Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Hunting Rifles Any love for the Steyr Scout?

We have a lot of low power, true 1x variable to whatever scopes now that make the forward mounted LER scope kind of obsolete from a glass perspective. I've always said IMO the best part of the forward mounted scope was your ability to wrap your hand around the receiver and carry it that way. But even with my large hands, the Steyr is on the far end of doable because of it's girth. I can do it with gloves on, but I can see why some couldn't.

I'd really like to try it with an Aimpoint, but I can't see spending that much money for something that would see so little use.

And yes, I'd like one in .223, despite having almost no use (job) for it, but I'd only buy one if it came along at a give away price.

And besides, the scout rifle idea is a failure, I've said it many times. The people who buy the most guns, like the people on this forum, they don't want a "one gun for all jobs" rifle , they want at least one different gun for every conceivable job, even ones they will never ever do!

If I could only carry one rifle, it would be the one I would grab.

Mine has never failed to do what I asked of it. I don't see the failure fo the gun. Just people who don't learn how to use it. Be Well, RZ.

If I chose to go with a scout setup, I would just build one. Accuracy is important, but less so for long distance with a Scout rifle. Idea is fast handling shots inside 200 yds. Not that you couldn’t stretch it further, but a shorter range use is the concept. Aimpoint sights or EER scopes at 1.5X-2.5X with 20mm-30mm Objective lens is also the concept.

Building from the ground up would provide exact fit and finish desired. Buying Defiance, Terminus or Lone Peak SA with 3” magazine capability, which are Remington 700 SA footprints making stocks, barrels, triggers and bottom metal readily available at reasonable cost. Barrels would be drilled for scout rail mounts and setup would be no more than 20” barrel, 18” may be more preferable. 308 Win is typical concept, but 6.5mm CM, 7mm-08 Rem, 338 Federal and 358 Win would be fine. Could put together for about $2,400 (scope not included). Nothing against Steyr scout rifle, but you’re going to pay $1,400 - $2,000 (scope not included) for a factory rifle due to novelty interest that won’t match up to the build. 376 Steyr Scout (LA) would cost at the upper end as they were very popular. I’d rather have a custom fit for that kind of money. Only one man’s opinion.

I handled the Styer Scout and honestly I would just get a Remington Model 7 and mount a Burris 2-7x35 Full Field II on it and be done.

i don't see how they are better then a lpvo on an ar15

any good new 1x scope is borderline as fast as a red dot

and a heck of a lot better at range then a scout setup.

played with my buddies ruger and m1a setups. ez pass

if for some reason 77gr tmk isn't enough stoke a mag ful of 6arc and 108's

The forward scope is a compromise in order to allow trail carry at the natural balance point for a bolt action rifle and for quick reloads with strippers.

The Steyr version has been a polarizing design ever since it became available. Either you like it or hate it. The first time I saw one I really liked it. In the 15 years since, It's done nothing to change my mind. This link will get you more information on the history of the design and all you need to know for Scout owners or anyone thinking about buying one.
https://www.frfrogspad.com/

I think the introduction or availability of detachable magazines changed the concept somewhat. The hand carry at the balance point might have been compromised, but needing the scope mounted forward for quick or easy reloads was eliminated.

With detachable mags, the bolt can stay closed on a chambered round while a new/full mag is inserted, or the only one topped off.

But all this presents another conundrum. The mag. If it fails or is misplaced, is the rifle still operable? My Ruger with controlled round feed will need lot of dexterity to get a round into the chamber without the mag to help the feed. Or,,,,, I'm missing a trick.

No free lunch.

I like scouts, or the concept. And like to discuss them. I don't think the idea is set in stone. Cooper would say yes, but things have changed. Alternatives, that might work as well or better might be available.

While I'm on the subject.

A 223 doesn't fit the criteria of the described scout. But if it was defined otherwise?

An AR is easily configured into the format. So well, IMO, that it can't be challenged. Setting up a bolt gun for the cartridge with the concept in mind could be fruitless unless for a location that disallows the AR. Then the bolt gun can be feasible.

Just thoughts, not wanting to disagree with anyone.

A detachable mag that protrudes below the belly is an abomination on a bolt rifle.

JoeBob, I agree completely. If hand carry isn't comfortable, I won't buy/keep a rifle or shotgun.

How bout a flush fitting mag ?

Would that work.? Nothing wrong with having the best of both. Doesn't the Steyr offer this?

The five round Steyr magazine is a flush fit but the ten rounder is longer. Be Well, RZ.

Tag

About the most pertinent comment on this whole thread.

Those are both advantages of the forward scope. They are not the main reason for the forward scope, which is extremely fast target acquisition.

Nah, it’s no quicker than anything else if you shoot correctly with both eyes open. The main advantages are quick reloading from strippers and ease of carry.

My thoughts exactly.....