BAT machine for f-tr

[Axkiker]

Was looking through the equipment list of the SWN's. The list I was looking at was from 2002 I think and between here and there I think BAT has come out with some aluminum actions ??? Maybe ??? Anyone running anything from BAT in FTR?? Was on my list as a choice for an FTR build however if they just aren't ideal for FTR they just aren't. Was thinking maybe the reason no one was using was because of weight. Seemed Kelby and Borden were the big dogs.

Thanks

 

[memilanuk]

I built an FTR gun around a BAT Neuvo LR from Bullet Central. Works great. Got mine *right* before they came out with the aluminum version (of course), but I still made weight. Just have to choose between a 28" HV contour, and a Vortex GE, or a 30" heavy Palma and a March Majesta, as far as making weight. Pretty sure the aluminum version would make weight with the HV *and* the Majesta. Terrible world we live in, having to make choices like that!

TBH, I think *any* of the 'top' actions will outshoot most competitors. There's always a bit of 'follow the leader' / 'follow the herd' mentality when it comes to this stuff. Not the worst thing, but it does kind of artificially narrow the choices/options that people consider.

 

[JBT47]

I believe that in addition to the Neuvo, within the last few years BAT may have also introduced one or two R700 footprint aluminum actions.

 

[Alex Wheeler]

You could order a single shot Bumblebee, which would be very light but a plain old 1.350 round model B is light enough for ftr.

 

[Axkiker]

You could order a single shot Bumblebee, which would be very light but a plain old 1.350 round model B is light enough for ftr.

So I had thought about the bumblebee or possibly the Nuevo. I can’t remember which one has an interchangeable bolt face. What are the thoughts on this feature? I haven’t used anything with an interchangeable bolt face but kinda makes me Leary

I built an FTR gun around a BAT Neuvo LR from Bullet Central. Works great. Got mine *right* before they came out with the aluminum version (of course), but I still made weight. Just have to choose between a 28" HV contour, and a Vortex GE, or a 30" heavy Palma and a March Majesta, as far as making weight. Pretty sure the aluminum version would make weight with the HV *and* the Majesta. Terrible world we live in, having to make choices like that!

TBH, I think *any* of the 'top' actions will outshoot most competitors. There's always a bit of 'follow the leader' / 'follow the herd' mentality when it comes to this stuff. Not the worst thing, but it does kind of artificially narrow the choices/options that people consider.

Was just watching some vids on the Neuvo AL. It looks like a great option except its about 2500. Sure makes the Panda more appealing at that point.

As mentioned seems there are some other options from BAT though However the more I consider the Panda at its price man its hard not to look that way more.

 

[memilanuk]

So I had thought about the bumblebee or possibly the Nuevo. I can’t remember which one has an interchangeable bolt face. What are the thoughts on this feature? I haven’t used anything with an interchangeable bolt face but kinda makes me Leary

Must be the Bumblebee; it's definitely not the Neuvo.

I used Savage guns for FTR for a lot of years, and generally held my own. The floating/toggle bolt head works well, but has it's own quirks (like pretty much any design/feature). I also have a Zermatt Origin that I got *specifically* because it had the interchangeable bolt heads like a Savage... combined with a Rem700 foot print (way easier to find stocks and triggers for), controlled round feed and a mechanical (vs. spring-loaded plunger) ejector. Planning on picking up another one here soon. Maybe not my first choice for F-class, but on the other hand, it does make switching between .308 Win and .223 Rem very easy, and cheaper than having a second action or even just a second bolt.

Was just watching some vids on the Neuvo AL. It looks like a great option except its about 2500. Sure makes the Panda more appealing at that point.

As mentioned seems there are some other options from BAT though However the more I consider the Panda at its price man its hard not to look that way more.

Not gonna lie, it was a bit of a leap of faith getting that BAT Neuvo @ their prices. It definitely 'feels' a little different with the lugs oriented the way they are. And that massive honkin' bolt makes the handle look/feel almost dainty in relation... but holy hell, that thing locks up like a bank vault. I'd say my one and only grumble is that the black nitriding on the bolt wears off a little more / faster than I expected. I doubt there's any more actual, measurable wear than with a stainless bolt... it just shows up more.

If your wallet is sensitive to the cost, then yeah, you might consider some of the other options. Panda's have done well by a lot of people over the years for sure.

The way I looked at it was that by the time I added up the custom stock blank, stock hardware, a high-end trigger (and a spare), two barrels fitted to the action and threaded for a tuner, having the stock inletted, bedded, finished, etc. the scope (Vortex GE), bipod (JoyPod-X), etc.... the difference between the BAT Neuvo and anything else was... maybe not a 'rounding error' or 'negligible', but definitely a lot less noticeable in the overall bill.

 

[D-4297]

Just a guess ; But I think the reason many TR Shooters go with Kelbly is because of both cost , and availability . And they do have a very solid record behind them of winning in many disciplines . I've been shooting a Panda for eight years now , and it was originally one of the Team Rifles that won the World in Canada in 2017 .
And BTW ; their warranty is second to nobody !

 

[Axkiker]

Just a guess ; But I think the reason many TR Shooters go with Kelbly is because of both cost , and availability . And they do have a very solid record behind them of winning in many disciplines . I've been shooting a Panda for eight years now , and it was originally one of the Team Rifles that won the World in Canada in 2017 .
And BTW ; their warranty is second to nobody !

They are definitely available and the price is right depending on comparison. I was set on BAT but dang its darn near 1k difference.

 

[XTR]

What ever other reasons there might be for choosing one action over another, If you need support Kelbly will bend over backwards to take care of you. I’ve experienced it and I’ve seen it done for friends.

 

[D-4297]

Absolutely . I also had issues on one of their actions , and their attitude is ; "Your fault , Our fault , Nobodies fault , we'll fix it , or make it right . You can't ask for more than that from any company . If there is a better outfit somewhere out there to deal with ? I haven't found them yet .

 

[Axkiker]

Absolutely . I also had issues on one of their actions , and their attitude is ; "Your fault , Our fault , Nobodies fault , we'll fix it , or make it right . You can't ask for more than that from any company . If there is a better outfit somewhere out there to deal with ? I haven't found them yet .

Yeah after hearing this from several sources I gotta throw them up there with BAT. Not that BAT doesn't have this type service I just haven't heard. Or asked Or one could also say that BAT doesn't have issues which is why you don't hear. OF course just playing devils advocate.

 

[Axkiker]

Well just happened to watch a video by Speedy last night. Looks like several are using the Bat 3L. Guess I need to reseach this one as well.

 

[Jefferson]

dont think they are making 3l anymore

 

[Axkiker]

dont think they are making 3l anymore

Ahhhh you are correct.