Looking for excellent sniper rifle up to $1300 (w/o scope) .308 or 300 win mag.

[lookin2buy]

Hi. I saw this thread on sniper rifles for under $1000 http://www.thehighroad.org/showthread.php?t=160898

However, I'm willing to spend a bit more than this for the rifle (with proper stock, without a scope). I've heard of Tica and some other brands, but really don't have a clue where to start researching. I believe I'm looking for either a 308 (easy to get ammunition even in the worst of circumstances) or a 300 winchester magnum (for the power). I'd probably be willing to spend up to around $1300 or so for the rifle and stock.

Can anyone please make some recommendations (you'll have to be specific on stocks, triggers, etc... because I don't know much about them).

Thank you.

 

[Haycreek]

CDNN has FN Patrol rifles for $700 dollors. Same action as the PSR.

 

[browningguy]

Savage 12 F-TR in .308, nothing else like it the $1K or so it costs. A factory stock model was used to win the Nationals earlier this year. 30" tube, very good stock, 8 oz. accutrigger, 1/2 MOA or better to 1000 yards, what more could you want.

Similar shooting factory rifles would be something like the Sako TRG or Steyr SSG, both cost over 2K now. Other common options would be to pick up a Remmy 700, replace the barrel and a little trigger work. The Tikka is a nice enough varmint/tactical rifle, but they don't conistantly shoot like the 12 F-TR appears to.

 

[lookin2buy]

Do you know if these guns are available with a non hardwood stock? I've been told that a synthetic stock will last longer and not warp. Also someone told me to try sliding a dollar bill between the stock and the barrel. I assume that's not an issue with these expensive guns?

 

[308sc]

sliding a dollar bill is to check if the barrel is free floated. Most guns are....even the inexpensive Stevens rifles are.

I am going to suggest not to get something with a 30'' barrel. Unless you are using it for strict benchrest shooting.

I would recommend a Savage 10/110 FP with the McMillan Stock .308

http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/product_info.php/cPath/36_62/products_id/43534

 

[lookin2buy]

Thank you everyone!

 

[skinewmexico]

You can also get a Savage with an HS Precision stock too. Or you can buy a Savage action and the barrel of your choice (Shilen, Pacnor, Lothar, McGowen) and screw it on in 30 minutes. Then buy the stock you like.

 

[Tarvis]

Well, I love my 700P in 300 winmag, but I had to put a muzzle brake on it so now it's very loud (until I get a suppressor). That being said, the FN PBR on CDNN is chrome lined, which makes it really cool because cleaning is a breeze and you don't need to worry as much about fouling after a long day at the 1000 yard range. Also remember, that 300 winmag can shoot out to 1400 or so yards before it breaks through the sound barrier, while 308 is something like 1000 yards. If you are not planning on shooting past 1000, my vote is a 308.

As far as stocks go, bell and carlson make a fully adjustable stock that is very modest in price. If you are planning on re-stocking a rifle, make sure you don't buy one that has a nice stock to start off with. For example, the 700 SPS varmint is the same barreled action as a 700P with a cheap stock on it.

Triggers, I couldn't tell ya. I adjusted my 700P trigger (pre x-pro or whatever) down to 12-16 ounces, but it has a tiny bit of creep and a little bit of wobble from side to side. It works great for now though and didn't cost anything. If you can adjust your trigger without screwing up the mechanics, I say do that first then upgrade later.

 

[X-Rap]

What is a sniper rifle?

 

[Tyris]

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sniper_rifle

-T

 

[ranger335v]

"What is a sniper rifle?"

A "sniper rife" for civilians is a toy those who feel a desire for a rifle to use for self defense at ranges out to 500 yards or more.

Or a "wanna be"?????

 

[Davo]

Savage.

 

[Tyris]

That being said, the FN PBR on CDNN is chrome lined

FN SPR is chrome lined, PBR is not.

-T

 

[scythefwd]

Accuracy International. My buddies can keep it on a sheet of paper out to 900 easily (there is more than just the rifle at play there).

 

[X-Rap]

My question to the OP would be what type of performance would he like to achive from his rifle and what type of targets would he be engaging?

 

[HorseSoldier]

Accuracy International.

If someone is selling AI's for under $1300, I need to pick up 2-3 or them . . .