Is an ER shaw barrel worth waiting for?

NdIndy

NdIndy

New member
I'm planning a 358 winchester build on a savage action (others have asked why, the answer... because
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) I like quirky and semi-obsolete that on paper shouldn't be, combined with the big bear punch in a short action fits the bill.

I recently traded one of my savage 25-06 for a stevens .243 (pm member) just for the short action, things were well into the "on the horizon" stage.

Anyway I was planning on ordering a kit from midway, came with a 24" prefit barrel, gauges, wrench etc for $200. Backorder until the 28th of Oct. I figured I could order it and get it in time for my birthday this 6th of nov (gift from my little kiddos, you know how that works). So I log in today and see it's still on backorder but now UNTIL JUNE 2013! (note my irritation). I have another hunt planned dec 1st, this was going to be a possible for this season. I looked at some of the other ER kits and many on backorder but no-where near this long.

So I'm looking into other options. This is going to be as lightweight of a shoulder cannon as I can make it, intended for elk hikes where weight is important. I spent a few days hiking with my very nice 30-06 last week, a rifle I haven't carried in a few years, and remembered that thing turns into a heavy sob after a while.

Benchrest accurate top notch barrel isn't a concern, I don't plan on spending hours at the range with it and dislocating my shoulder every 10 minutes. Just a good hunting barrel. A few rounds down range every now and then and a shot or 2 during elk season if the gods smile on me.

Price is of course important, being obtainable before next century as well.

Suggestions?
 
I have three Shaw barrels. All of them .224 bore (.221 FB, .223 and .223 AI) so I suppose that I can't accurately comment on a .35 bore, but if they are anywhere near as good as the .22 cals are then I would be quite happy with one.

That does seem like a long wait to me too, but hopefully you will have your gun all ready for next season.

I really like the .358 Winchester myself. Almost .35 Whelen power in a smaller package. Sounds good to me.
 
I have no problems with my E R Shaw in 223.

I also have a Criterion barrel in 260AI. Criterion has a good amount of pre fit barrels for Savage actions. Mine shoots and cleans like a dream and it was only $300. Its a big 30" steel barrel so its not much of a hunting rifle unless you have a good wheel barrow. I really dont know what their lighter prifile selection is.

Jim Briggs of Northland Shooter Supply has always had a pile of prefit barrels. Shilen, Criterion and factory barrels for sure and maybe some more.

Oh, and Jim specializes in Savage factory and aftermarket stuff.

 
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is there no other barrel makers that offer the 358 savage barrel? Seems you could find another maker that is just as good or better if you need it next month.
 
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