Anyone use BAT or Borden Alpine for an SA build?

6.5BR

Sergeant
Full Member
Minuteman
Oct 6, 2007
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Assuming a build is for a field gun, not 'TAC only' and not a bench gun, what do you guys think?

Like to hear on just these 2 actions, thanks.
 
Re: Anyone use BAT or Borden Alpine for an SA build?

I've been using a Borden Alpine for a couple years now and have been totally happy with it. I use the rifle in all conditions and haven't had any problems with the action but did have some issues with my Jewell trigger when it stopped working for no apparent reason. Since then I've switched over to an old school Remington trigger set at 2.5lbs and its been perfect. I've also upgraded the scope from a Leupold to a S&B 3-12x50.

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Re: Anyone use BAT or Borden Alpine for an SA build?

I have a BAT 3LL Octagonal Repeater on the way. When it is done, I'll have a better idea of how they work as a "other-than-BR-platform." All my experience with BATs is BR.

My one concern is that it may be too tight of an action. I've heard of at least one complaint from a Palma shooter regarding the tolerances and how they are not conducive to field work, just to tight. I heard that, of course, well after I ordered and paid for the action.

They do have a M700 footprint action. I'm not sure if the tolerances are any different on them or not.

I'll keep you posted, but I doubt I'll see a complete rifle any time before the middle of the year though.
 
Re: Anyone use BAT or Borden Alpine for an SA build?

You can order the BAT with extra clearance on the bolt instead of the spec of dirt jam up benchrest clearance, but I would just buy a Surgeon, you'll get it faster, and maybe a cheaper, I have opinion on Border.
 
Re: Anyone use BAT or Borden Alpine for an SA build?

Two hunting rifles built on a Timberline and a Alpine mag extremly accurate,and extremly smooth actions!
 
Re: Anyone use BAT or Borden Alpine for an SA build?

Great feedback guys, thanks much for the pics of the Borden, NICE.

I have handled BAT actions, they are smooth....precise, and yes tight. I also had a Stiller which was noticeably tighter than a Rem, but likely fine for field use. Borden's it seems are made for hunting and should be good to go, one of my intended uses.

Any others feel free to jump in, thanks.
 
Re: Anyone use BAT or Borden Alpine for an SA build?

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Buckey</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Oldsmobiler,

Ever find out what caused the problems with your Jewell trigger?? </div></div>

Never did....sent it back to Jewell for repairs and I traded it to my gunsmith for the stock Rem trigger right away. I know they're good triggers but man I didn't even get it in the field and it failed on me second time out!
 
Re: Anyone use BAT or Borden Alpine for an SA build?

I asked BAT recently if they'd add a .001" clearance to the bolt body. Answer was NO, we are too busy. The varmint actions have .0025" clearance vs the BR .0015" clearance. A gunsmith who can blueprint an action should have no problem shaving a little off the bolt body though...or so I'm told.
 
Re: Anyone use BAT or Borden Alpine for an SA build?

I have a couple of BAT's, I didn't care for how tight it was when I got it. I called BAT and they he told me to smear some non imbedding lapping compond on the bolt body and work it a bit. It did help, took about 10 mins. I think I used JB. It takes more than you think. Plus my bolt are fluted.
Jim