2 New Savage .308's Finally Range Ready

[Bill T]

I really like this Bushnell 3200 Elite Tactical. It's really bright and very clear. So much so I ordered another one for my Savage 12-F/TR. The only problem I had was the 6-48 tapped holes were full of crud, and no way I could get the screws for the bases in. I took it to a local gunsmith and he told me he had a heck of a time cleaning them out. He had to charge me for the tap he used because it really dulled it beyond further use. I wish Savage would use plug screws on the models they coat with whatever it is they use. I had no such issues with the screws on the 12-F/TR. They went right in. The Burris Signature Zee Rings are a pleasure to work with. They really hold nice and tight without having to lap. Another thing I've found is once you get the reticle adjusted nice and straight, it will stay put without moving. Just tighten away and you're done. The bases are Burris Extreme Tactical Steel. I won't get a chance to get out to the range until next week, but that is fine because by then I'll have the 12-F/TR scoped and range ready as well. I've got a half dozen handloads prepared. I'm anxious to see how they both print. For anyone who is interested Bruno's has the best price on these Bushnell's. Bill T.

http://www.brunoshooters.com/

[Bill T]

Here are some pictures of the Savage 12-F/TR scoped out and ready to go to the range. As you can see I went with the Bushnell 3200 Elite Tactical 5-15X on it as well. I really liked the clarity, quality, and price. The Burris Extreme Steel Tactical Bases show up as a almost gun metal grey color for some reason, but they are very similar to the rings in color and finish to the naked eye.

Kind of a crappy through the lens shot of the reticle. It almost looks segmented because it isn't straight and vertical in the photo, causing the pixel blocking you see. Time for a better camera.

Overall I'm pleased how they both mounted up. Just enough clearance for the front lens covers. Bill T.

[Bill T]

(CLICK ON THUMBNAILS TO ENLARGE)

The range session for both guns went well. I got out early and had the range all to myself. Wind was dead calm. The large "Number 2", (far upper right), was the worst target shot all day. The rest are pretty acceptable. All were fired from a Bald Eagle front and rear rest. The "Shoot-N-C" target was the 12-F/TR. Overall the 12-F/TR was a little more accurate, and I suspected it would be with the heavier contour 30" target barrel. Both guns show a preference for Nosler Ballistic Tips which kind of surprised me. I thought the Sierra Matchkings would do better. I don't "break in" barrels, both were shot as they came from the box. Overall it was a good first outing, and it looks like I'll be looking to Nosler, Varget, and Lapua as components of choice for both of these guns. I am going to try some Hornady A-Max bullets, as well as some Berger VLD's. But that's another session for yet another day. Hopefully with my work schedule settling down, I'll get more of a chance to enjoy them. Bill T.

[SharonAnne9x23]

you might give the new Sierra MK 155gr Palma bullet.

[edgerat]

I am suprised by those results, I expected the FT/R to blow the othern out of the water.....

[uscbigdawg]

or the 155 Bergers that (tend to) outshoot the Sierras.

Rich