Thread: 6mm/204 ???

Hello Folks

I have a Howa model 1500 with a shot out barrel, Headcase (from the other forum) sold it to me as such and I don't think he was telling any porkies when he stated it had had 4000 plus rounds through it. It still shoots about 30-40 mm groups but thats not so interesting for a 223. It has the Howa 10 shot mag.

So I got to thinking after my first plan for a truck gun didn't quite meet my expectations . . . . how about rebarrel the Howa to 6mm-204 - it should be the ducks nuts for anything "rabbit to redskin".

I see a few guys have had a go with them, Kiwi Greg's one being a case in point.

The Mag on my Howa could be adapted to take quite long loads as its got a spacer in the back, I'd also have to modify the bolt stop.

I was sorta thinking a Criterion barrel, profiled to the same weight as the Howa Alpine, 1:8 twist, and 18" long.

Has anyone had any recent experience with this cartridge . . . recommendations for a smith with the reamer (although I understand you can use a 204 reamer with a 6mm pilot) and dies, looks like some people at least are using a modified Redfield "S" die.

Thoughts??