New Varmint Rifle Build Advice

[js9088]

I am wanting to build a "walking varminter" that I primarry will use for coyote and bobcat calling in Eastern Kansas. Shots usually are 50-100 yards but sometime are further and want the ability to reach out. I have historicall used a sporter weight 223. I also have a couple of heavy barrel 22-250s that I shoot prairie dogs with.

I am leaning towards 22-250 because I already load for it, have components, etc. I also thought about a 243. I think I want to stick with standard chamberings (i.e. not Ackley or tight neck). If I chose the 22-250 I woud likely use either 55 or 60gn NBT or V-Max.

I understand the 243 might be more versatile but would welcome everyones opinion.

Think I will start with a 700 action, HS Sporter stock, 24-26" barrel that is .700-.750" at the barrel.

Thanks,

JS

 

[bandit10-4]

I would build a straight 22-243 with a 1-8 twist 26" barrel for shooting the 80gr bullets. I have built several of these and love the caliber. The 80 gr pills are super deadly, I have killed many coyotes, bobcats, and whitetails with this round. It is super easy to load for, and feeds terrific. Just my .02 but I think you would be very happy with it! If you need some load data, or anything I would be glad to help ya!

 

[436]

js9088,
You might think of trying to locate a Weatherby Varmintmaster {1960's} in .22-250 and re-barrel it to one of the 6mm's. I did one of mine and it's a great walking rifle at just under 9lb with a 26" barrel in 6XC.
Weatherby Mk V Varmintmaster 22.250
436

 

[Trickymissfit]

mine is a .223 with a 20" barrel. Started out as a Remington 700VS. The rifle has a near perfect balance, and shoots extremely well offhand. As for the too short 20" barrel; let me put it this way, "I lost about 75fps with a 55 grain bullet." I'll trade that anyday of the week
gary

 

[js9088]

What is the 6XC? What is the parent cartridge? How is it formed?

 

[436]

js9088,
Here you go this might help your research... 6XC Cartridge Guide
436

 

[tt35]

Sounds like you're already on the right track to me. Go fast twist if you do the .22-250 but I'd consider the .243 if you want more reach. If you don't already load for the .243, I'd consider the .243 AI. It won't make much difference in your set-up costs and has some additional advantages especially in case stretch and trimming. The 58 gr or 65 gr V-max will do well on fur.

Sounds like you'll have a great rig whatever you choose.

Tim
No Off Season
"No crowds, no limits, no seasons...no bad days."

 

[out front]

Either the 22-250 or 243 would fit the bill.

I hunt the central KS area and I vary between the two on where I'm hunting. If strictly hunting bottoms and woodlots, I doubt you'd see much of a difference from 50-100 yds. The advantage the 243 gives me is less wind drift when hunting the edges and increases my capablity to but rounds on target. The wind here in KS can really challenge ya!

The 243 could double as a loaner deer rifle as well.


Congrats on the new member to the gunsafe family

 

[Trickymissfit]

What is the 6XC? What is the parent cartridge? How is it formed?

basicly nothing more than a 22-250 case necked upto 6mm. You can buy cases from Tubbs or simply form your own. I shoot a 6/250AI, which is nothing more than a 6XC improved. It will push 105 grain Amax bullets to 3100 fps
gary

 

[alf]

I am wanting to build a "walking varminter" that I primarry will use for coyote and bobcat calling in Eastern Kansas. Shots usually are 50-100 yards but sometime are further and want the ability to reach out. I have historicall used a sporter weight 223. I also have a couple of heavy barrel 22-250s that I shoot prairie dogs with.

I am leaning towards 22-250 because I already load for it, have components, etc. I also thought about a 243. I think I want to stick with standard chamberings (i.e. not Ackley or tight neck). If I chose the 22-250 I woud likely use either 55 or 60gn NBT or V-Max.

I understand the 243 might be more versatile but would welcome everyones opinion.

Think I will start with a 700 action, HS Sporter stock, 24-26" barrel that is .700-.750" at the barrel.

Thanks,

JS

I'd do the regular 22-250, for the reasons you stated. It'll kill 'em as far away as you can hit 'em.

For a walking gun, I wouldn't even consider a .700-.750 muzzle diameter, that's a number 5 through Rem varmint contour realm. Too much for a walker. I wouldn't go over a Rem magnum profile, which is around .650, and keep it at 24 or under, and get it in an 8" twist.

I just put one together that's similar. 23" Rock 8 twist Rem mag contour, .655" at the muzzle, chambered in 22-250 Ackley, sitting in a McMillan Classic stock, with a Leupold 3.5-10 CDS in Talley rings/bases. Weighs in a 8 1/4 lbs. Add in five rounds, bipod, and sling, and that's all you want in a walking varminter.

 

[smokem]

If you want a "walking rifle" I would get a .243 win in a #3-4 weight barrel. Fur friendly would be your .223 rem or new build in #3-4 weight barreled .223 AI. If you're young get a heavier barrel in light weight varmint configuration.

 

[MachV]

Have yet to shoot a bobcat but if they are anything like ditch panthers a 22-250 or 243 is gonna cuttem in ½!!
My walking varminter is a CZ American in 223= Light & accurate with enough power to putem down without blowing them in ½......Coarse if your into parts

 

[Catahoula]

Ditch Panthers? Now there is some VALUEABLE info.
Kirk

 

[MachV]

Ditch Panthers? Now there is some VALUEABLE info.
Kirk

It is if your saving the hides!
If all your doing is irraticating the bigger rounds will get-r-done but then why not a 7mag or better yet a 25-06?