260 freebore question

[ballison]

I have a TRG-22 that was rebarreled to a 260. I want to be able to shoot the heavier bullets (140 class), stay relatively close the the lands, and still be able to feed from the magazine (3"max but want to stay about 2.8"). The chamber in it now will not let me do this, as bullets must be seated too long. I'm thinking of buying a reamer (for a new barrel) but want to make sure the freebore will solve this problem.

Anyone with experience recommend a reamer freebore dimension? Or, is there an easy way to measure the freebore in my existing chamber and use that as a gauge? Thanks.

 

[idahoorion]

Hi Bill, I bought a 260 that is using AICS mags, the barrel has 1300 rounds on it and I am getting another spun up to be ready. calling the original owner who has had several 260's all with the AICS mags he recommended a freebore from .050 t0 .060. my barrel with 1300 rds and using 139 Lapua still has some room to grow before I have to jump longer than the .020 I am using. In talking to others they said they used .088 freebore. So that is the ballpark. you may be able to seat longer with modded (take the spacer out in front of the mag) mags or with AW mags if your bm will take them. a gunsmith I use has the .060, also the .088 and .010 reamers.

best
Idahoorion

 

[ballison]

Thanks Idahoorion! That's what I'm looking for. I think the mag dimensions on the AICS are similar to mine, so our situations should be similar. I've tried the 140 Bergers and 142 SMKs so far. The 140's are way too long, and the 142s are close. Workable, but not ideal. Have some 139 Scenars on the way and am hoping that their shorter nose will be the ticket. Just want to be prepared when I chamber a new barrel.