Designing a Custom Deer Rifle...Barrel Selection

C Broad Arrow

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Ok... I am about to order a new barrel for my build. I am trying to decide on material....Chrome Moly or Stainless steel and the countour.

There are a number of advantages to both, but I am trying to duplicate the look and feel of my Model 7.

I am also trying to envision how I will finish the rifle. My first thought was parkerized with a teflon coat. Not an option with a SS barrel.

I have looked at a number of camo schemes and paint combos.

I want to get the barrel ordered so it can be built over the winter and I can begin to work up a load for it in the spring.

So the question is: What contour and what material should the barrel be and from whom should it be ordered?
 
Stainless with cerakote would be my inclination. For contour you might have to go with a #2 Shilen. #1 might not offer enough beef for a .264 bore (you're building a 260, right?). Talk it over with your 'smith to be sure.
 
I agree with the above- SS and Cerakote. I'd just tell the barrel maker that you end up purchasing from that you want a M7 contour, and most makers will have something that duplicates it. I'd be inclined to go with a Gaillard, RKS, Rock, or Schneider tube.

Although the Shilen stuff is supposedly excellent also, and I don't think you'd go wrong if you ordered one. I'd be more concerned about the 'smith putting the tube on properly than I would about the tube itself if you stick with one of the big-name barrel makers.
 
For a .260, Shilen #1 stainless, 20", .575" at muzzle. If you are going with a larger bore, go #2.
 
A Model Seven standard chamber barrel like 243, 7-08, 308 etc. is the same contour as a Mountain Rifle.

Order one from Ted Gaillard.....ask for a Rem 700 Mountain Rifle contour.

If you want to duplicate the look and feel of your Model Seven...I have a stainless Model Seven in 308 that might work out...:D:rolleyes:
 
Decided on the barrel, and have placed the order with Rob McLennan.
308 was the decision.
Mountain contour as suggested by Rembo.

I will let you all know how it goes from here on out!
 
I have never ordered a McLennan barrel but I have used a few others. The fastest was a few weeks for a Mcgowen they had made for someone else who backed out, the slowest was a Lilja that took 7 months. Building a custom rifle takes time, time to get the parts, and time for the smith - you can't rush good work. I have hated the wait each time, but I have been happy with the end result every time. I hope you can get it done by the 2011 hunting season.
 
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