gat
Silver $$ Contributor
Sorry been barreling too many customer jobs!!! Will get around to posting pics ASAP!
Harris McMillan model 86
- Thread starter gat
- Start date
New guy. Old thread. Great forum.
I'm not here to dispute the opinions on Wes Harris, but I'd like to add some information on the M86 rifle for future reference. When I bought mine in 1994 (.308) it was one of the few rifles that came with a .5 MOA claim. My barrel was made by Gary Schneider. I know because I spoke with him prior to my order. Looking at my invoice, the stock rifle was under 2K but upgrades, like a Jewell trigger were available ($110).
My M86 is still very accurate 25 years later. I shoot it off a Harris bipod and it keeps pace with my GAP Crusader. I don't shoot very often anymore because of multiple eye surgeries. During a club challenge the M86 averaged .66 MOA (2") over 30 shots (6 targets X 5 shots each off bags) at 300 yards using Lapua 167 gr. Scenar ammo. I haven't found the rifle to be particularly delicate and it's been issue free. I've included a couple of pictures. One of a sight-in with a new scope and another of the best group from the 6X5 300 yard challenge.
I won't speak for other Harris McMillan M86 rifles, but this one has lived up to its reputation. And because without pictures, it hasn't happened:
I'm not here to dispute the opinions on Wes Harris, but I'd like to add some information on the M86 rifle for future reference. When I bought mine in 1994 (.308) it was one of the few rifles that came with a .5 MOA claim. My barrel was made by Gary Schneider. I know because I spoke with him prior to my order. Looking at my invoice, the stock rifle was under 2K but upgrades, like a Jewell trigger were available ($110).
My M86 is still very accurate 25 years later. I shoot it off a Harris bipod and it keeps pace with my GAP Crusader. I don't shoot very often anymore because of multiple eye surgeries. During a club challenge the M86 averaged .66 MOA (2") over 30 shots (6 targets X 5 shots each off bags) at 300 yards using Lapua 167 gr. Scenar ammo. I haven't found the rifle to be particularly delicate and it's been issue free. I've included a couple of pictures. One of a sight-in with a new scope and another of the best group from the 6X5 300 yard challenge.
I won't speak for other Harris McMillan M86 rifles, but this one has lived up to its reputation. And because without pictures, it hasn't happened:
Last edited:
I liked it enough to want to own one. My issued rifle was an easy .5 Moa rifle with match ammo. Of course my duty ammo was not match ammo. We used Remington 150 grain PSP it was still a sub Moa performer with that ammo though. They later changed to Federal 168 match. I thought the action was smooth, I love the McHale stock. It's a very solid platform. Do you know how many rounds have been down the barrel? If you want to get rid of it ever pm me. It's been a while but I would be happy to answer any questions I can. I look for them and see one once in a while. I saw one for sell when I was building my M86 inspired rifle,but was already committed, so I stayed with my build. I don't think I would have gone wrong either way. I still would like to have an original though, so I am a bit jealous.
Lannister,
Interesting. In what capacity were you serving with an issued M86 - if I understand you correctly?
I also like the McHale stock. It provides for a very solid grip without much pressure. As you already probably know, the M86 is very consistent and easy to shoot. I doubt that I'll ever sell it. I have a Jewell trigger in mine set to 2 lbs. I couldn't tell you how many rounds I've put through it. Certainly less than 3000. Probably less than 2500. I bought it when I was primarily shooting pistols so it sat unused for many years. When I decided to compete in F/TR rifle matches I had already acquired a GAP Crusader and used that. I am going to change the scope from a Swarovski to a Bushnell 6X24X50 with the G2DMR reticle which I much prefer to the Swarovski plex even though the glass is not quite as good (but neither are my eyes anymore).
I've never reloaded and it shoots well with FGMM, Lapua, and Norma according to my records.
I hope you find one that you like someday.
Interesting. In what capacity were you serving with an issued M86 - if I understand you correctly?
I also like the McHale stock. It provides for a very solid grip without much pressure. As you already probably know, the M86 is very consistent and easy to shoot. I doubt that I'll ever sell it. I have a Jewell trigger in mine set to 2 lbs. I couldn't tell you how many rounds I've put through it. Certainly less than 3000. Probably less than 2500. I bought it when I was primarily shooting pistols so it sat unused for many years. When I decided to compete in F/TR rifle matches I had already acquired a GAP Crusader and used that. I am going to change the scope from a Swarovski to a Bushnell 6X24X50 with the G2DMR reticle which I much prefer to the Swarovski plex even though the glass is not quite as good (but neither are my eyes anymore).
I've never reloaded and it shoots well with FGMM, Lapua, and Norma according to my records.
I hope you find one that you like someday.
Upgrades & Donations
This Forum's expenses are primarily paid by member contributions. You can upgrade your Forum membership in seconds. Gold and Silver members get unlimited FREE classifieds for one year. Gold members can upload custom avatars.
Click Upgrade Membership Button ABOVE to get Gold or Silver Status.
You can also donate any amount, large or small, with the button below. Include your Forum Name in the PayPal Notes field.
To DONATE by CHECK, or make a recurring donation, CLICK HERE to learn how.
Click Upgrade Membership Button ABOVE to get Gold or Silver Status.
You can also donate any amount, large or small, with the button below. Include your Forum Name in the PayPal Notes field.
To DONATE by CHECK, or make a recurring donation, CLICK HERE to learn how.