benchracer
Well-Known Member
- Joined
- Dec 18, 2009
- Messages
- 1,652
I have recently been pondering the importance of balance to rifle handling characteristics in the field. I have been thinking about this because I am planning to re-barrel several of my rifles.
Most often, when barrel options are being discussed, the focus is on twist, barrel length, barrel profile, and desired gun weight. I have never been privy to a discussion of how barrel choice affects balance and handling characteristics.
Among my favorite rifles to carry afield are my Marlin 1895G (45-70) and my Ruger #1A (7x57). The 1895 is short, flat, and easy to carry in one hand. I absolutely love both the carry and handling characteristics of my Ruger #1A. It, too, is easy to carry. What I like most about it, though, is that it points,feels, and handles like a shotgun when I have it shouldered.
I would be hard pressed to explain why the Ruger handles as it does. I am only capable of recognizing the sensation. I have experienced the same thing while shooting a quality over/under shotgun. Is it possible to achieve something like that in a bolt action repeater? If so, what elements would I need to consider? In short, what exactly makes a long arm just feel right?
This seems to me like it would make for an interesting subject for a technical article.
If anyone knows something about this, I would be interested in your thoughts. If someone knows where I might educate myself about this, I would be equally grateful to be pointed in the right direction.
Most often, when barrel options are being discussed, the focus is on twist, barrel length, barrel profile, and desired gun weight. I have never been privy to a discussion of how barrel choice affects balance and handling characteristics.
Among my favorite rifles to carry afield are my Marlin 1895G (45-70) and my Ruger #1A (7x57). The 1895 is short, flat, and easy to carry in one hand. I absolutely love both the carry and handling characteristics of my Ruger #1A. It, too, is easy to carry. What I like most about it, though, is that it points,feels, and handles like a shotgun when I have it shouldered.
I would be hard pressed to explain why the Ruger handles as it does. I am only capable of recognizing the sensation. I have experienced the same thing while shooting a quality over/under shotgun. Is it possible to achieve something like that in a bolt action repeater? If so, what elements would I need to consider? In short, what exactly makes a long arm just feel right?
This seems to me like it would make for an interesting subject for a technical article.
If anyone knows something about this, I would be interested in your thoughts. If someone knows where I might educate myself about this, I would be equally grateful to be pointed in the right direction.