Phoenix Custom Rifles pics, reviews, lead times
- Thread starter Keith Johns
- Start date
Thanks guys! We appreciate the feedback!
BE AWARE: Just because a barrel has our logo on the side of it doesn’t mean we did ANY of the current work on the rifle. Even the chamber could have been set-back by someone else and the muzzle work done elsewhere also. I think more times than not, when I’ve seen a rifle a guy bought used assuming we did everything done to the rifle, we did not do everything that has been done.
I don’t want to scare people away from buying used rifles, especially ours because we stand behind them and do a lot to help people out regarding this topic, but remember to ask directly “what did PCR do and what was done, if anything, elsewhere?”
At least then they have to tell the truth, or lie, and you’re not making any assumptions.
We label every barrel install we do(which may change), even if that is the only service being done. And we do a lot of barreled actions that guys bed and coat “themselves”. So please be aware of this when buying used rifles or seeing work and assuming where it was done.
Thanks very much
BE AWARE: Just because a barrel has our logo on the side of it doesn’t mean we did ANY of the current work on the rifle. Even the chamber could have been set-back by someone else and the muzzle work done elsewhere also. I think more times than not, when I’ve seen a rifle a guy bought used assuming we did everything done to the rifle, we did not do everything that has been done.
I don’t want to scare people away from buying used rifles, especially ours because we stand behind them and do a lot to help people out regarding this topic, but remember to ask directly “what did PCR do and what was done, if anything, elsewhere?”
At least then they have to tell the truth, or lie, and you’re not making any assumptions.
We label every barrel install we do(which may change), even if that is the only service being done. And we do a lot of barreled actions that guys bed and coat “themselves”. So please be aware of this when buying used rifles or seeing work and assuming where it was done.
Thanks very much
Here’s another shout out to Phoenix Custom Rifles. I received my complete rifle build from them last week and I’m thoroughly impressed. They completely exceeded my expectations. I can’t find a flaw or blemish anywhere on the rifle. It’s literally a work of art. And it shoots like a million bucks. I don’t like any of the new stuff, my tastes are about five years out of date. But PCR built exactly what I wanted. The rifle sits on my dinning room table and I stare at it for hours. Then my wife comes home and have to put it away.
Thanks Again Keith & Brad
Thanks Again Keith & Brad
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Thanks very much!
We’ve caught our work load up to only a couple week lead time.
Give us a call!
Thanks again
We’ve caught our work load up to only a couple week lead time.
Give us a call!
Thanks again
Phoenix Custom Rifles
1118 S. Butte Ave.
Tempe, AZ. 85281
4804678090
Things are really going great guys.
Couple week build time!
Thanks again!
1118 S. Butte Ave.
Tempe, AZ. 85281
4804678090
Things are really going great guys.
Couple week build time!
Thanks again!
Hey guys I suggest using the desktop version when viewing our site. You should be able to view the desktop version from both smart phones AND computers.
And a note on the Seekins Havak actions... We will rebarrel them, bed them, and coat them, but if changing chambering you must use a different mag system.
For example, going from 300wm to 7mag, I have found issues with their carbon fiber mags. Switching to AICS mags using a different bottom metal seems to work great. But I’m sorry to say I’m not too happy with the Seekins mags so far. Seekins is very helpful, and maybe they’ll have better luck getting the mags to feed various cartridges, but as of right now I won’t do any major caliber switches with the actions until I see more about them. Feeding worries me a bit. Call me to discuss options.
Thanks a bunch.
And a note on the Seekins Havak actions... We will rebarrel them, bed them, and coat them, but if changing chambering you must use a different mag system.
For example, going from 300wm to 7mag, I have found issues with their carbon fiber mags. Switching to AICS mags using a different bottom metal seems to work great. But I’m sorry to say I’m not too happy with the Seekins mags so far. Seekins is very helpful, and maybe they’ll have better luck getting the mags to feed various cartridges, but as of right now I won’t do any major caliber switches with the actions until I see more about them. Feeding worries me a bit. Call me to discuss options.
Thanks a bunch.
www.phoenixcustomrifles.com
If you have a google account, leave us a review on our google listing if you have time(any customers). We greatly appreciate it.
If you have a google account, leave us a review on our google listing if you have time(any customers). We greatly appreciate it.
TO ANYONE USING A DEFIANCE ELITE ACTION:
Be sure to order a barrel with a 1” longer cylinder area. Itn other words make sure the blank has over 3” of cylinder, and still plenty to cut off the muzzle end(1” at LEAST).
I prefer to cut 1/2” off the breach end, then face off, and to cut 1.5” off the muzzle end, .. that’s how I prefer to have them when I indicate them in. So I need blanks 2” longer than finish at least, and again if using a DEFIANCE ELITE action, order it with at least 3” of cylinder length(1” finish cylinder, and 1.8” of thread tenon)
So far I’ve gotten by with regular blanks that have like 2.5” of cylinder length on the blank and it’s BARELY enough. Only leaves aboot 5/8” of finished cylinder and we prefer more.
Btw I’m soon going to have some DOs and DONTs on our website. Just to ensure as many people as possible are giving the rifles every chance to succeed.
It will focus on how and when to clean, and will repeat over and over DO NOT USE A LEAD SLED(or any recoil absorbing rest). Your rifle needs to kick you. Sorry.
Thanks very much
Keith Johns
www.phoenixcustomrifles.com
Be sure to order a barrel with a 1” longer cylinder area. Itn other words make sure the blank has over 3” of cylinder, and still plenty to cut off the muzzle end(1” at LEAST).
I prefer to cut 1/2” off the breach end, then face off, and to cut 1.5” off the muzzle end, .. that’s how I prefer to have them when I indicate them in. So I need blanks 2” longer than finish at least, and again if using a DEFIANCE ELITE action, order it with at least 3” of cylinder length(1” finish cylinder, and 1.8” of thread tenon)
So far I’ve gotten by with regular blanks that have like 2.5” of cylinder length on the blank and it’s BARELY enough. Only leaves aboot 5/8” of finished cylinder and we prefer more.
Btw I’m soon going to have some DOs and DONTs on our website. Just to ensure as many people as possible are giving the rifles every chance to succeed.
It will focus on how and when to clean, and will repeat over and over DO NOT USE A LEAD SLED(or any recoil absorbing rest). Your rifle needs to kick you. Sorry.
Thanks very much
Keith Johns
www.phoenixcustomrifles.com
Wait times are generally 2-6 weeks on full builds.
Small jobs like cerakote, a bed job, brake install, etc. we typically get done in a week. Waiting on parts is usually what delays things beyond that.
Trigger tech is our go-to trigger now. I’m sorry to say I won’t be buying any more Timneys unless the customer demands.
That new plastic economy stock by mcmillan seems strong, and is surprisingly machinable. Sanding them sucks though so some barrel channel inlets will be a PITA. I do think the stock is a good option for some people... Preferably with factory barrel contours still. It’s a great upgrade for factory rifles. If you’re planning an aftermarket build though, maybe consider an original mcmillan stock.
We added another shooter here in AZ to our shooting team roster and I’m happy to say we all did well in 2018. We’ll have updates on our shooting team posted on our website, and I will be revamping our YouTube channel.
Time to step things up a bit.
We’re now using BRUX barrels pretty exclusively. Other cut rifled(namely Bartlein and Krieger) barrels are absolutely great and we’re happy to use them, but we’re only keeping BRUX in stock.
Thanks very much everyone. We appreciate the support and try to give back all we can.
Small jobs like cerakote, a bed job, brake install, etc. we typically get done in a week. Waiting on parts is usually what delays things beyond that.
Trigger tech is our go-to trigger now. I’m sorry to say I won’t be buying any more Timneys unless the customer demands.
That new plastic economy stock by mcmillan seems strong, and is surprisingly machinable. Sanding them sucks though so some barrel channel inlets will be a PITA. I do think the stock is a good option for some people... Preferably with factory barrel contours still. It’s a great upgrade for factory rifles. If you’re planning an aftermarket build though, maybe consider an original mcmillan stock.
We added another shooter here in AZ to our shooting team roster and I’m happy to say we all did well in 2018. We’ll have updates on our shooting team posted on our website, and I will be revamping our YouTube channel.
Time to step things up a bit.
We’re now using BRUX barrels pretty exclusively. Other cut rifled(namely Bartlein and Krieger) barrels are absolutely great and we’re happy to use them, but we’re only keeping BRUX in stock.
Thanks very much everyone. We appreciate the support and try to give back all we can.
Something to be aware of...
Guys when you use a chassis system, the bottom metal or magazine holding portion isn’t moveable. It is fixed where it is and all one can do is alter the latch length to alter mag positioning.
Most of these chassis are designed for 700 actions. That’s a .696” diameter bolt. I’m seeing that when people run oversized bolts, which many aftermarket actions use, you can sometimes see magazine/bolt interference due to the larger bolt diameter coming down further in relation to the bottom of the receiver(since receiver diameter is unchanged).
So, good example I just ran in to is the manners minichassis with a BAT action(GREAT stock and GREAT actions). Inserting an AICS mag with the bolt closed is extremely hard. Pmags, forget about it.
You can insert both like butter with the bolt open, but then the bolt runs hard over the mag tops. The bolt is .720” in diameter.
Removing material off the latch(to lower the mag) is usually an option, but not always.
You won’t always see an issue with this topic but it’s something to consider if you think your barreled action will simply drop in to your chassis and be perfect every time.
Nothing in this industry is “drop in” if you want it at the highest quality level.
Guys when you use a chassis system, the bottom metal or magazine holding portion isn’t moveable. It is fixed where it is and all one can do is alter the latch length to alter mag positioning.
Most of these chassis are designed for 700 actions. That’s a .696” diameter bolt. I’m seeing that when people run oversized bolts, which many aftermarket actions use, you can sometimes see magazine/bolt interference due to the larger bolt diameter coming down further in relation to the bottom of the receiver(since receiver diameter is unchanged).
So, good example I just ran in to is the manners minichassis with a BAT action(GREAT stock and GREAT actions). Inserting an AICS mag with the bolt closed is extremely hard. Pmags, forget about it.
You can insert both like butter with the bolt open, but then the bolt runs hard over the mag tops. The bolt is .720” in diameter.
Removing material off the latch(to lower the mag) is usually an option, but not always.
You won’t always see an issue with this topic but it’s something to consider if you think your barreled action will simply drop in to your chassis and be perfect every time.
Nothing in this industry is “drop in” if you want it at the highest quality level.
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We are going to start offering Tikka receiver facing. It’s not squaring it up or “truing” it I’m after, it’s increasing the diameter to 1.200” so standard size barrels can be used.
Tikkas for hunting rifles I’d suggest keeping the 1.125” receiver face to keep unnecessary weight down.
For tactical Tikkas that benefit from heavier barrels I will be suggesting to cut the face back to 1.200” diameter. An m24 barrel on a faced Tikka is a stout rig. Barrel comes back to meet the receiver diameter flush/evenly.
Tikkas for hunting rifles I’d suggest keeping the 1.125” receiver face to keep unnecessary weight down.
For tactical Tikkas that benefit from heavier barrels I will be suggesting to cut the face back to 1.200” diameter. An m24 barrel on a faced Tikka is a stout rig. Barrel comes back to meet the receiver diameter flush/evenly.
I won’t chamber anything without the action in hand.
I wonder how/if runout is timed on “pre-fit barrels”. It would require threading to start at the same timing point on every action. And every barrel tenon threads to be started at the same exact timing point.
When I have the action in hand I can ensure timing is correct, along with everything else.
I’m soon posting videos on our YouTube channel and Facebook showing the difference between a barrel indicated in coax, and barrel between centers. Both 100% steel and carbon barrels... also showing the run-out I typically see in both.
I wonder how/if runout is timed on “pre-fit barrels”. It would require threading to start at the same timing point on every action. And every barrel tenon threads to be started at the same exact timing point.
When I have the action in hand I can ensure timing is correct, along with everything else.
I’m soon posting videos on our YouTube channel and Facebook showing the difference between a barrel indicated in coax, and barrel between centers. Both 100% steel and carbon barrels... also showing the run-out I typically see in both.
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Keith I have one TL3 by you, the most accurate rifle i have ever used. I do have used lots of rifles so I don’t say this easily. I have recently referred one friend to you for a 6br build and he is extremely satisfied with your work too. I will always send my action to you, but it would be nice if I only sent it in once. I think you are holding a super high standard for your work, but if you also offer some flexibility as long as customers are OK with the downside, may not be a bad idea. For most practical rifle shooters, 0.3 moa accuracy is already over killing. We shake like hell on those weird postures. Anyway just some random thoughts. Really respect your work.
Well maybe it doesn’t matter. We didn’t time runout for the first couple years, working between centers. But after changing to how we do it now I’d never go back and believe it does matter. With the bore straight and the reamer holder we use, the way the reamer runs is night and day. It wants to feed into the barrel. I make some long/deep passes with zero issues except heat, where as before, “between centers”, reamers seemed unhappy.
I can see how it could be timed doing prefits. I just checked a single barrel on two identical aftermarket actions and timing was within a few degrees. It would’ve been fine.
But over the years, across the board, I see a lot of chance for things to change as far as where the thread actually starts in the receiver.
And certainly no manual machinist like myself could turn out pre-fits with run-out timed(meaning no action in hand). Not in any practical sense.
So I can chamber up multiple barrels while I have the action, but I’ll always need the action in hand.
I can see how it could be timed doing prefits. I just checked a single barrel on two identical aftermarket actions and timing was within a few degrees. It would’ve been fine.
But over the years, across the board, I see a lot of chance for things to change as far as where the thread actually starts in the receiver.
And certainly no manual machinist like myself could turn out pre-fits with run-out timed(meaning no action in hand). Not in any practical sense.
So I can chamber up multiple barrels while I have the action, but I’ll always need the action in hand.
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I understand, some people don't like the idea. Was just curious if it was something you guys would be interested in.
Currently you can buy button prefits fairly easy, run-out isn't timed, but getting cut rifled barrels done the same way involves lead time and expense.
I'm looking for a source for a match barrel for this season and you guys did a great job on truing up a Remington action for me a while back. If it's something you want to explore let me know.
Currently you can buy button prefits fairly easy, run-out isn't timed, but getting cut rifled barrels done the same way involves lead time and expense.
I'm looking for a source for a match barrel for this season and you guys did a great job on truing up a Remington action for me a while back. If it's something you want to explore let me know.
Our wait time is only about 3 weeks on full builds.
I’d youre a match shooter and need a barrel job done in a week, I can usually accommodate. Just give me your NRL or PRS shooter number and a heads up, and I can do my best to have it done almost immediately.
I’ll never be convinced to do prefits, or use barrel nuts, as I see no advantage in any way using either. Not when I can chamber up a barrel correctly in about a week.
I’d youre a match shooter and need a barrel job done in a week, I can usually accommodate. Just give me your NRL or PRS shooter number and a heads up, and I can do my best to have it done almost immediately.
I’ll never be convinced to do prefits, or use barrel nuts, as I see no advantage in any way using either. Not when I can chamber up a barrel correctly in about a week.
Bump to top.
Will be building and posting another 50 soon... waiting on reamer to return from JGS.
Thanks!
Will be building and posting another 50 soon... waiting on reamer to return from JGS.
Thanks!
Thanks for posting!
Here are some pics of the carbon cross bolts we use in some bed jobs. We do it when we feel it will help at all. And if you request it we will definitely do it.
I am also experimenting with a new type of front pillar someone designed and gave me a few to try. I won’t say much yet but it pillars the gap between the front pillar and the recoil lug. So that space isn’t just compressible fiberglass with a thin layer of epoxy behind the lug.
Now, that “thin” layer of epoxy behind the lug we have always thickened by about 1000%, but there is still an inch or so of fiberglass or wood behind that relatively still thin layer of epoxy.
We are working to eliminate all possible stock flex or compression within reason.
Phoenix Custom Rifles is a quiet company now that spends most its time shooting and building, rather than posting online and on social media.
Due to this lack of online exposure, our wait times are typically much lower than other shops. When you call you talk to me, Keith Johns, and no one else.
To any new customers considering giving us a try, I can promise you we will never let you down. We stand behind our work and we take VERY good care of those who buy our rifles second-hand. Quality and customer service are everything to us.
Thank you very much everybody. We love what we do.
Here are some pics of the carbon cross bolts we use in some bed jobs. We do it when we feel it will help at all. And if you request it we will definitely do it.
I am also experimenting with a new type of front pillar someone designed and gave me a few to try. I won’t say much yet but it pillars the gap between the front pillar and the recoil lug. So that space isn’t just compressible fiberglass with a thin layer of epoxy behind the lug.
Now, that “thin” layer of epoxy behind the lug we have always thickened by about 1000%, but there is still an inch or so of fiberglass or wood behind that relatively still thin layer of epoxy.
We are working to eliminate all possible stock flex or compression within reason.
Phoenix Custom Rifles is a quiet company now that spends most its time shooting and building, rather than posting online and on social media.
Due to this lack of online exposure, our wait times are typically much lower than other shops. When you call you talk to me, Keith Johns, and no one else.
To any new customers considering giving us a try, I can promise you we will never let you down. We stand behind our work and we take VERY good care of those who buy our rifles second-hand. Quality and customer service are everything to us.
Thank you very much everybody. We love what we do.
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Yes, it is mine. It is absolutely beautiful. PCR did a great job on the rebuild (again). Next time you see me, stop by and say hi. I am there almost every weekend.
My buddy @MysizeisMAGNUM and I were at the two tables to your right. You have some good looking rifles! I'll stop by the next time I see you out there.
I pulled up in the lifted white 4Runner TRD across the aisle from you guys. And was right behind you in line too.
Three M70 bed jobs.
300PRC reamer should be in soon for those waiting. I’ll call JGS and get an update soon, I just don’t want to bug them.
Thanks guys!
300PRC reamer should be in soon for those waiting. I’ll call JGS and get an update soon, I just don’t want to bug them.
Thanks guys!
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Yep, I get that part about the heat in Phoenix. I live in Northern Cochise County, but at about 4350ft ASL, figure 8-10 degrees cooler. Was there in Phoenix a few weeks back for the Phoenix Fan Fest.
Greg
PS Heat was 115* F here at 4350ft today, per the dashboard.
But it's a dry heat...
Greg
PS Heat was 115* F here at 4350ft today, per the dashboard.
But it's a dry heat...
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I’m liking PROOF barrels more and more.
I’m still not a fan of carbon wrapping but if you must have a carbon wrapped barrel, I think PROOF is leading the way.
I’m still not a fan of carbon wrapping but if you must have a carbon wrapped barrel, I think PROOF is leading the way.
What are your lead times right now? I have a 6.5prc seekins on order but accuracy reports aren't all that exciting and you've done a few rifles for me already so I know I can count on accuracy not being an issue.
Nick Radle
Nick Radle
I won't ever buy another factory rifle for myself. I enjoy my one off customs too much. No more cookie cutters.
Is it stupid to spend $7K+ on a custom that shoots .2s when a $700 set up can shoot .5s? Maybe.
But is it stupid to spend $100K on a car that goes 0-100 in 5 seconds when a $1K beater will still get you to the grocery store?
Priorities and pride.
Is it stupid to spend $7K+ on a custom that shoots .2s when a $700 set up can shoot .5s? Maybe.
But is it stupid to spend $100K on a car that goes 0-100 in 5 seconds when a $1K beater will still get you to the grocery store?
Priorities and pride.
I’m trying to post an update but Snipershide isn’t working well with my phone. Maybe it’s the new iPhone update.
Full builds are 2-6 weeks, and single service jobs like brake installs, bedding, or Cerakote, are 1 week.
Things are going extremely well, and I’ll post more when the hide is working with my phone again.
Thanks you, everyone, for your continued support of us and this industry.
Full builds are 2-6 weeks, and single service jobs like brake installs, bedding, or Cerakote, are 1 week.
Things are going extremely well, and I’ll post more when the hide is working with my phone again.
Thanks you, everyone, for your continued support of us and this industry.
Just an update about PROOF carbon barrels...
We’ve done a shit load of them now with not one issue, accuracy or otherwise. Half the chamber jobs I do now seem to be PROOF barrels. They’re making great barrels, both carbon and all steel.
We’ve done a shit load of them now with not one issue, accuracy or otherwise. Half the chamber jobs I do now seem to be PROOF barrels. They’re making great barrels, both carbon and all steel.
Phoenix Custom Rifles bed job and custom Cerakote color made to match Mcmillan maroon.
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My daughter's PCR built 6.5SLR sure racked up some great animals last year. 391 yds for the pronghorn, 454 yards for the muley. Both DRT.
I just got a Proof prefit for my TL3 action and wanted to know how much to cerakote the 2 stainless sections of the barrel? Thanks.
Wow. I 100% agree and mirror this experience! I had them build me a 300 win. Mag a few years ago... I sold it because someone offered me a price I couldn’t refuse. I have regretted it ever since and am now going to get them to build another .300 just like the last. For anyone wondering the quality was absolutely top notch.
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