Where to begin, Custom Rifle Checklist

[bulwaagh]

I've decided that I want a custom rifle, from the ground up as a present to myself. The problem is, I don't know what questions to ask my gunsmith. Lets presume that I've selected a list of components (action, caliber, barrel, stock/chassis), what they are, I'm not sure its important. For the sake of argument, lets say I've got a every component needed for a bolt action sitting in a box in front of me.


What are the checklist of things that my gunsmith will ask about? I don't know where to start, I know this isn't a lego set or AR15, and I know this will take time to make. What is the checklist of things that a competent smith will ask about before taking my money and items, and returning a custom gun? Do I tell him "I want to shoot factory ammo, but I also like to reload. I shoot X bullet weight up to Z bullet weight, here's my caliber, and call me when its done?" Or is there a good list of things that I should have prior to having that conversation?

Thanks for the input,

 

[Dusty Stevens]

Your gunsmith is your best friend when building a rifle. Since he sees and hears stuff every day he can tell you what you need and keep you from buying junk. The key here is to find a good proven gunsmith that has winning rifles on the line. They know what works, goes together easy, what bullets seem to work, powder, cases, reamers all that. You just need to have a conversation with one and youll see what i mean. If you pick the right one and dont have any pieces on order expect a year wait. That may be 3-4 mo after the parts arrive. Theres always ONE part that stops the show.

 

[DuaneinND]

What is the rifle going to be used for, what caliber, walking rifle, bench gun, medium to heavy varmint, what distances are you planning to shoot, how experienced are you. There are a myriad of questions and more often than not one will lead to another. As already posted, get to know the gunsmith, develop a relationship, don't be afraid to ask questions, if he blows you off, don't use him. It takes time to design the rifle of your dreams and even longer to assemble the components. Unless the parts are on the shelf as already mentioned be looking at a fairly lengthy lead time.
Good luck

 

[swd]

A big one is are you going to shoot VLD bullets and if so do they need to fit in a magazine.