Best inexpensive 243 I can buy

[Cat 64]

I need some advice as to what would be a very inexpensive, good 243 I might buy. You guys always want to know more when answering questions.... So, I want to replace an old Remington 770 (shot out) and since acquiring that I developed a taste for target shooting. I would like to use this new rifle for shooting targets perhaps up to 600 yards. I shoot bench rest for 100 and 200 yards and prone further. Also, if possible use it as it is first and if there is potential build it up from that point. Let's first start with something under $500. I have a scope already for this rifle.

[scope eye]

I would scour the classifieds, 243 are not that hard on barrels, that's what I would do anyway, especially with a $500.00 budget.

Dean

[Cat 64]

Dean, classifieds on SavageShooters? Must you be a paid member to have access to that feature?

[LoneWolf]

A lot of people have been finding Axis Rifles for under $300. Put it in a laminate stock and it will probably be pretty decent. I have rebarreled and rebuilt my Axis in 308 and now use it for Long Range steel and 600-1000yds F-class Matches. Next step is reloading, so I can match some better loads to it. I shoots under 1/2 an inch at 100yds with most factory match ammunition, but it takes a better load to maintain that at extended ranges.

[bootsmcguire]

A Stevens 200 is not a bad start if you can bump into one, or one of the package 11's in 243 would basically be the same thing. If you shop around you can find Model 11's with the Accu-trigger and maybe Accu-stock (if like it that is) for right around the $500 mark.

I have some experience with the Remmy 710/770 rifles by default (buddies bought them and then had me try and get them to shoot, now they shoot Savage). A model 11 with the Accu-trigger will be such an upgrade from the 770 you should be more than happy, plus you can easily upgrade as you go.

[Cat 64]

Hey LoneWolf. Which Axis exactly are you referring to? I see there are a few different models.

[Cat 64]

I have no experience yet with the accutrigger...however I am awaiting to receive from NSS my 6mm BR savage 12 target rifle which has one of those.

[Cat 64]

I know is a bit more but I looked yesterday at a Howa HWK98101 AXIOM VARMINTER Bolt 243 Winchester 24" Black...are those good?...just checking. However I think I am inclined to go Savage way...

[LoneWolf]

One in 243. You can probably find them at your local wal-mart still as long as you don't live in kommiefornia like me where wally world doesn't carry firearms. I build mine off of the SR Model in 308. As long as you get one in the 308 family it can be re-barreled to 243 as well. The standard Axis has a 22" barrel where the SR has a 20" threaded.

[scope eye]

$15.00 well spent
Dean

[scope eye]

Dean, classifieds on SavageShooters? Must you be a paid member to have access to that feature?


That is correct, but there are also plenty of other classifieds, and there is almost always a 243 in the used gun rack in any gun shop.

Dean

[Cat 64]

I am looking at comparing the Axis with 11 hunter XP. Can someone please tell me the differences.

[FW Conch]

If you go with the 11XP, you will have more choices as to aftermarket parts, because of the fact that the Axis has not been out very long.

[Cat 64]

So, the action is pretty similar? Is it one I could use later for a decent build?

[LoneWolf]

Here's my Axis. It's definitely capable to build on.

http://i1281.photobucket.com/albums/a510/PJ0527/2d71b5b0-f61a-472a-ac1a-a90ef4b048ab_zpsfb1d6f80.jpg

[Cat 64]

What stock is that? Is that the original barrel?

[LoneWolf]

Barrel is a McGowen 26" SS I painted and the stock is from SSS. Not on their site yet, but if you contact them and inquire about the Axis ProTac they may be able to work something out with you.

[Cat 64]

LoneWolf, that rifle looks great. Also what bolt knob you got there?. I am getting soon my 6 mm BR and will perhaps want a nicer bolt knob.

[LoneWolf]

It's a D.D. Ross I found on the Brownell's site.

[Cat 64]

How much would the stock cost me?