PRC on a long action. It feeds great if you slam the bolt like you are mad at it but as soon as you go slow there is enough drag to have the next round follow until it contacts the ribs. Accurate mag just came out with a 3.850 long action mag which has the ribs WAYYYY back there so that is a solution. It seems like it is always easier though to run a shorter action when it comes to feeding. Less wiggle room for rounds to move around.

kinda like the same reason we have short action mags with and without binder plates

and BR mag kits

 

[XLR Industries]

kinda like the same reason we have short action mags with and without binder plates

and BR mag kits

Exactly! I built a very ranchy BR kit for my PRC mags and that did help a little bit! Popsicle sticks and some super glue and you are ready to rip!

 

[Mike Matteson]

Well I glad they are stepping up to adjusting the action length. I feel that the long action need to be lengthen too. If I am building a rifle, I only us long action bolts to do the job.

 

[Chas1]

Tuning feeding sucks. Its best to steer clear if at all possible

+1

 

[kgunz11]

The 7WSM is the perfect candidate for a Med length action. It's the largest of the short mags and can really perform when properly fitted. With Hawkins bottom metal and hunter mags, it's a sweet setup.

 

[Greyfox]

Why not just use a long action for those calibers? There's only a tiny weight difference, you don't need to redesign anything, and it's even more future proof as even longer bullets are going to be made. So what would the downside of using a long action be?

I don't think there is any material downside. I have 6.5x284's with a medium, and a few long actions. Both work fine and can pass visual scrutiny. But I will say that IMO, my medium action has more of the attributes(cycling, visual, mass) of a short action then it does a long action, and it mates very nicely on my 10.5 pound carry/long range rig. I don't think I have to worry about longer bullets as I still have room using the 156's…and my twist rate probably couldn't handle it anyway. Like so many aspects of our sport this one comes down to personal preference. IMO.

 

[big johnson]

If I'm not mistaken Terminus makes a Med length action with DBM bottom metal all in one package. Done deal.