Thread: First rifle

I just figure if I am going to the range to sight it in, I am going to use a whole packet anyway (Not much point going to the effort of traveling to the range, then only firing a few shots....) so I use that time to get familiar / comfortable shooting the rifle and run through the break in at the same time (and using the same shots) for sighting in.

And as @7x64 stated, quite correctly, get some decent cleaning gear and learn to use it properly.

As for the old debate that run in makes the barrel last longer, well if you have he budget to wear out a barrel (ammunition costs) then a replacement rifle is probably well with in budget and much more fun.....

It takes quite a few 5 shot groups to assess a rifle's precision capability.

Originally Posted by Bagheera

It takes quite a few 5 shot groups to assess a rifle's precision capability.

Good thing old mate just bought a hunting rifle then, so he doesn't have to listen to this^

What I have done is very carefully clean a new rifle, using a fine, mildly abrasive paste followed by clean patches - Before firing the first shot. I want to make sure there is nothing left from factory proofing/testing (if done) or any machining marks as has been mentioned by previous posters. This makes future cleaning easier right from the start.

Originally Posted by 7x64

I agree, it won’t hurt, if you’re using a bore guide and a good quality one piece rod and appropriate jags etc. if, like most newbies, you’re got a $40 hoppes plastic box special, then good chance you’ll do more harm than good. More hunting barrels are buggered by rough cleaning than you’d think!

Goggle Gale Macmillan and barrel break in. The late Mr Macmillan knew a thing or two...

Mmm mine was more than 50 bucks but on sale for 30.... sort of.
Still a meccano set rod though.

Tikka t3x.......Heard they have a smooth bolt, Can shoot 1/2" MOA @ 100y (I am buying one at the end of the year). Also, they don't need breaking in......1-3 shot and its good to go. Also, heard the T/C compass is a good gun. For a calibre 270 and 7mm08 are both flat flying cartrridges, a .308 has a bit more drop and curviture while flying at longer ranges. Put a DPT supressor to tame the recoil and noise. Depends what you want to do.......If it was me I would go for the 7mm08 or .270. If you want to go bush, buy a .308, cut the barrel and chuck a suppressor on it. But if you want to shoot medium ranges and bit of bush go for a 7mm08 or 270. I am buying 7mmRM, but like @Mooseman said...... it is about the enviroment you want to hunt in.