So, my brother surprised me with a birthday/graduation gift of a $1250 gift card at Brownells. not the retailer I would have picked exactly but hey. I am not whining.
I am 99.9% certain that I want to finally scratch the short-action bolt rifle itch Ive had. Requirements:
- Good quality, good aftermarket
- 20" barrel if 308, up to 24" if 6.5
- Barrel must come threaded
- Best possible value (not looking to overpay or half ass it either). Ideally <$1250 but I will go over for the right gun
- Ideally price includes a reasonable stock I won't hate
- Takes AICS mags ideally
Unfortunately Brownell's selection is a little skimpy right now. Was hoping they had their howa barreled actions as a 20" 308 with a KRG chassis would definitely be the ticket. They sell the combo rifle but it is OOS and while backorderable, it seems like they discontinued that item so not sure its worth holding my breath.
Otherwise they have the B-14 HMR at $1200 which seems a bit overpriced. The SIG Cross is a little above my price point and heard mixed things re: quality. Open to any other thoughts. May just wait for those barreled Howa actions to get in stock...