New Build Suggestions

[yukonal]

Hi guys, I've been on here for a while but this is my first post. I'm putting together a new LR hunting rifle, and would appreciate any suggestions. Here is what I have so far:
7mm-08, to shoot 140 grainers
Hart #2, 1-9", Douglas taper, 22" )
Rem. 700 SA, Factory trigger tuned to 2-2-1/4#
McMillan Rem. Classic stock, 13.5" LOP w/1" Decelerator

Looking for around 8# with scope.,I'm not dead set) Can I go with a #3 contour, or stay with the #2? Would you guys use a #2 or a #3 contour? Have I missed anything? Thanks for the help...........Al

 

[TRECustom]

Welcome.
7-08 is a very fine cartridge. I've had a performance problem with a 140gr Win Combined Technology bullet. I'm guessing it was a little too slow at 200 yds to expand like it should. I hunt with 120's now, but I personally would call 300-400 yds max effective hunting range for deer sized game. Just my opinion. I like bigger faster bullets for anything over 200 yds.

I would opt for a heavier barrel, similar to a Shilen #4 or #5 contour, and for handling, crown it at 20". You should still be able to come in at 8 lbs or so, if the scope isn't too heavy. I don't know how long range you want to hunt, but in general, heavier barrels on heavier guns hold steadier and are less finicky about ammo. Also, bigger,faster bullets buck wind better.

I have a 12 lb 7-08 that is my 2nd most favorite hunting rifle, but my 13 1/2 lb .30 x .378 is my favorite and the best for long range.

You won't be disappointed with the 7-08 accuracy, but I wouldn't push it too far. I look for 1000 ft lbs minimum energy at whatever range I expect to have to hunt at. For target work, the 7-08 is 1000 yd capable, but targets don't run off wounded if you make a bad shot.

You should get a lot of opinions on this build.

Good hunting, Tom

 

[yukonal]

Thanks Tom,

My 'smith likes Hart barrels, so that's the way I'm going. But after talking to him today, I am going with the #3. That is an interesting point about cutting it at 20" instead of 22". Now you've got me thinking!! Velocity difference wouldn't be noticable? Also, 400yds. max is what I'm looking at. Thanks again.......Al

 

[TRECustom]

Sounds like a plan. You can't go wrong with a Hart barrel. I just pulled a Hart heavy varmint taper off my 7-08 that was shooting 5 shot sub 1/4 moa with one .134". Only pulled it off to try a Scherrer hunter benchrest taper barrel that my brother gave me. They haven't been made for 20-25 yrs, but it had shot a 3 shot .053", was a pound lighter, and only had about 200 rounds through it. I crowned both barrels at 20". The Scherrer is a little faster than the Hart. Mid 2700's with 140's, and low 3000's with 120's. I load with H-414 and Varget. I'm concentrating on the Varget now because it's not as temperature sensitive as the 414.

Good hunting, Tom