Suggestions for starter Chassis bolt action rifle in 6.5?

[faylix]

Hey guys,

I'm just starting to put together my list for my first bolt action rifle.

- I'm looking to stay under 2k. If I could do it for 1500 that would be perfect - that way with glass and bipod I'm in the early 2's
- Very happy with used parts if necessary to stay in price point
- I shoot mainly at 1 - 200 yards but am looking to build something I could fly west with and start taking to long range classes
- Ideally sub .5 moa at 100 yards (My WOA barrel 223 AR can do sub 1 moa ... looking for something significantly better)
- I just converted my LMT MARS-H to 6.5cm and would like to stick with this round for purposes of ammo stocking

I've been looking at things like the tikka t3x tactical, Remington 700 , Ruger precision rifle, but its a lot and I thought I'd come here to gain some good dope to start with.

other than the above, go wild. I'm down to collect an action, barrel, trigger and chassis all separate if I have to - but it would be nice to buy something I can shoot now and have an upgrade path later.

thank you all for putting up with me ;-)

 

[Oldmauser]

Tikka tactical is a baseline scenario here. At this pricepoint very few rifles will be so stupidly accurate. Second option is bergara premier of cz 600 mdt. This is stuff that I know. Other scenario is semi custom gun- so stock action and nice barrel like bartlein or brux.

 

[stanley_white]

Howa barreled action from Brownells in a KRG Bravo or MDT Field Stock.

-Stan

 

[FuhQ]

Hey guys,

I'm just starting to put together my list for my first bolt action rifle.

- I'm looking to stay under 2k. If I could do it for 1500 that would be perfect - that way with glass and bipod I'm in the early 2's
- Very happy with used parts if necessary to stay in price point
- I shoot mainly at 1 - 200 yards but am looking to build something I could fly west with and start taking to long range classes
- Ideally sub .5 moa at 100 yards (My WOA barrel 223 AR can do sub 1 moa ... looking for something significantly better)
- I just converted my LMT MARS-H to 6.5cm and would like to stick with this round for purposes of ammo stocking

I've been looking at things like the tikka t3x tactical, Remington 700 , Ruger precision rifle, but its a lot and I thought I'd come here to gain some good dope to start with.

other than the above, go wild. I'm down to collect an action, barrel, trigger and chassis all separate if I have to - but it would be nice to buy something I can shoot now and have an upgrade path later.

thank you all for putting up with me ;-)

This is the best option... And Classic Firearms has 1 left for $1899...

https://www.classicfirearms.com/aero-precision-solus-competition-rifle-22-6-5-creedmoor-sendero-black-apbr01020002/

Mine shoots extremely well with handloads...

 

[Old Man with Gun]

Bergara, Tikka and Howard are worth a look.

 

[faylix]

Howa barreled action from Brownells in a KRG Bravo or MDT Field Stock.

-Stan

I'm looking, so the standard 24'' m1500 is like $400 and the carbon fiber wrapped (does that actually do anything? I'm not hunting with this gun) is like $700.

edit:

$473.31 - for the m1500 barreled action and an egw scope base. + 450 for the chassis is starting to look really nice.

I'm looking for something like a MDT ORYX Rifle Chassis - so that is another $450.

What else do I need? some kind of Pic rail up top, I have rings and scopes, and a bipod + rear bag?

$800 - 1000 seems do-able.

Is the Howa action something I can re-barrel later when I have enough to spend 1500 on a legit barrel?

 

[FuhQ]

Another benefit to the Solus, is that it uses Zermatt Origin prefit barrels, which can be found everywhere, and Aero sells replaceable bolt heads in .382" (.223/.300 BLK), .455 (6mm ARC - coming soon), and .540" (magnums). So, if you want to change it up later to something else, you can keep the same action and chassis and scope you already have, and just swap the barrel. Or if you want to drop down to .223, you can swap the barrel, bolt head, and magazine. Of, if you want to swap to a short mag, simple barrel, bolt head, and mag swap, as well.

 

[stello1001]

I'm looking, so the standard 24'' m1500 is like $400 and the carbon fiber wrapped (does that actually do anything? I'm not hunting with this gun) is like $700.

I'm looking for something like a MDT ORYX Rifle Chassis - so that is another $450.

What else do I need? some kind of Pic rail up top, I have rings and scopes, and a bipod + rear bag?

$800 - 1000 seems do-able.

Is the Howa action something I can re-barrel later when I have enough to spend 1500 on a legit barrel?

Yeah no, don't go carbon, you want the heavier barrel. Howa makes a good rifle. I recommend them.

If PVA is still doing aero barelled actions with their osprey barells for like a grand give or take, that would be another solid option and then you get a stock/chassis of your choosing.

**edit to add**

I found the PVA deal.

Actions/Barreled Actions - Barreled Actions - Patriot Valley Arms

patriotvalleyarms.com

I would go howa if you wanna stay really budget friendly and leave more funds for glass, ammo, accessories.

And if you wanna go to something a bit more "custom" then I would go with the PVA deal.

 

[stanley_white]

I'm looking, so the standard 24'' m1500 is like $400 and the carbon fiber wrapped (does that actually do anything? I'm not hunting with this gun) is like $700.

edit:

$473.31 - for the m1500 barreled action and an egw scope base. + 450 for the chassis is starting to look really nice.

I'm looking for something like a MDT ORYX Rifle Chassis - so that is another $450.

What else do I need? some kind of Pic rail up top, I have rings and scopes, and a bipod + rear bag?

$800 - 1000 seems do-able.

Is the Howa action something I can re-barrel later when I have enough to spend 1500 on a legit barrel?

For the Howa, I like the MDT scope rail as it has a recoil lug on it.

Yes the Howa can be re-barreled.

Contact MDT and ask them if the Howa in the Oryx can use all brands of AICS magazines, for some reason I thought it could only use MDT AICS.

-Stan

 

[stanley_white]

Check this thread out @faylix:

Howa 1500 builds **post them**

Hello all, So being a Howa owner, it's always nice to see what modifications or changes others do to theirs. Plus, the howa 1500 action is a great shooting platform and typically very very accurate. I noticed there is no such thread and decided i should start one seeing as how Bergara, Tikka...

www.snipershide.com

-Stan

 

[faylix]

For the Howa, I like the MDT scope rail as it has a recoil lug on it.

Yes the Howa can be re-barreled.

Contact MDT and ask them if the Howa in the Oryx can use all brands of AICS magazines, for some reason I thought it could only use MDT AICS.

-Stan

The Brownells website says the howa action uses a 5 round internal fixed mag. But it also seems like you can buy some kind of extra that allows you to run magazines.

Id rather only order the FFL items from Brownells (because they go to the FFL) and order the rest from MDT. That seems like a good option.

Re the aero precision action - that also looks like an awesome setup but it's also 800 + extra out the gate.

Is it 800+ better

 

[Mongo68]

Is Howa a rem700 platform? If not, then consider if you want upgrades later- triggers, different chassis, aics/ aw mags etc.
I did aero solus action, mdt elite, proof barrel, trigger tech diamond. Yes, clearly over 2k. But I can change anything ( and have- went from 6.5cm to dasher). I also built a 22 on same chassis to keep things the same.
The complete aero competition is also a great deal but I’m not sure of availability at times.

 

[stanley_white]

The Brownells website says the howa action uses a 5 round internal fixed mag. But it also seems like you can buy some kind of extra that allows you to run magazines.

Id rather only order the FFL items from Brownells (because they go to the FFL) and order the rest from MDT. That seems like a good option.

Re the aero precision action - that also looks like an awesome setup but it's also 800 + extra out the gate.

Is it 800+ better

The Howa, in a chassis, will use AICS detachable magazines.

The Aero is a Remington 700 footprint, can use AICS or AW magazines, and barrel changing will be easier as it uses pre-fit barrels whereas the Howa will have to re-barreled by a gunsmith. Also, as someone above said, the Howa will have less aftermarket support than the Aero Solus so it depends what your priorities are.

Clear as mud?

-Stan

 

[stello1001]

Whatever chassis you go with on the howa will take AI mags. The aftermarket support may not be as large but it has everything you could want. They do take prefit barrels as well as I just removed the factory barrel and installed a new one in my house. You will have to use a barrel nut though and the options are limited.

I don't see anything wrong with the howa. If you're trying to get started on a budget, it will definitely check all the boxes.

 

[faylix]

The Howa, in a chassis, will use AICS detachable magazines.

The Aero is a Remington 700 footprint, can use AICS or AW magazines, and barrel changing will be easier as it uses pre-fit barrels whereas the Howa will have to re-barreled by a gunsmith. Also, as someone above said, the Howa will have less aftermarket support than the Aero Solus so it depends what your priorities are.

Clear as mud?

-Stan

Clear as rocky mud.

Is Howa a rem700 platform? If not, then consider if you want upgrades later- triggers, different chassis, aics/ aw mags etc.
I did aero solus action, mdt elite, proof barrel, trigger tech diamond. Yes, clearly over 2k. But I can change anything ( and have- went from 6.5cm to dasher). I also built a 22 on same chassis to keep things the same.
The complete aero competition is also a great deal but I’m not sure of availability at times.

I am an unrepentant modder.

But I also like the idea of building my own from scratch.

Well, I wasn't planning to order today and you guys have given me a lot to think about.

I've built many AR-15/ar10/AK/tavor style guns but this is my first toe dip into the bolt gun world.

After I started coming here I learned how much a good barrel actually makes a difference - I used to just throw in a DD or a faxon barrel and call it a day. I honestly had my Larue by accident.

Now that I'm seeing what a 20" woa barrel can do I really want to have the ability to upgrade later to a bartlien, Krieger, proof or something of that nature.

Thanks a lot guys - you def pointed me in a good direction but now I have 30 new questions to ponder.

 

[FuhQ]

The Brownells website says the howa action uses a 5 round internal fixed mag. But it also seems like you can buy some kind of extra that allows you to run magazines.

Id rather only order the FFL items from Brownells (because they go to the FFL) and order the rest from MDT. That seems like a good option.

Re the aero precision action - that also looks like an awesome setup but it's also 800 + extra out the gate.

Is it 800+ better

Yes, Howa is cheap junk compared to the Solus. Not trying to be offensive, but I have owned a Howa 1500 before. Haven't bought another one, and will never buy another one. Yes, the Solus is absolutely $800 better. You don't need to buy anything extra. Buy the Solus, drop a scope and rings on it, and go shoot. Simple as that. You don't have to buy extra shit, change things out, swap parts, etc... The Solus is the easy-button option for your criteria.

 

[Rob01]

I'm looking, so the standard 24'' m1500 is like $400 and the carbon fiber wrapped (does that actually do anything? I'm not hunting with this gun) is like $700.

edit:

$473.31 - for the m1500 barreled action and an egw scope base. + 450 for the chassis is starting to look really nice.

I'm looking for something like a MDT ORYX Rifle Chassis - so that is another $450.

What else do I need? some kind of Pic rail up top, I have rings and scopes, and a bipod + rear bag?

$800 - 1000 seems do-able.

Is the Howa action something I can re-barrel later when I have enough to spend 1500 on a legit barrel?

Don’t be short sighted and buy a cheap factory rifle for a few hundred less than the rifle you can get that FuhQ posted. You will be making a huge mistake buying a Howa. Huge.

 

[FuhQ]

Is Howa a rem700 platform? If not, then consider if you want upgrades later- triggers, different chassis, aics/ aw mags etc.
I did aero solus action, mdt elite, proof barrel, trigger tech diamond. Yes, clearly over 2k. But I can change anything ( and have- went from 6.5cm to dasher). I also built a 22 on same chassis to keep things the same.
The complete aero competition is also a great deal but I’m not sure of availability at times.

If Classic says it's in stock, it's in stock. They have a live system. Only reason I know, is I've bought the last of something from them before. LOL

That complete Solus Comp for $1,899 is a steal.

 

[Rob01]

Yeah no, don't go carbon, you want the heavier barrel. Howa makes a good rifle. I recommend them.

If PVA is still doing aero barelled actions with their osprey barells for like a grand give or take, that would be another solid option and then you get a stock/chassis of your choosing.

**edit to add**

I found the PVA deal.

Actions/Barreled Actions - Barreled Actions - Patriot Valley Arms

patriotvalleyarms.com

I would go howa if you wanna stay really budget friendly and leave more funds for glass, ammo, accessories.

And if you wanna go to something a bit more "custom" then I would go with the PVA deal.

And that PVA deal is even a better one if you didn’t like the chassis in the completed rifle. Then you add the trigger and chassis you want.

 

[stanley_white]

I am an unrepentant modder.

If this, then don’t buy the Howa as the modding is limited compared to a Remington 700 platform like the Aero Solus.

-Stan

 

[faylix]

What barrel contour are we recommending?

M24? Proof comp?

 

[Rob01]

What barrel contour are we recommending?

M24? Proof comp?

Depends on how heavy you want it.

 

[FuhQ]

What barrel contour are we recommending?

M24? Proof comp?

That factory Solus Comp rifle is pretty damn heavy, especially once you add a big heavy scope on top (15+ lbs.). It stays planted on the bags and rides on them smooth. Recoil is pretty much non-existent.

 

[Emerson0311]

Tikka tactical is a baseline scenario here. At this pricepoint very few rifles will be so stupidly accurate. Second option is bergara premier of cz 600 mdt. This is stuff that I know. Other scenario is semi custom gun- so stock action and nice barrel like bartlein or brux.

Tikka. The 3 I have worked with are all doing great. Drop it in the chassis your wants and budget agree on.

 

[st1650]

Solus barreled action and DNT 7-35.
Then try to find a chassis that fits you

 

[FuhQ]

Solus barreled action and DNT 7-35.
Then try to find a chassis that fits you

Just like my rifle above... Those DNT scopes are really hard to beat for the money. Just had my 2nd one show up yesterday. Haven't figured out where it's going yet, but I'll find something...

 

[Rob01]

Solus barreled action and DNT 7-35.
Then try to find a chassis that fits you

Not a bad option at all. I would get the barreled action from PVA so he can get the length and contour he wants, I would go 26” and not lighter than M24. Then the DNT on top would work great.

 

[faylix]

I don't want to get off topic but people are really loving those DNT "the one" scopes. I just got an athalon Cronus gen 2 4.5-29 (from a member here) and I was super surprised with the quality.

I currently run

- a PA plxc 1-8x (16" 223 Larue)
- vortex viper pst gen II 5-25x (20" 308 / 6.5cm LMT mars-h)

But I think the Cronus is my favorite so far. Not so sure about the zero stop system though.

I'll have to check out the DNT.

Back on topic:

I'm looking into the PVA deal - I keep landing at about 1500 and change for what I would consider a reasonable setup. (24 " / m24 / hit trigger/ etc) And I'm looking at 6 - 8 week lead time.

Plus the MDT chassis, mags, bipod and dnt optic puts me into the 2500 range.

What about getting a Tikka t3x - either a regular one and pulling the barrel / action out and dropping it into a chassis or just dropping the 1999 on a tac a1?

I understand the solus being a r700 design will have more upgrades in the future and the potential to run different barrels - does that push you guys one way or the other?

 

[Rob01]

I don't want to get off topic but people are really loving those DNT "the one" scopes. I just got an athalon Cronus gen 2 4.5-29 (from a member here) and I was super surprised with the quality.

I currently run

- a PA plxc 1-8x (16" 223 Larue)
- vortex viper pst gen II 5-25x (20" 308 / 6.5cm LMT mars-h)

But I think the Cronus is my favorite so far. Not so sure about the zero stop system though.

I'll have to check out the DNT.

Back on topic:

I'm looking into the PVA deal - I keep landing at about 1500 and change for what I would consider a reasonable setup. (24 " / m24 / hit trigger/ etc) And I'm looking at 6 - 8 week lead time.

Plus the MDT chassis, mags, bipod and dnt optic puts me into the 2500 range.

What about getting a Tikka t3x - either a regular one and pulling the barrel / action out and dropping it into a chassis or just dropping the 1999 on a tac a1?

I understand the solus being a r700 design will have more upgrades in the future and the potential to run different barrels - does that push you guys one way or the other?

Yes and it should push you that way as you like to play with stuff. Tons of barrel options and you can change the bolt face and have different cartridges also. It seems like a big drop of money now but it will be saving you money in the long run. I know as I have tried to cheap out before and found it didn’t work out.

And go 26”. You get free velocity and the extra 2” won’t hurt anything and help to have a little more weight out front for balance and recoil.

 

[faylix]

A 26" barrel is bizarre to me.

The longest I used to run is 14.5 and usually I'd be in the 12 range + suppressor. I guess I'm jumping in with both feet so 26" it is. I'm gonna need a bigger gun case. I'm already breaking my 20" rifles into parts just to fit them.

I checked with some of my old distributors and pa carries aero parts - I can't put their whole sale prices on blast in open forum but they have product codes and prices for barreled actions and the number is competitive.

What is the osprey barrel and is it worth the extra money? If I'm going to put a bartlien or proof on order eventually should I save the money and extra time on the osprey barrel from PVA? Are they comparable?

On one hand, I could just order the full comp build and as long as it's in stock id be shooting as fast as it clears my FFL. I could slowly upgrade from there. Or I could get the osprey, longer barrel, and an MDT chassis but wait 8 - 10 weeks (longer with a black cerakote).

So many ways to skin a cat.

 

[kthomas]

Yeah no, don't go carbon, you want the heavier barrel. Howa makes a good rifle. I recommend them.

If PVA is still doing aero barelled actions with their osprey barells for like a grand give or take, that would be another solid option and then you get a stock/chassis of your choosing.

**edit to add**

I found the PVA deal.

Actions/Barreled Actions - Barreled Actions - Patriot Valley Arms

patriotvalleyarms.com

I would go howa if you wanna stay really budget friendly and leave more funds for glass, ammo, accessories.

And if you wanna go to something a bit more "custom" then I would go with the PVA deal.

I would do this.

Drop it in a KRG Bravo from @cattleman99 here. A decent trigger and this package will be around $1700-1800.

 

[HaydenLane]

What about getting a Tikka t3x - either a regular one and pulling the barrel / action out and dropping it into a chassis or just dropping the 1999 on a tac a1?

a CTR dropped into a KRG bravo is the easy button for a $1500 rifle. Don’t waste money on a Tact A1. I wouldn’t do a standard T3X as it will have a non-threaded lightweight barrel. A CTR comes with a scope base, threaded muzzle, and stock/mag that are easy to sell for $150 or so.

I would do a Tikka over a Howa any day.

 

[kthomas]

A 26" barrel is bizarre to me.

The longest I used to run is 14.5 and usually I'd be in the 12 range + suppressor. I guess I'm jumping in with both feet so 26" it is. I'm gonna need a bigger gun case. I'm already breaking my 20" rifles into parts just to fit them.

I checked with some of my old distributors and pa carries aero parts - I can't put their whole sale prices on blast in open forum but they have product codes and prices for barreled actions and the number is competitive.

What is the osprey barrel and is it worth the extra money? If I'm going to put a bartlien or proof on order eventually should I save the money and extra time on the osprey barrel from PVA? Are they comparable?

On one hand, I could just order the full comp build and as long as it's in stock id be shooting as fast as it clears my FFL. I could slowly upgrade from there. Or I could get the osprey, longer barrel, and an MDT chassis but wait 8 - 10 weeks (longer with a black cerakote).

So many ways to skin a cat.

Sounds like you are coming from the AR-15 world. The precision rifle world has its own nuances.

26" is being suggested because you are going to get higher velocities, which in turn makes longer distance shooting a bit easier.

You don't have to go 26". I personally go 24" now on my 6.5cm's, but it's all personal preference. You could go 20" or 22" - just keep in mind that velocity starts dropping as you go shorter, so you give up some ballistic advantages as you go more compact.

As for barrels, I would personally be more comfortable with a smaller batch "custom" barrel over a mass produced one - in this case PVA Osprey over Aero. That said, I don't have experience with either.

Also, I wouldn't bother cerakoting a barrel. It adds no functionality, and it's a part that's going to just get replaced anyways. I would save the money and put it elsewhere, IMO.

 

[kthomas]

a CTR dropped into a KRG bravo is the easy button for a $1500 rifle. Don’t waste money on a Tact A1. I wouldn’t do a standard T3X as it will have a non-threaded lightweight barrel. A CTR comes with a scope base, threaded muzzle, and stock/mag that are easy to sell for $150 or so.

I would do a Tikka over a Howa any day.

Another decent option.

 

[HaydenLane]

As someone with a 20” 6.5 creed build, I echo what @kthomas said about length. It can get to 1k, but a few extra inches would do wonders.

Barrel coating is for hunting guns that will wear the same barrel for 10-20 years. Otherwise don’t waste the money.

 

[faylix]

Sounds like you are coming from the AR-15 world. The precision rifle world has its own nuances.

26" is being suggested because you are going to get higher velocities, which in turn makes longer distance shooting a bit easier.

You don't have to go 26". I personally go 24" now on my 6.5cm's, but it's all personal preference. You could go 20" or 22" - just keep in mind that velocity starts dropping as you go shorter, so you give up some ballistic advantages as you go more compact.

As for barrels, I would personally be more comfortable with a smaller batch "custom" barrel over a mass produced one - in this case PVA Osprey over Aero. That said, I don't have experience with either.

Also, I wouldn't bother cerakoting a barrel. It adds no functionality, and it's a part that's going to just get replaced anyways. I would save the money and put it elsewhere, IMO.

I'm drinking from the firehose at this point. Im def a transplant from the (short) AR world and only starting my accuracy journey. I dipped my toes in with a WOA 20" barrel and now I'm kinda hooked and showing up in the bolt gun forum scratching my refresh button like I have fleas.


I know at some point weighing one platform or one setup against another is silly - when the Indian still needs to work on his form so much - but I can't tell you how many times Ive jumped into some hobby with the wrong starting gear and ended up replacing everything down the road anyways.

I super appreciate everyone in this thread helping me out together my starting rig and weight my options with your vast amount of experience.

It's looking like it's either going to be a PVA / osprey + MDT chassis or just get the comp rifle and upgrade to a bartlien/ proof down the line.

The PVA might start better but it will take longer before I'm shooting her whereas the aero comp rifle will start a little behind but I'll be able to get 10 weeks of practice in before I would even start the PVA.

 

[Rob01]

A 26" barrel is bizarre to me.

The longest I used to run is 14.5 and usually I'd be in the 12 range + suppressor. I guess I'm jumping in with both feet so 26" it is. I'm gonna need a bigger gun case. I'm already breaking my 20" rifles into parts just to fit them.

I checked with some of my old distributors and pa carries aero parts - I can't put their whole sale prices on blast in open forum but they have product codes and prices for barreled actions and the number is competitive.

What is the osprey barrel and is it worth the extra money? If I'm going to put a bartlien or proof on order eventually should I save the money and extra time on the osprey barrel from PVA? Are they comparable?

On one hand, I could just order the full comp build and as long as it's in stock id be shooting as fast as it clears my FFL. I could slowly upgrade from there. Or I could get the osprey, longer barrel, and an MDT chassis but wait 8 - 10 weeks (longer with a black cerakote).

So many ways to skin a cat.

May seem bizarre to you but not to anyone who shots long range rifles. My Creedmoor has a 28” barrel on it. It’s free velocity with no downside. You are not clearing rooms with these rifles. You are reaching out to long range.

I have multiple Osprey barrels and have another Creedmoor on order now. Having had and have many Bartleins and other brands I can say the Ospreys are right there with them for accuracy. And I agree to pass on the cerakote as you will shoot the barrel out and a swap it.

Here is my 28” barreled Creedmoor so you can see what they look like being longer.

 

[Rob01]

I'm drinking from the firehose at this point. Im def a transplant from the (short) AR world and only starting my accuracy journey. I dipped my toes in with a WOA 20" barrel and now I'm kinda hooked and showing up in the bolt gun forum scratching my refresh button like I have fleas.


I know at some point weighing one platform or one setup against another is silly - when the Indian still needs to work on his form so much - but I can't tell you how many times Ive jumped into some hobby with the wrong starting gear and ended up replacing everything down the road anyways.

I super appreciate everyone in this thread helping me out together my starting rig and weight my options with your vast amount of experience.

It's looking like it's either going to be a PVA / osprey + MDT chassis or just get the comp rifle and upgrade to a bartlien/ proof down the line.

The PVA might start better but it will take longer before I'm shooting her whereas the aero comp rifle will start a little behind but I'll be able to get 10 weeks of practice in before I would even start the PVA.

It’s your money in the end. We are just trying to help you out from our years of doing this. You can go for the Aero full rifle and then you can order an Osprey barrel down the road from PVA for it.

Just trying to help you not make mistakes and having to do the whole replacement down the road thing.

 

[faylix]

May seem bizarre to you but not to anyone who shots long range rifles. My Creedmoor has a 28” barrel on it. It’s free velocity with no downside. You are not clearing rooms with these rifles. You are reaching out to long range.

I have multiple Osprey barrels and have another Creedmoor on order now. Having had and have many Bartleins and other brands I can say the Ospreys are right there with them for accuracy. And I agree to pass on the cerakote as you will shoot the barrel out and a swap it.

Here is my 28” barreled Creedmoor so you can see what they look like being longer.

View attachment 8589244

Oh I get it and I'm here for it. I'm just trying to espouse how different all this is from the world I came from. I'm not planning to pack this gun into the back country (I'm not big on hunting - not against anyone else who does just personally not for me) and the longest I'll probably carry it anywhere is from my car to my final firing position so I'm down for as long as necessary to get the job done.

So performance is a much bigger deal for me than weight or maneuverability.

If the osprey can hang with a custom / high end barrel then that is a pretty good deal and might be worth the extra wait. It's not like I don't have a bunch of guns to shoot already and spacing things out helps to hide it from the wife.

That is one sweet rig Rob.

And again, thank you everyone here - you all are probably saving me days of research and thousands of dollars.

 

[Rob01]

Oh I get it and I'm here for it. I'm just trying to espouse how different all this is from the world I came from. I'm not planning to pack this gun into the back country (I'm not big on hunting - not against anyone else who does just personally not for me) and the longest I'll probably carry it anywhere is from my car to my final firing position so I'm down for as long as necessary to get the job done.

So performance is a much bigger deal for me than weight or maneuverability.

If the osprey can hang with a custom / high end barrel then that is a pretty good deal and might be worth the extra weight. It's not like I don't have a bunch of guns to shoot already and spacing things out helps to hide it from the wife.

That is one sweet rig Rob.

Thanks. The Osprey is a custom high end barrel. Just a newer entry in the market. PVA owner Josh @bohem is here on the site to help with any questions also.

And longer doesn’t mean you can’t move with it. That rifle above is the one I use in PRS matches and no issues moving around props. When you get your rifle in and set up and get to shooting you will see that it will be a good deal of fun. Have a bunch or ARs myself but my bolt guns go to the range more than they do. lol

 

[Nik H]

Hey guys,

I'm just starting to put together my list for my first bolt action rifle.

- I'm looking to stay under 2k. If I could do it for 1500 that would be perfect - that way with glass and bipod I'm in the early 2's
- Very happy with used parts if necessary to stay in price point
- I shoot mainly at 1 - 200 yards but am looking to build something I could fly west with and start taking to long range classes
- Ideally sub .5 moa at 100 yards (My WOA barrel 223 AR can do sub 1 moa ... looking for something significantly better)
- I just converted my LMT MARS-H to 6.5cm and would like to stick with this round for purposes of ammo stocking

I've been looking at things like the tikka t3x tactical, Remington 700 , Ruger precision rifle, but its a lot and I thought I'd come here to gain some good dope to start with.

other than the above, go wild. I'm down to collect an action, barrel, trigger and chassis all separate if I have to - but it would be nice to buy something I can shoot now and have an upgrade path later.

thank you all for putting up with me ;-)

See post #4. That would be a kick ass rifle.

As others have said, stay the fuck away from HOWA. I know a few friends that learned this the hard way.

Remember that the pain for spending a little more for a better rifle is short lived, the pain of regret lasts a LOT longer.

 

[FuhQ]

I don't want to get off topic but people are really loving those DNT "the one" scopes. I just got an athalon Cronus gen 2 4.5-29 (from a member here) and I was super surprised with the quality.

I currently run

- a PA plxc 1-8x (16" 223 Larue)
- vortex viper pst gen II 5-25x (20" 308 / 6.5cm LMT mars-h)

But I think the Cronus is my favorite so far. Not so sure about the zero stop system though.

I'll have to check out the DNT.

Back on topic:

I'm looking into the PVA deal - I keep landing at about 1500 and change for what I would consider a reasonable setup. (24 " / m24 / hit trigger/ etc) And I'm looking at 6 - 8 week lead time.

Plus the MDT chassis, mags, bipod and dnt optic puts me into the 2500 range.

What about getting a Tikka t3x - either a regular one and pulling the barrel / action out and dropping it into a chassis or just dropping the 1999 on a tac a1?

I understand the solus being a r700 design will have more upgrades in the future and the potential to run different barrels - does that push you guys one way or the other?

The Tikka route will cost you more than the Solus in the end, with limited customizable options, comparatively. I wouldn’t do it. And the Solus is still a better action over any mass-production action out there.

 

[FuhQ]

A 26" barrel is bizarre to me.

The longest I used to run is 14.5 and usually I'd be in the 12 range + suppressor. I guess I'm jumping in with both feet so 26" it is. I'm gonna need a bigger gun case. I'm already breaking my 20" rifles into parts just to fit them.

I checked with some of my old distributors and pa carries aero parts - I can't put their whole sale prices on blast in open forum but they have product codes and prices for barreled actions and the number is competitive.

What is the osprey barrel and is it worth the extra money? If I'm going to put a bartlien or proof on order eventually should I save the money and extra time on the osprey barrel from PVA? Are they comparable?

On one hand, I could just order the full comp build and as long as it's in stock id be shooting as fast as it clears my FFL. I could slowly upgrade from there. Or I could get the osprey, longer barrel, and an MDT chassis but wait 8 - 10 weeks (longer with a black cerakote).

So many ways to skin a cat.

I’d get the comp rifle for $1,899, stick a DNT in some ARC M-Brace rings on top, and see where you’re at. And then upgrade the barrel later if you feel necessary, or simply want to change it up. The factory Aero 6.5CM barrels will shoot.

 

[faylix]

The Tikka route will cost you more than the Solus in the end, with limited customizable options, comparatively. I wouldn’t do it. And the Solus is still a better action over any mass-production action out there.

I admit my only love for Tikka is because one of the MDT guys on YouTube kept talking about how smooth his Tikka action was - and because it was mentioned in this trash CIA operator book I was listening to on the way to work and back. The bad guy shot one.


Sounds like a Solus is where it's at. Now it's just a question of ordering a complete rifle and upgrading slowly while shooting it or ordering the action and getting everything i want upfront but waiting a few months longer.

Thank you for your excellent suggestions

 

[MO Fugga]

I'm looking, so the standard 24'' m1500 is like $400 and the carbon fiber wrapped (does that actually do anything? I'm not hunting with this gun) is like $700.

edit:

$473.31 - for the m1500 barreled action and an egw scope base. + 450 for the chassis is starting to look really nice.

I'm looking for something like a MDT ORYX Rifle Chassis - so that is another $450.

What else do I need? some kind of Pic rail up top, I have rings and scopes, and a bipod + rear bag?

$800 - 1000 seems do-able.

Is the Howa action something I can re-barrel later when I have enough to spend 1500 on a legit barrel?

The Oryx is good as a bare bones chassis, but will cost you double to max it out. BTDT. The Bravo is looking better at that price point.

 

[DownhillFromHere]

It’s your money in the end. We are just trying to help you out from our years of doing this.

^^^^ What he said.

I traveled the path you're on about eight years ago. A lifelong skeet competitor, I ended up getting hooked on precision rifle after I retired. Started with a DMR-variant AR, followed by a pair of Tikkas - 6.5CM TAC-A1 and a .223 T3X Varmint. I put the .223 in an MDT LSS-XL chassis.... then...

... I ended up where Rob and others are advising you to start: build a rifle on an R700 footprint; you'll save $$$ in the long run.

Wrt barrel length: All my centerfire rifles wear 28" Bartlein barrels. More length = free velocity.

The picture that entered my mind when OP was talking about short-barreled ARs was what I experience too often on a 550-yard range open to club members with minimal use qualification.
>> Me: BANG (2 seconds) WHACK on 6" 550-yard plate.
>> AR guy: BANGBANGBANGBANGBANGBANGBANGBANGBANGWHACK I GOT IT!!!!!!!!!! on 12-inch 200-yard plate.

The precision bolt rifle world is vastly different from the AR world. Enjoy the journey. Bring $$$. (Fwiw, the online training here on SH is a VERY cost-effective option for newbies. To access: Click "Upgrade" on the menu bar across the top of your SH window, select "Supporter" or higher, and follow instructions. Then go to the "Hide Online Training" forum.)

 

[HaydenLane]

The Tikka route will cost you more than the Solus in the end, with limited customizable options, comparatively.

Man I can’t believe you’re still on this. The parts availability is extremely good for Tikkas. That complete Solus at a steal of a price is a great option, but no way would you be saving money building on one or buying a barreled action vs a CTR in your chassis of choice.

If someone wants a budget option it’s crazy to ALWAYS come in and say they need to build around a “custom” action.

 

[FuhQ]

Man I can’t believe you’re still on this. The parts availability is extremely good for Tikkas. That complete Solus at a steal of a price is a great option, but no way would you be saving money building on one or buying a barreled action vs a CTR in your chassis of choice.

If someone wants a budget option it’s crazy to ALWAYS come in and say they need to build around a “custom” action.

He’s already stated he’s a habitual modder/tinkerer, therefore the custom option on a 700 footprint will give him exponentially more options for future mods/customization.

 

[st1650]

He’s already stated he’s a habitual modder/tinkerer, therefore the custom option on a 700 footprint will give him exponentially more options for future mods/customization.

This.
If you’re in for the long haul, go with a 700 footprint. No questions about it. Two of my most accurate guns, one sit in a Xylo and the other in a foundation - none of these exists for a tikka.

That said if I had a buddy that shoots 100 rounds a year and wanted to try learning long range, I’d probably suggest him a Tikka CTR with either a Bravo or a XRS chassis and call it a day.

 

[kthomas]

I admit my only love for Tikka is because one of the MDT guys on YouTube kept talking about how smooth his Tikka action was - and because it was mentioned in this trash CIA operator book I was listening to on the way to work and back. The bad guy shot one.


Sounds like a Solus is where it's at. Now it's just a question of ordering a complete rifle and upgrading slowly while shooting it or ordering the action and getting everything i want upfront but waiting a few months longer.

Thank you for your excellent suggestions

Tikkas are pretty awesome rifles. I definitely wouldn't say it's inferior to the Solus, and aftermarket support is plenty and growing by the day.

It's true that R700 footprint actions have the most amount of aftermarket support, but there's plenty for Tikka.