Gun help

[GE-Minigun]

Recently joined a club that has targets out to 1k and I would like to try my hand at it. I would like to try before I buy if you know what I mean. I currently own the following guns and would like to use the “easiest” one to learn on. I’m currently not interested in shooting one hole groups, just want to see if I want to invest the money.

M1A - .308

Garand - .30-06

Remington 700 - .243

Remington 788 - .223

Colt SP-1 - .223



With the above list my VERY, VERY limited knowledge is thinking the M1A, however and here is where it gets a little complicated. The club requires everybody that wants to shoot on the 1k range must qualify with the gun they are going to use, which requires 1” or under groups at 100 yards. I have no problem with doing this with (2) of the guns listed; however my eyes will not allow me to shoot that small of a group with iron sights. So my questions are…



Do I get a scope mount for the M1A and if so which one?

Do I get a new gun in 308 or a different caliber?

Do I shoot the 700 or 788? – If this...it will generate other questions, mainly what loading?



Thanks for the help/information/suggestions.

 

[smokshwn]

Re: Gun help

I would think your best choice would be the .243. It might take some load development or purchasing some match grade ammo, but ballistically and platform wise it gives you the best chance.

 

[kraigWY]

Re: Gun help

I agree, with the list provided, I'd recommend hte 243.

I've shot a lot of 1000 yard matches with the M1A, and got some good scores, but to recommend something from your list to a new shooter, I'd vote the 243. Excellent round on a good rifle.

 

[The Mechanic]

Re: Gun help

Another vote for the .243

 

[GE-Minigun]

Re: Gun help

Well you guys asked for it. The gun is an early 80’s 700 BDL that’s been glass bedded and that’s it if that makes a difference. I know I’m going to need a better scope than what’s currently on it…what should I get? Is it possible to save a little money here? By that I mean, if I get a Nightforce whatever will that work on a 338 LM? What loads should I start with? My father was the “load” master and he REALLY liked the 243, however he passed away couple years back and nothing was written down. He worked a load for groundhogs that printed .625 @100 so I know the gun is capable with the right load, but other than that no idea. I only remember a few things about this particular load…primer pockets were “trued” (uniformed?) and the case neck were turned (don’t know the proper name)…as for powder… 4350???...that’s it. I think I have a couple of them left and yes I’ll pull them and get a charge weight and bullet weight. Thanks for the help so far and please keep it coming.

 

[Guest]

Re: Gun help

Sell the Remington and get a Savage.

 

[GE-Minigun]

Re: Gun help

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: tucker301</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Sell the Remington...</div></div>

That won't happen...what Savage should I look for?