What's your definition of a Precision rifle?

From an F-Class shooters point of view (Mine): One that can hold 1/4-1/2 minute accuracy at all ranges, consistently, for strings of 10-20 rounds.
 
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The above mentioned accuracy is usually due to a gunsmith who knows his ####, builds to very tight tolerances, and takes pride in knowing that every rifle that comes out of his shop is capable of shooting teeny tiny groups at all ranges.
 
A rifle that is capable of putting the bullet EXACTLY where you want it to go with every shot, for as many shots as the situation dictates and is generally a term applied to rifles assembled and used for fullbore competition where best scores are only possible with beyond-sporter accuracy (Benchrest, F-CLass, Target Rifle, Match Rifle)

I would put the term in context with the other choices...

Sporting or hunting rifles (Stevens 200, Remington 700, Tikka T3)
Varmint Rifles (Reminton SPS Varmint, Tikka Varmint Savage LRPV)
"Tactical Rifles" (Savage 10FP, TRG, Milspec 5R)

That is not to say these rifles aren't capable of "Precision", but they are not built nor intended to be sub-quarter MOA precision rifles.

Having said all that, the definition appears to be in the eye of the beholder, because the number of $350 Stevens rifles and $500 SPS rifles discussed in this forum and being sold under the "Precision Rifles for sale" Equipment Exchange rather makes the real definition moot.
 
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A precision rifle, like any other precision tool, is one that is made within the tightest possible tolerances. Such a rifle enables a talented marksman to call his shots within a very small cone of error, when shot within the practical range of the cartridge the rifle is chambered for. A poor marksman is unlikely to score any better with the precision rifle than he is with a rack gun.
 
I'd define it as a rifle which discriminates the resultant point of impact from the intended one based only on the limitations of the operator behind the trigger.

Obtunded said:
A rifle that is capable of putting the bullet EXACTLY where you want it to go with every shot
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Sounds more like a shoulder fired laser to me! I think any rifle will have limitations in terms of tolerances etc. which would make the above impossible...
 
I think the definition has become somewhat elastic of late. I believe it used to mean a custom rifle with evidence of a lot of professional gunsmithing that was fitted to a particular shooter. Obviously such a rifle was capable of exceptionally tight groupings on a consistent basis.

Today, the definition of precision rifle includes the above but also includes a lot of factory rifles that have some of the following features: heavy barrel, oversize bolt handle, upgraded stock, bedded action etc etc. In my view some of these factory rifles are near to the traditional precision rifle in performance, whereas others are essentially sporting rifles with a few inexpensive add-ons and a colour change but with a higher MSRP. Does it matter - yes and no. No if you know what you are buying and are not expecting benchrest accuracy but yes if you are spending several thousand dollars on something that really isn't what you want. I own a R5 and a 10FP and have owned a 12BVSS and a T3 Varmint - all are very, very good rifles and all are very, very accurate but all are either varmint or tactical rifles NOT true precision rifles in the classic sense.

Do you have to have a classic precision rifle to enjoy target shooting or take part in competitions ? In my view, no. Buy a good rifle, practice lots and enjoy what you are doing and for sure take part in fun or club competitions.
 
Working from the other end of the definition...

I know I own some less-than-precise rifles because I'm certain that if I spent a small amount of time or money on bedding, action, and trigger work... those rifles' groupings would improve.

So here's my proposed definition... When you can't take your rifle to a gunsmith and with a quick $500 get a noticeable improvement in groupings... you've probably got a precision rifle on your hands.
 
The rifle is the tool, The precision is the man behind it. :

In my humble opinion. I've seen some pretty impressive shooting with Lee Enfields, Sharp's rifles and .22 rim fire at the outer edges of those rifles and others limits. It's not about the price of the rifle or type,.......as I own both from extreame expensive to low dollar bargain basement. I've seen top dollar rigs trashed by low dollar rigs. I firmly believe the precision is all about the man behind it and the consistancy to which he applies his skills. Without the skill the rifle means nothing.:nest:
 
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