280AI

[greengt88]

I’ve decided to put together a 280AI.
I have a Brux SS #3 1:9 28” blank otw. Bob Green will be machining/assembling everything…
Stock is a Woox Wildman.

A few things I am debating are:

Rebarrel a Rem 700 25-06 I have…It shoots great, and it’s in a glass bedded B&C stock, so not sure if I should dismantle it. However, I do have another custom 25-06.

If I buy an Action, what should I go with?

Should I thread and add a Muzzle break?
Which Muzzle break?

What would a good scope for this setup be? Hunting is primary focus
Looking at the Leica Amplus 6 line of scopes

I’m probably forgetting something, please comment with any thoughts

 

[Austin Laughlin]

Every rifle I’ve got is built on a Rem 700 action, except a Ruger M77 tang safety, I got handed down to me from my dad. Bought brand new in the 80s. I’d also be interested in hearing about other actions for new builds, to see if I’m missing out on something.

I recently sold a 280 AI in a Rem700, Hogue stock. Sure was a sweet gun, shot really well.

I’ve been a Vortex guy for what seems like ever now, but recently I’ve been using Sig glass and I’m beyond in love with them. Clarity, tracking, eye relief, and they sure do take a beating. I hear Nightforce is the same way.

Sure hope you enjoy your new build, and share it when it’s complete!

 

[alf]

I’ve decided to put together a 280AI.
I have a Brux SS #3 1:9 28” blank otw. Bob Green will be machining/assembling everything…
Stock is a Woox Wildman.
A few things I am debating are:
Rebarrel a Rem 700 25-06 I have…It shoots great, and it’s in a glass bedded B&C stock, so not sure if I should dismantle it. However, I do have another custom 25-06.
If I buy an Action, what should I go with?
Should I thread and add a Muzzle break?
Which Muzzle break?
What would a good scope for this setup be? Hunting is primary focus
Looking at the Leica Amplus 6 line of scopes
I’m probably forgetting something, please comment with any thoughts

A lot depends on what & how you're hunting. Static position where weight is not a concern, or humping a mountain where every ounce counts.

So with the #3 Brux, there's no way I would drop that in a 3 1/2 lb stock topped with 2+ lbs of scope/rings/mounts. That's walking contradiction.

Tough to beat a Borden action. I'm a Bat fan, but but they're pricing me out of the game. A lot of good actions out there, so it really boils down to budget and features you're looking for.

I see no need for a brake in 280AI, especially if you build a 10lb+ gun that's on the menu. I hate brakes......

Scope choice is also dependent on usage, features, and budget. Do you need a large FOV, low light performance, illumination, target knobs, higher powers, weight, etc. My 3 main hunting guns all have 2-10x32 Nightforces on them. They and the mounts are as bullet proof as you can get, so there's never a concern when going on an out of state hunt. They discontinued the 32mm scopes, but the new 42's are great as well. My LR rigs had 5.5-22x50 NF on top for static positions where weight was not a concern.

 

[Dultimatpredator]

Sounds like an excuse to dump a lot of extra $$$ on something instead of shooting a rifle that already works. I’d tell you to save your money and shoot your existing rifle. Invest it into hunting land or a hunting trip. I have wasted alot of money over the decades dumping it into odd ball custom guns that all sit and collect dust now in my safe that I could have used for better investments. Trust me, nobody wants to spend an arm and a leg on a custom oddball caliber gun when you end up getting bored with it and decide you want something else.

 

[arlaunch]

About every Bi-Mart i have walked into, including various Sportsman's Warehouse locations seem to have 280AI brass in stock. Hard to argue with those facts. What an awesome round.

High priced brass!!!!

 

[greengt88]

A lot depends on what & how you're hunting. Static position where weight is not a concern, or humping a mountain where every ounce counts.

So with the #3 Brux, there's no way I would drop that in a 3 1/2 lb stock topped with 2+ lbs of scope/rings/mounts. That's walking contradiction.

Tough to beat a Borden action. I'm a Bat fan, but but they're pricing me out of the game. A lot of good actions out there, so it really boils down to budget and features you're looking for.

I see no need for a brake in 280AI, especially if you build a 10lb+ gun that's on the menu. I hate brakes......

Scope choice is also dependent on usage, features, and budget. Do you need a large FOV, low light performance, illumination, target knobs, higher powers, weight, etc. My 3 main hunting guns all have 2-10x32 Nightforces on them. They and the mounts are as bullet proof as you can get, so there's never a concern when going on an out of state hunt. They discontinued the 32mm scopes, but the new 42's are great as well. My LR rigs had 5.5-22x50 NF on top for static positions where weight was not a concern.

No plans to walk with this rifle, I have several others for that…

Looking at BAT Igniter and Stiller Predator for actions, I know the Bat is probably much better, but unsure if it will work with the Woox. The Predator will, and has a proprietary rail w/ pins that I do like a lot. My smith is also familiar with them and suggested it specifically. I‘lol give Bat a call and see about compatibility with the Woox.

I’m good with no muzzle break, I didn’t really want one, but see a lot of custom build guys using them.

looked for a NF SHV #C611, but can’t seem to find any in stock atm.
I appreciate the input

 

[greengt88]

Project update:

The Woox was not to my liking and is going back for a refund, so back to square one on the stock. Need suggestions on another stock.
I have 3 Bell &Carlsons on other rifles that I like, but would like to try something different.

I found a great deal on a Remington 700 action, so will be using that as far as the action.

Scope I’m leaning towards Leupold VX5HD 3-15x44 Firedot, or Zeiss V4 4-16x44 #60

 

[Austin Laughlin]

Project update:

The Woox was not to my liking and is going back for a refund, so back to square one on the stock. Need suggestions on another stock.
I have 3 Bell &Carlsons on other rifles that I like, but would like to try something different.

I found a great deal on a Remington 700 action, so will be using that as far as the action.

Scope I’m leaning towards Leupold VX5HD 3-15x44 Firedot, or Zeiss V4 4-16x44 #60

Have you ever tried Hogue? I love their stocks.

And glass, I got a new Nightforce and I’m sure liking it. Every one I’ve ever been around has been crazy tough. The type of “truck gun” that’s always in the truck and may get bounced around some, they seem to always hold zero.

 

[greengt88]

Have you ever tried Hogue? I love their stocks.

And glass, I got a new Nightforce and I’m sure liking it. Every one I’ve ever been around has been crazy tough. The type of “truck gun” that’s always in the truck and may get bounced around some, they seem to always hold zero.

I do like the feel of the Hogue stocks, but was leaning towards the Grayboe Terrain.

I’ve read about so many tracking issues with the Leupolds, I have 8 or 9 of them and have never had a problem. I have a lot of Meopta as well as an older Zeiss Conquest MC. I’ve been pleased with all of them.

I’d like to give Nightforce a try. I just looked through a used ATACR a few days ago at my shop. It was very nice but way out of my price range.

 

[Austin Laughlin]

I do like the feel of the Hogue stocks, but was leaning towards the Grayboe Terrain.

I’ve read about so many tracking issues with the Leupolds, I have 8 or 9 of them and have never had a problem. I have a lot of Meopta as well as an older Zeiss Conquest MC. I’ve been pleased with all of them.

I’d like to give Nightforce a try. I just looked through a used ATACR a few days ago at my shop. It was very nice but way out of my price range.

I’ve been thoroughly impressed with all the Nightforces I’ve been around and now this one. It’s still early but I’m enjoying it so far.

I’ve never been around any “custom” stocks other than Hogue and a couple of Boyd’s. The Boyd’s were alright too, just not really my thing. I sure do love the Hogues though, absolutely love them.

Sounds like you’re gonna have a great setup either way! Hope you post it when finished!

 

[William Suter]

I handled a new Remington Alpha the other day and have to say the action was nice, very nice. About as smooth as any action I've worked the bolt on. Lots of added features that a 700 action doesn't have to. I don't know if a person could buy just an action but if he could it might be a nice option. Having to buy a rifle just for the action would be a little pricey. On a side note, the stock wasn't to bad either.

 

[greengt88]

I handled a new Remington Alpha the other day and have to say the action was nice, very nice. About as smooth as any action I've worked the bolt on. Lots of added features that a 700 action doesn't have to. I don't know if a person could buy just an action but if he could it might be a nice option. Having to buy a rifle just for the action would be a little pricey. On a side note, the stock wasn't to bad either.

I did end up buying a new 700 ADL for the action, was cheaper to do that than buy just an action, which I did find a few…so I’ll have some left over parts to resell…I did look at the Alpha, and it was intriguing. But wasn’t able to find just the action.

I have 2 other custom 700’s, both done by same gunsmith, both are excellent…I had wanted to do something alittle different with this build. The more I research and look in to parts, I think I should just stick with what works and keep it on the simpler side.

 

[alf]

The Woox was not to my liking and is going back for a refund, so back to square one on the stock. Need suggestions on another stock.
I have 3 Bell &Carlsons on other rifles that I like, but would like to try something different.

I found a great deal on a Remington 700 action, so will be using that as far as the action.

Scope I’m leaning towards Leupold VX5HD 3-15x44 Firedot, or Zeiss V4 4-16x44 #60

With your barrel contour, I wouldn't want to go over 32 ounces on a stock.

You need to narrow down what you're wanting in a stock, as in forend width, grip angles, cheek piece, etc.

I'm a big fan of McMillan's Classic stock, great for a shooting, packing, & carrying stock. With Edge fill, it'll be around 28 ozs.

McMillan Classic:

One of my favorite coyote rifles has a Manners EH-3, another great pattern for a hunting stock.

Nothing Hogue should be on a custom gun.......

I've had 3-4 of the Leupold VX-5 3-15x44 with the Firedot. Great scope that checks all the boxes, & only weighs 20 ozs.

 

[alf]

Other good candidates here in stock:

McMillan - Hunter's Edge Sporter - Remington 700 Long Action - Tan w/Black Speck *BLOWOUT*

Enhance your Remington 700 Long Action with the McMillan Hunter's Edge Sporter Stock. Combining lightweight design with rugged durability, this stock is perfect for hunters seeking accuracy and reliability.

redhawkrifles.com

McMillan - Game Scout- Remington 700 Long Action

Upgrade your Remington 700 Long Action with the McMillan Game Scout Stock. This stock features an adjustable cheek rest and ergonomic design, providing comfort and precision for serious hunters.

redhawkrifles.com

I have not tried any of these, but they have a good reputation:

P² Pure Precision - Altitude Carbon Fiber Stock - Remington 700

The Altitude Series stock is designed for the hunter or shooter that wants to save weight on their rifle without sacrificing strength, durability and still have a full figured stock. Red Hawk Rifles stocks a full inventory of Mesa Precision products with same shipping at the best prices.

redhawkrifles.com

Grayboe - Outlander Fiberglass Stock - Remington 700

The Outlander is Grayboe's traditional hunting stock for Remington 700 short action. With a straight, ambidextrous, comb and traditional swooped back pistol grip, it feels like an old friend. The Outlander is light and sleek for easy and efficient field carry.

redhawkrifles.com

 

[Austin Laughlin]

With your barrel contour, I wouldn't want to go over 32 ounces on a stock.

You need to narrow down what you're wanting in a stock, as in forend width, grip angles, cheek piece, etc.

I'm a big fan of McMillan's Classic stock, great for a shooting, packing, & carrying stock. With Edge fill, it'll be around 28 ozs.

McMillan Classic:

One of my favorite coyote rifles has a Manners EH-3, another great pattern for a hunting stock.

Nothing Hogue should be on a custom gun.......

I've had 3-4 of the Leupold VX-5 3-15x44 with the Firedot. Great scope that checks all the boxes, & only weighs 20 ozs.

Why should Hogue not be on a custom gun?

 

[alf]

Why should Hogue not be on a custom gun?

OK, why would you consider putting a 100 dollar stock on a custom gun?

 

[Austin Laughlin]

OK, why would you consider putting a 100 dollar stock on a custom gun?

I was legitimately, asking.

I’ve got Hogue stocks on quite a few guns. Maybe they’re not “custom”. But aftermarket barrel, trigger, action, bolt, etc. never had a problem.

I don’t own a BR style gun, these are all rifles I hunt with. I’ve found what fits, what I like to use, and what works well for me. I don’t seem to care if it’s a $50 or a $450 stock, if it built a rifle and it fits what I need, then I’ll use it. Guess that’s just me.

 

[alf]

I was legitimately, asking.

I’ve got Hogue stocks on quite a few guns. Maybe they’re not “custom”. But aftermarket barrel, trigger, action, bolt, etc. never had a problem.

I don’t own a BR style gun, these are all rifles I hunt with. I’ve found what fits, what I like to use, and what works well for me. I don’t seem to care if it’s a $50 or a $450 stock, if it built a rifle and it fits what I need, then I’ll use it. Guess that’s just me.

I currently have three Hogue stocks, I like them for what they are, but none are on any of my "customs".

You asked for suggestions on stocks.......I answered.......with my experiences & opinions.....

 

[Austin Laughlin]

I currently have three Hogue stocks, I like them for what they are, but none are on any of my "customs".

You asked for suggestions on stocks.......I answered.......with my experiences & opinions.....

Well I wasn’t at all trying to be argumentative. It was a genuine question. I guess my guns probably aren’t “custom” either. But all the ones I’ve built have a hogue on them. Sure seemed to work for me…

I mean I understand what you’re saying, it’s like putting a $3000 piece of glass on a Walmart 22lr. I get it. I guess I just didn’t see what was wrong with putting a Hogue on a built rifle if it works for you

 

[greengt88]

Other good candidates here in stock:

McMillan - Hunter's Edge Sporter - Remington 700 Long Action - Tan w/Black Speck *BLOWOUT*

Enhance your Remington 700 Long Action with the McMillan Hunter's Edge Sporter Stock. Combining lightweight design with rugged durability, this stock is perfect for hunters seeking accuracy and reliability.

redhawkrifles.com

McMillan - Game Scout- Remington 700 Long Action

Upgrade your Remington 700 Long Action with the McMillan Game Scout Stock. This stock features an adjustable cheek rest and ergonomic design, providing comfort and precision for serious hunters.

redhawkrifles.com

I have not tried any of these, but they have a good reputation:

P² Pure Precision - Altitude Carbon Fiber Stock - Remington 700

The Altitude Series stock is designed for the hunter or shooter that wants to save weight on their rifle without sacrificing strength, durability and still have a full figured stock. Red Hawk Rifles stocks a full inventory of Mesa Precision products with same shipping at the best prices.

redhawkrifles.com

Grayboe - Outlander Fiberglass Stock - Remington 700

The Outlander is Grayboe's traditional hunting stock for Remington 700 short action. With a straight, ambidextrous, comb and traditional swooped back pistol grip, it feels like an old friend. The Outlander is light and sleek for easy and efficient field carry.

redhawkrifles.com

This is very helpful! Def appreciated…I’m leaning toward a more vertical grip, as I don’t have anything like that as of now everything I have is very traditional style stocks. I guess I’m going for a more long range type rifle with this 280, but still want to be able to carry it.

I do like the McMillan Game Hunter, and the P2…my biggest concern is grip size…I have XL hands and most stocks my pinky goes under the grip, which is very annoying.

Another stock I was looking at is the B&C Long range hunter.