So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

Tayous1

Private
Minuteman
Mar 9, 2010
15
0
45
North/South Dakota
Found out today that my department only bought one sniper rifle for the department yet they are sending two of us to the police sniper school. So I thought if I have the training the same as the other guy who gets to carry the department 338 laupa. I'm going to need a rifle for the class I can write off one weapon a year on taxes!

So why not buy my own 308win to take to this school? I have talked to my LT about this he said as long as I bring it to the police sniper school and I'm blessed by them they have no problem.

So since it's out of my pocket for now what do you guys think I should get? Rifle only for now. I have found


REMINGTON 700SPS TACTICAL AAC-SD (SUPRESSOR READY) .308CAL.WITH AAC FLASH HIDER $660
NEW X-MARK PRO EXTERNALLY ADJUSTABLE TRIGGER, A 20" HEAVY BARREL WITH A 5/8X24 THREADED MUZZEL 1:10 TWIST, MATTE BLACK FINISH,BLACK HOGUE OVERMOLDED PILLAR BEDDED SYNTHETIC STOCK WITH HINGED FLOOR PLATE, SLING STUDS, AND RECOIL PAD, COMES WITH A AAC FLASH HIDER.

700 POLICE MODEL IN 308cal WITH A 26" FREE FLOATING HEAVEY BARREL, HINGED FLOOR PLATE,ALL METAL SURFACES HAVE MATTE BLACK PARKERIZED FINISH INCLUDING THE BOLT BLACK SYNTHETIC H-S PRECISION KEVLAR REINFORCED STOCK WITH FULL LENGHTH ALUMINUM BEDDING BLOCK WITH EXTRA STUD FOR BYPOD. $800


There are so many I have found Here also I'm not only a Remington person! I have been thinking of the suppressed 308 win might never need it but hell it would be fun to have since its on my bill!

Anyway any advice rifle prices and so on would be a great help to me! Thanks!
 
Re: So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

If those were my choices, then the 20 inch barrel rifle with no threading is what I would take. If you want a suppressor in the future, send the rifle to a smith who's well known for this, and let him thread it. My first choice for a suppressor would be a Thunder Beast 30-P1. make sure your Department is ok with a trigger swap, because that adjustable trigger that comes with that rifle is a big POS. You can have it worked on by the guys that have figured it out, but, I still don't like it.

On another note, I personally believe that who ever is making the decision on what caliber you guys should use for your Dept.should do a little studying on the subject. A 338 LM for potential use on human targets in any urban environment is wrong in many ways.

Best of luck on your purchase, and in your training.
 
Re: So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: STR</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If those were my choices, then the 20 inch barrel rifle with no threading is what I would take. If you want a suppressor in the future, send the rifle to a smith who's well known for this, and let him thread it. My first choice for a suppressor would be a Thunder Beast 30-P1. make sure your Department is ok with a trigger swap, because that adjustable trigger that comes with that rifle is a big POS. You can have it worked on by the guys that have figured it out, but, I still don't like it.

On another note, I personally believe that who ever is making the decision on what caliber you guys should use for your Dept.should do a little studying on the subject. A 338 LM for potential use on human targets in any urban environment is wrong in many ways.

Best of luck on your purchase, and in your training. </div></div>

I have talked to the guy who bought the 338 LM he does not think he is wrong and like talking to a stone wall!

Thanks for the advice I was looking at the threaded barrel. I don't know a thing about suppressor just know with my job they would have no problem giving them to me. What he bought with department money is on them!I'm wanting a rifle that I can use at any place I go!
 
Re: So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: RMW</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Since this is coming out of your pocket, what is your price range for the rifle? </div></div>

Price!!! It's a funny thing is it not? Looking for a rifle that can be used as a sniper rifle I can be proud to bring it to the school I'm going to! Yet I'm not so proud that I would not look outside the box!
 
Re: So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

If your looking for something cheap and accurate, which your above prices reflect, you can pick up a savage 10 in which ever flavor you like. For the price you can't go wrong. If price is no thing, definitely get something like a GAP or similar custom.

I also think its awesome that for the second time this week a cop has come here saying that they were or knew of a guy taking a 338 lapua to sniper school. Every one thinks they are in the mountains of Afghanistan. But they have their heads so far up their ass they don't realize that they are not infact at war, they are just cops.
 
Re: So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

Between the 2 you listed I'd go with the remington police. Have had one for years and love it. Recently sent it off and had stuff added to it making a 1k shot a breeze. My buddy has one to and has made shots on gophers at 750 yds without any changes from the factory. 1 moa out of the box easy, 1/2 moa possible.
 
Re: So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Savage 10fp</div><div class="ubbcode-body">If your looking for something cheap and accurate, which your above prices reflect, you can pick up a savage 10 in which ever flavor you like. For the price you can't go wrong. If price is no thing, definitely get something like a GAP or similar custom.

I also think its awesome that for the second time this week a cop has come here saying that they were or knew of a guy taking a 338 lapua to sniper school. Every one thinks they are in the mountains of Afghanistan. But they have their heads so far up their ass they don't realize that they are not infact at war, they are just cops. </div></div>

I agree that the 338 is too much rifle for most if not all Police applications. But I think it is impotant for "Just Cops" to keep a warrior mind set. The street they patrol daily in some parts of this country are every bit as dangerous as those in war torn areas. Thanks for serving guys.
 
Re: So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: tayous1</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: STR</div><div class="ubbcode-body">

On another note, I personally believe that who ever is making the decision on what caliber you guys should use for your Dept.should do a little studying on the subject. A 338 LM for potential use on human targets in any urban environment is wrong in many ways.

Best of luck on your purchase, and in your training. </div></div>

I have talked to the guy who bought the 338 LM he does not think he is wrong and like talking to a stone wall!

Thanks for the advice I was looking at the threaded barrel. I don't know a thing about suppressor just know with my job they would have no problem giving them to me. What he bought with department money is on them!I'm wanting a rifle that I can use at any place I go! </div></div>

little short of "urban environments" in N, S Dakota, main issue I see with the 338 is practicing/ funding ammo as you will have to use factory

for the original ? the most important issue is probably having a stock, rifle, bipod, scope and mounts combination that fits you or is adjustable to fit you. I see great improvement in performance when the system fits the shooter well
 
Re: So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: tayous1</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: RMW</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Since this is coming out of your pocket, what is your price range for the rifle? </div></div>

Price!!! It's a funny thing is it not? Looking for a rifle that can be used as a sniper rifle I can be proud to bring it to the school I'm going to! Yet I'm not so proud that I would not look outside the box! </div></div>

If price was not an issue, I would look into a Desert Tactical Arms SRS. It would give you the ability to use a .308 for training and jump up to a .338 LM if you every needed it. However, it is 4x more expensive than a Remington 700P.
 
Re: So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

The dept. will not be happy when they see the ammo bill for one class. I took 2 classes which required 450 rounds between the two..
 
Re: So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

If this is going to be used as a duty weapon, make sure the Department doesn't have any specific guidelines or requirements for components and accuracy, from a liability perspective.

I suggest the shorter barrel for maneuverability, and a better stock and trigger than what comes standard on the AAC-SD. The Hogue has a tendency to flex and may contact the barrel. The trigger can be brought down to about 3#, but you may want something a little lighter.
 
Re: So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

i would get the 700P, it will cost you much less in the long run. the AAC-SD (as much as i love mine) will need a new stock and trigger.

if you do go with the AAC-SD, save yourself some cash and forget about that flash hider, talk to DWS here at the hide and $40 later you will have a sick custom brake for your gun.
 
Re: So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

I think you need to consider price and post a range you are looking to be in. Do you need glass also? Many people here can spit out numerous rifles but with no limits we cant narrow down the best choices for you.
 
Re: So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: tayous1</div><div class="ubbcode-body">

I have talked to the guy who bought the 338 LM he does not think he is wrong and like talking to a stone wall!
</div></div>

He will find out when he goes to school. Way to much room for collateral damage with the .338 Lapua
 
Re: So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

700P- Than get a manners stock and new trigger. Take it to a smith and have the action trued and set the bbl back .001. Also, have them bed the stock for you. If your dept only shoots Fed ammo led the smith know that too.
 
Re: So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

I'd look at a 700 AAC SD w/o the flash hider, then you can add the brake of your choice to an extent. Drop it in a McRee chassis, and you've got a very decent functional weapon on a budget. I'm a Remington 700 guy, however I'm warming up to my issued Savage 10BA .308 rather nicely. Very accurate and functional.

Whoever made the call on a .338 Lapua for local L.E. use made a bad call. At about 5 bucks a pop for premium ammo, I'm betting practice with the rifle will wear thin on the budget quickly. Any potential target best be standing in front of a sand bunker about 10 yards deep to boot!
smile.gif
CKruse
 
Re: So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: tayous1</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
Price!!! It's a funny thing is it not? Looking for a rifle that can be used as a sniper rifle I can be proud to bring it to the school I'm going to! Yet I'm not so proud that I would not look outside the box! </div></div>

If you can afford it...

Accuracy International AE MkIII with a Nightforce F1.

It is a big pill to swallow, but you have to remember that you are not shooting steel or paper targets. You are training to save lives. Anytime I have had to deploy my AE, there has been no question in my mind that it was the correct tool for the job.

If the AE is way out of your price range, then I suggest the Remington 700P LTR. It's a 20" barrel and a light, easy to handle package. Top it with a Bushnell 3-12x Elite Tactical scope and you will have a reliable mid-level package.
 
Re: So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

I'd go for something that comes in a suitable factory configuration, if work needs to be done put it in the hands of a reputable gunsmith. The courts frown upon home builds. One other thing to remember is if you actually use the rifle in a shooting it's gona be sent to the lab and out of your hands for up to a year and in some cases longer. You put a piece of decent glass on either rifle and your looking at $2000 of your money you can't even have.
With that said I shoot with a couple guys that have box stock Remington 700 LTR's. They shoot great and have the short barrel for the urban setting. Realisticly your not gona need the 26" barrel for the distances that police shoot.
 
Re: So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

I think that people take law enforcement carrying .338's and .50's the wrong way. Our department has 2 .338's and 2 Barrett 50's. These weapon systems are not neccessarily used as intermediate sniper rifles, but are used for vehicle penetration, along with soft barrier penetration. They are a vital neccessity for some of the call out's that we go to. Our 308's are just not the right tool for all of our missions. That said, the first LE sniper school that I attended, the instructor had to loan me a Savage 10 because my HS took a shit, "broke extractor". I would definitely look into the Savage line if it were coming out of my own pocket.
 
Re: So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: LoneWolfUSMC</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: tayous1</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
Price!!! It's a funny thing is it not? Looking for a rifle that can be used as a sniper rifle I can be proud to bring it to the school I'm going to! Yet I'm not so proud that I would not look outside the box! </div></div>

If you can afford it...

Accuracy International AE MkIII with a Nightforce F1.

It is a big pill to swallow, but you have to remember that you are not shooting steel or paper targets. You are training to save lives. Anytime I have had to deploy my AE, there has been no question in my mind that it was the correct tool for the job.

If the AE is way out of your price range, then I suggest the Remington 700P LTR. It's a 20" barrel and a light, easy to handle package. Top it with a Bushnell 3-12x Elite Tactical scope and you will have a reliable mid-level package. </div></div>


If you don't mind me asking, why not buy a Remington 700 sps tactical or Rem 700 AAC and get a better stock rather than buy a LTR.
 
Re: So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Para38super</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
If you don't mind me asking, why not buy a Remington 700 sps tactical or Rem 700 AAC and get a better stock rather than buy a LTR. </div></div>

Because Lawyers have tons of fun in court if you are not an Armorer and go swapping parts around on a duty rifle without the proper background and certifications.

There are ways around this, like having an armorer "install" the stock or having someone with appropriate certifications "inspect" the rifle after modifications are made. It's all about being able to demonstrate to someone who knows NOTHING about firearms (i.e. a Juror) why your actions were proper and in-line with standard practices.
 
Re: So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

The AAC-SD is a nice gun for the money, but the other posters are right. It WILL need a new trigger and stock. Since I replaced mine with a McMillan A5 and a rifle basix trigger, it has been awesome.
 
Re: So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: LoneWolfUSMC</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Para38super</div><div class="ubbcode-body">
If you don't mind me asking, why not buy a Remington 700 sps tactical or Rem 700 AAC and get a better stock rather than buy a LTR. </div></div>

Because Lawyers have tons of fun in court if you are not an Armorer and go swapping parts around on a duty rifle without the proper background and certifications.

There are ways around this, like having an armorer "install" the stock or having someone with appropriate certifications "inspect" the rifle after modifications are made. It's all about being able to demonstrate to someone who knows NOTHING about firearms (i.e. a Juror) why your actions were proper and in-line with standard practices. </div></div>

Makes total sense, thanks for answering the question. That is what I figuered, but though maybe there was another reason. So, maybe even buying a Rem LTR and having the trigger lighten, may not be a good idea.
 
Re: So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

The standard remington triggers aren't that bad. I have one on an AAC-SD that breaks clean at 3 pounds. You aren't going to be shooting benchrest with this rife. You need it minute of eyeball or earhole. I wouldn't want it any lighter than 3 pounds in a sniper position. You definatly don't want it to go bang before your ready. Our department went with a well known custom builder. These rifles will cost you more but are worth it especially when lives are on the line. Shop around, some builder cut breaks on duty rifles.

A lot of builders will even mount your scope. Why have them do it you ask. It will really help attorneys from asking "what training do you have in scope mounting", and you saying "none". Believe me they leave no stone unturned.
 
Re: So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

LoneWolfUSMC I'd love to have a Accuracy International AE MkIII but I could not afford it right now and also the real boss "Wife" would be pretty pissed off if I spent that much and have not even gone to the school yet.

That rifle might come into play after I go to the school.
 
Re: So I'm going to buy my own rifle!

Found out today that the other guy who is going to the school with me did not order the 338LM it was are district office. They did it because they had to spend so much money. We could have gotten free two M24 scope bi-pods the whole 9 yards. Someone in district thought they know better.