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Setting up a precision rifle does not require a massive investment. With the growth and popularity of long range shooting, there are currently more options than ever before. No longer do you need to have a custom rifle built from scratch. Whether repurposing older rifles or purchasing turn-key production rifles, you can be putting hits on target at distance in no time.
What Are Your Rifle & Upgrade Options?
The most budget friendly option is to repurpose a rifle that you already have. Going from a factory hunting rifle stock to a precision stock is often a simple installation process. If you're using a traditional rifle that is built on a one-piece chassis system, you can also upgrade the entire chassis. This process is a bit more involved but offers a lot of benefits, such as increased rigidity and adjustability. Newer chassis systems also usually have attachment points for bipods or other accessories, further increasing your accuracy at range.
Switching over from a blind box rifle magazine to a detachable AICS magazine is one of the best reasons to upgrade an older hunting rifle. While there isn't always a compatible fit for every rifle, there are tons of options for Remington 700, Savage Model 10, Ruger American, and Tikka T3x rifles. Choosing between a stock or a chassis is mostly shooter preference, although some stocks need to be bedded and chassis ergonomics closely resemble AR ergonomics. This means that if you're already comfortable shooting AR-platform rifles, you may prefer a full chassis upgrade, as it is often more comfortable.
On the other side of the spectrum, you can purchase a ready-to-go precision rifle from big name manufacturers. The Ruger Precision Rifle brought long range precision in at a new, lower price point packed that is packed with features to match. Others like Howa, Savage, and Bergara are also popular options for those looking to acquire their first precision rifle.
The perfect Goldilocks option in my opinion is buying a barreled action (barrel and action, no stock), like Howa offers, and then selecting your stock/chassis of choice. MDT, AB Arms, XLR Industries, and many more offer both basic and premium chassis systems that often use the same furniture as AR15s. This allows you to get the setup you want without wasting money on parts that you plan to immediately remove.
What Kind of Optic Should You Choose?
Once you have the rifle setup, the next step is to select a rifle scope. Adjustment range is often more important than magnification, so if you plan to shoot regularly at 600 yards or greater, then you should look at a base or mount that offers additional MOA and an optic with side focus. Another good guideline to keep in mind is 1x per 100 yards, so you don't feel pressured to buy a high magnification optic.
Whether you are shooting tight groups at 100 yards or running a PRS match, setting up a precision rifle can be very beneficial and affordable.
