Changing caliber in Bergara HMR Pro?

[devildawg2531]

I have a Bergara HMR Pro in 308 that I'm getting a lot of ammo through to improve my skills. I'm also getting some time with a 6.5 CM and really like it. For what I need I (distance, PRS style, hunting deer, coyote and hogs) I don't see anything that the 6.5 doesn't do better than 308. So my question is when I have shot out my 308 barrrel and want to replace the barrel. If I want to have a premium barrel put in the Bergara and change to 6.5 CM is all that is needed is a different barrel? They both use the same AICS mags but wondering what else if anything would be needed to be changed? Thanks!

 

[JBattles]

To go from 308 to 6.5CM you only need a new barrel... mag and bolt is the same. If you have a muzzle brake it will work as well since 6.5 is smaller. You can get one from Bergara for about $500.

 

[drwood96]

6.5CM is a great choice to handle all of those needs. Either you shoot a lot or will be waiting a while to burnout a 308 so just switch when ready. Only thing you'll need is a barrel, everything else will be the same. Below is a good thread on Bergara barrel swaps.

https://www.snipershide.com/shooting/threads/rebarreling-a-bergara.6907472/

 

[devildawg2531]

Thanks! Does the barrel have to come from Bergara or could it be from any of the premium barrel manufacturer's?

I'm thinking Proof, Criterion, etc..

Yes I have a muzzle brake and will put it on the new barrel.

 

[Steel head]

Thanks! Does the barrel have to come from Bergara or could it be from any of the premium barrel manufacturer's?

I'm thinking Proof, Criterion, etc..

Yes I have a muzzle brake and will put it on the new barrel.

Any good smith can get a barrel going for you.

 

[JBattles]

You can’t buy prefit barrels for it, but you could buy a barrel blank and get one spun up or send the action to Bergara and they will rebarrel it with one of their barrels.

 

[cruze5]

I'd rather buy a 2nd rifle with a new caliber

 

[devildawg2531]

Yes thats the other option I've considered is selling this after using my 308 ammo and buying a 2nd lighter hunter type rifle in 6.5CM. My other rifle is Masterpiece Arms BA so heavy precision type. I don't like having a lot of different calibers and 6.5 CM and 308 seem redundant and the 6.5 is better or as good at everything I would use it for.

 

[matchbook454]

I'd rather buy a 2nd rifle with a new caliber

Can never go wrong with a new rifle!!!