First long range rifle

[jsolomon]

Hey guys I'm new to this whole forum thing and I've shot semi pro nfaa archery tourney's for the last 6 years so excuse my ignorance in advance.

I'm looking to build/buy a decent .308 caliber mid range (650-800 yards) gun. It is gonna be primarily a paper gun, but I might shoot a few deer and varmints with it.

Unfortunately money is a object, so I would like to keep it as close to the $1000 mark as possible (with optics). Seeings I manage a sporting goods store I get things at cost.

I know its a far cry to having a good shooter but I just wanna start out small to see if I like it.

I've looked at all of the 700 tactical stuff, and just recently seen the Howa Axiom. I've heard good things about savage, but I would like some opinions on what ya'll like as for as action/stock combo's or just out ready to buy guns.

I would also like opinions on optics for around $250-$350.

Heresay is appriciated but experiece would be nice.
THANKS TO ALL IN ADVANCE!!!gun)

 

[RockZ]

I would build up.a rifle using a savage action.
Check out the article on building a long range rifle on a budget by Jerry Teo.
Contact Sinman and he will put a great barrel on an action and you can put it in a bell and carlson medalst stock.
All for $1000 or less

 

[jsolomon]

Thanks alot Rock, do you kno where I can find the article?

 

[RockZ]

Long Range Hunting Rifle On A Budget

 

[Camshaft]

Look into the Stevens model 200. It is a savage made rifle just marked under the Stevens Name. It can be had for around $300 dollars I believe. Not sure what the caliber selection is. As far as optics, go to Swfa.com and look at the SS line of tactical Scopes. I believe the are the absolute best bang for your Buck until you get up into the $800 plus level.

 

[BikerRN]

I'd look hard at the Savage line if it were me.

I went with a Ruger due to them maqking their own barrels now and the reports I've been getting regarding their accuracy. I'm very happy with my Ruger but if I hadn't gone with the Ruger I'm 90% certain I would've chosen a Savage.

Biker

 

[jsolomon]

Not a fan of ruger actions myself, which 1 do u have though? And how do you like it?

 

[BikerRN]

Not a fan of ruger actions myself, which 1 do u have though? And how do you like it?

I have a Gunsite Scout and like it very much. I'm partial to Ruger and Winchester Bolt Actions.

Biker

 

[jsolomon]

How far have you managed 2 get with it, and what did the groups look like?

 

[trebark]

Rem700 SPS is a good starting plaform. From there, change out the stock, add optics, good to go. You can follow the transformation of my 308 here (when all was said and done, it cost ~$1,100 before it became a full-custom)...

http://www.longrangehunting.com/forums/f53/my-308-1k-rifle-evolution-continues-43510/

Similarly, my nepew's rifle (~$1,100 also)...

http://www.longrangehunting.com/forums/f53/nephews-transformed-rifle-53634/