Forum shooting challenge: The under 500 500

[gadgetman]

I think the point being made re the "mostly hand made by craftsman" comment is that most of the rifles that will be real contenders in this event will be old guns, that date back to a time where each rifle had a much higher degree of manual machining, hand fitting, and workmanship put into it. As such many of these now cheap, old rifles have a much higher degree of craftsmanship and quality then would be found on a comparably priced new-ish gun.
For say, $400, you can either buy a high quality old gun, or a low quality new gun. IMO, the high quality old gun has much more potential.

An early 1900s $400 sporterised swedish mauser is going to be head and shoulders above a more modern, low end $400 rifle that's a couple years old (eg used remington 770 or any other entry level rifle that's a few years old). The swede will have been made by craftsman, with parts individually fitted, all very high quality solid steel. Often each part is serialised to the rifle and stamped with an acceptance mark after its been (manually) fitted by said craftsman. Often multiple generations of craftsmen would continue the work of their fathers before them - they took pride in their work and it was more than a transitional job & that can be seen in the quality and finish of old rifles.
Whereas a Remington 770 or other entry level "modern" rifle (basically anything "modern" you can buy for $400) is thrown together with any manor of modern cost cutting. Flimsy plastic stocks, pressed in barrels, plastic parts everywhere possible, the cheapest labor you can find. (Iv used a $400 value for the rifle to allow some money for a cheap scope)

Personally im expecting to see an early 1900s rifle, probably a swede in 6.5x55 take the prize.

Though there are also some pretty good budget rifles around that could do it too. The likes of the Savage Axis are known for being quite basic but nonetheless showing the typical accuracy of its more expensive stable mates. A couple of years ago you would also have been able to pick up the likes of a Howa 1500 or Marlin M?7 for around $400 if you were patient. I think this challenge may have an impact in the market in this price bracket now.

I'm still keen to have a crack at this, though with my skill level I'd never be a contender to win.