Commercial bolt action rifle comparison.

[natedog]

From what I've heard, the base model bolt action rifles from the major gun companies (Remington 700, Winchester 70, Ruger 77, Browning A-Bolt, Savage, etc.) will all give you about the same accuracy and performance. All are about $500 or so dollars (except the Savage). Are there really any differences between these (they're all Mauser based actions, correct?)

 

[Art Eatman]

From a practical-use standpoint? Nah...

Some differences in fit and finish; probably the Browning is best--but can you find them for $500?

Anyhow, they're all close enough in utility/accuracy that how any particular rifle fits you is (IMO) the main priority. Then, your own aesthetics as to proportions and all that.

You can always rebed a forearm if necessary, free-floating it and shimming as needed. You can refinish the stock if you want. You can polish the bolt and the receiver's rails to make the action smoother, if you want.

Art

 

[nextjoe]

Of the guns you mentioned, all except the A-Bolt could be considered Mauser-based, in that they use a bolt with dual front locking lugs, but only the Winchester and Ruger are controlled-feed designs with claw extractors. They're the closest to Mausers, but there are still a lot of differences.

Best,
Joe

 

[dakotasin]

right - not mauser based.

the difference between them are going to seem minor at first, until you handle a couple.

other than push or controlled feeds, and assuming similiar stock comparisons, look at the safeties... much difference there. and even the ones w/ 2-position safeties (savage, remington), they are markedly different in looks. check out the wood used for the stocks. do you like shiny finishes (700 bdl, browning), or matte finishes (ruger, winchester)? do you not care how the stock looks?

how about the bolt? note the knobs on the bolts... quite different in looks and feel. also, how far do you have to rotate the bolt to open it (browning has a very short throw)...

for a rifle for someone starting out who either doesn't know, care, or who hasn't developed a discriminating taste, yeah, they are all essentially the same.

 

[El Tejon]

As much as the differences between Ford, Chevy, and Dodge matter.

For those starting out, differences without relevance. The most important part of the equation is you.

Seek knowledge and let your software select your hardware. By seeking the path of education and eschewing the proud, fashionable ignorance of the gun shoppe, you are able to flatten and shrink your learning curve. In doing so you will also rub elbows with senior students who can tell you about being there and doing that.

Once you have learned to use the weapon, you will be able to ascertain what "makes" a good rifle. Some of these variables are fixed, some are personal and individual (what? you want to talk about the office or guns?).

If you have the dinero, get a class and borrow a weapon. Then after a couple of classes, you will know what you need and want.