Caliber change from 223 single shot?

[Mr. Swift]

So I'm thinking about building my first rifle. Here's what i know:
1- i want a single shot
2- i will most likely start with a model 12 223 single shot
3- will probably want a 220 swift or 22-250 (possibly AI)

what I don't know:
1-are those even possible calibers (starting from a single shot 223)
2- what parts and tools i need to do so

also opinions from those in the know

i did try several searches but didnt really find the kind of help "I" need lol

[Hotolds442]

I'd go with a 22/250AI or a 22/243 before I considered the Swift. Swifts have a tendency to feed like crap due to the rim, you have to stagger them in the magazine. They are also prone to case stretching, requiring constant trimming.
Either of those choices would require only a bolt head swap and a new barrel. As for tools, barrel wrench, action wrench, and the appropriate headspace gauges are all that is needed.

[Mr. Swift]

Thanks for the info!

[sharpshooter]

Why don't you just start out with a 22-250 single shot?

[Mr. Swift]

Seems to me they're very few and far between and darn expensive when you do find one. Like i said, i want a single shot. Ive been looking lately and the 223 single shot rifles are the most common and the cheapest.

[Texas10]

You might consider a Savage target action p/n 18183 that you can find on line for under $600. It's a right bolt, left port and comes with target accutrigger. Add an after market barrel of your choice, a stock, scope, etc.

Nice thing about 223 is it's CHEAP to reload, likes most any powder, and you can go out to 1000 yds very successfully, as some on here can attest to.

I've got a bone stock model 12 that hits the targets at 750 yds with great precision….when the nut behind the barrel is paying attention :crazy:

[Mr. Swift]

Right on��
Thanks for the savage part #, Ill check that out. Ive got nothing against a 223. But the main purpose of the gun for me is benchrest target shooting and prairie dogs. For prairie dogs 4000fps is where i like to be. Hitting them is...explosive lol

[Texas10]

My bad, thought you were looking to build 223.

Here's a link the lists the various available actions.

http://www.savagearms.com/firearms/actions/target/