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 rifle chassis for you?
What's the Best Rifle 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 looking at our different chassis systems. Whether you are a hunter, competitor, recreational shooter, or anything in between, all of those applications will 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 we have the most important piece of the puzzle out of the way, let's talk about weight differences.
Light vs ultralight chassis systems.
Price and weight are the only 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 that 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 want to build an ultralight chassis system, the magnesium models will 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?
The Element and Atom chassis supply you with a very modular system! When choosing between the two, you must 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 between these amazing chassis models. You gain stability and recoil control by attaching your bipod to the forend. 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 of 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 grip, the entire chassis weighs only 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 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 will still not 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 wants 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 fiber grip, the entire chassis only weighs 34 oz. But you can add theTR-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 most 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 to 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, and 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 to find what chassis systems fit.
If you're looking to build an SBR or bolt action pistol.
Small but mighty, the ATOM is our latest chassis! This little guy still packs all the features you need for a precision pistol, short-barreled rifle, or even 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 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.
Finding a quality youth hunting rifle is 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 for youth models, 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, young hunters can require a short length of pull, so our TR-2 is the perfectbuttstock for the young ones. In the standard configuration, the TR-2 buttstock goes 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 who is old enough to shoot a big game rifle.
Length of pull for kids rifles.
The best part about theTR-2 is the length of pull can also be extended out for adults to shoot the rifle. So once your children grow up, the rifle will still fit them perfectly. We have all seen the kid's 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 SENSITIVE SHOOTERS PAD 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'sAirTech line features atmospheric chambers that substantially increase 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 helping to increase the 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 young shooters need a youth hunting rifle that fits them perfectly. Kids and new shooters all around the country are already utilizing these buttocks, and they will be through their adult years. Don't make your kids grow into their rifles, get a firearm that fits from the start.
THE RISE OF THE PRC CARTRIDGES
New precision rifle cartridges always make shooters scratch their heads, and the rise of the Hornady PRC rifle cartridges 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 recent years, we have witnessed the uproar in the PRC cartridges from Hornady. The6.5 PRC and 300 PRC have proven outstanding cartridges forhunting andlong-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-rangeshooting has been revolutionized with the introduction of precision rifle cartridges. With the recent release of the 7mm PRC, it is shaping to be another market competitor. But what sets these apart from calibers that have been around for years?
MAXIMIZING CASE CAPACITY IN PRECISION RIFLE 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 inmagazines.
"COULDN'T THEY MAKE 300 WIN MAG AMMO WITH BIGGER BULLETS?"
This was a question onRokslidethe other day, and it was a good one! Yes, making a 225-grain 300 WM ammunition SKU is possible, but the SAMMI spec cartridge's 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.
In the world of precision shooting, the7mm PRC is another caliber that showcases Hornady's innovation. They've strategically adjusted the cartridge length to optimize performance across various actions. Instead of sticking to longer action lengths, their focus shifted towards shorter actions, includingTikkas, Thompson Center, and even medium Remington footprint actions (as discussed in the medium action articlehere).
For the 7mm PRC, they've adhered to the Sammi spec length of 3.090". This smart move involves shortening the case while still providing a generous .234" freebore. What's the result? Factory ammo producers can seat those high BC bullets further out, effectively maximizing the cartridge's case capacity. And when you optimize case capacity like this, you're in for higher velocities compared to other cartridges of similar length. It's all about pushing the limits with high BC bullets!
PRECISION RIFLE CARTRIDGE MARKET AND LONGEVITY.
As we can see from the numbers, thePRC lineup brings a new modern cartridge design to the table that combines 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, the PRC cartridges will be viable options for years to come!
Hopefully, in the coming years, we will see more factory ammunition on the shelves so all customers can find value in the PRC lineup.
C-6 Buttstock Install + Adjustments
XLR is super excited to inform you our C-6 buttstock is now in stock and available for stand-alone purchase. This buttstock takes the XLR chassis to the next level with toolless adjustability and new features that have not been available on previous XLR buttstocks. The toolless adjustability allows you to adjust your Length of pull, cheek piece height, and recoil pad height all on the fly! This allows shooters to get a precision fitment out of your rifle no matter the weather.
In the morning have your length of pull shortened while you are wearing your puffy jacket. Once it heats up, simply loosen the thumbscrew and extend your length of pull out keeping the rifle to shooter interface exactly the same! We have also added new adjustments like cheek rest cast.
This allows shooters to get a straighter sight alignment and creates a more repeatable position from shot to shot. Cheek rest cast has been seen in custom stocks in the past but never before seen on a chassis rifle. You can now appreciate even quicker adjustments and better fitment with the C-6 buttstock!
The C-6 buttstock has a stand alone weight of 24 oz. Although this is a little more than the carbon buttstock, the precision fitment is worth it for hunts that do not require the lightest gear possible. This is also a great way to have the rifle fit shooters with a smaller body build. We offer the C-6 with two different length of pull adapters which creates 4 different length of pull options.
- Short fixed- 12-13 inches.
- Short folding- 13.5-14.5.
- Long fixed- 13.5-14.5.
- Long Folding- 15-16 inches.
With all of these options you can fit the rifle to anyone in the family with ease! The C6 buttstock takes your XLR chassis to the next level and we are very excited to see them getting banged around this hunting season. If you have any questions let us know.
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