AI bottom metal options?

[Jordan Smith]

So I've got a couple of 700SA rifles with hinged floor plate, and I've been contemplating putting some DBM bottom metal on one or two of them. I've seen Wyatt's, APA, HS Precision, Badger M5, Seekins, PTG, etc, and I'm not sure how to differentiate between what's what, here. Apparently the Wyatt's box is a drop-in bottom metal, and most of the others require some inletting? If somebody could fill me in on the pro's and con's, I'd appreciate it. Inletting requirements, value vs cost, magazine type, durability, and availability in Canada, are all things that I'd be interested to hear about. Thanks!

 

[Blastattack]

Wyatts use proprietary magazines. In my opinion the Wyatts is incredibly ugly because of it's ridiculously and unnecessarily long magazines. All the others mentioned use the now industry standard Accuracy International magazines. Differences? Price, brand loyalty, personal preference, and not much else. They all work when properly installed. CDI also makes a very good unit, as does Stiller, to name a few more. As far as what is available, I'm pretty sure you can get your hand son just about any of them. North Shore Barrels sells PTG and CDI units (best value units, though i do not know the prices), Alberta tactical make their own unit, as does a company in BC.

 

[Tomochan]

In my view if you are going aftermarket the only mags to use are AI mags. I've use AI Mag-compatible bottom metal from two sources : ATRS and V-Bull. Both were very good with the edge, IMO, going to the ATRS.

 

[banko32]

Jordan

I ordered one directly from CDI. Needs some in letting but an awesome guy to deal with. I phoned him directly and he threw it in the mail. Had it in a couple of weeks. $230 US plus shipping.

 

[dfrombc]

I just had a rifle put together using V-Bull bottom metal and I really like it. No rattles and you can use it with or without the extended release. I also just liked the way the trigger guard looked compared to the others.

 

[Mad_Mikee]

I know that the HS Precision ones will feed at least a 338 lapua ai in the long action. Pretty much the same footprint as factory stuff.