"NEW" Build - need your input

[BlackOpsArms]

Hello,

I'm interested in building a bolt action rifle. Used for bench shooting only from 100 out to 1,000 yards. I do NOT reload or care to at this point. I already have all the "components" in mind for the build, what I need is your help on choosing a CALIBER based on this info. I hope I gave you enough info to help me decide.

I sold my last rifle that was 6.5 Creedmoor which was a really nice rifle, but got expensive to shoot, since I'm just shooting paper and some metal targets. I already have a really nice .223 bolt action, but want something with a little more power to shoot at 500+ yards, more than the .223. But I also want to keep the cost of ammo down also.

So what are my choices and why? Thanks for the input gentleman

[TomReloaded]

You can sometimes get lucky and find cheap 308 ammo, but really it looks like 6.5CM is about as budget friendly as you're going to find for a long range cartridge. I'm seeing them online for as low as $0.55 per round for brass.

For 1000 yards, a dollar a shot is pretty good.

[Preston-CLB]

It would be really helpful if you could list the components you already have. That way, the experts here (I am not one) will be better able to give you guidance.
--P

[sigstroker]

If the cost of the ammo is bothering you the most, shop for your ammo first and then decide if the cartridge is adequate. My guess is you won't save much money on cartridges bigger than .223.

[JackEllis]

I find myself getting bored shooting paper so I change things up. I've got some small (2-1/2") steel targets for my .22 and small gongs (3-4") for centerfire calibers. If I really want a challenge (for me anyway) I set up spent shotgun hulls at 50 yards and go at them with a .22, or pick up leftover clay birds and set them up at 100 yards with the .22. Since I'm always practicing for hunting season, I use shooting sticks or the tripod I take in the field with me. Or I sit on the ground and shoot with my elbows on my knees. I'm also starting to attempt off-hand shooting.

Rarely shoot from a bench other than for load development since they're kinda hard to come by in the field while hunting.

If money is an object, and it seems like it is, consider ways to make the shooting at shorter distances more challenging and use the rifle(s) you have.

[BlackOpsArms]

THANKS for input so far, here's some updated info. I was looking for a flat shooting small caliber for the new rifle. (smaller than 6.5 creed or .308) The components aren't cheap, not afraid to spend $$ on them, but just wondering if I can get a smaller caliber round than 6.5 creed and .308 to do what I'm looking to do - if it's possible.

I know the rifle is not a "cheap" build and your wondering why am I concerned about ammo. I get it but just looking at smaller caliber options. Am I wrong to think that 6.5 Creedmoor is just overkill for paper targets?

TomReloaded - ok, I see your point

Preston-CLB - here's the main components, KRG Whiskey 3 comp chassis, Defiance action, Creiger or Bartlein barrel, ARC rings, Leupold Mk5 5-25

Sigstroker - I get your point, but I just want experience from shooters about specific calibers....I'm asking everyone to get their point of view and experience.

JackEllis - great points, just looking to build another rifle with more power than .223 if possible with keeping ammo cost down

[longrange1]

Chassis and scope are not the best choice for bench rest.

[BlackOpsArms]

Chassis and scope are not the best choice for bench rest.

I appreciate your input, Im SET on the KRG chassis (I already have the chassis and love it)

I'm curious what you suggest for replacement chassis and scope and why.

[LindenBruce]

Have you looked at 6.5mm PRC? B.

[longrange1]

Doesn’t matter your set....but neither of them are designed for bench rest and neither will get you anywhere near bench rest expectations.

[longrange1]

Have you looked at 6.5mm PRC? B.

A straight.284 would be a better choice as would a 6.5-284

[FishnHunt]

1000 yards? the cheapest will be 6.5CM if you don’t reload.
Premium heavy 223 might be more than basic creed.

[BlackOpsArms]

Doesn’t matter your set....but neither of them are designed for bench rest and neither will get you anywhere near bench rest expectations.

ok, I appreciate your input. I've shot a Whiskey 3 comp chassis on bench and prone and was comfortable with it. I'm also not trying to compete. What about scope?

[tanks]

If you want to shoot out to 1,000 yards and are worried about cost of ammo and do NOT reload, you are in for a disappointment.

[jimmykan]

THANKS for input so far, here's some updated info. I was looking for a flat shooting small caliber for the new rifle. (smaller than 6.5 creed or .308) The components aren't cheap, not afraid to spend $$ on them, but just wondering if I can get a smaller caliber round than 6.5 creed and .308 to do what I'm looking to do - if it's possible.

I know the rifle is not a "cheap" build and your wondering why am I concerned about ammo. I get it but just looking at smaller caliber options. Am I wrong to think that 6.5 Creedmoor is just overkill for paper targets?

TomReloaded - ok, I see your point

Preston-CLB - here's the main components, KRG Whiskey 3 comp chassis, Defiance action, Creiger or Bartlein barrel, ARC rings, Leupold Mk5 5-25

Sigstroker - I get your point, but I just want experience from shooters about specific calibers....I'm asking everyone to get their point of view and experience.

JackEllis - great points, just looking to build another rifle with more power than .223 if possible with keeping ammo cost down

So you already have some Krieger and Bartlein barrel blanks?

What caliber/contour/length/twist are they?