Re: How heavy should a tactical rifle be?
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: blue_ridge</div><div class="ubbcode-body">The reason I ask is because I see custom rigs running 12-18# or so once they are fully outfitted. If you are only shooting at ranges, I guess it doesn't matter. But what if you needed to really use the gun all day every day? I would think lighter would be better. But then Gunny Hathcock didn't run around rice paddy's with a 7# sporter rifle either. So, is 14# not as big a deal to lug around as it seems? What is the ideal combination of barrel length, contour, overall gun weight and still maintain a decent balance? </div></div>
blue_ridge,
My opinions,
Russ1911 here on the hide handled my two tactical rifles at match.One weighed 18lbs and the other 21lbs.He's a big guy that lifts weights.So...He liked the feel and weight of them.No biggy for him.Power to weight ratio
.
I had the 21lb rifle built as primarily a prone off the bipod rifle in a magnum cartridge so I don't mind the weight.I'd never consider it a rifle to carry around though.
I weigh 165lbs and am kinda old so even the 18 lb rifle was too heavy for me in positional shooting and carrying.I had bought it used and didn't really know what my true preferences were at the time.Off hand was a bitch for me.I'd actually start shaking after a few seconds.I needed a lighter rifle.
So come rebarrel time I had a Tubb contour tube at 26" put on the rifle.What a huge difference it made in the overall weight and practicality of the platform for me.The rifle weighs 15 lbs with scope now.I wouldn't mind if it were a pound or two lighter if I had to carry it around a bunch though.Much lighter than that I wouldn't want for a match rifle personally.The only time I use a light rifle is for walk a round through hill and dale hunting.
Too me the medium weight barrels are a good compromise for short strings of fire,10-20 rounds at a time between letting the barrel cool down.
You didn't mention barrel length and caliber.I prefer decent barrel length for smaller calibers,26"-27" (22-24 cal) to get the velocities up but if I end up building a 7mm later on I'll choose a shorter barrel since the BC is higher.Maybe 24"-25".Mostly to make the rifle a more handy size.
Steve