Buy New or Used LV Rig??

[Belton45]

I am about to take the plunge into Bench shooting. Probably going to purchase a new or used LV bench gun. I have talked to a few known gunsmiths and got some pricing. Looks like around $3000sh for new which is still ok. My question is at $3000 that pretty much takes my "gun funds" away. Will have to use my current 6.5-20x50 Viper as scope and use my current front rest which is a Caldwell "The Rock". Part 2 of question, is there any major differences in older custom actions (5-10 years old) that would make me need a newer action. I understand an older gun might have to be rebarreled sooner. I have seen quite a few used from 1500-2000. Just figured I would ask and get some opinions.

 

[GerryM]

Buying a used rifle is a pretty good way to start. IMHO.
You have to assume that the barrel on a used rifle is pretty well worn.
still most will shoot well enough to get you started. Later you can rebarrel on set back the one thats on the rifle if you have the skills and equipment
A new blank usually runs in the $300 range and rechambering usually $150 to $185.
The caldwell rest will need some modifications but you can usually do that yourself.
Dies and cases , plus bullets primers and powder will set you back a few houndred I hope you have fun, thats the important thing and if it doesn't work out for you It should be easy to get your funds out this way.
Welcome to benchrest'''

 

[ReedG]

Pretty sure you'll get some comments on this one. Here's mine ...

As the owner of a beautiful $3,800 work of art, my advice is to buy a good used rifle with the action/stock you like. There are some listed here frequently, on benchrest.com classifieds, or Bob White's "The List". Barring some grievous neglect or mistreatment, a BR action and trigger are good for a long time. Barrels wear out and need replacing, though if you get a 30 BR the barrel will last longer than you can imagine. A good BAT/Borden/Farley/Panda/whatever actioned BR rig in good clean condition with a modern Robertson/Borden/etc. style stock can be had for less than $2,000, usually with rings and mounts.

On this site: http://benchrest.com/class/index.php?a=5&b=197 there are several listed: a 30 BR complete set-up from a friend who is selling out, several great 6 PPCs (one I'd own myself if I could justify it!!!).

If this is your first venture into benchrest, you will learn lots from a used rifle to help you later build the "perfect" one if you still feel you'd like a new one.

Good luck ...

 

[WyleWD]

I agree with the previous 2 posters. Buy a used one complete with brass, dies, bullets, load information, scope and all if possible. If you're just getting into it and not really set up for some SERIOUS reloading, I'd suggest you look for either a 6ppc or 6br with a no turn neck chamber and shoot that for a year or two until you can decide to get further into it or get out of it. Take someone you trust with you to make sure that everything is in order with the deal if you're not entirely comfortable doing your self.

Make sure that your expectations are realistic. Don't expect to win the first match you ever shoot, and if you do win, don't expect to win every match.

I've been at this for just over 10 years, and the best thing that has came out of it for me is all the GREAT people that I've met at the matches and friends that I've made there. Almost all of them are really willing to help a new shooter get started any way they can. The wood, trophies, certificates, etc I've won are entirely incidental compared to the frienships and contacts I've made.

Good luck, and let us know how you're getting along from time to time. WD

 

[BountyHunter]

PM sent on whole setup from an estate.

BH

 

[Belton45]

Thanks Bounty Hunter. I talked with him and currently waiting for pictures. Sounds like a pretty good deal. I appreciate all the help on here. I am certain there will be many more questions to follow from me.

 

[jcullen]

Have a LV built by L Bruno, 3 lug BAT Krieger 13.5 SS barrel chambered 6ppc .261 neck Jewell BR trigger Brno/ McMillan BR stock Green/ gray, , Brass , dies, bullets, best 5 shot group .072, Excellent ++ condition

$ 2150,,,Shipped.........John 386 497 4359