McMillan stock question(new build)

[davecb]

I posted this in the gear talk section but realized it would be better suited here.

I'm looking at a McMillan Remington Sporter, BDL and possibly the Remington Hunter for my first custom build. I'm using an Atlas tactical action, Bartlein 3b, HS precision dbm. The gun is a 6.5 x 47 Lapua with a barrel length of 26".

I'm having a hard time deciding which stock would be the best for this build. I handled a McMillan hunter stock that had a #4 Krieger in it. It felt good but I won't be able to fit the 3b in it according to McMillan. I handled the Remington classic but it didn't seem to fit as well. I was wondering which would be close to the McMillan Hunter and still balance fairly well with the heavier barrel. My only concern with the Hunter is it may be pretty bulky(haven't been able to put my hands on one). I like the looks of the sporter but I'm concerned with the max length of 13.5" according to McMillan's specs.

Anyone using one of these stocks that could give me a little advise? I know a lot of it is a personal preference but any input would be appreciated. I have a Nightforce 8 x 32 NXS to put on it. That may make a difference in the height needed for the comb.

Thanks
Dave

 

[Cold Bore]

I can't give a side-by-side comparison, because I don't have a Hunter stock, though I have a couple Sporters, and like them a lot.

I'm not a fan of the Monte Carlo style butt on the Hunter. I much prefer the straight lines of the Sporter.

I use a Sporter on a 338-06. Not exactly a heavy kicker, but enough to get your attention. The Sporter handles it well.

My favorite McMillan is the Mountain Rifle, followed by the Sporter (if you look at them, you'll see they are similar to each other).

Hope that helps somewhat.

 

[davecb]

Thanks for the info. I too like the lines on the sporter better than the hunter. I looked at the Mountain rifle and really liked it too. However, it like the Remington sporter will not accommodate a 3b Bartlein barrel. The only thing I wasn't fond of on the sporter is the shorter length of pull. I may just have them add the 1/2" spacer but I don't know how that will look. I mainly want to be comfortable looking through the scope. Wasn't sure if the higher comb would help.

 

[DaveTooley]

How tall are you? Also what clothing will you be wearing in hunting scenario?

 

[Cold Bore]

The only thing I wasn't fond of on the sporter is the shorter length of pull. I may just have them add the 1/2" spacer but I don't know how that will look.

Not sure I'm following you here.

I'm not aware of the Sporter having a LOP that's shorter than anything else.

"Standard" LOP tends to be about 13 1/2" for that stereotypical "average man".

Hoever, McMillan will make your stock at any LOP that you desire, and will cut the stock to make that length correct over a 1/2" or 1" or whatever thickness pad you specify, no spacers needed.

 

[JasonT]

There's the new Game Hunter and Game Warden if you want to go a little heavier too...

The original M40A1 stock is the HTG - so that's good, and it's available with a spacer system. Then there's the tactical hunter...All of those should easily handle heavier barrels.

 

[rpierce]

Have you looked at the manners carbon fiber eh1 stocks. they are perfect for a lightweight long range setup. The stock only weighs 28 oz. Vertical pistol grip and slightly angled rear make it perfect for prone shooting. They will accept up to a #8 contour which is about 1.125 at the end of the stock. I have built a ton of rifles with them and usually have quite a few instock. 610 shipped. gunsmith/dealer prices available also.

 

[davecb]

Not sure I'm following you here.

I'm not aware of the Sporter having a LOP that's shorter than anything else.

"Standard" LOP tends to be about 13 1/2" for that stereotypical "average man".

Hoever, McMillan will make your stock at any LOP that you desire, and will cut the stock to make that length correct over a 1/2" or 1" or whatever thickness pad you specify, no spacers needed.

According to Mcmillan, the sporter is a maximum of 13.75" with a 1" pad. I was looking for something in the 14.25-14.5 range. They told me they can make it that long by using extra spacers under the pad but not by adding length to the fiberglass portion of the stock. I didn't want the extra spacers because I feel it would look funny.
Anyway, it all worked out. I wound up ordering the HTG stock in 50/50 black/orange Mcswirly.

Thanks
Dave

 

[Alex Wheeler]

A mcmillan hunter will take a 3b, and would be my first choice.