Looking at Sportco/ Omark 44 as an entry level TR rifle.

Tinman204

Tinman204

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Hi,

I'm wondering what everyone's thoughts are on a sportco 44 as an entry level TR rifle is?

I realize it's old technology and their are better choices for rifles out there but I'd like to try FTR in the next couple of years and I'd like to just get something that will get me out on to the firing line to learn the craft.

I shoot long range with irons now and I know it's 100% the man behind the rifle and I don't feel I'm good enough to need or justify a fancy build to learn FTR.

I know the main issue with the 44 action is the bolt locks into the barrel and not the reciever so rebarreling them is a bit different then a standard action as an adapter must be made from the old barrel or purchased and then the new barrel can be threaded, chambered and installed.

Any info or experience with Sportco/ Omark 44s would be great.

I know most guys are going to say "get a different action" but for an entry level rifle I don't see why old iron isn't suitable for a beginner as let's face it dropping a mint on a fancy gun to try a sport that you've never done is kinda silly.

Or am I wrong.

If I am indeed wrong could some of you point me in a different direction as to what rifle or action to start off with.

I'm set up to rebarrel a savage action, maybe I should start with a savage action and go with that??

I'm trying to keep costs reasonable so I'm just looking for thoughts from those who play this game as I figure it's easier to ask now and then have good info to make decisions for the future.

Thanks
 
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If you have the rifle, use it. If you are going to buy a rifle to get into FTR, there are better choices.
Apart from the rebarrelling issue, these rifles do not have first class primary extraction. Designed to use issue 7.62 ball, stuck cases can result when handloading.
 
If the barrel's shot out, the adapter from TS Engineering is $290 CAN before shipping. Couple guys shooting F with reworked Omarks around. With the price of barrels from the states lately, the AU exchange makes a lot of sense even after the shipping.
 
Thanks to everyone's input.





I went with a CIL 950T which is build on a savage 110 single shot target action.

It's bedded, has a 3rd pillar and action screw installed. The barrel has been replaced and looks new, it's chambered and headspaced like a normal barrel without the nut. Barrel length is 28" or so.

It also has a .250" recoil lug installed. The trigger is fully adjustable.

Haven't shot it yet but I'm thinking it should be a good TR class rig.

Thanks again for everyone's help.
 
What a great classic looking rifle. congrats on a very nice build.

If testing shows irratic vertical, consider a new firing pin spring... maybe get a new one if not changed during the rebuild. The original one has got to be over 40yrs old by now.

Also, if you haven't seen it already, primer cratering at higher pressures is likely to happen. They have pretty big firing pin holes back then. It really isn't a big deal with moderate pressures loads... also why having a new strong spring is helpful.

Put on a bipod and have at it. I think you will find a scope very useful in the near future but have fun with the irons. I have seen some amazing shooting off elbows with irons so have little doubt you can keep them in the V bull if conditions suit.

Enjoy

Jerry
 
Mystic Precision said:
What a great classic looking rifle. congrats on a very nice build.

If testing shows irratic vertical, consider a new firing pin spring... maybe get a new one if not changed during the rebuild. The original one has got to be over 40yrs old by now.

Also, if you haven't seen it already, primer cratering at higher pressures is likely to happen. They have pretty big firing pin holes back then. It really isn't a big deal with moderate pressures loads... also why having a new strong spring is helpful.

Put on a bipod and have at it. I think you will find a scope very useful in the near future but have fun with the irons. I have seen some amazing shooting off elbows with irons so have little doubt you can keep them in the V bull if conditions suit.

Enjoy

Jerry
Click to expand...

Jerry thanks for the insight about the firing pin spring and hole.

I guess if primer cratering is an issue I could tig weld the hole and re drill it in my lathe to correct the issue.

Anyhow hopefully she'll be a shooter, can't wait to try her out.
 
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