As the title states, I am looking to try some 600yd F-Open in the spring, as I have recently moved very close to a 600yd range. I have a 1-8" twist 6mm Krieger HV contour blank that I had planned to chamber in 6BR, but I am second guessing that now, as I had not planned on competing when I made that choice. Should I be looking to a Dasher or another higher velocity round, or will the 6BR be enough? I know it's plenty capable for 600yds, I just wonder if I may benefit from a round with less drop/drift being a new 600yd shooter. I really want to figure this out soon, as I plan to order my reamer in the next week and get the barrel chambered ASAP.
I am planning on using my existing stock and action, a Steven's (has been trued a bit) with a Rifle Basix SAV-2 trigger and single shot tray in a SSS Dog Tracker stock (fore-end is off-set to the left to counter torquing). I am wondering if this stock will be suited to this type of shooting? It feels OK to me, and I can shoot reasonably well with it on the ground, but I have never really used anything better, so I am unsure. ???
Also, any suggestions on other equipment that I will need are appreciated.
I have been using a Caldwell Rock BR windage top rest for a long time, but have also acquired a Caldwell Fire Control rest with the top modified to take a standard size front bag, as I feel the joy-stick rest is better suited to laying down than the standard windage top. I know it's not as good as other joy-stick type rests or tops, but it's what I have for the time being. I have gone through it a bit, and it doesn't move under recoil or from the weight of the rifle, so it's not too bad for now. If I can't get it to work for me, I will switch to the Rock BR. I will likely upgrade to a joy-stick top for my Rock BR base at a later time. I also have a Protektor Deluxe rear bag that fits my rifle well and is comfortable for me to use, so I am good there.
I understand much of my equipment is lacking and is lesser quality than most on the forum have, but I really just want to give F-Open a shot before I go and upgrade everything I own. If I can do reasonably well, I will likely start to upgrade as needed. But for now, I would like to try to get by with purchasing as little new equipment as possible.
If there is something I should know, or something I have missed, please fill me in. I have very limited competition experience, basically just some unsanctioned short-range BR and WW1+WW2 rifle, so 600yd F-Open is going to be a whole new world. I don't plan to win, but hope to have fun and at least keep my rounds on my target.
I could also use some suggestions for low-budget optics, as I doubt my current 10-40X50 Tasco likely won't be up to the task, though it is reasonably clear and tracks and holds zero well. I have been thinking about a Weaver T36, as they have decent glass and don't cost a ton. I would love a NightForce, but it's just not in the budget.
Thanks for any and all help.
Kenny
