Action Selection

dbleyepatches · #1 01-26-2010, 02:59 PM

I am looking to build a solid deer/antelope/possibly elk gun in the near future. When the smoke clears, is there that much difference between the factory actions that a rifle can be built off of? I am not interested in a custom action at this point in my life.

This question stems from a rifle that is for sale locally. I can buy a Savage long action rifle for $275. The rifle is obviously used and the barrel has been recrowned (horrible job). With my plan to have a laminate stock made and a new barrel installed, this looks like a great deal.

Is there a better chance of the rifle shooting more accurately with a 700 or a model 70 action than the Savage or does it all come down to personal preferance?

rem300ultra · #2 01-26-2010, 03:53 PM

The Savage will work just fine. Model 700 Remington actions are the most used action in custom built rifles. Any of the actions you mentioned will make a solid platform for an accurate rifle. " IMO "

Chas1 · #3 01-26-2010, 04:14 PM

Savage and Remy yes. I have no imperical data that Remys are used more often but, from what I hear and read it appears they are. What caliber/chambering did you have in mind?

dbleyepatches · #4 01-26-2010, 04:53 PM

Shooting 7mm 180 grain VLD's at 3000-3100 is my goal. With that being said I was thinking 7 WSM. I think with a 28" barrel I should be able to get close.

djbwow2008 · #5 01-26-2010, 05:17 PM

You said you don't want a custom action so I assume you wouldn't be having the Rem 700 trued as it would end up costing nearly as much as a custom. I say if that's the case go with the savage and go with your plan. Add a quality stock and new quality barrel. Have it properly bedded and aftetmarket trigger if it doesn't have accu trigger . You can make savages shoot real well on a budget. If built properly all you mentioned will work great but Rem 700 and Savage seem to be more popular around here.

geargrinder · #6 01-26-2010, 07:39 PM

I'd vote for the Savage. They are the easiest action to work on. You could do all the work yourself with a very modest investment in tools.

For stocks you'll have to look no further than Sharp Shooter Supply for laminates.

If you'd be open to a quality synthetic stock, check out Stockade. They are the best Savage stock for the money. Especially if you get the money saver and finish it yourself.

Sent you a pm.