Priority, Calibre or make of rifle?

I would venture to say that it could go either way. For me, I recently purchased a Rem 597 in .22lr. In this particular instance, I was looking for a .22lr but looked at many different models before deciding. Right now I'm shopping for a .2** (223, 22-250, 243??) so I have no priority as far as caliber or make.
 
Depends on what I was after at the time.

FOr the most part, people put too much emphasis on cartridge selection.

Most of the mid range "hutning" cartridges that are common all do about the same thing, from 308, 270 30-06, 300 magnum, 7mm Magnum etc.
 
Usually I want something specific. A (model) in (caliber). For me, caliber is important, there are 2 or 3 I use, just for ease of feeding. If I can't find it, I buy something else that catches my eye, but then keep looking for the first "want". Money doesn't like going back in the bank account, its like telling the dog its going for a walk and then sitting down to watch tv.
 
Condition and caliber are my main priorities when shopping through used rifles. The brand only matters on certain models from each manufacturers. For instance, I've been shopping for a Browning in .270 WSM for a long time, but I refuse to get an X-Bolt.

When I was first starting to buy rifles, I was a lot less picky in calibers,I even duplicated on a couple. Condition was the only matter.
 
deadman said:
Usually I want something specific. A (model) in (caliber). For me, caliber is important, there are 2 or 3 I use, just for ease of feeding. If I can't find it, I buy something else that catches my eye, but then keep looking for the first "want". Money doesn't like going back in the bank account, its like telling the dog its going for a walk and then sitting down to watch tv.
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I hear ya, that's me, exactly! :)
 
Gatehouse said:
Depends on what I was after at the time.

FOr the most part, people put too much emphasis on cartridge selection.

Most of the mid range "hutning" cartridges that are common all do about the same thing, from 308, 270 30-06, 300 magnum, 7mm Magnum etc.
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Would you stop spreading logic and truth like this? What else are we supposed to argue about once people realize that they are all virtually identical over typical hunting distances?

:D

OP, put me down for both. Sometimes I am looking for a particular make/model of rifle and sometimes calibre and sometimes both. Of course, I have way more rifles than I need simply for hunting, so at this point I am simply buying on whim and want instead of any rational criteria.


Mark
 
I roam the EE exchange daily when I come across something that catches my eye, I inquire about it. Condition is a must. Just like a used car, no one wants a used an abused POS.
 
1st, I'll usually start out with caliber or within a range of calibers proven over the years to meet what's required for a variety of game and field conditions I anticipate running into. As such, there's usually a considerable amount of flexibility or overlap in caliber choice and game to be hunted. In addition, some of the calibers I go for, while capeable and comparable to what's available today, many are some of the somewhat less popular and from days past.

2nd, a major consideration, in addition to condition, is the manufacturer or brand and/or model. To that end a couple of my favorites are Schultz & Larsen and Husqvarna.
 
I'm usually looking for something relatively specific, like a Model 70 in 338. Sometimes I'll see a thread on the EE saying "FS M70" and I will look at it. But if it's not what I'm after or interested in (say a post 64 in 308) then I'm back to perusing. But the odds that I'll fondle a Parker Hale just because I'm thinking about a 30-06 are pretty much nil. Both the chambering and the action must be interesting to me.
 
BigUglyMan said:
I'm usually looking for something relatively specific, like a Model 70 in 338. Sometimes I'll see a thread on the EE saying "FS M70" and I will look at it. But if it's not what I'm after or interested in (say a post 64 in 308) then I'm back to perusing. But the odds that I'll fondle a Parker Hale just because I'm thinking about a 30-06 are pretty much nil. Both the chambering and the action must be interesting to me.
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To an extent, same here, usually:redface:. I wanted the three main efforts of cooperation between Schultz & Larsen and Norma. 7x61S&H, 308Norma Magnum and the 358 Norma Magnum. The first two I have and was still attempting to find a Schultz in 358NM when I was offered a Husqvarna model 1651. I've previously declined the opportunities to purchase a 358NM by a couple of other manufacturers but the gentleman offered to send a few pictures. Just to get a better idea of exactly what he was offering:). After seeing the photos, I weakened and purchased the Husqvarna from Why not? . No regrets. It's a very nice rifle and I'm well pleased:D:D. I'd still like to find a Schultz in 358NM and if I did, I'd be VERY resistant to parting with the Husqvarna.
 
I look for rifles to do jobs so as long as the caliber is job ready and not so oddball that I will have to turn cases from rod for it the brand is less important.
 
Caliber is usualy first for me, almost always interested in old nostalgic calibers (7x57) or oddballs (375 winchester). Then finding my current fav. caliber in an interesting well made, usualy older rifle. My most recent rifle, a brand new 1894SS in .44mag being an exception! But I am tempted to find an older model marlin or winchester .44 .....
 
On a used rifle I'll take anything that strikes my fancy at the time.

For example, I just scored this real clean Win Model 670 [econo model with blind magazine] in .308 Win all set up with scope & mounts for considerably less than a new Savage package rifle. Came with a recently professionally installed Pachmayr decelerator recoil pad. In short, it simply was too good a deal to pass up, so I went for it.

Other than a thorough cleaning, inside & out, all I've done is strip the heavy dark brown finish off the birch stock & give it an oil finish. Should be a great shooter.

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NAA.
 
I would rather have a good gun than some specific caliber. Most calibers will do what you want them to but having a good platform is important to me. Can change the barrel down the road, restock etc.
 
It is wise to be somewhat flexible on the calibre, don't pass on a great gun as most calibres will do the job. A gun that fits, performs and is a pleasure to handle...along with nice looks, can't ask for more in my opinion.
 
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I think about what I want first. Then I keep my eyes open. The last was a Win 70 Super Grade in .30-06.

I'm patient. I'll wait a year or more to get something perfectly suitable at the right price.
 
I'll compromise on caliber provided it is adequate for the intended use but I will not buy a rifle I dislike simply because it is in the exact caliber that I'm seeking at the time.
 
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