Preparing for First Full Rifle Build & Semi wildcat 243AI

[LRDesert]

Anyone have some powder recommendations (safe starting charge weights) plan on pushing the 108 Bergers for deer and probably work a load up for something lighter for the kiddo. I figure starting with standard 243 powders and charge weights should get me in the ball park.

 

[Tiny Tim]

Just built a semi custom on a trued 700 and added a wyatt's box. If sammi chamber, no need for extended box. Min re comes in @ 10 lbs scoped. 26" #4 Rock Creek barrel. Been off cases over the summer. I'm really enjoying the round and ready to start load development. Looking forward to hunting season. If a 243 is good, a 243 AI is better. Good luck and enjoy!

 

[ntsqd]

I've been thinking that my next build will be a .243AI. I'm not going AI strictly for any velocity gain, maybe it will happen and maybe not. I chose it for the reduced case stretching. I have chosen a tight twist to shoot heavy for caliber bullets and suggest that this be considered.

 

[GLTaylor]

For my 243AI, i get good results at around 41 grs of IMR 4350 with the 105s. There is another good node down around 39 grs. Recoil is not going to be an issue for the kiddo!

 

[GLTaylor]

Forgot. Vel is around 2900 with above load. Shoots in the .2-.3 range.
Also shoots light Hammers very well with diff powder.

 

[MOOSE39465]

1. trigger tech 2. HS Precision Long Range stock 3. HS Precision detachable magazine kit 4. I would also recommend Long Rifle Inc as smith.

 

[RH300UM]

I use Rl16 in my Rbros built 243ai. With Lapua brass It pushes the 108 eld-m @ 3120 fps with a es of 8 from a 24 inch 8 twist Brux barrel on a Remy short action. Bug holes. It's taken deer at 635 yards. It's mainly my coyote gun. I'd highly recommend RBros!

 

[LRDesert]

Thanks for all the great input and suggestions. Time to get talking to some builders. And rounding up the rest of the parts.

 

[Tiny Tim]

Was using rl22 for ff to use it up. 105 AMAX just shy of 3k fps. Single digit sd and around 12 es. Kinda slow for fire forming but outstanding results.

 

[264MHC]

You're on the right track towards light weight with that action. I would go with the Mesa Altitude stock. Mine for a LA is 26.9 ounces bedded and the raised comb and vertical grip are awesome. It also has a relatively flat bottom on the forend and rides bags well. Great combo hunting/target stock. The Hs precision dbm is very nice but heavy, and I had to slightly modify mine to clear the trigger housing on the trigger tech. That stock is only available with a bdl inlet but a good smith should be able to open it up for the M5 dbm inlet. If you find the Curtis mags available, buy them because they take forever to restock. On the barrel, a fluted 3b should be a touch over 3 lbs so factor that in. Even with all pretty light parts, you'll probably want a sub 20oz scope to hit your mark and will want to go with Hawkins hybrid direct mount rings which recently became available for defiance.

 

[LRDesert]

Thanks. I'll check that stock out for sure. With some more time to think about it will probably be going with a #3 contour. Have had great experiences with Leupold looking at the VX-5 3-15 comes in at 19.5 oz. any other lightweight scope suggestions? Without giving up quality of course.

 

[LRDesert]

Have decided to go the BDL route and am curious what OAL some of your are running with the heavies?

 

[RH300UM]

Have decided to go the BDL route and am curious what OAL some of your are running with the heavies?

2.84 for mine with the 108 eld's

 

[matt_3479]

I defiantly thought you boys would be getting more velocity with the AI. I'm running 42grs behind the 105 in my 6 creed at 3130fps and can get 3200 before pressure.

to op;

- ag comp stocks are super nice. A friend just picked one up.
- as far as trigger goes, tt special all the way. I have 3 diamonds, 1 special and 1 primary. For a hunting rifle the special is awesome. I also have 2 jewels and won't be buying any more