Circumstances have come around for me to possibly buy a new bolt-action rifle. I have several blind magazine rigs, but have always liked the convenience of a detachable magazine. I know the Europeans produce them more commonly than we do.

Something fairly nice, but not in the stupid-rich realm. Something "the old man" can carry to the blind when, hopefully, one of the kids is driving him out there.

All-weather stock and barrel would be a plus.
Left-hand would be a plus, but not required (and is kind of a PITA for anyone else but a lefty).
Deer and maybe bigger caliber, factory rounds availability a big consideration. Old tried and true calibers are fine.

All guidance from the rifle nuts on here is appreciated!

My favorite one made here is the Cooper. I have one in 6.5-284 with wood stock that commonly shoots 5/8 inch groups at 200 yards with my reloads but they are not cheap.

Tikka would be my next pick and is more affordable,

If you can find an old Remington 788, I know they made it in left hand in 308 and 243, it would be a good pick. THey have wood stocks but if you want there are aftermarket stocks that fit them that are synthetic. I have never seen a 788 that was not A sub MOA shooter

Tikka in an MDT chassis. Shoots lights out....

My favorite design for detachable mags is the Browning A Bolt. I love the fact that they have a detachable magazine but it is clipped to a hinged floor plate. This greatly reduces the chances of losing a magazine while hiking around with the rifle slung. Even if the floor plate accidentally gets opened, the magazine should still be attached to the floor plate and not on the ground. The shorter bolt lift is very nice as well.

How's the balance on that?

The balance and weight are outstanding....especially when you consider how well it shoots long range from a bench but a great hunter as well. It’s designed for dual purpose 20” or shorter bbl.

Tikka T3x in 6.5 CM. The gun is light, accurate and with a good scope will shoot out to 500 yards. I like the detachable mags because I keep one loaded with deer ammo and one loaded for hogs.

Have you considered the Ruger Gunsite Scout Rifle in .308? There is a left-handed version being offered by another forum member for a very good price.

Only personally handled 2, a rem 700 BDL DM in 270 wind and a savage Model 14 Classic in 243(now 7mm08). I like them both.

I looked at a 788 (RH) this afternoon. Carbine, with a new Timney. Would be a cool truck gun, but the safety seemed hinky. I may go back and talk to him.

That Blaser is beautiful. If I go look at one, do I need to wear a tie?

All suggestions much appreciated and if anyone else has an idea, please post it.

I've been told if you own a Blazer it will make you feel like a better person

I cut my Bergara HMR in 6.5CM down to 16.25" and it's a pretty quick handling, accurate rifle.

Happy new year to me.



Rem. 788 carbine in the much maligned....243 (RH). Good handling in and out of vehicles and should be good for the grand kids - recoil pad and pretty heavy; should have next to no recoil. May dial it in out here in the next couple days.

Thanks kmon1 for the suggestion! The Gun Shop in Junction. 'Great guy.

788 are typically very very accurate little guns.

Besides Tikka, below are some magazine fed Euro rifles.


Mauser 18

https://www.mauser.com/en/mauser-18.html

Sauer 100

http://www.jpsauer-usa.com/sauer-100/

Steyr CL

https://www.steyr-arms.com/us/cl-ii-sx

I wish you as much pleasure with this new acquisition as I have had from my 4 788's and one 243 that looks just like your rifle, that my oldest nephew has been using for 27 years.

I need to go in that gun store more often. Nice score.

Nice find.

Dialed it in yesterday. Dang thing shoots. This is gonna be fun.