My First Build!

[Plainsman Steve.]

Hi Guys,

Just purchased my first savage rifle with the intent to build it.......So i figured i would join this forum and tap into all the knowledge that i'm sure is here.

Looking to build a nice hunting rifle that is accurate, On the lighter side in the weight department, And easy to carry since i walk a LOT when out hunting......I know, I'm asking for a lot out of one rifle.....I don't expect it to meet all of these goals perfectly, but would like to get as close as i can.

After much time studying ballistic charts and both reading reviews and talking to guys in person that have handled/loaded many different calibers, I have settled on 6.5x55 for my caliber to build the rifle in.

I scored a really nice(But still rough) stock that is actually fairly light and fits my hand really well(I have no idea who made it, Its not marked anywhere), So i should be set in the stock area.

My big question is what is generally considered to best route to go in the area of barrels........I've been looking at a Mcgowen barrel....Stainless, 24", 1X8 Twist, #4 Contour....Its listed at about 4lbs, so that shouldn't weigh the rifle down to badly.

What is your guys thoughts?

[rattfink]

Looks like a nice start. The 6.5x55 is a true pleasure to shoot!

[65impala]

Absolutely a good idea, I love my 6.5x55. After the tactical match today we were turning big rocks into little rocks from a long ways off...

:)

[jonbearman]

You will love the 6.5x55 as it is inherently accurate to begin with and easy to tune your loads if you handload.It seems to like bullets in 140 grain weight or lower if you want a varmint round.I run 120's for critters and I am sure it would kill a deer easily.The stock you have looks like a richards microfit or an older boyds.It should look real nice once you sand it out and stain or just put clear polyurethane on it.

[kingzero]

Contact Jim at Northland. He has a section in the sponsors area.

Here is a link to some Shilen barrels he ordered in a lighter contour. He might have a 6.5x55 in stock. Sometimes he is hard to get ahold of, but just keep calling. Super nice guy and he will get you squared away.

http://www.savageshooters.com/showth...se-from-Shilen