Looking for an overstrength .223 single

[Third_Rail]

I'm looking for a single shot wayyyy over-engineered .223 rifle. I've never handled one, but I hear good things about NEF singles. Are there any other .223 singles that have strong actions/barrels/etc. in terms of pressure resistance?

 

[jame]

I'm no engineer, but my bull barrelled NEF SB2 is STOUT. With a scope and Harris bipod, it checks in at 11 3/4 pounds. The barrel is like a black iron pipe. HEAVY. If that's what you desire, that's the one to buy. Mine would be for sale, as it's the kinda like the girl from the wrong side of the tracks. Not so pretty, but loads of fun to shoot, if accurate shooting is fun to you.

Three shots at 100 yards from mine can be covered with a dime!

 

[rbernie]

Thompson/Center Encore.

 

[jeff-10]

If price isn't a concern you may want to try the No. 1 Varminter. I would imagine that may be strongest single shot 223 on the market.

 

[Third_Rail]

I'd actually like to keep it below $300. But I'll have to try to find each of these to take a look at them.

 

[Coltdriver]

The Ruger #1 and the Browning Low Wall are the two strongest. Not generallay available for $300. But with patience and cash you could find a Ruger for $450.

What weight .223 bullet are you wanting to shoot?? Most of the single shots are 1 in 12 twist barrels and are suited to 55 grain bullets and under.

 

[Third_Rail]

Anywhere from 40-60 grain bullets. I'm really not sure on that one.

 

[0007]

Maybe find a used short-action Remy and rebarrel it. I've got one I bought years ago in CT, older guy built it to use for a sit-down deer rifle. Has a 20" tube that's a little over one-inch in diameter. I think I paid ~$150.00 for it.

 

[Coltdriver]

The original spec for the .223 cartridge was for a 55 grain bullet. A barrel with a 1 in 12 twist will stabilize these just fine. Any heavier of a bullet and you will need to go to a faster twist. The AR's are using 1 in 9 or 1 in 8 to stabilize 70 grain bullets.

I personally think that the 70 grain plus bullets for the .223 are too much bullet for too little cartridge.

 

[ChristopherG]

Just curious, here; why would you want a 223 that will stand up to abuse, rather than just another 22 caliber rifle? If you want to go into hyperdrive, why not a 22-250 or 220 Swift?

(Note: I know almost nothing about these calibers beyond printed ballistics, so I really am asking, not sniping)

I'm assuming you plan to handload, or what's the point of 'over-construction'; and if you're going to handload, then why limit yourself to the 223?