My first build, 243AI

[BuffaloBill]

Reading on this site for the past year made me think I had to have a new rifle! I just got the stock back from clear coating and haven't had a chance to try it out. It's a Krieger #17 1 in 8 twist chambered with a PTG reamer, 243AI .272 nk, .08" freebore on a Savage short action. The stock is a Sharp Shooters Supply benchrest. I hope to shoot the 105gr Amax and the 87gr Vmax and will first try some H4831SC. I made the rest, taking some design clues from others that are sold commercially. The stainless "arms" are 0.02" wall tubing that was thrown out where I work.

Wish me luck that I'll get it to group well!

 

[kelbro]

You should find a good load just a little over 47gr with that bullet and powder. H and IMR 4350 work. Varget works. Mine just does a little better with the H4831SC.

 

[kjcpoint]

H414 works great in my 243Ai with the 87gr bullets.

Kyle

 

[Nodak7mm]

Bill,

Nice rig, gotta love the 243AI! But what I really like is your handiwork on the bipod, great job! Thanks for sharing pix..

Rod

 

[stumpm2]

My 243AI loves Vihtavouri N560 with the 105 grain Amax and I shoot 50 grains of Retumbo with the 105 grain Bergers.

 

[40X Guy]

Beautiful rifle! Definately go with the H4831SC powder especially with the 105's.
Keep us posted!

Frank

 

[BuffaloBill]

Thanks everyone for the kind words.

I'm wondering if I've free floated the barrel enough. After many coats of clear coat I only have about 3-4 thicknesses of paper clearance towards the receiver; about 5 thicknesses towards the muzzle end. If I hold the rifle vertically and slap the forend towards the barrel I don't hear it contact the barrel (a tip I read on this site). Think I should sand out the channel for more clearance? I used Devcon to bed the action and the first 1 1/4" of barrel.

Bill

 

[1holeaddict]

Nice rig. Makes me want one

 

[Browningguy]

Very nice build.