Questions about bolt gun weight.

[greg vess]

Over the years I have only owned maybe 6 or 7 bolt guns and a few of those were rimfire models. So weight on those really never was a noticable factor.. It wasn't untill I bought this Howa 6.5 PRC barreled action. It's a #6 taper 24 inch barrel, put in a Boyd's stock and slapped a 6-24× 56 scope on it. Then I noticed what a heavy bolt rifle was. On paper per manf. specifications it should weigh around 10 lbs. but reads 12 lbs. on a old set of spring load scales. I am thinking of buying a lighter weight bolt gun ( a Bergara 6.5 PRC if you are wondering ) so what's a decent weight for a hunting bolt gun before the scope? I don't like a really thin taper on the barrel and Bergara does have a #5 taper 24 inch barrel model that weighs right at 7.3 lbs.. I do have a scope that's just over a pound to put on it initially so I can save almost a pound and a half right there. That would put me right around 8 to 8 1/4 lbs. Just wondering if that's a common weight. I should have ask this question before I put the one I have together. Oh well you live and learn I reckon. It makes a nice range toy anyway. Input from you serious hunters is greatly appreciated. I won't be humping it over the hills the Wyoming or anything like that just for general info.

 

[GAgunLAWbooklet]

Yes, I think 8 pounds is a common weight for an unloaded but scoped hunting rifle without any sling attached.

 

[wildbill1973z28]

Over the years I have only owned maybe 6 or 7 bolt guns and a few of those were rimfire models. So weight on those really never was a noticable factor.. It wasn't untill I bought this Howa 6.5 PRC barreled action. It's a #6 taper 24 inch barrel, put in a Boyd's stock and slapped a 6-24× 56 scope on it. Then I noticed what a heavy bolt rifle was. On paper per manf. specifications it should weigh around 10 lbs. but reads 12 lbs. on a old set of spring load scales. I am thinking of buying a lighter weight bolt gun ( a Bergara 6.5 PRC if you are wondering ) so what's a decent weight for a hunting bolt gun before the scope? I don't like a really thin taper on the barrel and Bergara does have a #5 taper 24 inch barrel model that weighs right at 7.3 lbs.. I do have a scope that's just over a pound to put on it initially so I can save almost a pound and a half right there. That would put me right around 8 to 8 1/4 lbs. Just wondering if that's a common weight. I should have ask this question before I put the one I have together. Oh well you live and learn I reckon. It makes a nice range toy anyway. Input from you serious hunters is greatly appreciated. I won't be humping it over the hills the Wyoming or anything like that just for general info.

Barrett fieldcraft 4.7 pounds in 6.5 Creedmoor

 

[basstracker89]

Weight depends on factors. First factor is cartridge. You have a big African game cartridge, you better have a little weight to soak up recoil. In your case the eight lbs. is about right. You have a rifle that shoots well. And that's worth somethin too. Now if you're goin to do a lot of walking and carrying your weapon, lighter is certainly better. Even a pound difference after a day of carrying will make a noticeable difference in how you feel. If your goin to sit in a stand all day, might not matter too much. Also length of weapon makes a difference. Shorter weapon if carrying all day is easier to manage. But you have to find a good median. If you're shooting distances, a longer barrel can make a difference as well. So as you can see, lots to consider

 

[charlie hotel lima]

I understand your wanting to lighten up. Get it like you want it, hitting the target is what matters. These questions make me think of WWII weapons. No matter your height, weight or ability, you were handed an M1 Garand or a BAR or a Thompson or if lucky the M1 Carbine. You learned to shoot these because that was it. No modular crap or lighter means more ammo stuff. In the end, it all worked out pretty good. Don't leave out the 1911 in .45 acp, of all things. Have fun with your project, it'll work out pretty good too.

 

[GFB]

I am thinking of buying a lighter weight bolt gun ( a Bergara 6.5 PRC if you are wondering ) so what's a decent weight for a hunting bolt gun before the scope? I don't like a really thin taper on the barrel and Bergara does have a #5 taper 24 inch barrel model that weighs right at 7.3 lbs.. I do have a scope that's just over a pound to put on it initially so I can save almost a pound and a half right there. That would put me right around 8 to 8 1/4 lbs. Just wondering if that's a common weight.

Yes

 

[wolfmanrogers]

More weight is almost an advantage for the type of hunting I do. I'm at 13.4 pounds on my bolt action hunting rifle and I like it.

 

[Winterborne]

Change to an lighter weight stock.
Carbon fiber maybe...with a really good recoil/butt pad.

The cartridge may be the limiting factor for profile and barrel length.

I had a Tikka Super Lite with a carbon stock and fluted barrel.
Damn gun was like six pounds with the scope...but I was always afraid I was going to bend then barrel.

Sooo...Proof Research carbon barrels and maybe an AGP stock would be what I would do now days.

 

[300_whisper]

16 pounds

 

[howl]

These are personal preference things. 8# is ordinary. 12# is not too heavy if you like it. Under 7# is getting kind of light for shooting at distance. Everyone who found what suits them best had to try quite a few and put them to the test in the field.

If you want to see the optimal form for a general purpose GA deer rifle, go pick up a scoped Marlin 336 or Remington Model Seven with no more than a 20" barrel. They'll balance well enough to handle quickly and have enough weight out front for a steady enough shot up close. These are not the only ones; just prime examples.

Notes:
You'll shoot a heavier rig better up until it becomes unwieldy. 10# isn't too much for most people. You may shoot a long action better than a short or vice versa. The only reason to step away from an 8# rig is if you're going to walk a mile while also toting a climbing stand.
The average kill distance is around 150 yards. 2" groups do that just fine.
Scopes are more important than rifles. There aren't many good scopes made that weigh less than 20oz. Less means they skimped on glass or turrets. You are better off spending your dollars on top shelf glass, and mount, than worrying about the rifle. Most any rifle will do just fine. Start your weight budget with scope and mount. Then fit something under it. https://www.eurooptic.com/schmidt-b...96-2-be-d7-posicon-covered-turret-753-911-72d is the epitome of a top shelf GA deer riflescope.
If you go with any cartridge or ammo that is uncommon, expensive or you have to load yourself, you won't shoot the rifle as much as you should. Get something you can easily afford as much of as you like so you'll shoot more.