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Hello all.
I'm going to buy my first center-fire bolt-action in 223 and I'm looking for opinions on two Savage models. I'll be shooting mostly from the bench between 100-400 yards.
I want a heavy fluted barrel so I'm looking at either a new model 10 FCP-K or a 12 VLP-DBM. Being an old-fart, I prefer the wood, but will buy the model 10 if the AccuStock actually increases accuracy.
Would I see much of a difference between the two?
Either one should fit the bill for you. Accuracy between the two is almost immeasurable. To many variables to say for sure. FWIW if it were me I would buy the 12 VLP and enjoy. The laminate stock is plenty rigid and should add some weight making shooting from the bench even easier. If you are worried that the Accu-stock is better, I would say just bed the sction on the 12 VLP and you get the best of both.
Thanks, I think I'll take your advice. A few minutes after posting I started leaning that way. As I only shoot for fun, in the long run, I'd rather own something that spins my spurs and live with whatever accuracy I can squeeze out of it.
I really don't think the 10 would do any better than the 12VLP. Both have heavier barrels should be the same twist and the accu-stock was designed to make the more flimsy plastic stocks rigid more like the laminate and higher end synthetic and/or fiberglass stocks. Since the 12 VLP has a pretty beefy laminate on it, I would say you will be happier with it.
Feel free to post up a range report once you get it home and get a chance to shoot her.
Tagged because I find myself trying to make the decision.
I bought the VLP in 22-250 a few months ago. I love the rifle. Right now, it is my most accurate rifle. It shoots better than a $2,600 308 Cooper Rifle. It is very accurate (.5-.75 MOA at 300 yards). The laminate stock is very durable and looks great with the stainless steel barrel. I reload so I worked up a load (and bullet seating) specially for this rifle. I don't think you will be disappointed with the Model 12 VLPDM.
My vote goes to the VLP too!
I would go with the one that has the side bolt release. The only difference in how they shoot should be in the barrel and factory or aftermarket a barrel is a crap shoot as no two are the same. And before you guys flame me for comparing aftermarket and factory i am not as aftermarket normally is way above factory. I am just comparing one barrel to another.
I have decided I MUCH prefer the top/side bolt release as well. The bottom one is just a PITA. They only changed to the bottom bolt release to try and improve the look. I think it was a big mistake that only proved to introduce more problems than it solved.
Just bought the 12VLp in .308 and really like it. Put a Sightron 36 power target scope and a Rifle Basix SAV-2 trigger set at around 8oz. on it for bench rest shooting. Just ok with factory ammo but will be working up a handload pretty soon.
Have same rifle and caliber. Amazing performance, especially at this price.Quote:
Originally Posted by smokndav
Suggest a .020 jump. Should be right at 2.800 COAL. Of course you will want to verify but these should be right there.
With powder availability being what it is I've done loads in 4 powders so far and 168 SMK's (excellent at shorter distances up to about 300 and 175 SMK's out to 1025 yards so far.
You will love showing up the $3000 custom rigs.
Thanks for the info. I was curious where to start with the jump so will try .020 first. Would you be willing to share your recipes ? will be shooting some Aguila this weekend. Curious to see if it is better than the surplus I have been shooting.Quote:
Originally Posted by CH Luke
Since I've been focusing on 600 to 1000 yards and the most consistent supply if powder in my area is Hodgdon 4895 my favorite recipe with 175gr SMK's in Lapua brass is 42.3grains. My backup (hard to get) is Varget at 43grains.
For shorter distances and 168gr SMK's my favorite hands down was Vihta N140 at 41.4g which I used more in cold weather. 200 yards groups were outstanding. Can't find It lately
How do you like the Sightron? Is it FFP?
and thanks again for the info. I need to find some 168SMKs as you and a lot of others seem to prefer them for the shorter distance. I am somewhat new to handloading so a lot to learn.Quote:
Originally Posted by CH Luke
I do like the Sightron because of the very fine X hair and tiny center dot made for bench rest shooting. It is fixed 36 power with adjustable objective and no trouble seeing the hits at 200yds with light colored paper. Its made in Japan and the glass seems to be really good for a scope in this price range. $400.00 Comes with a sunshade but no covers.