Build or Buy?

[gdonley308]

I’m hoping for some input before dropping serious coin. I want a .300 PRC chambered rifle. The options for buying one out right have expanded recently. Badrock, Savage Elite Precision, Christensen Arms, Bergara, Howa, Ruger, Remington Custom Shop, to name a few. I was considering building one with a New Defiance Tenacity or Big Horn Origin Action and Bartlein Barrel. Question, I’m not a “King of the Two Mike” or top a 10 in PRS Shooter, I do okay, but nothing like those guys. I’m currently shooting a Tikka TAC A1 in 6.5CM and it is more accurate than I am. This new rifle will be used for matches up to 1400yrds and some hunting. I want it with DBM. If you were in my position, would you buy or build. My budget for the rifle, w/o glass is sub $3000.

 

[DROWN]

Similar situation and budget. Currently Shooting a 6.5 CM CTR in a Bravo. Will be watching for recommendations. Would love to stick with a Tikka but I know there are issues with magazine and magnum caliber long action ammo.

 

[Steel head]

There can be some pit falls with building.
Most common one is trigger fitment.
You can sometimes send your trigger to the action manufacturers and they’ll fit it for you. Before sending your action.
zermatt does this and possibly ARC.

I built my rifle and luckily everything worked.

 

[DROWN]

If I had my choice I would go with a tikka action but for long action there are issues Finding compatible mags. so....I’m looking for something Proof prefit barrel friendly....Paired with an action that is as smooth as Tikka’s. Was looking at Stiller but seems like few prefit options. What Actions should I be looking at?

 

[Class3nfa]

One of the things I like about a custom build from a reputable smith is the confidence.

 

[longshot2000]

of the rifles you mentioned, I think your Tikka beats them all. We are a dealer, but do represent Cadex, and I can tell you that you will never go wrong with a Cadex chassis and the barrel and action you mentioned. I think your budget might be soft though. Not by much, but you will blow it.

A new offering in the last year from Cadex is hard to beat, and generally in the price range you are looking at is the RX7 with the polymer stock and aluminum bedding. Very impressive rifle and built to Cadex standards, while on a budget: https://www.cadexdefence.com/products/cdx-precision-rifles/cdx-r7-shp-series/

Let me know if you want to learn more.

 

[SD Carpenter]

I'm looking at the same thing right now. You can get a barreled action ultimatum deadline or a bighorn origin around 1600$.

 

[Chickentoast]

Can't beat the value of the Elite Precision, but good luck waiting on Savage for the 300 PRC. I'm waiting for one in 300 Norma, or perhaps 338 Lap, but am building a 284 Shehane in the meantime from a blueprinted 700. Lob 180's >3K and have all the mag space in the world if using a long action. Std boltface as well... But back on topic - if you hate waiting for Savage, or hate their trigger (I think I can hold my nose), then ~3K gets you MPA and other semi-customs, otherwise ~5K gets full custom.

 

[DairyDictator]

With how easily accessible prefits are and quality entry level actions like the origin you can’t go wrong.
Build.

^This. Prefits are plentiful and affordable. You really aren't giving much if anything up vs sending it to a smith. Extra benefit to an origin, if you don't end up liking the cartridge, you can swap calibers very easily.

 

[Corprin]

Can't beat the value of the Elite Precision, but good luck waiting on Savage for the 300 PRC. I'm waiting for one in 300 Norma, or perhaps 338 Lap, but am building a 284 Shehane in the meantime from a blueprinted 700. Lob 180's >3K and have all the mag space in the world if using a long action. Std boltface as well... But back on topic - if you hate waiting for Savage, or hate their trigger (I think I can hold my nose), then ~3K gets you MPA and other semi-customs, otherwise ~5K gets full custom.

110 elite... You could always spin on a prefit of your choice, and still be under OP’s budget. But as you said, savage. It’s like owning a VW, unless you are a specific type of person, you’ll never get it.

I wonder how much prices go up on the likes of MPA when you order off menu? OP could also do a barrel nut Zermitt/Bighorn.

 

[Steel head]

A barrel nut origin in a bravo would be difficult to beat at that price range.

Want it to be a different cartridge with a different bolt face requirement in the future, then you’d thank yourself you got an action with changeable bolt heads.

That’s why I went with my nuke.
I knew I’d start it as a 260 then transition to a short magnum at some point.

 

[bmash]

Build.
I have wasted so much money buying a rifle just to have the action worked, the barrel changed, and a new trigger.

 

[42N8 1]

Build.
I have wasted so much money buying a rifle just to have the action worked, the barrel changed, and a new trigger.

I agree. Build your rifle how you want it.

 

[Shoots 700's]

Build what you want. I like the Bighorn TL3 and prefit idea. I am waiting on another TL3 now.

 

[DROWN]

I am waiting on another TL3 now.

What’s the wait time like?

 

[King_beardsly]

Build your self a nice rig, with your budget a very nice build is possible. I’ve built my last two rigs and I couldn’t be happier with the way they came out, ones a TL3 and the other is an origin

 

[Shoots 700's]

I think it was 8-10 weeks. My last one was 12 weeks and came in right as promised

 

[B_w.]

I just built a 300 prc with the ultimtum barreled action in an ACC chassis. Very nice setup. Just need to burn through the junk factory ammo so I can roll some 230gs! Should be able to do that on your budget.

 

[King_beardsly]

@DROWN

Zermatt Arms TL3 Long Action (DLC Coated)

Bighorn TL3 actions are the next generation of products from the superb Bighorn Arms lineup. Beginning as an evolution of the Bighorn TL2, the Bighorn TL3

www.altusshooting.com

 

[cjs88]

Build. I am building my first right now as well. AG Adjustable Alpine hunter, Proof CF 26" barrel, TT special, templar v2 280AI action. On the side I just bought a Tikka from the classifieds here and a KRG bravo to put it in.

 

[gdonley308]

Based on all the good feedback here, I have decided to build using a Defiance New (fixed recoil lug), Tenacity LA. A Bartlein 24” M24, 5R Gain Twist 1:9 to 1:8.5 5/8-24 threaded barrel, Oryx Chassis. I just handled and shot one of these chassis with a Savage barreled action. It’s a simple chassis yet has all the features I need and is super rigid. The trigger will be a Trigger Tech Diamond. This will get me in below my $3000 limit. Thanks again!

 

[gdonley308]

A barrel nut origin in a bravo would be difficult to beat at that price range.

Want it to be a different cartridge with a different bolt face requirement in the future, then you’d thank yourself you got an action with changeable bolt heads.

That’s why I went with my nuke.
I knew I’d start it as a 260 then transition to a short magnum at some point.

The KRG BRAVO doesn’t come is a LA

 

[bmash]

Cool! I’ve got a Tenacity on order as well. SA for a 204 Ruger. Post groups when all done.

 

[King_beardsly]

Based on all the good feedback here, I have decided to build using a Defiance New (fixed recoil lug), Tenacity LA. A Bartlein 24” M24, 5R Gain Twist 1:9 to 1:8.5 5/8-24 threaded barrel, Oryx Chassis. I just handled and shot one of these chassis with a Savage barreled action. It’s a simple chassis yet has all the features I need and is super rigid. The trigger will be a Trigger Tech Diamond. This will get me in below my $3000 limit. Thanks again!

Sounds like an awesome build

 

[gdonley308]

Belay that about the Tenacity Action. Going with an Origin Action instead.

 

[FLguy55]

Belay that about the Tenacity Action. Going with an Origin Action instead.

The Oryx won't support the 3.85" mags to fit 300 PRC cartridges. I almost got burned on this also and had to return a magpul pro 700L for the same reason. I ended up grabbing an MPA Comp chassis for around $850. There's a couple MDTs that'll do it but they're gonna boost you outta budget. Your lowest cost play would be the KRG bravo. Just be aware that it's pretty light but there are some weight options to heavy it up a little. I'm personally heavying up mine as much as possible.

 

[gdonley308]

The Oryx won't support the 3.85" mags to fit 300 PRC cartridges. I almost got burned on this also and had to return a magpul pro 700L for the same reason. I ended up grabbing an MPA Comp chassis for around $850. There's a couple MDTs that'll do it but they're gonna boost you outta budget. Your lowest cost play would be the KRG bravo. Just be aware that it's pretty light but there are some weight options to heavy it up a little. I'm personally heavying up mine as much as possible.

The bravo doesn’t come in long action?

 

[gdonley308]

The Oryx won't support the 3.85" mags to fit 300 PRC cartridges. I almost got burned on this also and had to return a magpul pro 700L for the same reason. I ended up grabbing an MPA Comp chassis for around $850. There's a couple MDTs that'll do it but they're gonna boost you outta budget. Your lowest cost play would be the KRG bravo. Just be aware that it's pretty light but there are some weight options to heavy it up a little. I'm personally heavying up mine as much as possible.

According to MDT you can relieve the forward end on the Mag well by 0.135” to accept the CIP Mags?

 

[gdonley308]

The Oryx won't support the 3.85" mags to fit 300 PRC cartridges. I almost got burned on this also and had to return a magpul pro 700L for the same reason. I ended up grabbing an MPA Comp chassis for around $850. There's a couple MDTs that'll do it but they're gonna boost you outta budget. Your lowest cost play would be the KRG bravo. Just be aware that it's pretty light but there are some weight options to heavy it up a little. I'm personally heavying up mine as much as possible.

I’m wrong, again!!! Lol The Bravo does come in long action, AND does accept the CIP magazines!! Hmmm!

 

[DangerRanger]

I’m wrong, again!!! Lol The Bravo does come in long action, AND does accept the CIP magazines!! Hmmm!

Yes I have owned one with a tl3 and it comes ready for CIP and with a mag block if you don’t want CIP

 

[gdonley308]

Yes I have owned one with a tl3 and it comes ready for CIP and with a mag block if you don’t want CIP

Too bad Tikka isn’t going to chamber a rifle in .300 PRC!

 

[DangerRanger]

Too bad Tikka isn’t going to chamber a rifle in .300 PRC!

they don’t really have much choice with that teeny little action.

I’d love to see them release a magnum length action but considering they are still twisting 30 gals 1-11 that’s a pipe dream

 

[gdonley308]

I’m waiting for a review on the new HOWA Chassis rifle in 300 PRC. It’s coming out next month. MSRP is $1295.00. If it’s a shooter I’m going that route. If it’s not, I’m going to order a Badrock.

 

[gdonley308]

Well hate to regurgitate this thread but I’m going to. I’m waiting for my Zermatt Arms Origin LA to ship. I went with the tactical bolt knob. With Bartlein averaging 6 months plus lead time I rolled the dice and ordered an SS Origin Pre-Fit from Preferred Barrel Blanks. 24” Heavy Palma 1:9 twist, 3/4-28 muzzile threads. This barrel should ship in the next 3 weeks. I already have my KRG Bravo Stock, Area 419 Sidewinder brake, Trigger Tech Diamond Trigger and 2 MDT CIP length 5rd steel mags. Scope rings/mount will be the 34mm Warne XSKEL Zero MOA (Origins come with 20MOA Rails). Glass will be the Brownell’s FFP MPO 5-25x56, I have one of these on my TIKKA TAC A1 6.5CM. It’s big ,heavy, and I feel the best piece of glass out there under $1400. Some may not like the reticle at first but man has this scope grown on me! I have a Harris HBRM Bi-Pod with a home made rear bag. I’m tooled up for reloading with a Rock Crusher Supreme, RCBS Match Competition dies, Berger’s and Hornady 212’s, 225’s and ,230’s A-Tips and Hybrids. Federal Magnum primers, Ramshot LRT and a Reloader 26. For now it’s new Hornady brass and will be once fired brass after I break in the barrel with 200rds of 225 ELD Match. I want to thank all those who recommended building. You guys are right. You can’t buy off the shelf want you really want.

 

[Chickentoast]

^Sounds great - assume PRC? I'm also interested in Preferred barrels, so please let us know how she shoots!

 

[gdonley308]

^Sounds great - assume PRC? I'm also interested in Preferred barrels, so please let us know how she shoots!

Yes .300 PRC. Most everyone is happy with their PBB barrels. I did see two reviews where threads weren’t cut deep enough and one where the chamber was over cut. In both cases PBB made it right. Logan was extremely helpful on the phone. I went 1:9 after reading Dave Tooley’s remarks that 1:8 might over spin the 212’s.

 

[Chickentoast]

^Yes, I've spoken with Logan - seems like a good guy - and nice to see some young people doing a brick and mortar biz. I was about to order a barrel from them just before 'rona lockdown, but it caused my donor rifle to get held in jail forever (California). Started thinking about going longer (their max is 27") too...

 

[gdonley308]

^Yes, I've spoken with Logan - seems like a good guy - and nice to see some young people doing a brick and mortar biz. I was about to order a barrel from them just before 'rona lockdown, but it caused my donor rifle to get held in jail forever (California). Started thinking about going longer (their max is 27") too...

It’s also nice to talk to a fellow shooter. Logan and some other PBB machinists are avid long range shooter.

 

[Southern Custom]

I just bought because I had a $1500 budget for the rifle minus scope and accessories. With a $3000 budget is likely build. Simply due to the ease of barrel swaps available with many current setups.
That being said when you're getting .25 moa groups out of a factory Bergara it's hard to say I would have gotten much more from a $3000 budget.

 

[gdonley308]

I just bought because I had a $1500 budget for the rifle minus scope and accessories. With a $3000 budget is likely build. Simply due to the ease of barrel swaps available with many current setups.
That being said when you're getting .25 moa groups out of a factory Bergara it's hard to say I would have gotten much more from a $3000 budget.

I couldn’t find a .300 PRC with a 24” heavy Palma barrel and 3/4-28 thread. I know Bergaras can shoot if you get a good one. My friends 6.5 HMR Pro can hang with my Tikka TACA1, although his action isn’t as smooth. I also couldn’t find a rifle in .300 PRC that took Savage small shank barrel threads. A .300 PRC might get 1500rds on a barrel if you hand load on the light side. So rebarreling is a big consideration for me. With a Zermatt Origin action I can buy the pre fits and spin them on my self. I could even go with a barrel nut set up if I wanted. I can have more than a few different chamber contours (match vs SAAMI) or I could go .300 Win Mag with a corrected chamber in case.300 PRC never gets picked up by other ammo manufacturers. When I looked at all the options I felt building was the way to go.

Origin LA $925
PPB Barrel $415
KRG Bravo $440
Trigger Tech Diamond $285
Area 419 Sidewinder $200
2 MDT CIP length Mags $140

Total Cost $2,405

that very cheap for a totally custom rifle and well under $3000.
Warne 34mm XSKEL Mount $160
Brownell’s 5-25x56 MPO $1000

Total for complete weapons platform $3,565

 

[The D]

I am firmly in the “build” camp, but that’s just me. Do you like to tinker with things or do you like to push an easy button? Both have their merits so there’s no wrong answer. If you like to tinker, you can build a bonkers rifle for decent money. If you like the easy button, there are lots of really great builders competing for your $$ and most are easy to work with if you have problems

 

[gdonley308]

So I ended up building.
Origin LA
Preferred BB 24” Heavy Palma 1:9 ,3/4-28 muzzle threads
TT Diamond set at 14.2oz
Area419 Sidewinder
KRG Bravo
MDT CIP Mags with feed lip mod.
SWFA 10x42 (for now) during barrel break in.
I’ll be getting another Brownell’s MPO 5-25x56
Harris Bipod 6”-9” BRM
I only got it together the night before I had to go to work for 3 weeks, the waiting sucks! Lol

 

[gdonley308]

Picture loaded funny?

 

[gdonley308]

First 40rds down the barrel, all Hornady Factory 225gr ELD’s. I wasn’t shooting that great, but it looks like the rifle is going to be a shooter!

 

[OhioKahuna]

The Oryx won't support the 3.85" mags to fit 300 PRC cartridges. I almost got burned on this also and had to return a magpul pro 700L for the same reason. I ended up grabbing an MPA Comp chassis for around $850. There's a couple MDTs that'll do it but they're gonna boost you outta budget. Your lowest cost play would be the KRG bravo. Just be aware that it's pretty light but there are some weight options to heavy it up a little. I'm personally heavying up mine as much as possible.

I received this"fix" from ORYX CS.
I built my Howa 1500 in 300 PRC ON THE ORYX chassis. The trick to using the 3.85 magazine is the mill/file the front of the magazine well .135 larger. Keep testing as you go for insertion fit and removal. It is ready when the 3.85 slides in smooth and easy, locks tight and drops out when you press the magazine release.

I can now reload to the seating position I want.

 

[gdonley308]

I received this"fix" from ORYX CS.
I built my Howa 1500 in 300 PRC ON THE ORYX chassis. The trick to using the 3.85 magazine is the mill/file the front of the magazine well .135 larger. Keep testing as you go for insertion fit and removal. It is ready when the 3.85 slides in smooth and easy, locks tight and drops out when you press the magazine release.

I can now reload to the seating position I want.

That’s good info, thanks! I went with the KRG Bravo stock on my custom.300 PRC, and dropped my old Savage PC in .308 into the Oryx.