Blaser Tactical II question - changing calibers

[insectguy]

First, this is not meant to be a "whaddya think about Blasers" thread. I got that from the search function. This is a question for those who have a Blaser Tactical II-- In order to switch from my 338LM to a .223, I would be sinking $2050 into the endeavor (barrel, bolt head and magazine). Has anyone done that? What were the results? Would it be better to have a separate .223 target rifle (as is my pre-supposition)?

I really enjoy my Blaser in 338LM, but don't know if I would get the same appreciation from a .223.

 

[ancientmariner]

Re: Blaser Tactical II question - changing calibers

IMHO it does not make sense. Changing between 6,5x55 and 223 would be no problem but this is a different story. Considering barrels are quite pricy, I would go with another rifle. btw, how many rounds can you afford to shoot with 338LM per month? I am always curious why people keep buying rifles in that caliber...

 

[insectguy]

Re: Blaser Tactical II question - changing calibers

If I were to buy the rounds off the shelf, they would be upwards of $6/shot. However, since I handload, the price is about $0.67/shot, and goes down with each subsequent loading I put on the brass. That's less the FGMM or any other off-the-shelf .308, .300WM or whatever your pleasure. So, it's really not that bad.

As for the initial purchase, I bought the caliber because I used it in my work, and they wouldn't provide the rifle. Once I got it, I really like it, especially since I just put a new NF 8-32x56 on it. It has all the power I need, without the "look at me" from a fifty (no offense to fifty shooters).

 

[MinorDamage]

Re: Blaser Tactical II question - changing calibers

What components are you using to get the price down to $0.67 per shot? Most match bullets for .338 are $.50 per projo.

Josh

 

[insectguy]

Re: Blaser Tactical II question - changing calibers

The brass I got for free from my work. Granted, not everyone has that available to them, but it does cut down the cost. I'm using CCI magnum primers, Retumbo powder (bought the 8# can to get the savings), and SMK 250gr bullets (again, bought the 500 round box to get the bulk savings).

 

[MinorDamage]

Re: Blaser Tactical II question - changing calibers

That makes a touch more sense.

Josh

 

[insectguy]

Re: Blaser Tactical II question - changing calibers

Of course, I'm ready to do a ladder test on it, so that will hopefully yield some good results. I'll post the results.

 

[F224]

Re: Blaser Tactical II question - changing calibers

It makes a lot of sense. You can shoot your favorite rifle at small game-small antelope and deer and save the barrel on your 338 Lapua.

I have four R93 stocks and an R8 along with 9 barrels and use them all. When you figure the cost per shot on a Blaser barrel, it is about half that of any custom barrel on a standard action.