Talk Me Into A Custom Build....with one caveat.

[BigBore44]

I’m the type of guy who always asks “why?” or “for what purpose?”. I know sometimes the response is “because I can” but I’m a frugal person.

@LoonWulf has had a thread for awhile about a couple custom builds he’s had going. And it got me thinking. I would really like to do a custom build. But....for what purpose?

I’m a hunter. Yes I shoot at targets with my friends and family. But I’m not a long range, precision shooter. And do to having familial tremors, I never will be. 500-1000 yard shots for me are only going to take place in a zombie apocalypse or Chinese invasion. So, let’s say never.

99% of my guns are tools. Granted, some of those tools are much more aesthetically pleasing than others. But they still must do a job should I call on them. And they do. They only thing I can’t hunt with the rifles I have is elephant. And so many of the cartridges overlap: .223, .243, 260, 7 Mauser, 7-08, x39, 30-40, 308, 30-06, 303 Brit, 300WM, 338WM, 35 Rem, 375H&H, 44mag, 444, 450BM, 45-70, 45-90, and a few others. And most of those I have multiples of. Factory to custom. From TC to Pedersoli. Plain synthetic to fancy Mannlicher. Old blue to stainless fluted. I have all that.

The other reason I ask “why” is because all my rifles shoot. Some of them exceptionally well. I don’t mean 2.5” groups either. My 223 is .25-.4” groups. My 1895 45-70 is .75”
A few are over an inch. None of my “non-investment” are 2” guns. I have spent many hours finding the right load for each rifle I have. And it has paid off I think.

So, a few questions. And here’s where the caveat come into play. “Because you can” isn’t acceptable to me. My brains doesn’t compute. It needs a purpose. So be creative.

1. Why should I build a custom rifle?
2. What does it really truly offer me?
3. If you were to build one (non target) what would you build (parts included if you’d like to share) and why?

I really do want one. But I have to justify it to myself.

Last night was a long night on the CoVid unit. So I’m gonna crash. Back at it for 14 more tonight. You all take care.

 

[earlthegoat2]

I like to keep my gun collection small. I don’t want a bunch of guns “because I can”. I like very little overlap unless I feel it’s necessary.

I’m in the beginning phases of having a custom Rem 7600 in 450 BM built.

I am doing it because I hunt a straight wall state and I hunt in the SE. 450 BM is good for both. I DONT want a bolt action. I don’t like them, period. I would buy one as a backup but that is it. I have an AR but I don’t want that for primary because they are not legal everywhere.

The idea is that this is a one gun medium/bigger game solution. If I go for elk one day, that rifle will go with me and maybe something for longer range.

Point is that this custom build will cover ALL of my present needs and 95% of my future needs. I like pump rifles and they don’t make them in 450 hence the custom build.

This gun will replace a 44 mag rifle and a 444 Marlin. As well as lesser used 35 Rem and 45-70. One gun will replace 4 and I will come out ahead financially after it’s done. I’ve already gotten rid of the 45-70 and 444.

 

[gotboostvr]

It helps if you want something not otherwise avaliable off the rack. Usually you run into it when trying to min/max a rifle.

I'm thinking about a new rifle for chasing desert critters. For that, I'm thinking a ultra lightweight mini action, in a flat shooting cartridge. I could find a Kimber 223 and just be done, but I like the idea of the 6ARC cartridge in a true mini action, not a short action like the Kimber.

So I might grab a Howa mini action and screw on a 18" LW 6ARC barrel before dropping it in a carbon fiber stock and cerakoting it FDE and have something not too heavy to lug around 115+ degree weather.

The opposite would also be a good reason to go custom built. If I wanted a powerful, but easy shooting rifle I'd grab a long action and screw a bull barrel 325WSM with a comp and heavy laminate stock. Powerful, but all that weight will keep recoil down.

 

[Booger66]

I built a semi-custom build for the intent of a trunk gun. One that I can leave in the car and can handle "any" task. Might not be the most ideal but covers a lot of applications that I personally encounter. Such as pest control, plinking at a friend's house, hunting (if it's season), etc. I found myself enjoying the rifle a little too much and am probably going to make a new custom to trade it out.
Not sure on your circumstances, but is there any area of your life that you can insert a rifle? I never knew how many chances I had to shoot than when I had one readily available in the trunk

 

[bihj]

With a custom, it will truly be "your gun" and not a gun for the masses.

 

[Skylerbone]

This feels like the makings of a case for a custom rimfire. Maybe a toggle bolt? I’m partial to the hunting side of the equation as well, and with so many other commitments/hobbies there’s really no room at present to fiddle with much more. In cases like that I always defaulted to restoring old rimfires to see what they could manage on paper or in the field.

 

[Archie]

I've had a couple of rifles modified or built for me to suit my desires and (perhaps transitory) needs.
I think the reasoning is much like buying a car and considering 'options' and such. What size engine? Automatic or manual transmission? Power windows? Color?

Some folks want to be first on their block or prove their virility or some such. Some have physical attributes or deficiencies that require personal fitting. Others want a certain caliber or level of recoil.

I've found factory made rifles that do just what I want. I've found used rifles that I want just like they are. I've found rifles in the 'better than nothing' category and some that I like other than the caliber. And some like the look of proper assembled and blued steel, well fitted figured wood and a tasteful level of engraving and checkering.

Decide and get exactly what one wants; not for what one will 'settle'.

 

[LoonWulf]

So maybe let's look at customizing as a whole, in that the idea is to make something work better for what ever it's intended purpose is.
You don't have to build a whole gun to build your own "custom"

Take a look at what you have on the rack now, and see if any of them that get used regularly have something you don't like but you put up with because you really like the rest of the package.
That's where most of my favorite customizations come from. Stock too long/short/don't like the style or color, etc? Trigger ALMOST right but just not quite? Ballance a little to far aft or fore? Any of a dozen little things can be changed to make a almost perfect gun, a little closer to it.

On the grander scheme of things a full blown custom is usually driven by a specific desire, or need, that's hard to meet cost-effectively with an over the counter rifle.

@gotboostvr's mini action is a good, case in point.

Simply wanting to try building a gun from parts, is another good reason for a complete build, but harder to justify it ones looking at the end product logically.
If you can't find a hole in your current line up, then I'd look at doing a custom rimfire build, or restoration like @Skylerbone suggested. 90% of the work done is transferable to larger guns, and they are significantly less cost to start with.

 

[Robert]

I would love a custom Model 70, case hardened, exhibition grade stock, butter knife bolt handle, double set triggers, ebony nose piece, in 300 H&H. Just because.

 

[jmr40]

If I were building the perfect all around rifle for me I'd start with one of the 1992-2006 production Winchester Classic actions. I'd have an accurate medium weight aftermarket barrel put on it chambered in 280, maybe 280AI. I'd cut it to 23" and have it fluted to reduce weight. Then I'd put it in a McMillan Hunters Edge stock. With a Leupold 3.5-10X40 scope in Talley lightweight mounts weight should be 7 1/2 to 7 3/4 lbs. This could probably be done for around $2000-$2500 including the scope. And a lot of factory rifles now are $1200+, not including optics.

That would eliminate the need for any other rifle for anything in North America out farther than I have the skills to shoot. I trust the older style (pre-2008) Winchester action and trigger to be foolproof in the most rugged weather conditions. On a wilderness hunt where mud, snow, ice, and dust are just a given with no way to disassemble the gun for cleaning and no chance to carry a spare that is important.

There is nothing the 280 does that at least a dozen other cartridges could not do as well. But it is a good balance of recoil, long range performance and accuracy. It shoots bullets heavy enough and with enough sectional density to penetrate vitals on any animal in North America. And shoots lighter bullets very well for smaller deer size game. I think the round is just enough out of the mainstream to be cool, with no real downsides. And If I'm paying for a custom I can't see doing it in a common round like 30-06 or 270. Which realistically are as good.

 

[Varminterror]

1. Why should I build a custom rifle?

Based on your OP, YOU shouldn’t build a custom rifle.

2. What does it really truly offer me?

Based on the perspective you shared, nothing.

3. If you were to build one (non target) what would you build (parts included if you’d like to share) and why?

For the purpose of hunting, I have built several custom rifles. From heavy, long barreled varminters to short and handy carbines.

The rifle I’m currently building (read: paying for) for my son is a Defiance Ruckus, Proof Research Carbon Fiber drop-in, chambered for 6 Creed at 16”, TriggerTech Diamond, Manners G2 Compact Tactical Stock w/Gen 2 mini-chassis, APA Fat Bastard brake, AIAW mags, Vortex/Seekins rings, and SigSauer Tango4 4-16x44 with MRAD-DEVL. Light, handy, and adaptable to grow with him, capable of shooting 1,000+ yards for fun, but better suited for short to midrange hunting, and short and light enough that he can carry it for himself - and no smithing required. A rig he can use his entire life, or rebuild however he sees fit.

 

[gotboostvr]

The rifle I’m currently building (read: paying for) for my son is a Defiance Ruckus, Proof Research Carbon Fiber drop-in, chambered for 6 Creed at 16”, TriggerTech Diamond, Manners G2 Compact Tactical Stock w/Gen 2 mini-chassis, APA Fat Bastard brake, AIAW mags, Vortex/Seekins rings, and SigSauer Tango4 4-16x44 with MRAD-DEVL. Light, handy, and adaptable to grow with him, capable of shooting 1,000+ yards for fun, but better suited for short to midrange hunting, and short and light enough that he can carry it for himself - and no smithing required. A rig he can use his entire life, or rebuild however he sees fit.

You're not looking to adopt another kid are you by chance? Maybe one already in their early 30's?

 

[MistWolf]

1. Why should I build a custom rifle?

Because-

I really do want one.

2. What does it really truly offer me?

There's no practical reason to build other than for the experience and to gain a greater depth of knowledge about ARs and fireams in general and because

I really do want one.

3. If you were to build one (non target) what would you build (parts included if you’d like to share) and why?

I would recommend a basic carbine with a barrel length somewhere between 11.5 & 16 inches. My favorite lengths are 11.5 suppressed and 14.5. I shoot the suppressed 11.5 the most.

I would check to see what kits PSA has in stock, choose one, then get a PSA lower. Get everything from a single source to save shipping costs. Kits to look at are 16 or 14.5 middys or 11.5 carbine.

There are certain small parts I'd replace right away. I'd replace the extractor spring with a Colt copper colored extractor spring. I'd replace the carbine weight buffer with an H or H2. If I wanted to reduce muzzle blast without going suppressed, I'd get the BRT Covert comp. No brake. No compensator, especially if going short. Been there, done that, got the suppressor. I wouldn't worry about a free float tube until putting few rounds down range. For sights, I'd go with my favorite Aimpoint or a Leupold 1.25-4x Firedot. If I needed an economy RDS, the Romeo 5 is the best value- good performance for the money and comes with a mount.

If I wanted to step up a bit, I'd get a barrel from BRT. The BRT barrel I have for my next build is an 11.5 inch BRT with an extended gas system ported for use with a suppressor. Because of the odd gas system length, I need to use a free float tube. That tube will be a Lancer carbon fiber, long enough to cover part of the suppressor. Stocks are a matter of personal preference. I like modified Slimline stocks and SBA3 braces.

I also like the new TGF trigger guard, ambi mag release and short throw ambi selector from Forward Control Designs. For. for a pistol grip, my favorite is a BCM Gunfighter I subtly re-profile.

However, to echo Varminterror, if you have to justify building your own AR to yourself, if there's no desire to do so, don't bother.

 

[troy fairweather]

I would love a custom Model 70, case hardened, exhibition grade stock, butter knife bolt handle, double set triggers, ebony nose piece, in 300 H&H. Just because.

Stop giving me ideas.

 

[Nature Boy]

If you can appreciate the quality, design and craftsmanship of something built to your specifications, and can afford the $3-4k you’ll be shellIng out, then you should look into getting a custom gun.

Fair warning: once you get your first one, it likely won’t be last one.

 

[George P]

Does it have to be a custom RIFLE? Why not a custom handgun, or even better, a nice bespoke shotgun....................

 

[rabid wombat]

Why not a custom handgun, or even better, a nice bespoke shotgun....................

I will give you several thousand reasons

 

[BigBore44]

I’m in the beginning phases of having a custom Rem 7600 in 450 BM built.

Now THAT’S a interesting idea.

Not sure on your circumstances, but is there any area of your life that you can insert a rifle?

Always. That’s why I keep buying them. Problem is for the last 2-3 years, I’m finding steals on nice rifles. Like the like new Kimber Montana in 260 with a Leupold QDMA for $600. Which filled that niche for a lightweight small/medium game rifle.

If I were building the perfect all around rifle for me I'd start with one of the 1992-2006 production Winchester Classic actions.

I have 1998 Winchester M70 Classic Sporter LT in 30-06 with a Burris 4.5x12. It was a graduation present from my dad. And it’s honestly one of the most accurate rifles I own. Brass shotgun shell bases are no problem at 150 yards with handloads. 100 yards no problem with factory 180gr Core-Lokts. But... I love the M70 action. So while the rifle may not be a player to customize, the action will likely be a M70.

I would recommend a basic carbine with a barrel length somewhere between 11.5 & 16 inches. My favorite lengths are 11.5 suppressed and 14.5. I shoot the suppressed 11.5 the most.

I’m not a fan of short barrel AR’s at all. And I don’t like AR “pistols”. I have built a few AR’s. Polished feed ramps, triggers, handguard and stock changes, little things. BUT, the thought of a very light 16” AR in 10mm magnum, is appealing. That’s gonna be a contender. But not really aesthetically pleasing.

I would love a custom Model 70, case hardened, exhibition grade stock, butter knife bolt handle, double set triggers, ebony nose piece, in 300 H&H. Just because.

I mean, you kinda just named the ultimate custom rifle in my opinion. When I win the lottery, I’ll remember your post. I’m picturing it and it’s just gorgeous. Problem is it will never see a hunt. I couldn’t. But maybe it could just be something to admire. Maybe I could just build a custom stock for my M70 or one of my other rifles. I’m really pretty good with woodworking. Good idea!

 

[rabid wombat]

A friend put it out once, “I have one, and you do not....”

If you want one (not taking from family, etc). Get it. On the horizon for me:

257ai - high end barrel (shilen, kreiger) swarovski glass, tally rings, ideal world mcmillan stock, jewel rifle basix or timney trigger...utilitarian. That said, if Nosler offer the chamber in their custom 48, I would buy it.

I want some 38.55 and 25.35. Probably means buying some 30.30’s and having them built. The lever guns for my wife and I, so add stick work to the dollars spent.

if not your cup of tea, you have a fun set of tools. Enjoy them, and share your knowledge with friends.

 

[BigBore44]

Take a look at what you have on the rack now, and see if any of them that get used regularly have something you don't like but you put up with because you really like the rest of the package.
That's where most of my favorite customizations come from. Stock too long/short/don't like the style or color, etc? Trigger ALMOST right but just not quite? Ballance a little to far aft or fore? Any of a dozen little things can be changed to make a almost perfect gun, a little closer to it.

I really think you’re right. That should probably be where I at least start. Changing things I already have. Keeps cost low. And builds experience.

 

[rabid wombat]

Keeps cost low.

You obviously do not recognize how much fun we get in spending your money.

 

[BigBore44]

You obviously do not recognize how much fun we get in spending your money.

Robert especially!

 

[BigBore44]

I’m really thinking about making a new stock for the Kimber. It has that plain textured synthetic stock. It’s ugly to put it mildly. I’m thinking I should buy a cheap blank to start. Maybe birch or ash. Shoot, I might even start with yellow pine just to see how it goes. I think I would have more of a sense of accomplishment actually building a stock than piecing a gun together at least for now.

I have a large bandsaw, table planer, jig saw, large lathe, power sander, and drill press.

 

[sarduy]

I’m the type of guy who always asks “why?” or “for what purpose?”. I know sometimes the response is “because I can” but I’m a frugal person.

@LoonWulf has had a thread for awhile about a couple custom builds he’s had going. And it got me thinking. I would really like to do a custom build. But....for what purpose?

I’m a hunter. Yes I shoot at targets with my friends and family. But I’m not a long range, precision shooter. And do to having familial tremors, I never will be. 500-1000 yard shots for me are only going to take place in a zombie apocalypse or Chinese invasion. So, let’s say never.

99% of my guns are tools. Granted, some of those tools are much more aesthetically pleasing than others. But they still must do a job should I call on them. And they do. They only thing I can’t hunt with the rifles I have is elephant. And so many of the cartridges overlap: .223, .243, 260, 7 Mauser, 7-08, x39, 30-40, 308, 30-06, 303 Brit, 300WM, 338WM, 35 Rem, 375H&H, 44mag, 444, 450BM, 45-70, 45-90, and a few others. And most of those I have multiples of. Factory to custom. From TC to Pedersoli. Plain synthetic to fancy Mannlicher. Old blue to stainless fluted. I have all that.

The other reason I ask “why” is because all my rifles shoot. Some of them exceptionally well. I don’t mean 2.5” groups either. My 223 is .25-.4” groups. My 1895 45-70 is .75”
A few are over an inch. None of my “non-investment” are 2” guns. I have spent many hours finding the right load for each rifle I have. And it has paid off I think.

So, a few questions. And here’s where the caveat come into play. “Because you can” isn’t acceptable to me. My brains doesn’t compute. It needs a purpose. So be creative.

1. Why should I build a custom rifle?
2. What does it really truly offer me?
3. If you were to build one (non target) what would you build (parts included if you’d like to share) and why?

I really do want one. But I have to justify it to myself.

Last night was a long night on the CoVid unit. So I’m gonna crash. Back at it for 14 more tonight. You all take care.

how about a rifle that can hit a can of coke at 400-500 yards?

Remington 700 in 300 win mag with a M24 stock

or

A 338 Lapua Magnum to hit that soda can at 1000 yards.

 

[BigBore44]

how about a rifle that can hit a can of coke at 400-500 yards?

Remington 700 in 300 win mag with a M24 stock

or

A 338 Lapua Magnum to hit that soda can at 1000 yards.

3rd paragraph of my OP. A rifle like that is worthless to me because I can’t utilize its capabilities. But I have a M70 Extreme Weather in 338WM.