WoodchuckAssassin
Member
Ok folks, I’ve decided that instead of buying one of every type of rifle ever made, I would somehow combine my favorite designs into one all-purpose rifle. The problem is, I can’t seem to hunt one down that satisfies enough of my criteria to spend $600 that I probably should be saving for something like food, shelter, and other minor conveniences. Here’s a list of what I’m looking for, and I would greatly appreciate your help in finding me the “perfect” rifle…or at least something close to it.
Caliber: .243 (possibly consider a 25-06, but I prefer a short action).
Stock: Walnut – absolutely no synthetics. Pistol-grip if possible.
Action: Bolt – 70 degree, but 90 would also do. I don’t like the 60 degree or T-bolts on the Browning’s. I really like the Mauser action on the Ruger M77’s, but wouldn’t mind a more Remington-style action.
Barrel: 22 inch or shorter (God help me I love those carbines). I’ll mainly be using 70-80 grain bullets on varmints, so a 1:9 or 1:10 twist would work best. A free floated barrel is a must, but if there is a rifle that will easily accept a bedding/float job, then I’d be open minded about it.
Finish: Stainless would be wonderful…but I don’t think I can afford it, so a nice glossy bluing would be best. I’m not a huge fan of mate-blued finishes.
Length of pull: Most rifles seem to be around 13¾, but anything close to that is fine.
Magazine: I’ve always used a box magazine, and while I know it’s a matter of preference, I’m open to any and all opinions.
New vs. Used?: I love a well maintained used gun (since the price is lower), but a new rifle is really what I’m looking for.
Price: $600, $650 after tax. I can’t afford to go any higher than that, so pleeeeeease don’t tempt me!
Well, there it is. I would rather not be schooled on caliber selection or the benefits of synthetic over walnut. I’m aware that there are many very capable calibers and stock selection, but I’d like to keep those two aspects of the gun out of it. All other suggestions are welcomed! Thank you for your help, and I look forward to seeing what my rifle will be!
Caliber: .243 (possibly consider a 25-06, but I prefer a short action).
Stock: Walnut – absolutely no synthetics. Pistol-grip if possible.
Action: Bolt – 70 degree, but 90 would also do. I don’t like the 60 degree or T-bolts on the Browning’s. I really like the Mauser action on the Ruger M77’s, but wouldn’t mind a more Remington-style action.
Barrel: 22 inch or shorter (God help me I love those carbines). I’ll mainly be using 70-80 grain bullets on varmints, so a 1:9 or 1:10 twist would work best. A free floated barrel is a must, but if there is a rifle that will easily accept a bedding/float job, then I’d be open minded about it.
Finish: Stainless would be wonderful…but I don’t think I can afford it, so a nice glossy bluing would be best. I’m not a huge fan of mate-blued finishes.
Length of pull: Most rifles seem to be around 13¾, but anything close to that is fine.
Magazine: I’ve always used a box magazine, and while I know it’s a matter of preference, I’m open to any and all opinions.
New vs. Used?: I love a well maintained used gun (since the price is lower), but a new rifle is really what I’m looking for.
Price: $600, $650 after tax. I can’t afford to go any higher than that, so pleeeeeease don’t tempt me!
Well, there it is. I would rather not be schooled on caliber selection or the benefits of synthetic over walnut. I’m aware that there are many very capable calibers and stock selection, but I’d like to keep those two aspects of the gun out of it. All other suggestions are welcomed! Thank you for your help, and I look forward to seeing what my rifle will be!