How to Clean a Rifle: A Comprehensive Guide
6 Ways to Upgrade Your Hunting Rifle
How to Build a Modern Hunting Rifle
This article provides a detailed guide on constructing a modern hunting rifle. It begins by emphasizing the importance of cartridge selection based on the game hunted and the shooter's comfort. The piece then dives into component selection, discussing the significance of the action, barrel, and the vital role of a skilled gunsmith. It highlights the chassis/stock's foundational role, the critical nature of the trigger, and the pros and cons of suppressor and muzzle brake options. With a myriad of choices available, the article aids hunters in crafting a firearm tailored to their needs, ensuring an optimal blend of performance, comfort, and aesthetics.
View full article →11 Common Rifle Mistakes and How to Correct Them
In the firearms industry, Rifle mistakes are a pretty common occurrence. Human errors like sighting in a rifle, proper cleaning, or your choice of ammunition all have a major effect on how a rifle is going to perform. Mechanical mistakes like rifle malfunctions can really put you into a bind while you are at the range or in the backcountry. And the most important is safety mistakes can cause life-changing accidents that nobody wants to happen. No matter how big or small the mistake could be, we want to guide you through what to look for and how to avoid the 11 most common mistakes in our eyes.
View full article →Choosing the Right Scope Rings
Choosing the right scope ring can be critical for all rifle shooters. Selecting reliable and correctly manufactured riflescope rings to pair with your rifle scope is paramount for achieving optimal performance and saving you money and time! Continue reading for two industry secrets on money savings. This guide covers explicitly everything you need to know about scope mounts and scope rings, ensuring quality and confidence in your choice.
View full article →Why Firearm Fit is Essential
In this guide, we'll walk you through the importance of rifle fitment and how it affects your overall rifle shooting experience. Specifically, we'll discuss why is firearm fitment important for precision shooting and how to achieve a properly fitted gun.
View full article →Hornady 147 ELDM BC Variation
If you have been around precision rifle shooting in the last few years, you are most likely aware of the 147 ELDM. This bullet has helped the 6.5 Creedmoor and PRC explode in popularity. With an extraordinary .697 G1 BC, the bullet is a powerhouse for the 6.5 caliber cartridges.
How good is the 147 though? Recently Bryan Litz released claims that the 147 ELDM ballistic coefficients were varying. He claimed they saw a 2.3% standard deviation in the BC values through the Applied ballistics lab. Since I am currently running the 147 ELDM in my competition rifle, I had to put the numbers on paper to see if this would affect my shooting!
The supplied G7 BC for the 147 is .351. A 2.3% change in BC means the value would float between .351 and .342. When we put those numbers into the Hornady 4DOF calculator, the output gives us 15 inches of vertical deviation at 1000 yards due to BC. That is a significant variation when you do not consider shooter error, rifle error, and muzzle velocity variation!
Shooting at just 1000 yards would prove some data, but it would not take into account how well the rifle is shooting. To cut out as many variables as possible, I decided to shoot 15 shot groups at 100 yards, 500 yards, and 1000 yards.
At 100 yards, we can see how well the bullets are shooting with my particular load. At 500 yards, we could see some variation on a smaller scale. At 1000 yards, though, it should highlight any vertical dispersion from shot to shot. If the BCs vary by 2.3%, we should see an increase in the vertical spread MOA at each distance.
The Results
Vertical
100 YDS - .697 MOA Vertical
500 YDS - .401 MOA Vertical
1000 YDA - .811 MOA Vertical
Group Size
100 YDS - .73”
500 YDS - 2.1”
1000 YDS - 8.5”
30 shot SD - 5
30 shot ES - 12
With these results, the BC variation of these bullets is not a concern for me. Bryan Litz has tested far more bullets and far more lot numbers than I have, and his results are most likely derived from numerous years of data, so his sample size is far more extensive than mine. But so far this year, I have shot just shy of 3000 147 ELDMs in my PRS, NRL Hunter, and Hunting Rifle, and I will shoot around 6-7000 of them by the end of the year.
With confidence, I can say for all of the shooting I do, the BC variation is acceptable, and I am not missing targets due to any variation.
What's the best chassis for you?
What's the best chassis for your next rifle build?
Every week our sales team is asked "what is the best chassis for me?" That is a very complex question when you look at the different chassis systems we offer. Whether you are a hunter, competitor, recreational shooter, or anything in between, all of those applications are going to require a different overall rifle weight and rifle features to make sure you can perform at your best.
Every rifle chassis build starts with an action. This will dictate which chassis systems you have to choose from. If you don't want limitations and haven't purchased one yet, the Remington 700 inlets are offered for every XLR chassis. You can view the entire list here.
- Chassis systems for hunting.
- Chassis systems for competition.
- Chassis systems for pistols and SBR's.
If you're looking to build a chassis rifle for hunting.
Depending on your action, you have 2 to 4 options. Building a hunting chassis with a Remington 700 or Clone action gives you the choice of either Element 4.0 or ATOM chassis systems, where Tikka, Savage, Howa, Lonepeak and BAT Machine owners currently have the two Element 4.0 models to choose from.
Now that you we have the most important piece of the puzzle out of the way, let's talk weight differences.
Light vs ultralight chassis systems.
Price and weight, the only two differences between the aluminum and magnesium models.
Is the $200 difference for the magnesium chassis worth it? It's been said in the ultralight-backpacking world you can pay up to $100 to shave a single ounce. So, at 6-ounces of savings, we'd say it's a bargain.
If you are looking to build an ultralight chassis system, the magnesium models are going to be the best choice in either the Element (16 ounces) or ATOM (14.5 ounces). Want to save a few bucks and don't mind 6 extra ounces? Go for the aluminum chassis model! Although it does not include the cerakote and weight savings, you still maintain the same features as the Element 4.0 MG for a fraction of the price.
How much modularity do you need?
Both the Element and Atom chassis supply you with a very modular chassis system! When choosing between the two you have to look at the main differences; 5.5 inches of forend length and 1.5 oz. Bipod location on your hunting chassis is a major focus we look at between the chassis models. By attaching your bipod further out on the forend you gain stability and recoil control. If you plan on only shooting off a tripod at all times, then the Atom chassis might work out great for you.
So, what's the best chassis system for hunting?
With feedback from thousands customers we have found that the Element 4.0 MG is the gold standard for hunting rifle chassis systems. When this chassis block is paired with the carbon buttstock and carbon grip, the entire chassis only weighs 28 oz. Add the folding adapter and carbon bag rider to give you the best package on the mountain that still only weighs 34 oz! We recommend this chassis to anyone who is looking to build an ultra-light hunting rifle.
A close second.
With only 6 ounces of additional weight, the aluminum Element 4.0 chassis block is still not going to put any strain on the scale. Plus, this chassis block allows you to save a few more dollars to put toward ammo, or MLOK chassis accessories. Whether a shooter is wanting a lightweight hunting rifle, recreational rifle, or even just a lighter PRS rig, you will be able to achieve the desired weight with the element 4.0 aluminum.
With the carbon buttstock and carbon grip the entire chassis still only weighs 34 oz. But you can add the TR-2 buttstock, mercury rod, TR-2 weights, internal forend weights, and the MLOK side weights, and still get this chassis up over 8 lbs. The Element 4.0 is a truly diverse chassis that will keep you on target anywhere you go!
ATOM Chassis
For certain customers the ATOM chassis is the cream of the crop for an ultralight backcountry rifle. Hunters that plan on mainly shooting off a tripod will reap the benefits of the weight savings and shorter forend. This might be great for some shooters but the majority of our customers prefer the Element for the additional forend length. Whichever chassis you choose, you will be very pleased on your next hunt.
I'm looking for a dedicated competition chassis, what do you suggest?
The big dog! XLR's Envy Pro chassis was designed for PRS shooting. With feedback from the nation's top PRS shooters the Envy Pro has morphed into a powerhouse at the range.
Although you won't be getting this chassis down to the sub 3 lb range, when paired with the TR-2 buttstock and Ergo Grip the Envy pro only weighs 4 lbs 3 oz. With this chassis, you can enjoy the benefits of an enlarged mag well, stiffer forend, and the ability to add even more weight than the Element chassis.
Once all the weights from our competition kit are added the Envy Pro chassis, the weight exceeds 10 pounds. If weight is not a concern and you want the utmost stability, the Envy Pro is the chassis for you!
As mentioned above, Remington 700 and most Clone actions fit this chassis system along with others like Tikka T3 and T1, select Savage and Kelby Black Bear Short Actions. You can view the entire inlet list here or search your action here to find what chassis systems fit.
If you're looking to build a SBR or bolt action pistol.
Small but mighty, the ATOM is our latest chassis! This little guy still packs in all of the features that you need for a precision pistol, short-barreled rifle, or even just a lighter hunting rifle.
A clone of the Element chassis system, the ATOM's 5.5-inch shorter forend makes for a more compact rifle while cutting an additional 1.5 ounces of overall weight when compared to its predecessor. Add a folding stock adapter to this little chassis and you've got a compact rifle that will fit just about anywhere.
Still have questions about which chassis system is right for you?
Don't hesitate to call the shop and speak with a customer service specialist or email us at info@xlrindustries.com.
From the range to the backcountry and everything in between, we've got a precision chassis system to suit your needs and shooting discipline.
Building the best youth hunting rifle.
Building the best youth hunting rifle.
Quality kids hunting rifles are few and far between. Most of the time, they feature components that do not fit youth shooters properly. Although kids can overcome these fitment issues, it can result in bad habits being developed in their shooting fundamentals.
Chassis rifles are the best solution to these fitment issues. Depending on their age, kids can require a short length of pull, so our TR-2 is the perfect buttstock for the young ones. In the standard configuration, the TR-2 buttstock goes all the way down to a 12-inch length of pull. With the short buffer tube, you can run the buttstock down to a 10.5-inch length of pull. At 10.5", the buttstock is short enough to work for almost any kid that is old enough to shoot a big game rifle.
Length of pull for kids rifles.
The best part about the TR-2 is the length of pull can also be extended out for adults to shoot the rifle. So once your young ones grow up, the rifle will still fit them perfectly. We have all seen the kids rifle that sits in the back of the safe to collect dust, but that is no longer an issue.
Rifle weight for custom kids rifle.
The TR-2 is a little heavier than our carbon buttstock, but you can still build a lightweight rifle with its features. An Element 4.0 Magnesium, carbon grip, and TR-2 buttstock hits the scales at 41 oz! When you drop a Bergara or Tikka T3 barreled action into the chassis, you will have a light enough to carry but very shootable rifle.
Recoil pads for youth chassis rifles.
The TR-2 features a LimbSaver recoil pad. Not only is this pad thick and squishy, but it also features LimbSaver's Air Tech technology. "LimbSaver's AirTech line features atmospheric chambers that produce a substantial increase in performance through uniform energy dissipation, and it incorporates anti-muzzle jump technology for faster target re-acquisition. The recoil pad enables you to shoot longer without discomfort and bruising, while also helping to increase accuracy of follow-up shots and provide improved control for maximum stability."
Adjustable buttstock for kids rifles.
The TR-2 buttstock is an excellent all-around buttstock, but the adjustability shines when youth shooters need a rifle that fits them perfectly. Kids all around the country are already utilizing these buttstocks, and they will be through their adult years. Don't make your kids grow into their rifles, get one that fits from the start.
The Rise of the PRC Rifle Cartridge
New precision rifle cartridges always makes shooters scratch their heads, and the rise of the PRC rifle cartridge is no different. Is it worth buying a new rifle? What benefit does this new caliber bring to the table? Can I find ammo for the new cartridge? Is there going to be high-quality ammo? Will this caliber stick around? How will the PRC cartridge benefit competitive shooters, target shooters and hunters? These are all valid questions you should ask yourself before pulling the trigger on a new rifle.
Taking the hunting and shooting industry by storm.
In the last few years, we have witnessed the uproar in the PRC cartridges from Hornady. The 6.5 PRC and 300 PRC have proven to be outstanding cartridges for hunting and long-range shooting. The PRC cartridge offers excellent accuracy and boasts impressive power, making it well-suited for taking down a wide range of big-game animals. Furthermore, long-range hunting has been revolutionized with the introduction of precision rifle cartridges. With the recent release of the 7mm PRC, it is shaping up to be another market competitor. But what sets these apart from calibers that have been around for years?
Maximizing case capacity in PRC cartridges.
Each PRC caliber brings similar attributes to cartridges that have been around for years. 6.5 PRC vs 6.5 Saum, 300 PRC vs 300 Win Mag, and 7mm PRC vs 7mm Rem mag. Although the case designs are similar, Hornady has tailored the cartridges to favor the heavy-for-caliber bullets that have recently been introduced.
With the development of these new bullets, Hornady has been forced to design new cartridges that maximize case capacity without being too long to fit in magazines.
"Couldn't they make 300 win mag ammo with bigger bullets?"
This was a question on Rokslide the other day, and it was a good one! Yes, making a 225-grain 300 WM ammunition SKU is possible, but the SAMMI spec cartridge overall length is 3.403" for 300 win mags. To make the overall length that short, the 215+ grain bullets would protrude deeply into the case affecting the case capacity. 300 PRC on the other hand, has a Sammi spec Cartridge overall length of 3.575. By setting the length that long, they know that Tikkas will not be capable of being chambered in 300 PRC, but they can focus on the utmost performance out of Remington and Savage rifles.
The New 7MM PRC.
7mm PRC is another caliber that Hornady changed the cartridge length to optimize different actions. Instead of considering the longer action length, they wanted to focus on shorter actions like Tikkas, Thompson center, and even the medium Remington footprint actions (see medium action article here).
On the 7mm PRC, they have set the Sammi spec length to 3.090". By shortening the case but still giving the cartridge .234" freebore, factory ammo producers can seat heavy 7mm bullets further out giving the caliber more case capacity. This optimized case capacity will result in higher velocities than other similar-length cartridges.
PRC cartridge market and longevity.
As we can see from the numbers, the PRC lineup brings new designs to the table that combine cartridge and bullet lengths to fit the action lengths. Some shooters may not believe that the PRC lineup will stick around, but with the advancements listed above, these cartridges will be viable options for years to come!
Hopefully, in the coming years, we will see more factory ammunition on the shelf so all customers can find value in the PRC lineup.
© 2023 XLR Industries LLC. Designed by srWorx LLC. Powered by Shopify
