Re: Hey y'all, looking to buy a utility rifle
A bit over a year ago, I did a review here on SH of the Ruger Scout Gunsite or whatever it was called. Liked the concept, but didn't like their execution. Here's the review
http://www.snipershide.com/forum/ubbthre...737#Post2673737
That rifle got me thinking about doing my own version which has resulted in this:
Idea behind the project was the same as the old Jeff Cooper Scout Rifle. Light, handy, rugged, accurate and try and keep it inexpensive.
Started with a Rem 600, which I bought for peanuts at a local gun shop because the stock looked like beavers had chewed on it. But the action was like new. And the 600's have actions that are quite smooth compared to the Ruger. One of my main objections to the Ruger Scout was that the action was anything but smooth and at something like $1k... that rifle was IMHO over-priced.
I shortened the barrel and put a brake on it (acquired from a 'Hide member, BTW). I did the shortening and threading work myself on a lathe. I really didn't need a brake, but I liked the one on the Ruger Gunsite rifle, so went that route.
Stock is a cheapie from an auction site. $60. A bit of Dremel work, however, and it fits nicely. I splurged on some bottom metal rather than the Model 600 Nylon original. I had to custom turn a couple of stainless bedding screws to get the bottom metal to work on that stock. I think the metal was $45 or so. And I forgot where the mount came from. I could have gone w. a regular set of weaver bases, but again, in replicating the Ruger, I wanted a Picatinny-type rail.
Still trying to decide on an optic, but it will be a low-power variable of some kind for deer hunting. And I'll just paint the metal/stock. My total into this is less than $500 including buying the rifle.
This thread has been a good reminder that I only have a couple of weeks to finish it before deer season starts... then again, there is always 'next' deer season! But maybe tonite I'll surf for some optics.
And I guess I need to come up with a cool name for it like the "Bieber." VJJ... that's a very sweet setup, sorry I missed your earlier threads. Nicely done.
To the OP... some good advice above. I am not familiar w. the MVP, but Greg L. won't steer you wrong. The Tikkas are fantastic and inexpensive enough that you can spend extra on a good optic. The Tikka would be my choice, but that's not to put down other ideas above. I am building a custom now around a Tikka T3 and they are one of the best values out there.
For 30-500 yard flexibility (and anything that moves at 500!), your scope choice will be key. Lots of bolt rifles will shoot minute of hog at 500. But your ability to see and hit will come w. a good optic.
If you want bolt, go bolt. Lots of good semi's out there, but your best 'bang for the buck' is in a used bolt rifle or a new one like a Tikka, MVP, some Savages, etc. You will get more rifle for your $ used if you shop carefully.
Don't feel you need to drop a ton on a utility rifle or a truck gun... or a first gun for that matter. One of the best bits of advice above was to spend moderately on this, your first setup, but to spend on ammo and shoot a lot! Maybe learn to handload and get a basic handloading setup budgeted in???
That said, once we get you hooked on precision rifles, we'll help you spend your farm earnings like a drunken sailor on leave in Singapore... But for now, start smart.
Welcome to the 'Hide! Let us know what you decide re. your rifle!
Cheers,
Sirhr
PS It's a .308. Thanks to a fellow-Hider for asking! My oversight.
