What to do with an unused .25-06 Ruger Hawkeye

[AJC1]

Sure, but what does a .257 Roberts get me that the .25-06 doesn't?

Recoil and your desire to have a unique cartridge with reusing most of the parts you have.

 

[wombat13]

I see that 9.3x62 is offered in the Mauser M18, Sauer 100, Tikka T3x. So, if I were to choose 9.3 I'd be best off selling the rifle I have and buying a factory rifle. So really, the choices are:

1. Keep it as .25-06 and probably never shoot it.
2. Sell it and buy a factory rifle. Most likely candidates would be: .223, 6.5CM, .30-06, 9.3x62.
3. Use it for a project in .280AI or .338-06.

 

[Howland937]

I would be leaning toward the 280AI just because it's different than what you have, would handle about anything you would need, and they're just cool. But Ive also always been a 25-06 fan.

I'd actually love to own a hawkeye in 25-06 or .280/.280AI. No offense to the 6.5CM crowd (I own one too!) But for the love of all things holy, please don't change the Ruger over to that!

I know that wasn't one of your choices, but before someone mentions it

 

[jmr40]

I'd sell it and replace it with something else.

If you do rebarrel I'd go 280 or 280 AI. With 30-06, 300 WM and 338 WM there is nothing you can do with 338-06 or 35 Whelen that you can't do better with what you have. The 9.3 is interesting and I might be tempted, but I'd still go 280.

 

[brasscollector]

I really want to like my 280AI but reality is I just haven't played with it enough to know one or the other. What I have found is factory ammo or component brass is scarce in good times and near impossible to find now. Plus, when you do find it the stuff is expensive. Midway had some 150gr and 160gr Nosler factory ammo a couple days back, over $80 for a box of 20 (plus shipping). I've seen it locally for about $50/box and kinda wished I had bought it. The most affordable option for brass is Hornady if that gives you any idea.

Personally, in your situation I think I'd sell the hawkeye and buy a 9.3x62.

 

[DRM7997]

If I were you I'd look into haveing it bored out to 280ai, 338-06, or 35 whelen. Whichever you prefer. I've had 3 rifles done by jes (35caliber.com). 2 in 35 whelen and 1 to 35 Remington. I highly recommend him. Reasonable prices and great work!

 

[wombat13]

I would be leaning toward the 280AI just because it's different than what you have, would handle about anything you would need, and they're just cool. But Ive also always been a 25-06 fan.

I'd actually love to own a hawkeye in 25-06 or .280/.280AI. No offense to the 6.5CM crowd (I own one too!) But for the love of all things holy, please don't change the Ruger over to that!

I know that wasn't one of your choices, but before someone mentions it

You want to talk about something unholy? Lothar Walther makes M1 Garand barrels in 9.3x62. I’ve considered picking up a shot out Garand and switching it to 9.3x62. Maybe an ultimak rail and either a scout scope or red dot. That would be fun! Now, don’t worry, I’d keep the original barrel and hand guard. The rifle could easily be returned to the configuration specified by Saint Browning.

 

[Mark_Mark]

I’m going to meet everyone in the middle and say 7mm Mag

 

[wombat13]

I'd sell it and replace it with something else.

If you do rebarrel I'd go 280 or 280 AI. With 30-06, 300 WM and 338 WM there is nothing you can do with 338-06 or 35 Whelen that you can't do better with what you have. The 9.3 is interesting and I might be tempted, but I'd still go 280.

Those are the two I’m torn between. If I were starting over buying my first big game rifle, I’d probably go .280 or .280ai. I’m not sure now what it does that i can’t do very well with .25-06, .30-06, or .300WM. 9.3 allows for heavier bullets.

On the other hand, if I think about this as a rifle to be passed to my son 8-10 years from now, then .280ai looks like a winner.