The Pump rifle debate

[TexasEd]

I have a chance to buy a NIB Browing BPR in 30-06 as well as a Remington 7600 in 35 Whelen. Which one would you select and why. Any differences in the BPR vs the Remington. Your thoughts on the caliber chioce as well. Elk, Boar and Deer on the menu. Thanks

 

[jmr40]

I would go with the Remington. The 35 Whelen is a cool round and I just like the way the Remington feels and looks better than the Browning.

 

[shaggy430]

7600 in .35 Whelen.

 

[Dr. Tad Hussein Winslow]

Either of those will work just fine for your intended uses. Even though I like the .35 Whelen a lot, the .30-06 is a far more common caliber, and I'd probably run with that. Brownings are also nice, nicely finished guns. I'd be thrilled to have either one of those. Just don't use the "Light Magnum" loads from Hornady or similar in a pump gun.

 

[Col. Plink]

In a more general way, how are pump rifles regarded? Thought it would make a good brush gun because only the front hand has to move, which supports less weight while the trigger hand holds the butt to the shoulder.

 

[TexasEd]

Dr. Tad - why would'nt a person use a HE or Light mag in a pump. I know people who have used those loads without issue. I can see the whole thing with the semi auto. Also for the intended use do you see any great advantage of the 35 over the 30-06

 

[blazerking78]

The forward hand will hold the same amount of weight as the trigger hand. The action does not slide until the lock has been released or the trigger has been pulled. So both hands should be pulling the rifle into your shoulder.

I love my pump rifles, I have not ever had any problems with accuracy with them. Is ammo cost a factor for you? If so go with the BPR. If you reload or don't care about finding ammo in an out of the way gas station go for the 7600 in 35 Whelen. They are both great guns and great calibers for the game you listed. But between the two I would pick the 7600. Parts and furniture for it are cheaper, and they feel slimmer in my hand for better control and feel more comfortable.

 

[WNC Seabee]

I love my Remington 760 in .300 Savage. It's a real pleasure to shoot.

 

[jmr40]

Light magnum loads are OK in Pumps. Just not autoloaders

 

[shaggy430]

Light magnum loads are OK in Pumps.

I would be careful when using hot loads in pumps. My 7600 .270 will flatten primers on handloads that are safe and are at max in my bolt action .270's.