R.W.Dale
Member
Ok a couple different threads recently have gotten me thinking about just what you get for your dollar in terms of bolt action hunting rifles, most specifically what do more expensive models bring to the table that today's excellent entry level models don't.
Now for the purposes of this discussion odiously aesthetics get set aside, and I realize super purpose built lightweight models will demand a premium price. As well as powerful rugged professional grade arms.
But in so far as your average weekend warrior's bolt action hunting rifle do you really gain or give up anything with a $750 Steyr Pro Hunter vs a $299 Marlin XL7, OH I'm sure the steyr is smoother, balances better and has a nicer trigger. But I would not wager it would be any more accurate across a random sampling of both. In the end though when it comes time to squeeze the bang switch in the field does any of this matter?
Now I'm not just picking on steyr.....no this is just an example and this discussion crosses all brand and price range lines. Now don't get me wrong I like nice high quality bolt rifles, but to be honest given the same grade optics I can't find what they actually do better than cheap ones.
On another angle, if true doe you think this phenomena is starting to stifle pricier more refined hunting rifle sales and therefor manufacturer offerings?
Now for the purposes of this discussion odiously aesthetics get set aside, and I realize super purpose built lightweight models will demand a premium price. As well as powerful rugged professional grade arms.
But in so far as your average weekend warrior's bolt action hunting rifle do you really gain or give up anything with a $750 Steyr Pro Hunter vs a $299 Marlin XL7, OH I'm sure the steyr is smoother, balances better and has a nicer trigger. But I would not wager it would be any more accurate across a random sampling of both. In the end though when it comes time to squeeze the bang switch in the field does any of this matter?
Now I'm not just picking on steyr.....no this is just an example and this discussion crosses all brand and price range lines. Now don't get me wrong I like nice high quality bolt rifles, but to be honest given the same grade optics I can't find what they actually do better than cheap ones.
On another angle, if true doe you think this phenomena is starting to stifle pricier more refined hunting rifle sales and therefor manufacturer offerings?