Precision rifle for backpacking

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PowOps

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Hello all,

First post by a relatively new shooter (2 years). My first gun is a Robinson XCR-L and I've been shooting almost exclusively in the backcountry after lengthy walks. Anyhow, I'd like to get into longer range shooting with a bigger caliber (308) but I want a rifle I can carry for 5-10km in variable terrain to shoot.

Budget $2500? I was thinking of a 700 or a Savage in 308 with a precision chassis upgrade for a foldable stock? Any recommendations for chassis and stocks? Can I achieve decent 500 yard accuracy with tapered barreled hunting rifles? Interested to hear your thoughts.
 
If you're willing to buy used, I'd suggest browsing the precision rifle EE and picking something up there and simply going out and shooting. Don't worry about modifying things like stocks and chassis before you get a feel for what you want out of it, shoot what you buy and go from there. The money will be much better spent on ammo.
 
If you're starting out, buy used and get out and shoot. That budget will get you 80% of what's offered on the EE. Even a packaged deal with glass is within your price range. As far as rifle weight? Leave the propane stove at home ;)
 
clg said:
If you're willing to buy used, I'd suggest browsing the precision rifle EE and picking something up there and simply going out and shooting. Don't worry about modifying things like stocks and chassis before you get a feel for what you want out of it, shoot what you buy and go from there. The money will be much better spent on ammo.
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Ya that's what I was planning on doing however I want to buy a platform I can build on. A halfway decent rifle that can be upgraded over the course of a couple seasons. As it stand right now, I am just kinda looking for some inspiration (exampples and ideas). I'm a career hobbyist and obsessive tinkerer so I don't mind the ups and downs of putting a puzzle together.

I'm a complete rookie compared to everyone here but I'm a capable archer and I've managed to put close to 3000 rounds through the XCR in a couple seasons so I at least have some basic marksmanship skills.
 
Chassis will add substantial weight for packing and a 'standard' stock configuration will serve you well for multiple shooting positions. Look for something with a 20" barrel such as a Remington LTR or XCR tactical or Savage equivalent and even with a varmint contour barrel the weight isn't too bad and the overall length is still packable.
 
N0M4D said:
Have you considered the ruler scout? It's a very nice rifle. Should fit your needs flawlessly!
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I had looked at the Scout before I bought the XCR but my understanding was that it wasn't a well respected platform from an accuracy standpoint and that they were limited as far as customization? I'm probably wrong. I'm like many here and would like a project gun. Maybe I should start with an SKS ;)
 
PowOps said:
I had looked at the Scout before I bought the XCR but my understanding was that it wasn't a well respected platform from an accuracy standpoint and that they were limited as far as customization? I'm probably wrong. I'm like many here and would like a project gun. Maybe I should start with an SKS ;)
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Guess your joking on the SKS ..but I'd try an inexpensive lighter stock say on a Savage before putting out a lot of coin and get some shooting time in
 
Do you currently own any hunting rifles? If you do buy a quality scope and put it on your hunting rifle.

If not have a look at a Tikka t3 varmint. I would get one in 6.5x55. You may be able to triple your expected range with one. :)

Also a good pack will make it easier to carry a heavier gun into the back country. Eberlestock makes some nice ones.
 
My scout (16") is a great shooter! Just not great for long strings. And it's around 8lbs with glass
 
K0na_stinky said:
Do you currently own any hunting rifles? If you do buy a quality scope and put it on your hunting rifle.

If not have a look at a Tikka t3 varmint. I would get one in 6.5x55. You may be able to triple your expected range with one. :)

Also a good pack will make it easier to carry a heavier gun into the back country. Eberlestock makes some nice ones.
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Not a hunter and I have a basement full of high end backpacks gear. In fact that reminds me I have to do a gear purge one of these days. Thanks for the recommendtions. I'll check out the Tikkas.
 
I'd drop a Rem 700 sps tactical into an MDT LSS or LSS XL chassis. Will be able to shoot it prone or offhand. I really like how those chassis mimmick the feel of an AR15
 
Short barrels can be every bit as accurate as long.

Thin barrels as accurate as heavy... just not for as many rds.

For the stock, I too think a folding stock would be kind of neat but unsure what actually works ie solid lock up and not weigh a ton.

The MDT LSS is not bad... looks light but not when you add the accessories.

I have seen a Manners that was a CF style, light fill and folding... that was very light for its style.... certainly compared to its peers.

For factory, something with a 20" or shorter barrel. Compact something or other would be fun... I like the Ruger American, Savage tactical carbine/hog hunter, Tikka type rifles.

Even a Junior or "woman" type hunter would work. If you want better accuracy, a new barrel or prefit will get the job done.

Don't add alot of aftermarket accessories and you can likely keep the whole thing under 10lbs with a quality optic.

As long as you have the scope elevation, 20" barrels can launch quality 30cal bullets well beyond 1000yds ACCURATELY.

Also don't discount the 223. Heavy bullet with a fast twist, very light ammo, out to 1400yds no problem.

Jerry
 
A CZ527 carbine is an excellent choice. It has an 18.5 inch barrel. Available in 7.62x39 or .223. I know it's not a premium "precision" round, but a very, very accurate rifle for medium ranges. And its size makes it backpack friendly.
 
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