F-class build

[Kenny474]

I still think a Savage is a viable option.

It will also leave you a much larger margin for quality optics than any custom will. Quality optics are a HUGE part of being competitive, because if you can't see the target you will never hit it. The clearer the glass, the better you can see small changes at distance and judge mirage.

All you will really need to do to the Savage is have it bedded. They are a very good rifle out of the box, and the last match I went to (spectator, checking out gear) had several Savage's at the line and they did well. If Team Savage can win with them at Bisley, than they are definitely capable of being competitive.

For $3000 you can get a Savage and a NightForce and have a very competitive rifle.
Last time I called around and priced having a full custom rig built most prices were in the $2800 to $4000 range without optics. Then add $1500-$2000 for optics and mounts and things start adding up fast.
Even just components aren't cheap, Action:$1000-1200, Barrel:$300-$400, Stock:$250-$600, Trigger:$200-$250, add labor and you have spent some serious cash. Even just components will be $1750 at the minimum for good brands.

Prices from Kelby's for complete rifle:
Panda - $3000
Kodiak - $3100
Grizzly II - $3150

Not that custom rigs aren't worth the money, because they are. They are just a lot of dough.

 

[Kenny474]

You could always buy a Savage F-Class in 6BR and have it rechambered to a 6Dasher, 6BRX, or any other 6BR improved and not spend a ton doing it. The Dasher is a very capable round and should have no issue being competitive.

Most smiths will rechamber something like that for $150-$200. Or buy a pre-fit barrel and screw it on yourself.

 

[falconpilot]

I'm not knocking Savage in the least when I say this, but I'd stay away from the 6.5x284 for the mere fact that about the time you get comfortable with the gun, the barrel wil lbe shoot out...Doing as Kenny suggested would be an option, although the straight 6BR is a little weak for 1000 yards, but it'll teach you a hell of a lot about reading wind and mirage if you master it....rechambering to a Dasher is a great ideal as I've shoot the Dasher successfully in F-Class over the last few years, and done quite well with it...the draw back here is you gone to ahve to spend 1000-1200 on a rifle, then spend another $500 buying a barrel and having it chambered in a Dasher...I've never been wild about the savage trigger, and I'd suggest you pulling one...

If you'll watch the forums, here on 6mmbr and over at benchrest central, there are great deals that come along quite often....This is the way that I'd go...as far a calibers, the 6.5x284 is a great round, but be ready to spend $500 every 1000 rounds or so..the 7mm's will carry you 2000 rounds plus and are worth looking at even though they are a little fussy in the vertical...IMO, the 6 Dasher, 6BRX, or 6 LR Super is the ideal way to go...great barrel life ,and very accurate rounds...Good Luck..

Jim

 

[falconpilot]

... ???

 

[Dgd6mm]

David Bruno out of PA. Krieger 1-7.5 twist barrel chambered in 6CM shooting 115 Dtac or Berger. Action of your choice, mine's on a Savage.

 

[Surfdude_007]

Thank you all for your inputs. I have made my choice. Hope to see you all in the future. Again, Thanks.

 

[Kenny474]

Come on, don't leave us hangin! What are you going to buy/build? Inquiring minds want to know.

Anyway, good luck, I hope it works out well for you.

 

[Surfdude_007]

All, I'm going to go with a .284 Win caliber. I haven't come to a decision as to whom I'm going to have put it together. But I will post some pictures when it is completed. Thanks again to all.

 

[JRS]

Surfdude, have you considered Alan Warner for your build? If not, you might consider giving him a ring. Warner Tool Company. There are a number of good long range gunsmiths in this country. For my money, Alan Warner is the best of the bunch.