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First bolt gun, seeking opinions (updated)

MattB1911

Private
Minuteman
Jul 27, 2011
22
0
48
Clarksville, TN
Several months ago I got my first bolt gun in a trade with a friend and fellow Hide member. It's a Remington 700 long action with a 24" Rock Creek barrel. The barrel is chambered for .308 with a 1:12 twist, wearing an OPS-INC threaded brake and contoured for a 3rd Model suppressor. This all sits in an older HS Precision stock. I'm unsure of the stock's model number but it is adjustable for LOP and cheek height. Current round count on the barrel is 1290. Not being able to leave well enough alone, I'm getting ready to send it to GA Precision for some work. My plan is to have the barrel cut to 18 or 20" with a Surefire brake, have them "tune up" the action and stock trigger, add a DBM setup so I can use AICS mags, then Cerakote all the metal in a FDE/desert tan color and dip the stock in multi-cam. The more I look at what I want to do it seems like my "poor man's" Gladius. I don't compete in long gun comps, but if I ever do I will use this rifle. I will also use this for simple range shooting, and as my primary hunting rifle for deer, hogs, and whatever else I get the chance to hunt. It will be my one and only bolt gun for awhile, so I need to make it versatile. Having said all that, what say you? Brand preference on the bottom metal? I was looking at Badger M5. Refinish the older stock, or go ahead and get something new? Have the 1:12 cut down or get a new barrel in a faster twist at the length I want? All opinions welcome here!
 
Re: First bolt gun, seeking opinions

Right now I have an old, very used (some call it "vintage") Leupold M3a Ultra (fixed 10x mil-dot). Great scope, built like a tank but being a fixed 10x is a mixed blessing. On my last TX hog hunt I had shots as close as 40yds and as far as 498yds. It was mounted on an AR10 I built then and I had a JPoint mounted above the scope just in case I got in close.
 
Re: First bolt gun, seeking opinions

dude....quit trying to blow smoke up everyones ass here and go shoot the gun and THEN tell us why you need to do all this window dressing and gun pimping.....like have a reason to put lipstick on your pig.......or


at least take a picture of this new tool next to your pool....you do got a pool right ?
 
Re: First bolt gun, seeking opinions

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: BOLTRIPPER</div><div class="ubbcode-body">dude, at least take a picture of this new tool next to your pool....you do got a pool right ? </div></div>

Strong words or wisdom there. Hope the original poster takes it to heart.

-Chris
 
Re: First bolt gun, seeking opinions

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: BOLTRIPPER</div><div class="ubbcode-body">dude....quit trying to blow smoke up everyones ass here and go shoot the gun and THEN tell us why you need to do all this window dressing and gun pimping.....like have a reason to put lipstick on your pig.......or


at least take a picture of this new tool next to your pool....you do got a pool right ? </div></div>

Not trying to blow smoke up everyone's ass here...just yours
wink.gif
As for "needing" to do all the gun pimping, I don't. I prefer a different look, and I prefer a shorter barrel and lighter weight for moving through the woods or brush. I don't want to kill the barrel cutting it too short, which is why I asked my original question regarding barrel length vs twist rate. I have shot the gun, it's plenty accurate. Would having GAP work over the action and trigger tighten things up and smooth it out a bit? Maybe (probably), but that's why I asked.

As for the pool, sorry don't have one...got a pic of it on a freezer though if that makes you feel better
 
Re: First bolt gun, seeking opinions

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: BOLTRIPPER</div><div class="ubbcode-body">the overflow from ar15dotcom don't last long here </div></div>

I'm stubborn. I'm also still in need of some opinions on this. Anyone else have an opinion on this?
 
Re: First bolt gun, seeking opinions

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: AR_guy</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I'm stubborn. I'm also still in need of some opinions on this. Anyone else have an opinion on this? </div></div>You admit that you will not use a DBM because you don't compete, so replace the stock with one that has an adjustable cheek piece before you spend on a DBM. And don't fantisize, use what you have and get good with it. You owe at least that much to the animals you intend to hunt.
 
Re: First bolt gun, seeking opinions

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Graham</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: AR_guy</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I'm stubborn. I'm also still in need of some opinions on this. Anyone else have an opinion on this? </div></div>You admit that you will not use a DBM because you don't compete, so replace the stock with one that has an adjustable cheek piece before you spend on a DBM. And don't fantisize, use what you have and get good with it. You owe at least that much to the animals you intend to hunt. </div></div>

I think he already has the adjustable cheek piece? Nice to have.

If it were mine I would think about saving money and not adding the DBM and maybe a full rebarrel. With a long action maybe a 284 or 280 AI? Or loose the brake as well and a 6.5x55?? A tuned trigger & barrel from GAP along with a stock that fits would be a great place to start.
 
Re: First bolt gun, seeking opinions

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Graham</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: AR_guy</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I'm stubborn. I'm also still in need of some opinions on this. Anyone else have an opinion on this? </div></div>You admit that you will not use a DBM because you don't compete, so replace the stock with one that has an adjustable cheek piece before you spend on a DBM. And don't fantisize, use what you have and get good with it. You owe at least that much to the animals you intend to hunt. </div></div>

The current stock has the adjustable cheek piece. Correct that I don't compete but I'm not sure why that has anything to do with a DBM? I just prefer DBM loading over the standard internal magazine. Absolutely agree that you should just get good with what you have, so why not start with what you want and go from there?
 
Re: First bolt gun, seeking opinions

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Overflow10</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Graham</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: AR_guy</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I'm stubborn. I'm also still in need of some opinions on this. Anyone else have an opinion on this? </div></div>You admit that you will not use a DBM because you don't compete, so replace the stock with one that has an adjustable cheek piece before you spend on a DBM. And don't fantisize, use what you have and get good with it. You owe at least that much to the animals you intend to hunt. </div></div>

I think he already has the adjustable cheek piece? Nice to have.

If it were mine I would think about saving money and not adding the DBM and maybe a full rebarrel. With a long action maybe a 284 or 280 AI? Or loose the brake as well and a 6.5x55?? A tuned trigger & barrel from GAP along with a stock that fits would be a great place to start.</div></div>

I have considered other calibers specifically for hunting but I don't reload yet so using commercially available .308 seems more economical, especially since I do like to go to the range and punch paper and steel. Plus the .308 is plenty effective on anything I foresee myself getting to hunt. As for the full rebarrel, I hadn't really considered it. Even with keeping the gun in .308 you think that may be the way to go? This barrel has a lot of life left.
 
Re: First bolt gun, seeking opinions

If that's what you want to do, then do it. It's your rifle, and I personally think it sounds like a nice one. Definitely think you should use the barrel you have now, at least till its used a lil bit. Then if you wanna rebarrel or chop it, no harm no foul. Long story short, do what you want, you already got it planned out.
 
Re: First bolt gun, seeking opinions

I'd leave it alone and shoot it. After a couple thousands rounds, maybe start thinking of what I want or want to do with it.

Reminds me of people who buy brand new cars and take them to the "tuner" to replace new parts for other parts......
 
Re: First bolt gun, seeking opinions

Not sure why everyone always gives people a hard time for wanting to enjoy their rifle and customize it on here? If he has the money and wants to play around with his toy then let him, no need for you all to get your panties in a bunch
wink.gif
The man asked for ideas on what types of parts/brands etc. so if you don't like what hes doing then just keep your mouth shut and respond to a different post rather than giving a useless one about how hes blowing smoke up asses or pimping out cars.

Anyways Badger is a great choice for the bottom metal. I wouldn't go shorter than 20" but that's just my personal opinion. If you are thinking of getting a can then 20" seems like a nice go to for running suppressed. If I had to guess it seems like you have the old m24 style HS Precision stock which are pretty nice. If you wanna spend the money on something better get a McMillan.
 
Re: First bolt gun, seeking opinions

The M5 is a great choice. I like them real well! As for te barrel....what are you shooting? If you want to shoot heavier than 175's you'll need a faster twist. The 12 will handle up to that. If te stock suits your purpose, keep it. If it doesn't fit/feel right, modify it or replace it. If you decide to keep the HS, you can Cerakote the stock as well, or multi-cam....your preference to get the look you want. Decisions! Decisions!
 
Re: First bolt gun, seeking opinions

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: JCas45</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Not sure why everyone always gives people a hard time for wanting to enjoy their rifle and customize it on here? If he has the money and wants to play around with his toy then let him, no need for you all to get your panties in a bunch
wink.gif
The man asked for ideas on what types of parts/brands etc. so if you don't like what hes doing then just keep your mouth shut and respond to a different post rather than giving a useless one about how hes blowing smoke up asses or pimping out cars.

Anyways Badger is a great choice for the bottom metal. I wouldn't go shorter than 20" but that's just my personal opinion. If you are thinking of getting a can then 20" seems like a nice go to for running suppressed. If I had to guess it seems like you have the old m24 style HS Precision stock which are pretty nice. If you wanna spend the money on something better get a McMillan. </div></div>

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: AR_guy</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Several months ago I got my first bolt gun in a trade with a friend and fellow Hide member. It's a Remington 700 long action with a 24" Rock Creek barrel. The barrel is chambered for .308 with a 1:12 twist, wearing an OPS-INC threaded brake and contoured for a 3rd Model suppressor. This all sits in an older HS Precision stock. I'm unsure of the stock's model number but it is adjustable for LOP and cheek height. Current round count on the barrel is 1290. Not being able to leave well enough alone, I'm getting ready to send it to GA Precision for some work. My plan is to have the barrel cut to 18 or 20" with a Surefire brake, have them "tune up" the action and stock trigger, add a DBM setup so I can use AICS mags, then Cerakote all the metal in a FDE/desert tan color and dip the stock in multi-cam. The more I look at what I want to do it seems like my "poor man's" Gladius. <span style="font-weight: bold">I don't compete in long gun comps, but if I ever do I will use this rifle. I will also use this for simple range shooting, and as my primary hunting rifle for deer, hogs, and whatever else I get the chance to hunt. It will be my one and only bolt gun for awhile, so I need to make it versatile. Having said all that, what say you? </span> Brand preference on the bottom metal? I was looking at Badger M5. Refinish the older stock, or go ahead and get something new? Have the 1:12 cut down or get a new barrel in a faster twist at the length I want? All opinions welcome here! </div></div>

JCas,

Read more carefully. He is asking for our input....... So we're giving it.
 
Re: First bolt gun, seeking opinions

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: rlr</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Decisions! Decisions!</div></div>

You're telling me...The possibilities are endless!
 
Re: First bolt gun, seeking opinions

For individual bottom metals, I can not answer. As for having them, I can offer input.

It is nice to be able to run 1 mag with ammo for, say, deer at 200 yards, but if you decide that rock chuck deserves lead, just not 180 grains, swap mags and drop in one with 150's.

20" is handy, that is for sure. If you are hunting hogs, a quicker swinging rifle is all but necassary.

I can appreciate the need for a factory load. The 308 has a TON of ammo choices. Everything from "cheap" blaster type 147 gr ball to full power hunting loads with a myriad of choices of bullet types and weights.

May also have a look at Wyatt's DBM set up. Might fit the bill too.

WTF do you mean, you have no stinking pool??? Join the freaking gang already. Mine is made by Rubbermaid and comes in 50, 100, and 200 gallon varieties. Just got to keep the horse from drinking my swimming water!
 
Re: First bolt gun, seeking opinions

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: ogreshooter</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
It is nice to be able to run 1 mag with ammo for, say, deer at 200 yards, but if you decide that rock chuck deserves lead, just not 180 grains, swap mags and drop in one with 150's.

WTF do you mean, you have no stinking pool??? Join the freaking gang already. Mine is made by Rubbermaid and comes in 50, 100, and 200 gallon varieties. Just got to keep the horse from drinking my swimming water!</div></div>

The versatility of loading different mags with different rounds is one aspect I never even thought of to be honest. And it's a very interesting point. Just have to know your holds for the different loads and you're set.

And yeah, I'm not in the pool club...I'm such a loser...
 
Re: First bolt gun, seeking opinions

If I didn't own my short action 308 I'd have a long action 280ai... Beastly round. Since I have a short action I'll stay with my 308.
 
Re: First bolt gun, seeking opinions

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: pink(MiST)</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If I didn't own my short action 308 I'd have a long action 280ai... Beastly round. Since I have a short action I'll stay with my 308.</div></div>

This is why I'm sorta torn. I have the long action..chambered in .308. I guess a question I haven't asked yet is if I keep the barreled action the way it is and just add a DBM bottom metal, can I load .308 into long action mags? I'm waiting on the GAP crew to return from fishing last week for an email reply, and also been talking to Mike at UGSW but so far that is a question I have failed to ask. Search time I think.
 
Re: First bolt gun, seeking opinions

Ok so after some research and emailing I've made progress and decided to rebarrel for a LA caliber. Working with Mike at UGSW on this now. Along with the new barrel, he's going to completely refinish the stock adding his UGSW DBM and pillars, then coat it in multicam. Going to do the "full package" to the action and add a Timney trigger. Initially I had decided on .270 since this would mostly be a hunting/range rig. But AI mags have to be modified to work. I also thought about 7mm or .300WM but I don't really NEED that for deer and hogs and steel. No modifying mags though. If I get into comps later, one of the mag calibers may be better too. Back to the research process here. Anyone shooting one of these and wish they would have gone a different route? Love the route you went?
 
Re: First bolt gun, seeking opinions

Meaning based on it's intended purpose I'll probably not shoot it enough to notice the difference in the three? (other than maybe factory ammo costs). Maybe a good point, it's not like taking an AR to the range.
 
Re: First bolt gun, seeking opinions

Not sure why you assume from a few posts on the net that I'll be talking "wayyyyyy" more than I'll shoot, but it's impressive you can tell so much about someone just from that. So no opinion on one of those LA calibers, nothing from experience? Thanks though.