Thread: Browning Maral SF Nordic 308 review

STATS
Straight Pull w/return forward spring
Calibre 308
Twist 1:12
Barrel 17.5: (22" original)
Suppressor DPT
Scope Vortex 1-6 BDC illum

Pros

Aircraft Travel fits in a 100cm Shotgun hard case which fits inside my travel bag. (one checked luggage >23kg) Bolt cannot be removed so no need for 2nd checked in bag for the Bolt. I just use a trigger lock and a cable lock through the receiver then lock the hardcase.
I've traveled with the rifle in my personal bag then a dog (gsp) in a crate as 2nd checked bag.

Vines no issues with the bolt being pulled open like with Bolt guns in the thick stuff. The spring pulls/holds the bolt closed.
Short enough to sit below the top of your head when carrying on your back even with Suppressor fitted.

Accuracy??? it's as accurate as the scope. the vortex has a thick cross hair so past 300 so yo have to find the animal In the clear glass the lay the upsidedown Xmas tree over the animal.
Subjectivlely 1moa @100m which is what I have shot with this this scope and rifle... could be better with a better optic.
Great for the Bush and clearings no more than 300m away.

Safety Catch is bold and easy to use. It's plain obvious when the safety is on/off

Quiet enough for the dog


Cons

May seem heavy if you're used to a Tikka however it is well balanced with the sup.
Expensive


Let me know your thoughts especially if you're considering one. I wanted one rifle to rule them all for most Bush and farm blocks where multiple deer/pigs may be present. Compact and easy to travel with (hence short barrel with non removable bolt) that I can shoot away with short notice and bowl a couple for the freezer.

This purchase originally started when I saw the Bergara 16.5inch single shot in 308... obviously things spiraled.

Questions?

Mate has one in 308. Accuracy very disappointing. Have read reviews that also state this. Mate's one has been back to vendor. To give them their dues they didn't just try to fob him off and they range tested it with a lot of different ammo and sent it back to him with one type of ammo recommended. It's no target rifle that's for sure but given it's best use, European driven game, it's a great rifle none the less.

Mate has since bought a straight pull Beretta and is very happy. Accuracy is excellent.

Beretta differs to the Browning in that the bolt doesn't spring closed from the open position.

Nice rifle. So cool seeing someone think outside the square behind the old Tikka bolt action. Wanting to protect my sako bolt action, for bush hunting, I too started with the Begara single shot, but it quickly spiralled when I actually held "or tried to" one in store. Just way too heavy. Went the Browning BLR lightweight takedown in lever action (has 5 magazine, spitzer). Super fun these smaller rifles.

Interesting I've not noticed any accuracy issues though as stated I've only shot it out to 200m.

I also considered the BLR cut down but by then I had already made up my mind

I am considering one of these for high volume shooting(goats).I like the beretta and its ability to change cal, but it only has a 5rnd mag.

Originally Posted by BrownDog264

I am considering one of these for high volume shooting(goats).I like the beretta and its ability to change cal, but it only has a 5rnd mag.

Hit me up if you want a crack with the Utas. It's been growing on me, might be a bit Army barmy for some though.

Originally Posted by BrownDog264

I am considering one of these for high volume shooting(goats).I like the beretta and its ability to change cal, but it only has a 5rnd mag.

Get a Ruger American or whatever they are called now. I sold mine to shooter, then brought it back when he got that utas. 10 round p mag is the answer.

I've had three Browning 308's, a modern model BAR ( what a great gun ) BLR & my wooden Maral, all were awesome & shot the same load great

I did for NZGH a few years back, pic's were a bit naff but it was a "great down to earth & honest" magazine, real pity that all the anti shit killed what was the best thing on the shelves

It's about as ugly as the chick you pulled at 3am and never told your mates about.

I have two of these - One of the select Timber models and one of the Nordic models.

I like them a lot.

The 10rd Shark Finn Mag is a bit silly however.

Your rifle setup displays a thoughtful blend of compactness, safety, and versatility, catering to diverse hunting environments with ease. Its straight-pull action and suppressor compatibility enhance handling and stealth in thick brush, while its capability for both bush and clearings within 300m ensures adaptability for various game. While its 1 MOA accuracy is commendable, optimizing the Vortex scope with a thinner reticle for precise holdovers beyond 300m could unlock its full potential, considering options like FFP scopes with MOA or MIL reticles for versatile dialing at different ranges. However, mindful of carrying comfort on longer treks, balancing weight considerations is essential, particularly with the suppressor attachment.

Considering the potential for further enhancement, upgrading the scope to match your rifle's capabilities could be the logical next step. Optics such as the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6x24 FFP or Strike Eagle 5-25x50 FFP offer compelling features within your budget, enhancing long-range performance and accuracy. Additionally, while your current setup meets specific needs admirably, future considerations might include exploring alternatives like the Ruger American Ranch in 308, offering a similar compact profile with a detachable magazine for added convenience and versatility in hunting scenarios.

Originally Posted by marquesgriffin

Your rifle setup displays a thoughtful blend of compactness, safety, and versatility, catering to diverse hunting environments with ease. Its straight-pull action and suppressor compatibility enhance handling and stealth in thick brush, while its capability for both bush and clearings within 300m ensures adaptability for various game. While its 1 MOA accuracy is commendable, optimizing the Vortex scope with a thinner reticle for precise holdovers beyond 300m could unlock its full potential, considering options like FFP scopes with MOA or MIL reticles for versatile dialing at different ranges. However, mindful of carrying comfort on longer treks, balancing weight considerations is essential, particularly with the suppressor attachment.

Considering the potential for further enhancement, upgrading the scope to match your rifle's capabilities could be the logical next step. Optics such as the Vortex Viper PST Gen II 1-6x24 FFP or Strike Eagle 5-25x50 FFP offer compelling features within your budget, enhancing long-range performance and accuracy. Additionally, while your current setup meets specific needs admirably, future considerations might include exploring alternatives like the Ruger American Ranch in 308, offering a similar compact profile with a detachable magazine for added convenience and versatility in hunting scenarios.

ChatGPT?

My thoughts too.
No person would write like that and it does have a certain verbose idea-recycling style. Minor nonsensical point, suggesting a 1-6x and 5-25x in the same breath.
However there could be a core of human input there.
It needs a “concise mode” so people dont get bored / annoyed reading it.

Look at biography suggest ESOL. Now “bannd”.