Spec'ing out first build. Right track or no?

Patrick_S

Sergeant
Full Member
Minuteman
Oct 12, 2006
386
0
45
Lunenburg, VT
I'm getting ready to start gathering parts for my first precision build. I am a hobby shooter so the gun will get used for 0-200yd range work/skills building and 0-600yd steel shooting "in the field" maybe even a bit further. Might even do a little hunting with it from time to time. I hear on the hide so often "buy once, cry once", thats what I plan on doing even if it takes me a year or two to gather parts/funds.

Cal- .308
Surgeon RSR
Surgeon RSR base
Surgeon DBM
Bartlein #14 finished around 18", Tight bore
Brake: Ops-inc, maybe
Manners MCS-3T, 3 studs, 2 Left-side cups std. weight
USO ST-10 GAP, EREK, ERGO, Lit, mil/mil
Seekins rings
Trigger: undecided. Looking for good a 2.5-3lb "field" trigger, not a finicky bench type.

What did I forget, and have I gone wrong anywhere?
Got any trigger recommendations? Triggers are one section I have not really looked into yet.
 
Re: Spec'ing out first build. Right track or no?

USO is a fine scope company however I would go with with a variable powered scope so you wont be fixed at 10x all the time that will probably be to much magnification when your hunting or shooting short range work in my opinion I would consider that other wise it looks like it will be nice
 
Re: Spec'ing out first build. Right track or no?

Thanks, won't be hunting much with it. I have other rifles for that, but you never know. I have never thought 10X was too much for 100 and out range time and steel shooting. My trainer is mostly cranked on 18 unless I am mil'ing something.
 
Re: Spec'ing out first build. Right track or no?

I agree. Check out the Nightforce 3.5-15x50. Mil/mil, illuminated reticle, side parallax and MLR reticle is nice.

For triggers check out Timney or Shilen.

Good specs. Should be a really nice rifle.
 
Re: Spec'ing out first build. Right track or no?

What do you guys think for twist? I'm going to be spitting 175ish grain mostly? I'm thinking a 10 twist.

I am looking at variables, Nightforce is on the list.
 
Re: Spec'ing out first build. Right track or no?

Go 11 twist unless you plan to ever put a can on it and shoot subsonics then go 10 twist. I personally like 10 twists in all my .30 but most don't and go 11 twist.
 
Re: Spec'ing out first build. Right track or no?

I would use a different scope, and if you're going to use an OPS brake you might as well get a single port and set it up to take a 12th model suppressor in case you decide later that you wanted one.
 
Re: Spec'ing out first build. Right track or no?

I wish a suppressor was in the cards, but not in my state.

You guys give me the impression that I am handicapping myself with the fixed 10X. I don't see the need(for me) right now for a variable. The NXS looks nice, but will that extra 5X and variable power make me a better shooter? I'm sure if I gain decent skills I may see the need for a variable, but I'd like to keep it simple. Besides I could always sell the 10X, if/when I feel held back by it.

Good points on the 11 twist. I was pondering a 30-06 build for 210s and had the 10 twist in my head.

Speaking of barrels... CM or SS and 5R or 4 groove rifling?
I'd like SS and 5R unless a more knowing person tells me otherwise.


Thank You
 
Re: Spec'ing out first build. Right track or no?

I'd never go back to a fixed 10 power scope. I like the ability to adjust to what I need for my shot and to have a little more power if needed. Personal choice though.

A quality barrel is more important than grove numbers but a SS 5R will work fine.
 
Re: Spec'ing out first build. Right track or no?

Pat,
Going to a 10x on moving targets can be very difficult depending on the range. If it were my money i would get a variable power scope.
As for triggers i have a shilen on mine like it alot. it does have a narrow shoe though. might take some getting used to for some. I know Randy likes rifle basix.
just my .02

SOTA
 
Re: Spec'ing out first build. Right track or no?

I concur with:
Variable scope
1/10 twist (more flexibility in what you shoot)
If you are getting a break get one you can use a suppressor with - you never know if you'll be leaving VT someday or if they'll change their laws.


Triggers - a lot of good ones, I've been using Rifle Basix and they are great and I've got a Timney waiting for my next build.