Sako TRG 338 LM vs. Custon Setup.

P

precisionshutr

Private
Minuteman
Dec 5, 2008
54
0
LA, CA
#1
I'm starting a new project, trying to decide between a Sako TRG 42 and a custom setup using a Badger Ordnance action, Badger M5 DM, Badger muzzle brake, Jewel Trigger, Hart barrel and bell & carlson stock (really like the design of the A5 tacticle stock). I've estimated the cost to be pretty similar, apprixmately $4500 for all parts and labor on both setups (for the TRG, including it's bipod, scope rings, muzzle break and extra mag). I realize I have other options including Rem 700 and AI 338, but of the research I've done, the TRG and custom setup are the two options I'm considering. BTW...I'll be using the rifle on a bench at a local range and in the field, only for target shooting. So here are the questions:

1. Can anyone with a TRG 42 in a 338 LM tell me if it has a very long throat like some production rifles? If I set the cartridge OAL near the throat (.010 or so off the throat), will the rounds still fit in the magazine?
2. How do you guys like the TRG bipod? I've shot a few rounds in a TRG22 (courtesy of AKC on the board here) and personally like the bipod, but I don't have any real world experience with it.
3. The good and bad of the TRG three ring system (of course the price being one of the negatives)? Is it just a very expensive set of rings for the TRG?
4. And lastly, any thougths on the Badger M2008 action in a 338LM?

Any help would be much appreciated...
 
#2
Re: Sako TRG 338 LM vs. Custon Setup.

I have a TRG and I would not give it up for a custom job any day.

1) I set right at .0001 off of my lands and have no problems with Mags

2) I have not used the TRG bipod yet, i have a Harris on mine and it works well.

3) The Scope Base that I use is a custom one, and I have a Night Force mounted to it and it works well, I only have 2 and not 3 set of Rings on it, I would fit a extra if I wanted to, but I feel it’s over kill.

4) And as I said, I would keep my TRG over any Badger any day.

The TRG Break is wonderful, With 84 Gns of VV 560, shooting a 250 pill, it kicks like a 243. There are some out there that say that the TRG stocks are week and break. I think there has been one or two and everyone jumped on them for it. That’s CRAP, just don’t drop the thing from 10 feet and you'll be fine. They come with 1:10 twist, so you can run the 300 grn pills. Great Rig, I love mine.

Point of Fact, Great Northern Guns has a new one for sale here in Anchorage. (907-563-3006) No I don’t work for them. It’s a Black one with a 1:10 barrel on it. I think it comes with the Break and a Scope Mount on it all NIB.

Good Luck.
Curtis
 
#4
Re: Sako TRG 338 LM vs. Custon Setup.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Alaskaman 11</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I have a TRG and I would not give it up for a custom job any day.

1) I set right at .0001 off of my lands and have no problems with Mags

2) I have not used the TRG bipod yet, i have a Harris on mine and it works well.

3) The Scope Base that I use is a custom one, and I have a Night Force mounted to it and it works well, I only have 2 and not 3 set of Rings on it, I would fit a extra if I wanted to, but I feel it’s over kill.

4) And as I said, I would keep my TRG over any Badger any day.

The TRG Break is wonderful, With 84 Gns of VV 560, shooting a 250 pill, it kicks like a 243. There are some out there that say that the TRG stocks are week and break. I think there has been one or two and everyone jumped on them for it. That’s CRAP, just don’t drop the thing from 10 feet and you'll be fine. They come with 1:10 twist, so you can run the 300 grn pills. Great Rig, I love mine.

Point of Fact, Great Northern Guns has a new one for sale here in Anchorage. (907-563-3006) No I don’t work for them. It’s a Black one with a 1:10 barrel on it. I think it comes with the Break and a Scope Mount on it all NIB.

Good Luck.
Curtis
</div></div>

Thanks for the feed back. That's what I've heard from TRG owners, everyone who has one loves 'em. With the exception of the crack reported from someone on the board, I've never heard anything bad.

setting .0001 off the lands and not having any fitting issues with the mags, is that in the 250 or the 300 grain rounds?
 
#5
Re: Sako TRG 338 LM vs. Custon Setup.

TRG =s 100% resale
Custom =s 50% resale

has there ever been a bad SAKO or Tikka?

BTW Tikka 595 =s 200% or more resale!

tikka22250.jpg

 
#6
Re: Sako TRG 338 LM vs. Custon Setup.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Mr. Humble</div><div class="ubbcode-body">TRG =s 100% resale
Custom =s 50% resale

has there ever been a bad SAKO or Tikka?

BTW Tikka 595 =s 200% or more resale!

tikka22250.jpg

</div></div>

Didn't think the custom jobs lost so much of their value...it makes sense though. Unlikely someone else wants exactly what I want...good to know.
 
#8
Re: Sako TRG 338 LM vs. Custon Setup.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Mr. Humble</div><div class="ubbcode-body">TRG =s 100% resale
Custom =s 50% resale

has there ever been a bad SAKO or Tikka?

BTW Tikka 595 =s 200% or more resale!

tikka22250.jpg

</div></div>

I would have to say that this is a goose exaggeration. There are plenty of custom builds that sell for 90% + of their value. Perhaps you would pay 100% full price for a used TRG, but this just says that there is a market for it (I would guess a tiny market, however). Custom means it’s built how you like it; it can also mean that someone else may find the set up to be great for them.

Not saying the TRG is a bad setup, it’s perfect for a lot of shooters. If it turns you on more than a custom then knock yourself out!

Custom builds do not lose half of their value that blind assertion is asinine.
 
#9
Re: Sako TRG 338 LM vs. Custon Setup.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: precisionshutr</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I'm starting a new project, trying to decide between a Sako TRG 42 and a custom setup using a Badger Ordnance action, Badger M5 DM, Badger muzzle brake, Jewel Trigger, Hart barrel and bell & carlson stock (really like the design of the A5 tacticle stock). I've estimated the cost to be pretty similar, apprixmately $4500 for all parts and labor on both setups (for the TRG, including it's bipod, scope rings, muzzle break and extra mag). I realize I have other options including Rem 700 and AI 338, but of the research I've done, the TRG and custom setup are the two options I'm considering. BTW...I'll be using the rifle on a bench at a local range and in the field, only for target shooting. So here are the questions:

1. Can anyone with a TRG 42 in a 338 LM tell me if it has a very long throat like some production rifles? If I set the cartridge OAL near the throat (.010 or so off the throat), will the rounds still fit in the magazine?
2. How do you guys like the TRG bipod? I've shot a few rounds in a TRG22 (courtesy of AKC on the board here) and personally like the bipod, but I don't have any real world experience with it.
3. The good and bad of the TRG three ring system (of course the price being one of the negatives)? Is it just a very expensive set of rings for the TRG?
4. And lastly, any thougths on the Badger M2008 action in a 338LM?

Any help would be much appreciated... </div></div>

Any other opinions from the loyal TRG crowd?
 
#10
Re: Sako TRG 338 LM vs. Custon Setup.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: precisionshutr</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Alaskaman 11</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I have a TRG and I would not give it up for a custom job any day.

1) I set right at .0001 off of my lands and have no problems with Mags

2) I have not used the TRG bipod yet, i have a Harris on mine and it works well.

3) The Scope Base that I use is a custom one, and I have a Night Force mounted to it and it works well, I only have 2 and not 3 set of Rings on it, I would fit a extra if I wanted to, but I feel it’s over kill.

4) And as I said, I would keep my TRG over any Badger any day.

The TRG Break is wonderful, With 84 Gns of VV 560, shooting a 250 pill, it kicks like a 243. There are some out there that say that the TRG stocks are week and break. I think there has been one or two and everyone jumped on them for it. That’s CRAP, just don’t drop the thing from 10 feet and you'll be fine. They come with 1:10 twist, so you can run the 300 grn pills. Great Rig, I love mine.

Point of Fact, Great Northern Guns has a new one for sale here in Anchorage. (907-563-3006) No I don’t work for them. It’s a Black one with a 1:10 barrel on it. I think it comes with the Break and a Scope Mount on it all NIB.

Good Luck.
Curtis
</div></div>

Thanks for the feed back. That's what I've heard from TRG owners, everyone who has one loves 'em. With the exception of the crack reported from someone on the board, I've never heard anything bad.

setting .0001 off the lands and not having any fitting issues with the mags, is that in the 250 or the 300 grain rounds? </div></div>

mine is one of the older ones with a 1:12 so im stuck with the 250's
 
#11
Re: Sako TRG 338 LM vs. Custon Setup.

"f" a trg and buy a surgeon remedy exactly the way you want it. I don't believe you will ever find a stock trg that will shoot with a surgeon unless it's a total luck thing. I think most people here will agree. Unless they have a trg ofcourse.
 
#12
Re: Sako TRG 338 LM vs. Custon Setup.

I have a TRG, in 338 laua that i use, abuse and give shit for 2 year now, i don't shoot it a lot, but rain, snow, .-50 on my back for a snowmobile ride and very accurate, always go bang. it is topped with a Nightforce and it is a very good piece of equipment too, i have done the same job with a 700 in 300 mag before this one, it was topped with a Schmidt and the Nightforse is as accurate, as strong, as weather resistant then the Schmidt.
it is the 1:12 barrel but for moose, cariboo,225-250gr is good to go, the BC of the 300 is better than the 250,no doubdt, but i can have excellent shoot to 1000yard, we will try 1500yard may 17, i will use Black Hills 250gr. i WISH i can shoot 300 but in my tube, past 300 yard, it lost acuracy compare to the 250

Marc
 
#13
Re: Sako TRG 338 LM vs. Custon Setup.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Marc_Andre</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
it is the 1:12 barrel but for moose, cariboo,225-250gr is good to go, the BC of the 300 is better than the 250,no doubdt, but i can have excellent shoot to 1000yard, we will try 1500yard may 17, i will use Black Hills 250gr. i WISH i can shoot 300 but in my tube, past 300 yard, it lost acuracy compare to the 250

Marc </div></div>

No worries, 250gr Scenar flies nicely to +2000meters/2100yds.
 
#14
Re: Sako TRG 338 LM vs. Custon Setup.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Surgeon-Shooter</div><div class="ubbcode-body">"f" a trg and buy a surgeon remedy exactly the way you want it. I don't believe you will ever find a stock trg that will shoot with a surgeon unless it's a total luck thing. I think most people here will agree. Unless they have a trg ofcourse. </div></div>

agreed, i would take a surgeon remedy over a trg any day.
 
#15
Re: Sako TRG 338 LM vs. Custon Setup.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Surgeon-Shooter</div><div class="ubbcode-body">"f" a trg and buy a surgeon remedy exactly the way you want it. I don't believe you will ever find a stock trg that will shoot with a surgeon unless it's a total luck thing. I think most people here will agree. Unless they have a trg ofcourse. </div></div>

With the name surgeon shooter, I wouldn't expect you to be biased at all!
smile.gif


My .338 LM's are TRG's and love them. They are as accurate as I could be with anything else and I very seriously doubt that there are more and a couple of people here who could shoot better than a TRG will allow. If a TRG isn't sub MOA at the factory, it doesn't leave it. I hunt with a M995 (TRGS) 7mm Rem Mag and that SOB is a tack driver on the range too. Sako just flat out builds a great rifle.

TRG's retain 100% value at worst- I've sold two of mine and actually made a little more than I bought them for and the buyers were more than happy with the selling price. If you're planning on keeping it forever, you shouldn't even consider resale value - it's a moot point. If this is a starter to get going and develop likes and dislikes, strengths and weaknesses with your shooting at range, wait on the custom build and move on that after you decide that it's right for you.

Good luck with your decision - just remember that people round here defend their opinions like it was the gospel. Take these opinion (mine included) for all for their worth - the amount you were charged for'm!!
wink.gif
 
#17
Re: Sako TRG 338 LM vs. Custon Setup.

i have yet to see any board I've posted on with replies which aren't biased. Some more than others, but it always plays a role.

And you are dead on about resale. I've looked at several used rifles at or above retail. Also, resale is an after thought as like all of my guns it's going to be a keeper...

Lastly, I found a local shop that has a TRG 338 in black, all Sako accessories with a Leupold Mark IV scope for $4200. My question is how do I know if the rifle has been abused? Any obvious signs that the rifle may not be accurate?
 
#18
Re: Sako TRG 338 LM vs. Custon Setup.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: dmg308</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I think both will work fine it comes down to what you want.The mag prices on Sakos will make you choke but how many do you need.These guys seem to do alright with the 250 scenars.

http://www.longrangeresearchinstitute.com/gpage6.html </div></div>

Thanks for the post, very helpful. I mentioned in my other post about a used TRG i saw for $4200. I passed on it originally as it, like most TRG's, has a 1 in 12 twist. Reading your post, I'm sorry I ever doubted Sako...I'm going to take another look.
 
#19
Re: Sako TRG 338 LM vs. Custon Setup.

My first true competition gun was a TRG 42 in 300WM. I love the TRG platform. Mainly the fully adjustable 2 stage trigger is has. I also like the stock and all the options you can do to set it up. The action is very smooth and the rifle feels and handles very well.

I also have a custom Surgeon with a Bartlein barrel in 260 Rem. The TRG is definitly a 1/2 MOA or less rifle. My custom Surgeon is much more accurate than the TRG. But 1/2 MOA accuracy will do anything you desire to shoot.

So, comparing the 2 is hard. I really think it depends on what features you want, and how it fits you. The TRG is more comfortable to shoot, but I love the accuracy of my Surgeon. So, you will not go wrong with either choice.
 
#20
Re: Sako TRG 338 LM vs. Custon Setup.

For factory rifles, I've always liked Sako because it is the best factory trigger, period.

I shot AI AWPs for a long time until I decided it was a bit on the heavy side to pack. At that point I went to a SIG SSG3000. Saved about 2.5lbs on a fully loaded out gun over the AWP.

Picked up a TRG-22 a long time ago and it is about the same (a little lighter) than the SSG3000.

For various reasons, I went to the TRG-42 in 338LM. Been shooting it for a couple years and here's my take:

It is too light. That means if you are at all recoil sensitive, make sure you have the factory brake or a good quality muzzle device. I shoot that thing for kicks but have seen many people get turned off by the pounding of the recoil impulse, esp. hotter loads that produce peak accuracy.

In 338LM I'd suggest sticking with the AWSM because the weight of the rifle helps, rather than hinder.

Because the TRG-42 is such a light rifle it is punishing on scopes. Raydog had problems with his scope mount (maybe scope too?) a few years ago.

As for the 3-ring mount, it is a very solid, no-nonsense mount. That's what I use but there are several other options today.

When I get rolling on custom sticks I may sing a different tune but you can't go wrong with any of these choices.
 
#21
Re: Sako TRG 338 LM vs. Custon Setup.

Thanks to all, the info was very helpful (i.e. I can't imagine going with the custom job, the TRG it is).

I'll be posting another thread on purchasing a used rifle. I stumbled across a local shop which has a used TRG in a 338. I'd like to find out what to look for...
 
#23
Re: Sako TRG 338 LM vs. Custon Setup.

TRGs are mighty cool sticks, I was planning on getting one but decided to wait for the Badger action. I wanted something beefier and heavier bedded in an AICS, mainly. Just my preference. Also, I was in no hurry to own a rifle chambered in five dollar bills.

Though, If I ever see one at a gun shop and I have the pocket change it'll probably end up coming home with me.





 
#24
Re: Sako TRG 338 LM vs. Custon Setup.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: precisionshutr</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
Lastly, I found a local shop that has a TRG 338 in black, all Sako accessories with a Leupold Mark IV scope for $4200. My question is how do I know if the rifle has been abused? Any obvious signs that the rifle may not be accurate? </div></div>

Best and about only tool to take with you is endoscope.
If you dont own one, borrow it.
With that You can check barrel and especially throat erosion and see if sellers story about shots taken is true.

Know few cases about TRG:s which have suddenly lost accuracy.
Especially with some powders, carbon (or something) builds up after throat and you guess rest. Bullet will not be tight anymore after that point.
These kind of "ruined" barrels can still be saved with intensive cleaning or light abrasive w/lead plug.
If shooted with supressors, build-up might be at the end of the barrel too- but still causes same result.
 
#25
Re: Sako TRG 338 LM vs. Custon Setup.

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: JL</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: precisionshutr</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
Lastly, I found a local shop that has a TRG 338 in black, all Sako accessories with a Leupold Mark IV scope for $4200. My question is how do I know if the rifle has been abused? Any obvious signs that the rifle may not be accurate? </div></div>

Best and about only tool to take with you is endoscope.
If you dont own one, borrow it.
With that You can check barrel and especially throat erosion and see if sellers story about shots taken is true.

Thank you, exactly what i needed to know.

Know few cases about TRG:s which have suddenly lost accuracy.
Especially with some powders, carbon (or something) builds up after throat and you guess rest. Bullet will not be tight anymore after that point.
These kind of "ruined" barrels can still be saved with intensive cleaning or light abrasive w/lead plug.
If shooted with supressors, build-up might be at the end of the barrel too- but still causes same result. </div></div>
 
#26
Re: Sako TRG 338 LM vs. Custon Setup.

The TRG 22/42 is the Ultimate platform production rifle.

Buy used, save some $$ and get a new barrel
Order a standard .472" & .531" bolt body from Beretta USA and have the ultimate switchbarrel rifle.

Used .338LM is pretty dicey. How many rounds down the tube before there is throat damage on one of those monster magnums? 500?? Burn a lot of powder, go with an over-bore cartridge design and Yikes! Adios barrel.

The TRG 42 in .300win is probably the most versatile choice and certainly more affordable to shoot. Shoot the .300win for 800-1200rds and then improve the chamber to a Weatherby or Ultra Mag. Order that new barrel and go .338 Edge if you really figure on delivering rounds to 1500yds.

The Sako is an outa the box solution.
No waiting, if you can find one in-stock.

Right now, the question is can you get brass, bullets and other components readily? Got a keg of your Super-Mag powder of choice in the basement and a golf bag full of new replacement barrel blanks????

I would be looking at a short-body cartridge over the Lapua. maybe you form your own from Lapua bras or go .338 Norma or neck up the Lazzeroni Patriot?

My preference is .338/300; but for barrel life the .338-06AI would be the ticket.

As appealing as the super-custom rigs are with proprietary actions, the current economic clime and other factors favor prompt delivery and also concurrent purchase of spare parts.

Beretta USA is pretty decent in that dept. You can buy every spare part except a replacement barrel; and you don't want that anyway. Pac Nor did a fine job for me for under $400 on short chambered pre-fit.

Another nice thing about the TRG 42 is those actions are the same as TRG-S, so you can use those takeoff barrels for hunting. A TRG42 barrel can also be swapped onto an S with a bit of barrel channel widening.

Haven't even touched on the superb simplicity of the Sako Trigger and the TRG 22/42 stock....
 
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