newbie question on components for a build

turbohardtop

Sergeant
Full Member
Minuteman
Mar 1, 2010
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Austin, TX
I am thinking of piecing the components together for a build. I have a few questions that I hope I do not get flamed. TIA.

What make an action better over another like a Stiller or Surgeon, etc. IF these are precision actions, wouldn't they all be "true"?
What are different contour on the barrels and why one over another?
Which BDM are recommended?
IF I was building all purpose 308 bolt gun, what is the recommended barrel length?
 
Re: newbie question on components for a build

<span style="color: #990000">Hi

I'm also new to this but as no one else has had a go, I'll try and get the ball rolling!...</span>

What make an action better over another like a Stiller or Surgeon, etc. IF these are precision actions, wouldn't they all be "true"?
<span style="color: #990000">Yes, there are many custom actions out there and almost all of them will provide accuracy unattainable by the shooter. As with most things, you pay for what you get. It mostly comes down to your own preference.</span>

What are different contour on the barrels and why one over another?
<span style="color: #990000">Generally speaking, a heavier contour will assist accuracy. Barrel 'harmonics' do play a part in obtaining accuracy at long range. However there are far more important things to consider. If you are looking at an all rounder, stick with a varmint contour as weight will be your main issue when covering ground. You might even want to look at getting it fluted as well.</span>

Which BDM are recommended?
<span style="color: #990000">Similar response to the action question, its a personal thing. Anything which will take an AI magazine seems to be good as they are common. It might be worth specifying the stock first as this will play a part in what you choose.</span>

IF I was building all purpose 308 bolt gun, what is the recommended barrel length?
<span style="color: #990000">All purpose is very vague. What is the maximum range? I am currently building a .243 hunting rifle and am going with 20" as I use a suppressor and don't plan to take anything beyond 500 yards. If you plan to reach out to 1000 yards then you may want to go up to 22"-24" to retain some velocity.

Having said this, many people shoot 1000 yards successfully with .308 and a 20" barrel...!

I hope this is vaguely helpfull, I would encourage anyone else to add to what I have said.

Beyond any direct advise given to questions you have, it is worth spending time on this forum, reading everything that comes up, you'll be suprised what you learn.

Rich

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Re: newbie question on components for a build

Rich, thank you very much for your reply. I do not plan to shoot 1000 yards or beyond but I want the build to have the capability. Also, what are CON on fluting a barrel?
 
Re: newbie question on components for a build

No problem.

The cost is the only downside that I know of. Very little strength is lost and the added surface area will only help cool the barrel more efficiently. Once again, I hope others will add to this as I am by no means as knowledgeable as most on here.

Rich