Best Project Gun

Z

zoldaman

Inactive
Although it would be much cheaper and easier to just go out and buy a good rifle, I'm interested in putting together a bolt gun as a learning experience and so that I don't screw up any of the good ones in my current collection. It seems, after a good bit of research, that the classic way to do this is it start with a Mauser action. But, with surplus Mausers no longer being a $35 rifle, would you be better off to start with a used Rem 700 or Savage action and then have all of the advantages of modern technology in your finished product? While some of these advantages just seem to be around to reduce production costs, there are tangible benefits such as much faster lock time, etc. Thoughts?

Zold
 
A Rem 700 is a great project rifle. Lots of aftermarket parts for them, and they are great shooters. I am not a Savage fan, but they do shoot well.

I am currently on the prowl for an action to use in my next project gun. Mausers are nice and classic, but harder to come by than in the past. If you are looking for a claw extractor rifle, a Ruger might be a choice. `And of course, there are lots of the old Mark X Mausers around if you look.
 
A pawn shop Remington 700 for $350-400 is an excellent basis for a do-it-yourself custom rifle. Barrels, stocks, triggers, scope mounts, bolt handles and detachable magazines are all available in the aftermarket.
 
+1 on the Remington 700.
However, :D since Savage came out with the Accutrigger, and their headspace system allows for easy barrel swapping by the owner, no gunsmith required, I've been thinking about using a Savage for a build. Have never owned a Savage.:D That ought to add some confusion.

Martyn
 
project

Sir:
I have a Savage that I traded for in 300 Win. Mag. I ordered an Adams and Bennet 416 Taylor bbl. (458 Win Mag necked to .416). It was easy to change and the detachable magazine works perfectly feeding the .416 Taylor rounds!
It is very controlable and I've shot several 500# groundhogs with it here in Ohio.:)
Harry B.
 
Zoldaman, I would advise you to stick with the Mauser for a learning experience. Find a donor rifle in a pawn shop or on Gunbroker or AuctionArms, or get an FFL holder to order you an action from Sarco or a 24/47 from Century or SOG.

Clemson
 
Zoldaman: I take it you have a lathe, good drill press or mill ,barrel vise, and so on to do such a project. A mauser is much more involved than a Remington would be. There is nothing more fun than building a project gun and have it shoot like a house a fire! On the same hand there is a lot that can go wrong, so most of all be safe and good luck with it!
P.S. Welcome
 
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