|
|
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 5,074
Campfire Tracker
|
OP
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 5,074 |
Having been on here for several years now I know that the collective force here are not enamored with The Browning A-Bolt.
Why is that???
I know no specifics other than they seem to shoot well from those who own them!
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 96,121
Campfire Oracle
|
|
Campfire Oracle
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 96,121 |
Can't say, the only rifle I like better is the Tikka.
"Dear Lord, save me from Your followers"
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 18,075
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 18,075 |
Several people have had small parts breakage. One or two guides have stated it's the model they've had break or seize up on clients more than any other.
Pot metal triggers, trigger guards, etc...
Mike
God, Family, and Country.
NRA Endowment Member
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 26
Campfire Greenhorn
|
|
Campfire Greenhorn
Joined: Oct 2007
Posts: 26 |
Speaking only for myself here. I see browning stickers on just about every truck that looks like it might be a hunting truck.
I think that the people that sport these on their trucks think they know something about rifles because they spent a little extra for a shiny rifle that is expensive, and will likely never shoot at a deer with it at over a hundred yards.
That's why I don't. But that's just me.
With the gay buckhead sticker on the truck. And it's made in Japan. It's marketing genius. That's just from where I am though. I perused this on the way to work this morning. The guy had a sticker on his truck that said "nothing kills a deer like a browning". I had to wonder why. But he didn't stop so I could ask him.
I guess the deer knows that the 150 gr. .308 bullet was propelled by a browning. If I told the dude it was made by a French company I would have to prove something.
Anyway, for some reason in south carolina Brownings are to redneck hunters what spinning rims are to our ghetto brothers.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 18,075
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 18,075 |
GA also. I believe it is a carry over from the heyday of world class quail hunting GA used to have everywhere. Many old toots used sweet 16's and various other Browning shotguns and it carried over.
When I first moved here THE 2 required guns were the Rem 1100 and the Rem 742. The trend toward bolt actions switched #2 to a Browning stainless stalker....
Mike
God, Family, and Country.
NRA Endowment Member
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 7,756
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 7,756 |
Don't own an A-Bolt at the moment I have an X-Bolt SS, but I've owned several over the years with no complaints, all were very accurate. On average probably the most accurate out of the box brand I have owned. I think it's like another guy said they do use inferior metals in some parts like the trigger guard and bolt shroud (anodised aluminium)and the made in Japan sticks in some peoples throats, but look at Remington's floor plate's and trigger guards it's made of some kind of pot metal or other, Tikka is a popular rifle on the campfire and deservedly so, from what I have witnessed they are very accurate and for the money and I really stress "for the money" they are hard to beat, but there is much plastic or some kind of poly involved here in the clips and trigger guards not to say this is bad stuff it's just different than old school steel and that's how some people judge the quality of a rifle............547.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 568
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 568 |
I have seen one brand new Browning A-bolt explode with factory ammo, and it was matching ammo. I have seen a broken extractor, a failed ejector and a light primer strike. I am not a fan of multipiece bolt, and the trigger design is horrible.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 13,268
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 13,268 |
Speaking only for myself here. I see browning stickers on just about every truck that looks like it might be a hunting truck.
I think that the people that sport these on their trucks think they know something about rifles because they spent a little extra for a shiny rifle that is expensive, and will likely never shoot at a deer with it at over a hundred yards.
That's why I don't. But that's just me.
With the gay buckhead sticker on the truck. And it's made in Japan. It's marketing genius. That's just from where I am though. I perused this on the way to work this morning. The guy had a sticker on his truck that said "nothing kills a deer like a browning". I had to wonder why. But he didn't stop so I could ask him.
I guess the deer knows that the 150 gr. .308 bullet was propelled by a browning. If I told the dude it was made by a French company I would have to prove something.
Anyway, for some reason in south carolina Brownings are to redneck hunters what spinning rims are to our ghetto brothers.
ummm what? I don't know anyone who owns a Browning rifle but can name 50 friends and people I've guided who own a Browning shotgun...how do you know the stickers weren't for that?
Otto is my co-pilot.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 1,506
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 1,506 |
I can actually say I have first hand experience with this. Well almost...I was in a gun shop, a guy came in,his trigger gaurd was busted off on his new A-bolt. He had some "story" about had it came off. My first impression: dude is full of crap, he busted it and now is making an ass out him self by not being honest. How do you break metal on your gun except by being careless?
But now after reading about similar scenarios here and other places, it's hard not to believe that something may be amiss in their manufacturing process.
That's not to say they aint purdy, shoot tight, and are as smooth as butter.
Proverbs
- A wise man feareth, and departs from evil: but the fool rages, in confidence.
- It is honor for a man to cease from strife: but every fool will meddle.
- Mischief is as sport to a fool: but a man of understanding hath wisdom.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 1,001
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 1,001 |
I moved to GA about a year ago. My god there is Browning rifles everywhere. Several guys in my lease have them. And yes, I'm sick of seeing those stupid Browning deer stickers on the back of trucks in the South. Especially 2 wheel drive trucks (another thing I can't get used to, kinda like a strip club with no music, pretty useless IMO). The funny thing is back home in WA I don't know 1 single person who ones a Browning rifle (don't know anyone who ones 2 wheel drive truck either, hell, only know 1 who ones a 4 wheel drive that ain't lifted). I'm not a big fan of Browning rifles either. That stupid Boss system has to be the uglies thing Ive seen on rifle. And the guys at my lease seem to have trouble making them shoot. If you need a muzzle break on a 7mm, then go buy a 7mm-08 if you can't handle the recoil........
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 6,435
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 6,435 |
Rich, I believe that the dislike of the A-Bolt is a holdover from the "Cult of the Big Stick". If you've been around long enough to remember him, you'd likely understand. For the benefit of the newer folks, Big Stick was a rather charismatic fellow who hung out here for a few years until he got bored with us. He developed a fairly large following in a fairly short time. It wasn't long until it seemed lots of folks wanted to be like him. He did seem to be fairly opinionated.  The legacy that he left us seems to be the McSwirly stocks, talley lwt mounts, Pac-Nor barrels, Remmy actions, and Leupold scopes with turrets. I believe he single-handedly increased McMIllan's annual sales significantly. (I even have a couple....  ) Altho' I do admit that none of mine have skull & crossbones decals on them. It also seems Mr Stick harboured an extreme dislike for Trashco scopes, A-Bolts, and Savage rifles.... amoung other things... But I digress....
"As you walk thru life, don't be surprised that there are fewer people that you encounter seeking truth than those seeking confirmation of what they already believe!"
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 24,369
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 24,369 |
All that and their ugly too
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 9,096
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 9,096 |
I have worked on a few that belonged to friends. I've never owned one and never will. There are just too many better choices.
"The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing."
Edmund Burke 1795
"Give me liberty or give me death"
Patrick Henry 1775
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 17,133
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 17,133 |
My brother has one in .270. It's bolt is ugly, it's stock is shiny and it's heavy. It also shoots lights out but I'll stick with other stuff.
If something on the internet makes you angry the odds are you're being manipulated
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 7,921
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 7,921 |
I know a lot of people, usually kids, who have the Browning logo on their truck window because it looks cool. They do not even own a Browning and probably never will.
Most people don't really want the truth.
They just want constant reassurance that what they believe is the truth.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 7,505
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Nov 2005
Posts: 7,505 |
i'd advise that you not pay any attention to the "collective force" found here (or anywhere else for that matter). get the gun you want. plenty of people who post here own and are well satisfied with browning rifles. i know some folks who shoot browning rifles in my area and they seem like good americans. remember, this is the web and the squeeky wheel always gets the grease (read as arugmentative responses, outlandish statements, etc.). it is usually not a good idea to listen to a squeeky wheel.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 5,074
Campfire Tracker
|
|
OP
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 5,074 |
i'd advise that you not pay any attention to the "collective force" found here (or anywhere else for that matter). get the gun you want. plenty of people who post here own and are well satisfied with browning rifles. i know some folks who shoot browning rifles in my area and they seem like good americans. remember, this is the web and the squeeky wheel always gets the grease (read as arugmentative responses, outlandish statements, etc.). it is usually not a good idea to listen to a squeeky wheel. I am not looking into buying an A-Bolt. And even if I was I buy what I want. I have 2 BLR's and they seem to run hot and cold here...........some like 'em some don't!!!
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 5,828
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 5,828 |
For me its the Cheesy Gold Plate trigger and the Cheesy Gold deer head logo on the trigger guard. If they ever put a just plain Blued trigger and leave the gold off the logo, I might buy one. They do seem to sell thou, for the life of me why? I don't know. Now the Browning Hi Powers of the 1960's are a different story, unless you got stuck with a salt wood stock. Cabelas had a 300 H+H in a Browning FN actioned High Power. Should have bought it. Didn't stick around long even in a down ecomomy.
"Any idiot can face a crisis,it's the day-to-day living that wears you out."
Anton Chekhov
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 360
Campfire Member
|
|
Campfire Member
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 360 |
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 626
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 626 |
Here in Edmonton Alberta, Canada, it is the rifle send to the gunsmith more then any other rifle for breakdowns.
The most frequent one is extractor breakage and malfunctioning bolt stop, meaning when you pull the bolt back she comes right out of the receiver.
Trigger is poor.
The bolt shroud is some sort of potmetal casting.
The A-Bolt is made for the guy that shoots may be one box/year.
It is NOT made for the person that shoots a lot.
Their accuracy out of the box is usually surprisingly good.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 12,523
Campfire Outfitter
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Jul 2005
Posts: 12,523 |
I don't like shiny, plastic-finished wood, and the pistol grip is too tight a curve for my own comfort. I don't like the short bolt lift, or the shape of the bolt handle, don't like the magazine design, and I could probably think of other stuff I don't like about 'em. Oh yeah, when the SchitFerBrains sales clerk tried to sell me one, he badmouthed Model Seventies, and that pizzed me off, too.
You can roll a turd in peanuts, dip it in chocolate, and it still ain't no damn Baby Ruth.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 30,760
Campfire 'Bwana
|
|
Campfire 'Bwana
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 30,760 |
I'm more selective on how I spend my money....A bolts are way overpriced for me...I'd buy or reccomend a Tikka/Sako or even something from Savage in a bolt gun...Marlin in a lever gun...
T R U M P W O N !
U L T R A M A G A !
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 1,477
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 1,477 |
I'm one of the A-Bolt bashers on this site. I owned one for a short time, having purchased it (used) for my son. It was a Hunter model in 7-08. It was kinda pretty and certainly accurate enough, but IMHO it was nothing more than an accurate piece of junk. Inferior metal everywhere, a tremendously over-complicated bolt assembly held together with pins that was just asking for trouble, a magazine (also overcomplicated) that allowed the cartridges to rattle around as you walked through the woods, and more. Fortunately, my son liked it about as much as I did, so I sold it. Never again. Owned a BLR for awhile and got rid of that for similar reasons, too, but that's another story. The shotguns may well be different, but I have no first hand info about them.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 12,630
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 12,630 |
Yup and they could learn a thing or two about steel.They've never been known for producing good steel.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 16,971
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: May 2003
Posts: 16,971 |
Because out of the box they often outshoot a remington ?
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 12,630
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 12,630 |
Not a hard feat these days.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 7,756
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 7,756 |
I agree 7 STW, The Remington's I've purchased of late have been lacking in the accuracy department, accuracy was never an issue for me with Remington until lately. I think they may be getting a little sloppy, quality control is slipping a little at big green, maybe trying to put out too many guns for Wal-Mart or something..........547.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 9,472
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 9,472 |
Browning firearms are in general cheesy, gaudy, clubby designs.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 5,499
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 5,499 |
I love my Stainless A-Bolt 260. Shoots friggin great, light and came out of the box not needing any work done to the trigger or bedding. Hunted with in in rain, sleet, snow and hot dry dusty stuff. Never a single hiccup. Magazine doesnt rattle at all. Done some low crawling with in in Wyoming sneaking up on an antelope, trigger guard didnt even break! I shoot, alot, never had a single problem with that gun. I do favor Rugers, but that A-Bolt is not a gun I am ashamed to own.
The only rifle I have ever owned that was a complete and total POS was a FWT M-70. I will never own another one of those again.
There is no way to coexist no matter how many bumper stickers there are on Subaru bumpers!
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 14,151
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 14,151 |
Well we're Green and we're Gold, and we play better when it's cold. All us Cheese heads have our favorite superstar. We love Brett Favre.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 14,807
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 14,807 |
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 310
Campfire Member
|
|
Campfire Member
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 310 |
I've had several A-bolts. I've had horses roll over them and break the stocks. Run into trees and bust scopes. But I've never had a part of the actual gun break or malfunction. They have been acurate and held up well. But mine were all built int he 70's. I don't know how the newer guns are holding up.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 8,759
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 8,759 |
I have a particular dislike of products made in japan. The primary reason is personal as my mothers only brother was killed by the japs near the end of WW2. It happend on Luzon where he was a sargent and full time army. There are other reasons of course. The japs were the first here with imports to go against 'made in the USA' in my time. Not surprised Sav 99 holds a prejudiced grudge. My brother lost a leg to a German but he holds no grudges against Germany. In fact we have some German blood in us along with about a half dozen other bloodlines! I'm sorry for your loss, I'm sure your mother's only brother is/was missed. MtnHtr
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 243
Campfire Member
|
|
Campfire Member
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 243 |
I have an A Bolt and a Weatherby, 4 Remingtons and a Handi Rifle, which are all pretty good, but if had to go to one rifle, would pick any of those rather than A bolt. Not a bad rifle, but not my choice.
Keep on doing what you are doing and you will keep on getting what you are getting.
NC Hunter Safety Instructor
NC Conceal Carry Instructor
NRA Certified Pistol Instructor
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 13,268
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 13,268 |
I'm suprised so much disdain just because it's made in Japan....I'd say overall Japan makes better stuff on average than the crap made in the US today. If it's political reasons that's fine. But their manafacturing is way above the US in several areas.
"Made in the USA" doesn't mean jack squat today for quality - it means someone is keeping their job, but doesn't speak anything about quality.
Hang outside the US for very long and you'll see what a laughing stock some of our "exports" are compared to other nations. The only difference in "some" of the stuff the US makes now and the crap they import from Japan is the stuff made in the US has english directions.
I'm not a fan of browning rifles...but not because they are made in Japan. In fact I just bought a Vanguard for a barreled action and it was made in Japan and I'd throw the quality on it up against an out of the box Remington nowdays and come out ahead on average.
Last edited by NathanL; 12/20/08.
Otto is my co-pilot.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 8,759
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 8,759 |
Back to the original topic of this thread. I ran a few A-Bolts in the late eighties and early nineties and never suffered a failure other than some rust. I might be wrong here but Browning was the first to offer a production bolt gun with a synthetic stock named the Composite Stalker back in '89. Browning was also the first to offer a stainless production bolt rifle a year later (1990). Those features were important to me but I later switched to others as they started offering syn stocks and SS models. Miroku firearms is the producer for Browning rifles and shotguns. They build quality shotguns and no doubt could build a decent rifle but Browning's engineers directed them on building the A bolt when they switched from FN (producer of the former Browning BBR) to Miroku. A Look At Miroku Firearms MtnHtr
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 18,075
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: Jan 2001
Posts: 18,075 |
My personal reasons for not liking them is that you have to disengage the safety to unload them. I have 1 rifle that does that, but it's a lever action and made in 1926.  Mike
God, Family, and Country.
NRA Endowment Member
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 28,277
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 28,277 |
I'm one of the A-Bolt bashers on this site. I owned one for a short time, having purchased it (used) for my son. It was a Hunter model in 7-08. It was kinda pretty and certainly accurate enough, but IMHO it was nothing more than an accurate piece of junk. Inferior metal everywhere, a tremendously over-complicated bolt assembly held together with pins that was just asking for trouble, a magazine (also overcomplicated) that allowed the cartridges to rattle around as you walked through the woods, and more. Fortunately, my son liked it about as much as I did, so I sold it. Never again. Owned a BLR for awhile and got rid of that for similar reasons, too, but that's another story. The shotguns may well be different, but I have no first hand info about them. John, sounds like you didn't like the gun and have a few reason why, but I guess my question is did you actually ever have any issues come up with the gun while you were using it? Thx Dober
"True respect starts with the way you treat others, and it is earned over a lifetime of demonstrating kindness, honor and dignity"....Tony Dungy
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 28,277
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 28,277 |
MtnHtr-- Thx for the memory, Miroku made what is to me one of the finest fitting stackguns ever made! As a younger pup I lusted after a Miroku BB gun more than from time to time.
Dober
Last edited by Mark R Dobrenski; 12/20/08.
"True respect starts with the way you treat others, and it is earned over a lifetime of demonstrating kindness, honor and dignity"....Tony Dungy
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 28,277
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: Apr 2001
Posts: 28,277 |
I hear people witch and moan about the A-bolt on the web but aside from that I've never heard and or seen an issue with them. Personally I've never owned one but have several friends who hunt a ton load and hunt them very hard and they've never had any issues. I ask them about them and tell them about the wows on people on the internet about the A-bolt and they just snicker... I could and would hunt one hard if I choose to and I'd never worry about it. Dober
"True respect starts with the way you treat others, and it is earned over a lifetime of demonstrating kindness, honor and dignity"....Tony Dungy
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 263
Campfire Member
|
|
Campfire Member
Joined: Jun 2005
Posts: 263 |
I might be wrong here but Browning was the first to offer a production bolt gun with a synthetic stock named the Composite Stalker back in '89.
Browning definately was ONE of the first to offer a synthetic stock on a production rifle, but I believe the very first was Weatherby, with their Fibermark model in 1985. I bought a Fibermark in .300 Weatherby in 1986 and hunted it hard for quite a few years. Great rifle. I, too, am puzzled as to why the Browning rifles don't seem to get more respect. I've never actually owned one, but I've handled and shot a few and they seem fairly well designed and put together.
"Don't let the things you can't do, stop you from doing the things you can do."
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 96,121
Campfire Oracle
|
|
Campfire Oracle
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 96,121 |
Their triggers are something special to behold.
Last edited by Steelhead; 12/21/08.
"Dear Lord, save me from Your followers"
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 23,406
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: Sep 2003
Posts: 23,406 |
I've never used an A-Bort, but I was tempted to try a Browning Ti.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 7,205
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 7,205 |
I had an A-Bolt in 280 Rem probably 10 years ago or so. It shot alright, but wasn't anything special. I can tell you that here in Alaska, the A-Bolt has single handidly taken credit for more field failures than any other brand by word of mouth, and as I recall its the triggers that usually are to blame. I personally dont like all the cheap looking bling on em, but thats just me.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 7,756
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 7,756 |
Just got back from the range and My X-Bolt SS 30.06 shot Remington Core-Lokt 150gr PSP factory loads into 4 shot groups that measured 5/8" and 3/4" at 100 paces (only shot two groups and it got too dark) but that's damn fine accuracy out of a factory rifle shooting cheap factory loads, it's really about as accurate a rifle as I have ever owned,and believe me I've owned many models of just about every brand out there including Sako, Remington, Weatherby, Ruger, and Winchester. ( never a Tikka, I'm sure they are good rifles but too much plastic for my taste) The new trigger on the X-Bolt feels good but I've not looked into the mechanics of it yet, I know it's very similar to the new Winchester Mod 70 design so someone that knows more than I can tell me if this new trigger system is junk. I also agree with some of the guy's about the cheap metal used in some of it's parts, and You can also throw Remington in that boat (pot metal floor plates and trigger guards)and I especially hate the plastic parts on some other makes, that said you have to admit these Browning's are dang accurate rascals and daddy loves accuracy..............547.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 60,080
Campfire Kahuna
|
|
Campfire Kahuna
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 60,080 |
I tested an A-Bolt .270 in 1986 when they first appeared. It wasn't as classically pretty as some guns, but it shot very well and was pretty darn light. (You can buy A-Bolts in every weight from VERY light to pretty heavy.) My wife had been hunting for a coupleof years then, deer and antelope with my old Rem. 722 in .257 Roberts, but wanted to start hunting elk. She shot the A-Bolt and liked it, everything from the trigger to the light weight, so we bought it.
I worked up a couple loads that shot to the same place with the 130 Hornady and 150 Nosler Partition, and both loads shot very well too. She went on to hunt with the A-Bolt for five more seasons, at one time having a string of 10 1-shot kills on a row. These were mostly pronghorn, whitetail and mule deer, but included a couple of eating elk and a Shiras moose. One of the pronghorns was about 430 yards away, and one of the mule deer was the biggest buck she's ever killed. She quit using the A-Bolt only when she got a NULA .270, but we never had any trouble with the A-Bolt.
I have shot a few others over the years and all were very accurate, probably because (like some other accurate out-of-the-box bolt rifles such as Savage, Tikka and Sako) the barrel is free-floated. The one X-Bolt I've hunted with was also extremely accurate. I'm not crazy about some of the pot-metal parts, but Eileen obviously hunted her A-Bolt pretty hard and didn't have any problems.
There may be better trigger designs but the A-Bolt's is easier to adjust and smooth up (if need be) than many others. I have tuned up A-Bolt triggers for some friends and they were all happy.
They may be made in Japan but a lot of stuff is, and as somebody else pointed out not all American-made firearms are superb examples of manufacturing.
I probably wouldn't buy an A-Bolt to use as a wilderness rifle, but for most hunting they seem to work fine, and shoot great right out of the box.
“Montana seems to me to be what a small boy would think Texas is like from hearing Texans.”
John Steinbeck
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 24,369
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 24,369 |
Only one I have had personal experience with was bought new as a gift for a relative. Even after glass bedding etc it would never shoot better than softball sized groups.
I have owned two BLR's and both were fine in my book. Only reason I sold the 308 was I have a pre 64 Winchester 88. Dad does too so we can interchange ammo, clips etc as both are using my reloads. I liked the feel of the overall gun and the workings of the action better in the BLR.
Anyone seen or heard anything about the new the new X-Bolts?
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 128
Campfire Member
|
|
Campfire Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 128 |
As all here I may have more guns than required. About 1/3 of my rifles are brownings. One of my tests is which one do you want to grab leaving the cabin. More than not - it is my micro hunter 270wsm a-bolt or my 7-08 BLR. Both are far under MOA. At the end of the season I wish I would of hunted with some of my pre 64's or the custom accurized jobs I spent the big money on - but for some reason I go to the dang brownings. I still like them but grab the one you like going out the door. The important thing is git out the door.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 12,471
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Jan 2005
Posts: 12,471 |
My son shoots a Browning Micro-Medallion in 7-08 that I handload for. Using the 120gr TSX or 120gr NBT, it will shoot 1" or better at 100 yard all day long. We do not hunt wilderness areas, just southeast farmland/swamps, and he loves it.
Faith and love of others knows no mileage nor bounds. That's simply the way it is.
dogzapper
After the game is over, the king and the pawn go into the same box.
Italian Proverb
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 9,991
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 9,991 |
Something I have noticed is that most gunshops you go to
have new Remingtons, Winchesters, Rugers, Weatherbys, etc.
But dont carry Browning, Savage, and Stevens.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 407
Campfire Member
|
|
Campfire Member
Joined: Jul 2008
Posts: 407 |
The worst factory trigger I ever pulled was on one of the early A Bolt Stainless Stalkers in .338. Factory set it must have pulled close to 10 pounds. The first time I shot it I honestly stopped and rechecked the safety to make sure it wasnt still engaged.
The only factory trigger that has ever scared the hell out me was on a .284 Micro Medallion.
This one went south on me while shooting off a bench rest. Two rounds into a three shot group it refused to fire.
I slacked off and started to reach back to cycle the bolt and BLAMMO it discharges downrange.
I pulled this 6 month old gem apart at the bench,took a quick look at what they called a trigger and after dropping 125.00 in repairs at the gunsmiths sold that little POS at a loss at the next gunshow.
Someone posted today that Remington 700's have bad triggers.
They should enjoy a Browning A Bolt.
That said I've got friends who swear by theirs after having the trigger work done and havent had a bit of trouble with them so maybe it's "luck of the draw."
I like it here. They let me swear.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 5,316
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 5,316 |
Rich, I believe that the dislike of the A-Bolt is a holdover from the "Cult of the Big Stick". If you've been around long enough to remember him, you'd likely understand. For the benefit of the newer folks, Big Stick was a rather charismatic fellow who hung out here for a few years until he got bored with us. He developed a fairly large following in a fairly short time. .......... ......... It also seems Mr Stick harboured an extreme dislike for Trashco scopes, A-Bolts, and Savage rifles.... amoung other things... But I digress.... Grasshopper, Thanks for sharing your insight on this issue. Are you SURE that this "Big Stick" isn't still posting here on occasion under another alias? I think he's still around....unfortunately.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 671
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Dec 2005
Posts: 671 |
hi all. i have never been able to understand the hate for the browning abolt. i had one in 270 win. it was my first big game rifle. it had the boss brake on it and a would shoot fed 130 gr. nosler ballistic tips in 1/2-3/4 of inch all day long. i thought the wood was nice, although the stock scratched easy and the trigger could be tuned to 3 lbs. it was lightweight and a pleasure to carry. as often happens, it was traded for another "better" idea. i still wished i had that one back! i never experienced a single problem with it. i also was fond of the detatchable mag. i would however have replaced the boss with the cr brake if it had been available. -keith
Clint Eastwood: "I have strong feelings about gun control. If there is a gun around I want to be controlling it."
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 12,651
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 12,651 |
Never cared for the A-Bolt design and wouldn't consider purchasing one - too many other options I DO like.
That said, I have a Brwoning B92 carbine in .44 Mag which I think very highly of as well as the one of the best .22 semi's ever made, a Browning .22LR Semi-Auto Take-Down.
Coyote Hunter - NRA Patriot Life, NRA Whittington Center Life, GOA, DAD - and I VOTE!
No, I'm not a Ruger bigot - just an unabashed fan of their revolvers, M77's and #1's.
A good .30-06 is a 99% solution.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 3,722
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Mar 2005
Posts: 3,722 |
The Howa (Japan) made Mark Vs are the best that were ever made in my opinion.
And the Browning Auto 5 is my bestest, most favorite shotgun to date!
I got a Rem 700 ADL 30'06 when I turned 14 and my buddy got an A-bolt. I was so jealous, but I killed as many deer as he did over the years of my youth, if not more, so I didn't covet it long! Just never got one...no real reason why. I suspect they have killed plenty O game since their birth!
WAR EAGLE!
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 3,947
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Jul 2006
Posts: 3,947 |
I bought a Composite Stalker in .270 back in 1989 .I wanted the Stainless Stalker but couldn't find one Shot the barrel out of that gun over a 5 year period. Accuracy was good no issues or problems.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 35,900
Campfire 'Bwana
|
|
Campfire 'Bwana
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 35,900 |
I have owned one; a 223 that was very accurate.Seen many at the range,and all have shot very well.But to me, they seem tinny,like they are constructed of old coke cans and spare parts.I just don't like them,regardless of their virtues.
The 280 Remington is overbore.
The 7 Rem Mag is over bore.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 7,756
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 7,756 |
If you go through enough rifles of any brand you will run into some dogs, the worst luck I've experienced has been with Winchester model 70's I have seen some mighty shoddy work on model 70's especially the later rifles made in New Haven, and I love the feel of Weatherby's MK V Ultralight but after more tries than I care to remember I never did find one that would shoot, that said I'm sure you can line dozens of guy's up on this site that will sing the praises of the mighty Model 70 and the Weatherby MK V, My point is just like anything else whether cars or TVs or gun's you will find some that are fantastic and others that are junk.........547.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 384
Campfire Member
|
|
Campfire Member
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 384 |
I wouldn't buy an A-bolt but I don't have a problem recommending them to customers. About 1000 guns a year come in my door for repairs or custom work. I really don't see many A-bolts with issues. There triggers on average are way better out of the box than the big 3. To me they are like the Savage and Tikka, to many small parts and plastic pieces but just might shoot on par with a pricy big name custom rig. I really don't have a problem with "Made in Japan", it is almost 2009. I don't like to see it on my Browning O/U for upland work but on other rifles like 1886's and 1892's it doesn't make me flinch. The hot azz loads these fine guns digest without a hiccup do however. As far as the Browning sticker on my truck goes, you try peeling it off! My respect for Browning's genius is more than skin deep. ![[Linked Image]](http://img397.imageshack.us/img397/9213/ink2003wy2.jpg) ![[Linked Image]](http://img170.imageshack.us/img170/1170/tats002kh1.jpg) ![[Linked Image]](http://img520.imageshack.us/img520/9769/ink2001mi3.jpg) ![[Linked Image]](http://img520.imageshack.us/img520/4472/ink2002zi4.jpg)
"If all the good luck and all the bad luck I've had were put together, I reckon it'd make the biggest damned pile of luck in the world." Charlie Goodnight
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 202
Campfire Member
|
|
Campfire Member
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 202 |
You mean as in some Winchester, Weatherby, and other products??? Made in Japan - suggesting that it is not AS GOOD as made in America product? Where do you think most of the stuff you buy at WalMart is made - CHINA!!!!!! I'm sorry some jobs have been exported - but I think the MUCH more serious problem is workers that have been IMPORTED - 20,000,000 , that 20 million people who've snuck under the fence. The Dems don't seem to be too concerned about that - but a million or two jobs shipped overseas - shame on the Republicans??? Give me a break!
I seem to be hearing alot of complaints about T/C rifles lately - and they are made where???
Last edited by Kemosabe; 12/21/08.
"Necessity is the plea for every infringement of human freedom. It is the argument of tyrants - it is the creed of slaves" William Pitt
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 7,756
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 7,756 |
I have not seen a TC Encore centerfire that would shoot MOA with factory or hand loads yet, I tried three Myself (all different calibers on two different frames) before giving up and I've seen at least four more of My buddies rigs and all were marginal at best in the accuracy department, but TC is paying out the bucks to these hunting celebs, I see a bunch of Encore rifles being used on the Hunting Channel but those guy's don't care what they use just who will pay them the most to use their product, I guess that's why TC Encores are a little pricey in My book especially for what you get.. I have zero experience with the Icon bolt action rifle it May be a different story and be a great shooter. I do know to My eyes they are an ugly beast..................547.
Last edited by 547; 12/21/08.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 6,954
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Mar 2001
Posts: 6,954 |
I don't know about "dislike",but its a rifle that has no appeal to me personally..I settled on thee 98 Mauser custom and the pre 64 Win. a long time ago and have seen no reason to change...I am avid about using a control rifle and that's based on 60 plus years of observation and use of both CFR and pushfeeds. Won't argue the point as everyone has the option to choose their own rifles and this is a good thing.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 202
Campfire Member
|
|
Campfire Member
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 202 |
I forgot to mention that last year, I bought a Vanguard in .300WSM for an Oryx hunt here. Got my Oryx - one shot at over 450 yards.
Anyway, my younger son drew an elk tag so I traded a pistol for an A-Bolt Composite Stalker with BOSS in .300WSM for him. Shooting them side by side at the range, the A-Bolt is stunningly accurate and the BOSS works GREAT in reducing recoil, allowing longer practice sessions, etc.
I've sold the Vanguard and am looking for a Stainless Stalker in .300WSM W/ BOSS for myself. I've been at this shooting thing for about 40 years and don't find anything to complain about on the A-Bolt.
"Necessity is the plea for every infringement of human freedom. It is the argument of tyrants - it is the creed of slaves" William Pitt
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 15,593
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 15,593 |
my hunting partner, joe, has an abolt in .243... he farms a number of properties and thought that brownings box magazine would be "the answer" for a guy who was in and out of the truck a lot...
the magazine on his rifle had to ba carefully aligned with the floorpl=ate, and carefully and gently closed... he found it difficult to use... gloves and poor lighting made it worse...
it was a noisy operation and a bit flimsy....
i believe that he buried the rifle with a backhoe.....
"Chances Will Be Taken"
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 15,593
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: May 2002
Posts: 15,593 |
i'd add that joe is a calm sort, by nature... never seen his wife or his kids fluster him as badly as that browning rifle.....
"Chances Will Be Taken"
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 1,477
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 1,477 |
Mark,
Sorry I didn't answer earlier, but I've been busy running around for Christmas. You're right, I didn't have any breakdowns or malfunctions with the A-Bolt (the only functional gripe I can make is that the bolt could be difficult to place back into the action if you didn't take the time to align everything just right). It was just a matter of looking at the cheesy parts and the weird bolt design and losing trust in it. If my son had liked it, I might have kept it for him, but he preferred my 40+ year-old Rem 660 in .308, so the Browning went (happily) down the road.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 5,316
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 5,316 |
eastplace,
Now that's dedication, brother!
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 477
Campfire Member
|
|
Campfire Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 477 |
I have a Browning A-Bolt Hunter in .270 Win that's close to 20 years old. Never had a single problem with it. I have no idea how many rounds have been fired in it, but I would guess it's around 800 rounds. It will still put 3, 130 grn Barnes right at a inch at 100 yrds. The only thing I ever did to it was to have the trigger replaced, as it was a DOG, and I also stripped the shiny finish off the stock and put a oil finish on it before I ever fired the first round thru it. I would guess It's killed somewhere around 500 deer and maybe 50 hogs.
( Before anyone flames me as a game hog, I shoot deer deperadition tags on my brother in laws farm every summer)
A-Bolts are quite popular around here. Light weight and 22" barrels make it a good "swamp" rifle, and they are still accurate enough to make those 250-300 yrd "beanfield" shots.
Browning does have a BIG following here in the South, and especially here in S.C. where dog hunting for deer is legal.
The "Humpback" A-5 was almost looked at as a status symbol when I was growing up. It was THE shotgun to own for for any serious dog hunter.
Granted, my A-Bolt is not as pretty, or as fun to shoot as my Kimber .260, but it's still a solid hunter that I have no problem taking to the deer stand.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 613
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Nov 2006
Posts: 613 |
I've no love for an A-bolt, and find it amazing one would plunk down money when other choices are available.
I do, however, have deep love for Browning shotguns as well as take-down 22s.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 50,627
Campfire Kahuna
|
|
Campfire Kahuna
Joined: Feb 2001
Posts: 50,627 |
I can respect the toughness and durability of a Clitori, we have three in the house. The Buckmark is a slick pistol and we have one of them. The BPS is the single best choice for left-handed or left-eyed shooters and we have one of them. All of the above compete with their peers and win plenty often.
The A-Bolt is something quite different. We also have one of them and have had several come through. The model is responsible for more personally-witnessed in-field failures than ALL other models of rifles combined. Yet only a small fraction of my rifle experiences afield include A-Bolts.
Usually the trigger groups rust to a fixed mode and refuse to fire. Often they do it in just a day or two.
If you hunt from a vehicle and seldom get into serious weather and salty conditions the A-Bolt may work for you forever. I even know a few serious guys that have used A-Bolts in nasty conditions for extended periods without issue.
But if you are really going on a serious hunt there are better choices... Anything would be a better choice, actually.
art
Mark Begich, Joaquin Jackson, and Heller resistance... Three huge reasons to worry about the NRA.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 1,160
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 1,160 |
A friend of mine used to be a Browning rep, and he is a fan of the A bolt. He has told me on more than one occasion that they are great rifles, but you may have to buy more than one to find a real "shooter". Case in point, he owns three A bolts in 300 WSM and only has one that shoot under 1.5-2" at 100 yards.
I am not an A bolt "hater", but that is not acceptable.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 384
Campfire Member
|
|
Campfire Member
Joined: Jun 2008
Posts: 384 |
there are better choices... This is the bottom line.
"If all the good luck and all the bad luck I've had were put together, I reckon it'd make the biggest damned pile of luck in the world." Charlie Goodnight
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 43
Campfire Greenhorn
|
|
Campfire Greenhorn
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 43 |
I owned an A-bolt bolt in .280 but traded it off after it failed to fire for the second time with fur in the scope. It had light primer strikes on two occasions and both occasions was when I was shooting at deer.
I figured it was a good gun for an amimal rights nut, so now I just stick with Remingtons.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 5,316
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 5,316 |
It's good to see the folks that dislike the A-Bolt present their arguments in a civil fashion for a change. Folks will usually listen if a negative point of view is presented in an honorable manner.
Thanks for the insights "Sitka Deer" and "1fstdsl".
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 5,316
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 5,316 |
I figured it was a good gun for an amimal rights nut, so now I just stick with Remingtons. Now that's funny right there.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 128
Campfire Member
|
|
Campfire Member
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 128 |
Wow - What a list of divergent views- While I am in the camp of having an a-bolt micro hunter and 3 blr's that shoot and carry great - one has to believe that there must some fire behind all this smoke. I guess I have been lucky and quality must vary at times.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 14,463
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 14,463 |
I love Brownings, the real one's made in America and Europe.
The Miroku is NOT a Browning. It's an Asian copy.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 1,433
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 1,433 |
Not here to badmouth A-bolts or any other rifles.
In 1971 I bought my first Ruger. Bought many more since then, along with many other brands.
Over the years the Rugers stayed and the others went. For me, they fit right, work well and don't cost a fortune.
Jim
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 202
Campfire Member
|
|
Campfire Member
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 202 |
With the current high level of competitiveness in gun sales and manufacturing, and the frequency at which people sue for little reason, I find it somewhat hard to believe that Browning could continue to manufacture a firearm - much less a thumb tack, that has the potential for such carnage.
Now I'm not saying others may be less than candid in their comments, but the day will come when they want to sell their 7, 70, 77, 700 +, and they'll want top dollar for such stellar machines.
On the other hand, if any of you have A-Bolts, I'll be glad to send you a shipping box and pay freight, so that I can take them out of circulation and make our ranges, fields, forests, mountains, plains, swamps, and hollows safer for all of us by putting all of these A-Bolt ticking time-bombs in a place where they can do no harm.
I urge you A-Bolt owners to do your part for the betterment of our sport. Now IS the time for CHANGE, I hear. 
"Necessity is the plea for every infringement of human freedom. It is the argument of tyrants - it is the creed of slaves" William Pitt
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 5,316
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 5,316 |
I love Brownings, the real one's made in America and Europe.
The Miroku is NOT a Browning. It's an Asian copy. Too bad. It's a known fact that most all of the Miroku Browning firearms (shotguns and rifles) have better fit and finish, both inside and out, than the Belgium/Portugal ones. And the Asians have also produced a better car for years...
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 609
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Sep 2007
Posts: 609 |
I like my A Bolt! It works, it's accurate, great to carry even though there are no swamps around here. The last Remington I had was a dud. A 700 CDL SF in 7-08. Poor finish on the stock, even poorer accuracy, plus it sprayed rounds all over when the floor plate was unlatched. Spent more time looking for ammo than hunting some days! This experience won't stop me from buying another 700 sometime...who knows, may even buy another A Bolt...or three!
Merry Christmas folks...Stay Safe
Paul
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 1,271
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Nov 2001
Posts: 1,271 |
My dad has two BLR's from the late 70's. Great rifles, never a problem. We have, conservatively, 10,000 rounds through a 30 year old BL-22 and never a hiccup. Great luck with a Browning semi-auto .22 that my dad traded off after 5 years.
I have a Browning BPS 12 gauge that has been a gem. I have a Browning 71, in .348 of course, whose fit and finish can match anyones and is better than most. Great rifle! I had a Browning 53 and 65 made by Miroku; again excellent fit, finish and accuracy.
Browning and Miroku have been superb choices for my dad and I, but I've never owned an A-Bolt.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 38,970
Campfire 'Bwana
|
|
Campfire 'Bwana
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 38,970 |
Speaking only for myself here. I see browning stickers on just about every truck that looks like it might be a hunting truck.
I think that the people that sport these on their trucks think they know something about rifles because they spent a little extra for a shiny rifle that is expensive, and will likely never shoot at a deer with it at over a hundred yards. Orr it could be that they are fans of the very excellent Citori line of shotguns, which are a bit better than good.... I have said more than once - I would trade an A-bolt for a ham sandwich mae with bad mayo. Friend of mine is a dyed in the wool Browning nut, if it is Browning it is his, he even admits that his ABolt isn't all that great of a rifle. I can't imagine spending the $$ on an A bolt when just about anything else on the shelf is more inexpensive without the drawbacks. While I absolutely dote on Browning's design of the 1911 and Hi-Power, he would have a heart attack if he looked at the complication Browning is putting into their rifle line today.
Me
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 3,712
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 3,712 |
If Big Stick was opposed to A-bolts that is just about recommendation enough to go out and buy one!
I had one in .223 target model and it was excellent. As is my custom it got traded off in order to try something else. At times it is one I wish I had back, however.
I have a Browning Gold Medallion .22 which I am unhappy with because the clip acted up and then I found the company didn't provide support by maintaining a supply of replacements.
I have a 20 gauge Browning Citori (Sitka Deer - Clitori? Was that a Freudian slip?) It is my absolute favourite shotgun.
Back probably in the '70s for a short time I had a .270 BBR. It was one of the most ungainly rifles I ever owned so it went down the road fairly quickly. Mechanically I had no complaint with it.
Just my thoughts,
Jim
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 5,316
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 5,316 |
I regret that I wasn't able to meet this "Big Stick" character...sounds like he was the life of the party.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 10,936
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 10,936 |
I love my Stainless A-Bolt 260. Shoots friggin great, light and came out of the box not needing any work done to the trigger or bedding. Hunted with in in rain, sleet, snow and hot dry dusty stuff. Never a single hiccup. Magazine doesnt rattle at all. Done some low crawling with in in Wyoming sneaking up on an antelope, trigger guard didnt even break! I shoot, alot, never had a single problem with that gun. I do favor Rugers, but that A-Bolt is not a gun I am ashamed to own.
The only rifle I have ever owned that was a complete and total POS was a FWT M-70. I will never own another one of those again. Hey Hawk driver- 260 Stainless stalker - so you bought the other one Absolutely love mine. I did replace the trigger spring(so easy) and while I loved the feel of the stock -how anyone could call that svelt lightweight and NOT expensive rifle "clublike"...........I replaced it with a much more clubby B and C Medalist that is oh so consistant. The trigger breaks VERY cleanly. Extremely good shooter and the absolute perfect deer rifle\round for my needs. The short throw, slanted, bolt cycles faster than any action I have ever tried and allows for follow ups where others wouldn't. I love tha mag design and still haven't broken anything on it. I will admit to wishing it stripped easier for cleaning and will have to live with the stygma of not being a true rifle-man I guess..
When a country is well governed, poverty and a mean condition are something to be ashamed of. When a country is ill governed, riches and honors are something to be ashamed of
. Confucius
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 10,936
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 10,936 |
Not here to badmouth A-bolts or any other rifles.
In 1971 I bought my first Ruger. Bought many more since then, along with many other brands.
Over the years the Rugers stayed and the others went. For me, they fit right, work well and don't cost a fortune. Yeah -thank God there is no Ruger detractors -right? 
When a country is well governed, poverty and a mean condition are something to be ashamed of. When a country is ill governed, riches and honors are something to be ashamed of
. Confucius
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 4,124
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: May 2001
Posts: 4,124 |
My left-handed son has a Medalion II 30-06.I got good buy on it.Very Accurate. We were second owner.When we got ot,it looked a little rough for only being a couple of years old.But after one season,it looked much worse,and my son was easy on it.The factory gloss finish is much too hard,it shatters.The bluing wears off quickly,too.Except for the metric checkering which requires a single point,it's easy to refinish.
Last edited by downwindtracker2; 12/25/08.
You can hunt longer with wind at your back
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 50,169
Campfire Kahuna
|
|
Campfire Kahuna
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 50,169 |
This is actually a pretty interesting discussion. I can't really think of a Browning product that I don't like, other that the A-Bolt...and no, I never had anything go wrong with one. Some had more felt recoil than they should have (for caliber), and the others just didn't feel good. But then again, I don't like .270's either!
The only thing worse than a liberal is a liberal that thinks they're a conservative.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 10,936
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 10,936 |
will second the felt recoil on the Brownings. They are a bit lighter than other traditional rifles. Not enitrely sure but the butt stock might be a touch shorter. That is a bad combination when trying to avoid recoil and why I dislike most youth guns for young'uns. It resulted in a fast recoil. Even after swapping to a Sims Limbsaver the kick garnered some surprise in a few. Changing the stock to a B and C Medalist fixed that completely. It is still lightweight, just more pleasant.
When a country is well governed, poverty and a mean condition are something to be ashamed of. When a country is ill governed, riches and honors are something to be ashamed of
. Confucius
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 12,651
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 12,651 |
Speaking only for myself here. I see browning stickers on just about every truck that looks like it might be a hunting truck.
I think that the people that sport these on their trucks think they know something about rifles because they spent a little extra for a shiny rifle that is expensive, and will likely never shoot at a deer with it at over a hundred yards.
That's why I don't. But that's just me.
With the gay buckhead sticker on the truck. And it's made in Japan. It's marketing genius. That's just from where I am though. I perused this on the way to work this morning. The guy had a sticker on his truck that said "nothing kills a deer like a browning". I had to wonder why. But he didn't stop so I could ask him.
I guess the deer knows that the 150 gr. .308 bullet was propelled by a browning. If I told the dude it was made by a French company I would have to prove something.
Anyway, for some reason in south carolina Brownings are to redneck hunters what spinning rims are to our ghetto brothers.
Nice to see such a non-judgmental , unbiased, well-reasoned response. While I don�t own, or particularly care for, Browning A-Bolt rifles, I do own three different Browning firearms and love every one of them. These include a Buckmark .22 pistol, B92 carbine in .44 Mag, and what I consider to be the finest lightweight .22 semi-auto design ever, a Browning take-down .22LR. The Buckmark is stamped �Made in USA� and is very accurate and reliable, a great little pistol. The .22 and .44 are both products of Miroku in Japan and, in spite of not having �Made in Belgium� stamped on them, they are both are excellent firearms. You may find the Browning logo �gay� but I rather like it, even if I don�t adorn my possessions with it. That said, I do wear a beautiful, handmade silver belt buckle with a Ruger logo on it, and would not mind having a similar buckle with the Browning logo. I think the �gayness� of the Browning logo reflects more on the mindset of the viewer than the logo itself. I would agree the �nothing kills a deer like a browning" claim is ridiculous, but no more so than labeling Browning owners as rednecks or coming to the conclusion that Browning owners will �likely never shoot at a deer with it at over a hundred yards�. While I�ve never hunted down south, I have met many southerners while hunting my home state of Colorado and haven�t seen any state in the south where longer shots are not possible. Ruger, Remington and Savage rifles are more to my taste but the A-bolt owners I know think pretty highly of their rifles.
Coyote Hunter - NRA Patriot Life, NRA Whittington Center Life, GOA, DAD - and I VOTE!
No, I'm not a Ruger bigot - just an unabashed fan of their revolvers, M77's and #1's.
A good .30-06 is a 99% solution.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 5,316
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 5,316 |
will second the felt recoil on the Brownings. They are a bit lighter than other traditional rifles. Not enitrely sure but the butt stock might be a touch shorter. That is a bad combination when trying to avoid recoil and why I dislike most youth guns for young'uns. It resulted in a fast recoil. Even after swapping to a Sims Limbsaver the kick garnered some surprise in a few. Changing the stock to a B and C Medalist fixed that completely. It is still lightweight, just more pleasant. Make that another vote for the harsh recoil from the A-Bolt. They're typically on the lighter side which doesn't help with recoil at all, but I do enjoy the lightness when carrying.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 1,739
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 1,739 |
....I haven't read through this thread, but responding to the original question, here goes...The Browning rifles favor a more Euro style in an American market that has been 'owned' by more traditional American classic styling. The glitz of gold triggers and extreme high gloss finishes on the stock don't appeal to those who cling to the appeal of soft luster hand rubbed finishes. The newest rifle offering from Browning , the X-bolt leans even more heavily toward Euro styling. With the increasing success of Tikka in our market perhaps this trend toward more European styling will continue to gain market here..For me, the best of Browning's offerings are the Winchester re-productions they do from time to time. They build good quality, but for this old timer's tastes, they miss the mark...
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 265
Campfire Member
|
|
Campfire Member
Joined: Nov 2002
Posts: 265 |
The A-bolt would not be my first choice in a rifle because I don't reallly like how they feel when I shoulder them. But the people I know who own them are pleased with them. I've asked my gunsmith, who I believe to be one of the best in the Pittsburgh area, his opinion of the a-bolts and he has nothing bad to say about them. He has done at least two custom jobs that I know of using a-bolts.
I've seen every brand of rifle out there bashed at some point on the internet. Some seem to get more than others and the a-bolt is one of them. The only two rifles I've bought and not been pleased with were a model 70 and a model 94, both of which I sold. But I'd like to own another of each. They just aren't high on the priority list compared to some other rifles I plan to add to the safe.
I'd say if you like the fit and feel of the A-bolt over other riles you should go with it. I've never been able to "try before I buy" so they are all a crap shoot when you lay your money down.
"The peasants may be conned by every pitchman that introduces a new super magnum, but the members of the cognoscenti stick with classic calibers." Jack O'Conner
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 9,472
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 9,472 |
The new X bolts appear even cheesier and cheaper than the A bolts, which is nice.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 740
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Sep 2002
Posts: 740 |
What's cheesy about them. I've only seen one so far?
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 1,477
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 1,477 |
Boman,
Hold one and look at the metal used for the trigger, floorplate, detachable magazine, and safety - then you'll know what's meant by cheesy.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 1,477
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 1,477 |
Boman,
Hold one and look at the metal used for the trigger, floorplate, detachable magazine, and safety - then you'll know what's meant by cheesy.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 98
Campfire Greenhorn
|
|
Campfire Greenhorn
Joined: Mar 2006
Posts: 98 |
I own several Browning firearms, two of which are A-bolts. One is a Stainless Stalker in 300 win mag and the other is a 325WSM. Both of these rifles are very accurate and I have had absolutely no problems with either. The 300 win mag I have owned for over 10 years and have killed 8-10 elk and 3-4 deer, some close some over 300 yards. The 325wsm has killed 2 elk and 2 deer, the one deer was a lasered 445 yards. I also have winchester, remington, savage, sako, ruger, interarms etc. Most of these guns shoot as well as I can. The only gun that I ever had that I was never able to get to shoot well was a Model 70 classic FWT in 22-250 I tried many factory loads and at least 15 different handloads that worked in some of my other 22-250's and could never get it to shoot better than about 3" at 100yards. I also have other model 70 classics and pre 64's, and push feeds that shoot very well. So I guess the moral of the story is: Sometimes you win sometimes you lose.
Bart
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 32,312
Campfire 'Bwana
|
|
Campfire 'Bwana
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 32,312 |
The Citori Upland FW fits me perfectly; I'm on my second one. A beautifully made firearm. Except the plating on the receiver on my first one <g>.
I like BLR's for what they do, which is unique, but the glossy stock, gold trigger, BAD trigger... not so much. Neil Jones can fix those BLR triggers by the way.
My elk hunting bud Jerry has been dragging an A-Bolt in 338 around the woods for over a decade, no problems. We get plenty of harsh weather up where we hunt 'em. No salt though. Reading Sitka's comments, I almost wonder if they used a couple different types of steel for their trigger groups or something?
I personally can't abide by the Euro-styling of the A-bolt... about as non-classic as it gets, from an American perspective.
That they are made is Japan is a GOOD thing as far as I'm concerned. The Japanese know how to build nice things.
As far as Big Stick... the guy who gets banned from every forum he joins... who went and formed his own forum, where boys could be boys, which then had to be scaled way back once all his legions of enemies found him... and because, well, it SUCKS... this place is better off without him. Most of the guys here who live to degrade the quality of polite discourse, are associated with BS.
The CENTER will hold.
Reality, Patriotism,Trump: you can only pick two
FÜCK PUTIN!
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 17,491
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: Aug 2003
Posts: 17,491 |
Yup and they could learn a thing or two about steel.They've never been known for producing good steel. When I begin hunting moose in a few more days it'll be Rugers that go along for the trigger squeeze. Until that moment, however, the machinery spinning at 6000 RPMs will be "inferior" Japanese aluminum and steel, none of which has done that spinning and reciprocating in the two stroke motors of which it is a part for less than 10,000 miles. If that means they "could learn a thing or two", fine, but it sure won't be any Americans doing the teaching. "Good ol'" USA does not produce such product. I hate what happened before and during World War II, but if that hatred is applied to what happens now, then we'll be living in caves. Ain't much love to be found in humans slaughtering each other - regardless who's doing the slaughtering and who's being slaughtered.
Sometimes, the air you 'let in'matters less than the air you 'let out'.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 20,808
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 20,808 |
Bighorn75: Would the gunsmith be Bruno?
laissez les bons temps rouler
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 20,808
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 20,808 |
. Most of the guys here who live to degrade the quality of polite discourse, are associated with BS.
Low blow Jeff. At least when they have something to say you know who is saying it and whom they are saying it to. You don't have to read between any lines. You seem to be able to get into a disagreement with a stump.
laissez les bons temps rouler
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 5,316
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 5,316 |
. Most of the guys here who live to degrade the quality of polite discourse, are associated with BS.
Low blow Jeff. At least when they have something to say you know who is saying it and whom they are saying it to. You don't have to read between any lines. You seem to be able to get into a disagreement with a stump. "Degrading the quality of polite discourse" is simply punk-a$$ to me, regardless of whether you're arguing with a stump or not...
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 20,808
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 20,808 |
"Degrading the quality of polite discourse" can be fixed. Not sure if the same applies to "arguing with a stump." Addition to Jeff: I admire your enthusiasm and support of the hunting/shooting sports. We need more like that. But sometimes we just disagree and should just let it go after a page or two  .
Last edited by battue; 12/26/08.
laissez les bons temps rouler
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 1,603
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 1,603 |
Rahtreelimb, I think it is because they a Japanese made and IMO at one time they were very over priced for what they were. I never likes their high gloss finish. And they are a tad heavy for most folks.
Mine weighs in at a little over 8.5 pounds but that is light when compared to my Ruger No. 1B's that weigh in at 10.25 pounds.
I have a .270 Win A-Bolt that I bought used. The finish was in bad shape so I refinished it and glassed bedded the action and it shoots sub-MOA. With some factory ammo and my reloads. I have also had a 300 WSM in a A-Bolt Stalker. After over six months I sent it down the road. I never could get it shoot better than 1 1/2� groups.
Last edited by cole_k; 12/26/08.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 32,312
Campfire 'Bwana
|
|
Campfire 'Bwana
Joined: Apr 2007
Posts: 32,312 |
Fair enough Battue! :-)
I've had so many low blows from that crew that maybe I'm forgetting my manners.
By the way I get into arguments with stumps all the time, seeing as I heat my house with woodstoves and cut my own wood every year- but my Huskies and maul win the argument for me. <grin>.
The CENTER will hold.
Reality, Patriotism,Trump: you can only pick two
FÜCK PUTIN!
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 20,808
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: Jan 2007
Posts: 20,808 |
Good man. (And you can bust a nut with the best when appropriate.)
laissez les bons temps rouler
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 1,454
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: May 2008
Posts: 1,454 |
Not sure I want to get into this, but here goes... My gunsmith friend says there's hardly a mass produced factory rifle today that he doesn't see for repairs or fixin' of some kind. 3 of my last 7 purchases have all had SERIOUS problems right out of the box! That's 43%, and fairly typical according to him. An A-Bolt SS (LH)in 375H&H that wouldn't shoot anything into a group! I spent $175 on it, including bedding, trigger work, recrowning the muzzle... and finally cutting the barrel down to 22". That cost 150fps and no better accuracy. It went down the road! The bore was 8/1000" off-center! Just by looking at that 4" chunk of steel, you can see the bore was off-center! (BTW, I've owned a couple other A-Bolts that were VERY fast and Very accurate!) A Remington M673 in 350 Rem Mag... the chamber was UNFINISHED! Roughed out only and undersize! Had to be polished by my gunsmith! A floorplate that refused to stay shut and would pop open at the most critical times... like on a bear hunt when a bear was coming to my bait and it dumped the full load onto my plastic seat sounding like firecrackers going off!!! IT GOT TRADED! An 1895 Marlin in 45-70... The follower was bent downward and wouldn't cycle loads! Back to my gunsmith... he straightened it! So on... and so on...  Not a problem (so far) with my CZ 550, which I've owned for about 1 1/2yrs. 
Last edited by CZ550; 12/26/08.
"What shall it profit a man if he gain the whole world and lose his own soul" - Jesus
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 642
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Aug 2006
Posts: 642 |
Traded some Plumbing work for 3 A-bolts, a 7,.300 and .338 magnums, they all shoot under an inch, with the .338 doing 1/2 inch with the old 200 Ballistic tip,, I have never hunted with any of them yet, to many other favorites, but they all 3 have fast barrels and shoot very well, put the light trigger springs in and they run @ 2 lbs, will have to give one a go in the future
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 7,197
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Feb 2002
Posts: 7,197 |
Well, seems like I am going to buck the trend here. I have a few customs, lots of Rems, few Rugers, and mausers.
I have owned the following Brownings:
22 Rim fire
22 Mag
270 stainless stalker
7 Mag stainless stalker
The 4 above brownings shot with the bullets touching, and I never had any problems with any of them.
My 270, brother's, dad's, and friend's A Bolt shoots the 130's in 3/8"-1/2" groups with 58.0g of R#22 with a fed 210.
The 7 Mag probably had booked a 1000 miles or better in a scabbord on a Mule or Horse...shot the 140's in 1 1/2 inches at 400 yards.
I preference is a custom barrel on a Rem 700, but must admit that all the browning Abolts of mine, brother's, and dad's shoot where you can hit the MINI clay pigeons (2 3/4") at 400 yards.
Triggers are simple, just re-spring them and get them down to 1 lb if that is what you like.
The Browning BAR's with the boss on them can be tuned to shoot a single ragged hole, have seen this on 270's, 7 Mags, and 30/06's.
I find it hard to believe the ignorance displayed here in this post. It goes to show you just how little gun people really know about guns.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 96,121
Campfire Oracle
|
|
Campfire Oracle
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 96,121 |
"Dear Lord, save me from Your followers"
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 202
Campfire Member
|
|
Campfire Member
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 202 |
Forget it! Not worth my words.
Last edited by Kemosabe; 12/28/08.
"Necessity is the plea for every infringement of human freedom. It is the argument of tyrants - it is the creed of slaves" William Pitt
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 5,074
Campfire Tracker
|
|
OP
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 5,074 |
Rahtreelimb, I think it is because they a Japanese made and IMO at one time they were very over priced for what they were. I never likes their high gloss finish. And they are a tad heavy for most folks.
Mine weighs in at a little over 8.5 pounds but that is light when compared to my Ruger No. 1B's that weigh in at 10.25 pounds.
I have a .270 Win A-Bolt that I bought used. The finish was in bad shape so I refinished it and glassed bedded the action and it shoots sub-MOA. With some factory ammo and my reloads. I have also had a 300 WSM in a A-Bolt Stalker. After over six months I sent it down the road. I never could get it shoot better than 1 1/2” groups. The Made In Japan thing I just don't get. Tikka's sure as hell aren't made here but nobody makes comments on that. The fact that Tikka's generaly shoot well "out of box" I guess cancels that..........but it shouldn't!!!
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 96,121
Campfire Oracle
|
|
Campfire Oracle
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 96,121 |
Forget it! Not worth my words. Only move you had
"Dear Lord, save me from Your followers"
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 7,756
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Feb 2007
Posts: 7,756 |
I agree, You have one of these guy's in every crowd, theirs is the only opinion that matter's..Best to ignore these insulting comments................547.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 96,121
Campfire Oracle
|
|
Campfire Oracle
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 96,121 |
Agreed, especially with idiots.
"Dear Lord, save me from Your followers"
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 202
Campfire Member
|
|
Campfire Member
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 202 |
I think not. ps - To whom do you claim to be sending prayers?
"Necessity is the plea for every infringement of human freedom. It is the argument of tyrants - it is the creed of slaves" William Pitt
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 96,121
Campfire Oracle
|
|
Campfire Oracle
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 96,121 |
To all that need it.
Prayers sent!
"Dear Lord, save me from Your followers"
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 202
Campfire Member
|
|
Campfire Member
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 202 |
I bet you sit in the front row pew too.
"Necessity is the plea for every infringement of human freedom. It is the argument of tyrants - it is the creed of slaves" William Pitt
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 96,121
Campfire Oracle
|
|
Campfire Oracle
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 96,121 |
I prefer the balcony seats
"Dear Lord, save me from Your followers"
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 11,951
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Jun 2002
Posts: 11,951 |
The Made In Japan thing I just don't get. The "Made in Japan" thing doesn't hold much water for me either. Most of what we consumers use and drive comes from off-shore. Take a walk Thu Wal-Mart some day and check the "Made in" places there. Why not our rifles too? Saying that, I've personally seen the bedding pop out of two new synthetic stocked A-Bolts and hate that mongo magazine system they went to. For the average shooter who hunts a bit every yr, they probably work alright. I have a sporter in 22/250 that has been the most consistent rifle I've ever owned. It has lasted longer than almost every other gun in my cabinet and avoided sale because of its everyday accuracy. It fits me well and a 2x7 works perfectly on it. If it didn't shoot so well, I would have sold it yrs ago.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 2,677
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: May 2005
Posts: 2,677 |
I have a Browning A-bolt stalker 30-06, sub MOA with Winchester factory ammo, rivaling my Tikka 30-06 accuracy. My Browning has been reliable, no issues what so ever. I also have a B92 Centennial and a BLR 7mag. All are accurate, no problems at all.
Used to have a Citori, didn't fit me well, but it worked well. Traded it for an SKB. Had a BAR 7mag some time time ago. Super accurate for an auto, and NEVER a hiccup or malfunction. Point being, gee, I must have just lucked out....
Last edited by bearmgc; 12/28/08.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 10,936
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 10,936 |
bearmgc- do you like the feel of the Browning better than the Tikka? Try as I might I cannot warm up to they way a Tikka feels. Wish I could.
When a country is well governed, poverty and a mean condition are something to be ashamed of. When a country is ill governed, riches and honors are something to be ashamed of
. Confucius
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 5,932
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 5,932 |
[quote=Sitka deer]The model is responsible for more personally-witnessed in-field failures than ALL other models of rifles combined. Yet only a small fraction of my rifle experiences afield include A-Bolts.
Usually the trigger groups rust to a fixed mode and refuse to fire. Often they do it in just a day or two.[/quote
WTF are you saying. More mumbo jumbo from the ABolt Haters Club.
Beware of thieves, scammers and dishonest members on the "Fire" classifieds. Ya there is a thief here too. Whatever!!
They're all around the CampFire and everywhere.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 50,169
Campfire Kahuna
|
|
Campfire Kahuna
Joined: Oct 2004
Posts: 50,169 |
The question may have been more comfortable if it had been posed as "Why is the Browning A-Bolt Liked."
(At least then, nobody would have answered.)
The only thing worse than a liberal is a liberal that thinks they're a conservative.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 18,508
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 18,508 |
Having been on here for several years now I know that the collective force here are not enamored with The Browning A-Bolt.
Why is that???
I know no specifics other than they seem to shoot well from those who own them! I've owned a few. They have been dependable and accurate rifles. They have killed well over a hundred critters for me, so I got no complaints. JM.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 5,042
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 5,042 |
The only one I have any experience with is a buddies that I constantly work on ( his fault not Brownings) and load for. As Ive never carried it in the field the only real gripe I have is that the chamber is ultra tight and it doesnt always chamber my necksized loads.
The view one sees is his own
Practitioner of the ancient art of skank fu
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 2,535
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Nov 2008
Posts: 2,535 |
my buddy has an older one in 300 win mag he has used for ,deer,elk,moose,grizzly,dall sheep,he loves it had it for years.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 96,121
Campfire Oracle
|
|
Campfire Oracle
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 96,121 |
I don't dislike the Browning A-bort. Dislike is an active emotion and I don't have any desire to but any energy towards it.
"Dear Lord, save me from Your followers"
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 105
Campfire Member
|
|
Campfire Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 105 |
You put dozens and dozens of posts towards it.... doesn't that count as energy?
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 18,508
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 18,508 |
I was told that nobody should have an opinion on something without having actually used it, and on more than one occasion. Hmmmm... now where did I read that?
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 21,953
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 21,953 |
[quote=Sitka deer]The model is responsible for more personally-witnessed in-field failures than ALL other models of rifles combined. Yet only a small fraction of my rifle experiences afield include A-Bolts.
Usually the trigger groups rust to a fixed mode and refuse to fire. Often they do it in just a day or two.[/quote
WTF are you saying. More mumbo jumbo from the ABolt Haters Club. The A Bort makes the grade as a varmint rifle, IMO. The Abort 243 WSSM won't win the Wimbleton Cup., despite being favorably twisted; The only saving grace is its 22 Hornet Micro Medallion...shoots very well. More the tube than anything else, really. I'd not throw Art under the player hating club...... He's prolly seen more fail in the field than you've used; just a WAG on my part, but will hedge my bets....
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 96,121
Campfire Oracle
|
|
Campfire Oracle
Joined: Oct 2002
Posts: 96,121 |
"Dear Lord, save me from Your followers"
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 21,953
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: Jun 2007
Posts: 21,953 |
All I can say is enough thought they sucked enough in '08 to let it die then.......
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 29,383
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 29,383 |
I'm more selective on how I spend my money....A bolts are way overpriced for me...I'd buy or reccomend a Tikka/Sako or even something from Savage in a bolt gun...Marlin in a lever gun... Now that is funny recommending a Tikka over an Abolt and what SAko are you talking about...certainly not the 85 which sells in the 1200+ range or higher. I made the Tikka mistake one time and one time only. I have never ever had a single problem with a Browning shotgun or rifle with the exception of a B2000 which was a POS design. Ask me how many Remingtons including custom shop, Winchesters and Rugers went back to the factory or a gunsmith for work.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 21,692
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: Nov 2004
Posts: 21,692 |
Yup and they could learn a thing or two about steel.They've never been known for producing good steel. I think they had a pretty good thing going for their sword steel, but other than that, they weren't much to write about.
"The number one problem with America is, a whole lot of people need shot, and nobody is shooting them."
-Master Chief Hershel Davis
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 885
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Jul 2009
Posts: 885 |
i got one when the short mags came out in 270 wsm it shoots good but i dont like the stocks or the clips or u have to put it on fire to uload it but its lite and powerful package
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 863
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Jun 2010
Posts: 863 |
The triggers and clips are the pits , the 60 degree bolt is a nice feature , but nobody has copied it for some reason !
Don't forget to have your Liberals spayed or neutered !
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 105
Campfire Member
|
|
Campfire Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 105 |
Not trying to change anyones mind, but a couple of the criticisms I don't quite get.
Triggers are the first one - I run a Miroku M-bolt (Eurobolt action, released under the Miroku name for a few years) and the trigger is sweeeet. And I've had time behind some good triggers to compare it to, including a 54 action Anschutz. Maybe you guys get the lawyerproof version?
Second - that the safety locks the bolt and has to be in the fire position to unload. I don't see the problem. It's a detachable mag, why would you run the rounds through the action to unload? If I'm unloading a chambered round, is takes about a 1/5th of a second between flicking off the safety and raising the bolt handle. That's 1/5th of a second where the rifle is tightly controlled and of course pointed in a safe direction, with the finger outside the trigger guard.
That I can't unload it on safety doesn't exactly keep me up nights.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 3,900
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 3,900 |
I have owned a 25-06 A bolt II synthetic stalker and an A bolt II medallion in 300 Win Mag. Both had the BOSS system which makes them even more evil. They both were so accurate I felt like I was cheating. It made me a lazy hand loader. I pretty much picked a load that was the most efficient with the highest velocity and tuned the BOSS until it put five shots into one hole @ 100 yards. So, I have nothing bad to say about them. I don't know why I sold them but I did. I will eventually inherit my fathers A bolt II synthetic stalker in .280 Rem which he has had since they first came out with the BOSS system. And that won't bother me a bit.
Last edited by brinky72; 07/17/10.
Keep your powder dry and stay frosty my friends.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 242
Campfire Member
|
|
Campfire Member
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 242 |
I've hunted a ss A-bolt for almost 20 years now. It's been dropped, submerged, and taken apart several times each, and never once has it broken. Rust...not a problem. Pot metal trigger guard...not an issue (Are you driving tent stakes with it?) Made in Japan...so is almost everything else I own...that or some other country overseas. I've taken nearly 100 whitetails with the rifle shooting corelokts, and never once did I feel the rifle not do it's part. Don't have a BOSS, so can't speak to that. The factory plastic stock is as good as any other factory synthetic...few scars from falling on rocks, but still functioning fine. Shoots MOA with factory loads. Yep, I have a hard time complaining about a rifle that's served me well for that long. But then again, I don't get caught up in the labels or measuring holes in paper...just getting the job done.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 1,011
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Oct 2005
Posts: 1,011 |
I've hunted with a stainless A Bolt 270 since about 1986 and my experience mirrors that of Rusty25. A few years ago I bought a stainless A Bolt 7mm rem mag and it looks like a repeat of what I experienced with the 270. No problems, great accuracy, total reliability.
" A little solitude is a mighty precious thing "
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 1,653
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 1,653 |
I currently own 2 A-bolt Medallions (Japan made) and 5 BBR's (Japan made) and i'd like to see a better made better shooting rifle for the same money.They're beautifull,strong as hell,smooth as silk,and every one will shoot sub 1" groups with factory ammo.Anybody that won't own one cause it's made in Japan is doing himself a diservice.And one a side note,the constuction of these rifles saved me from big time injury when I fired a 30-06 rounf out of my 7mmRem Mag that my hunting partner and best friend had inadventently chamber that morning on the way to our stand.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 29,383
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 29,383 |
I currently own 2 A-bolt Medallions (Japan made) and 5 BBR's (Japan made) and i'd like to see a better made better shooting rifle for the same money.They're beautifull,strong as hell,smooth as silk,and every one will shoot sub 1" groups with factory ammo.Anybody that won't own one cause it's made in Japan is doing himself a diservice.And one a side note,the constuction of these rifles saved me from big time injury when I fired a 30-06 rounf out of my 7mmRem Mag that my hunting partner and best friend had inadventently chamber that morning on the way to our stand. Don't you know these guns are made of inferior steel A lot of steel that is used in the US is imported since our Major steel industry disappeared . I wonder if any of the experts that made that statement realize that.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 6,293
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Feb 2005
Posts: 6,293 |
Browning firearms are in general cheesy, gaudy, clubby designs. Yeah, all those High Powers, Superposeds, and Citoris are sure cheesy.
This is a shooting forum, there is no place here for logic.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 82
Campfire Greenhorn
|
|
Campfire Greenhorn
Joined: Apr 2010
Posts: 82 |
Superposeds, were very nice looking guns, but overall I feel Brownings are cheesy looking as well. I don't like the high gloss stocks and gold triggers, having said that Remington makes some ugly rifles too, but the 700 is a famous action and a favorite of bench shooters and custom builds. I've never seen a browning action as a platform for building anything. From a looks stand point I like the more classic and classy to my eye Ruger rifles, nice clean lines and an oil finnish on a decent piece of walnut.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 1,653
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 1,653 |
Comparing the looks of a Ruger over a Browning is like comparing a Steauk-umm to filet mignon,they're both beef but one came from the tenderloin and the other came from the leftovers.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 1,742
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 1,742 |
Comparing the looks of a Ruger over a Browning is like comparing a Steauk-umm to filet mignon,they're both beef but one came from the tenderloin and the other came from the leftovers. +1. I own Rugers, Brownings and a lot of others. Browning is hard to beat IMO.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 14,653
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 14,653 |
$10 says fellas2 has a #3 sticker on the back window of his ride.
your flippant remarks which you so adeptly sling
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 18,508
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 18,508 |
FYI, Remington was a co-sponsor of Earnhardt and made even more cheesy commerative firearms to cash in on his death.
JM
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 78,300
Campfire Oracle
|
|
Campfire Oracle
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 78,300 |
I dunno..I just never liked Browning because John Moses shoots them.... DOH!  Hes right above me in the post line! KRAPP!  Hope he doesnt see this...... Ingwe
"...the left considers you vermin, and they'll kill you given the chance..." Bristoe
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 18,508
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 18,508 |
FYI, I tried to buy a Rem. 600 in .308 this weekend from a fella. I shoots winchesters too.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 5,074
Campfire Tracker
|
|
OP
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Jan 2006
Posts: 5,074 |
Buy what you like and the hell with everyone else!!!
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 78,300
Campfire Oracle
|
|
Campfire Oracle
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 78,300 |
FYI, I tried to buy a Rem. 600 in .308 this weekend from a fella. I shoots winchesters too. I shoot alot of cheesy Remmys, and one cheesy Winchester...ohhh, the the T/C Icon Steelhead will never let me live down...  ( Its one of my faves, for shure... ) Ingwe
"...the left considers you vermin, and they'll kill you given the chance..." Bristoe
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 24,851
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 24,851 |
You guys are so gay......
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 78,300
Campfire Oracle
|
|
Campfire Oracle
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 78,300 |
Blow me.. Oops there I go again... knee jerk reaction... Ingwe
"...the left considers you vermin, and they'll kill you given the chance..." Bristoe
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 24,851
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: Dec 2006
Posts: 24,851 |
See your true desire is coming out.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 78,300
Campfire Oracle
|
|
Campfire Oracle
Joined: Dec 2008
Posts: 78,300 |
See your true desire is coming out. ![[Linked Image]](http://i560.photobucket.com/albums/ss45/thmsbrownlee/24HRC/post-22-1149053897.jpg) Ingwe
"...the left considers you vermin, and they'll kill you given the chance..." Bristoe
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 1,742
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 1,742 |
$10 says fellas2 has a #3 sticker on the back window of his ride. Hmmm?
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 14,653
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 14,653 |
FYI, Remington was a co-sponsor of Earnhardt and made even more cheesy commerative firearms to cash in on his death.
JM Maybe so, but I'm from down near Weeseeanna too and we both know Nascar and Browning Buckmark stickers go together like fried possum and sweet taters.
your flippant remarks which you so adeptly sling
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 1,653
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 1,653 |
Not in yours or anyone elses lifetime ! Most over-rated driver in history.Made a living and a reputation getting away with what everyone else wasn't allowed to do.The mans been dead for almost a decade,people need to get over it and his two bit driver of a son as well.I just know a quality fire arm when I see it.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 14,653
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 14,653 |
$10 says fellas2 has a #3 sticker on the back window of his ride. Not in yours or anyone elses lifetime ! Most over-rated driver in history.Made a living and a reputation getting away with what everyone else wasn't allowed to do.The mans been dead for almost a decade,people need to get over it and his two bit driver of a son as well.I just know a quality fire arm when I see it. My point still stands based on your irrational hatred of #3...just sayin.
your flippant remarks which you so adeptly sling
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 18,508
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 18,508 |
FYI, Remington was a co-sponsor of Earnhardt and made even more cheesy commerative firearms to cash in on his death.
JM Maybe so, but I'm from down near Weeseeanna too and we both know Nascar and Browning Buckmark stickers go together like fried possum and sweet taters. You eat some nasty stuff blue. You made a guess and I just replied with a fact. I apologize.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 1,653
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 1,653 |
Bluedreaux,still not sure what you point is ?
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 14,653
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 14,653 |
Comparing the looks of a Ruger over a Browning is like comparing a Steauk-umm to filet mignon,they're both beef but one came from the tenderloin and the other came from the leftovers. Not in yours or anyone elses lifetime ! Most over-rated driver in history.Made a living and a reputation getting away with what everyone else wasn't allowed to do.The mans been dead for almost a decade,people need to get over it and his two bit driver of a son as well.I just know a quality fire arm when I see it. My point is that this is reading like a scene from Talladega Nights. All those posts need is "It's in the Geneva Convention!" at the end. I was referencing the stereotypical southern hillbilly who rides around with a gold triggered, super shiny Browning in the gunrack and a Nascar sticker plastered on the back window. Then you come along in defense of Brownings and wigging put about some racecar driver. "Ironic" doesn't do it justice.
Last edited by Bluedreaux; 07/19/10.
your flippant remarks which you so adeptly sling
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 14,653
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 14,653 |
Wigging out, not put, but the editing ain't workin.
your flippant remarks which you so adeptly sling
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 129
Campfire Member
|
|
Campfire Member
Joined: Mar 2008
Posts: 129 |
I have owned both the A-Bolt and the new and improved X-Bolt rifle and must say I have liked them both. Haven proven to be very durable/dependable in my personal experience but with that being said they are alot of cpmparable choices for less $ but not ones that will appreciate in value like the Browning.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 3,900
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Aug 2009
Posts: 3,900 |
Maybe that's why I sold them both. Those friggin ugly gold triggers. I do remember painting them black because I just couldn't stomach them. I think they shot even better after I did that.
Keep your powder dry and stay frosty my friends.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 18,508
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: May 2009
Posts: 18,508 |
Comparing the looks of a Ruger over a Browning is like comparing a Steauk-umm to filet mignon,they're both beef but one came from the tenderloin and the other came from the leftovers. Not in yours or anyone elses lifetime ! Most over-rated driver in history.Made a living and a reputation getting away with what everyone else wasn't allowed to do.The mans been dead for almost a decade,people need to get over it and his two bit driver of a son as well.I just know a quality fire arm when I see it. My point is that this is reading like a scene from Talladega Nights. All those posts need is "It's in the Geneva Convention!" at the end. I was referencing the stereotypical southern hillbilly who rides around with a gold triggered, super shiny Browning in the gunrack and a Nascar sticker plastered on the back window. Then you come along in defense of Brownings and wigging put about some racecar driver. "Ironic" doesn't do it justice. How was Talledega nights? Only the rednecks around here watched it. How many rednecks do you suppose shoot a remington and have #3 stickers? Judging a rifles worthiness based on some hooplehead's truck sticker is a little junior high IMO. I see your point though, kinda like the "Everything is bigger in Texas" you occasionally see on monster trucks, which admittedly is true in some cases. The Davidian compound was quite large, so was LBJ.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 1,653
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Feb 2008
Posts: 1,653 |
My post wasn't in defense of the Brownings,it was merely a statement of what I owned and my experiences with them.I never mentioned anything about Nascar ot #3 until you did.I'd hardly be considered a redneck hillbilly being from Western Pa (not that there's anything wrong with it)and I sure didn't "wiggout" about Dale Earnhardt,just stating an opinion.Looks are in the eye of the beholder,and by the picture in your avatar,there's no accounting for your taste in dogs.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 29,383
Campfire Ranger
|
|
Campfire Ranger
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 29,383 |
FYI, Remington was a co-sponsor of Earnhardt and made even more cheesy commerative firearms to cash in on his death.
JM Maybe so, but I'm from down near Weeseeanna too and we both know Nascar and Browning Buckmark stickers go together like fried possum and sweet taters. To my knowledge Browning never had a # 3 in white letters on a 22 rifle or High Power rifle but REmington sure did and I believe Remington sponsored or still sponsors a NASCAR team. Rednecks prefer Remingtons to anything else by a very large margin.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 11,269
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Sep 2009
Posts: 11,269 |
Life is too short to hunt with Jap made Brownings.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 11,654
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 11,654 |
Bolt handle has a lozenge on the end of it.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 14,653
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: May 2007
Posts: 14,653 |
your flippant remarks which you so adeptly sling
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 1,263
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Jan 2010
Posts: 1,263 |
What's a Browning?
Scott
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 6,349
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 6,349 |
A Browning is what you put on an old muzzloader. A Remington is what your grandmother typed on, and what your dad shaved with.
I am the NorthEast WoodsBeast!
"System version 1.3, divorced"
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 11,654
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Aug 2002
Posts: 11,654 |
You know I'm joking. Nothing wrong that I can see I just don't happen to like the ergos. Kinda like me wearing some UnderArmour heat gear. Never happen 'cause I'd look like 10lbs of chit in a 5lb bag and be very uncomfortable.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 6,349
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 6,349 |
I actually like the fit of the A bolt. Hoping to get my 250-3000AI back from Malm soon after he heals up from his mis-hap.
I am the NorthEast WoodsBeast!
"System version 1.3, divorced"
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 8
New Member
|
|
New Member
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 8 |
Don't know what most of you guys have been smokin but I love my Browning A-Bolt .30-06 with BOSS. It is a handsome rifle and I can place a quarter over a three shot grouping at 100 yards. You like Fords...I hate em. I like GMCs. Potato..Pototo Tomato..Tomoto. So glad we aren't all alike.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 14,151
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 14,151 |
Well we're Green and we're Gold, and we play better when it's cold. All us Cheese heads have our favorite superstar. We love Brett Favre.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 105
Campfire Member
|
|
Campfire Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 105 |
DENMARK! Anyone else want to post a country name too?
Last edited by PaulNZ; 07/22/10.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 6,349
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Feb 2003
Posts: 6,349 |
I am the NorthEast WoodsBeast!
"System version 1.3, divorced"
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 4,902
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 4,902 |
All I know is my 15 year old Abolt composit stalker in '06 just put 4 of 5 in .68" at 200 Yards. The odd one out opened the group up to 1.25". This on a 95' day in Alabama. May not be a "rifleman's rifle", but it's accuracy just gives me so much confidence.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 1,477
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Jan 2003
Posts: 1,477 |
This debate reminds me of a literature professor I had in university. He said, "I'm here to teach you the difference between good writing and bad writing; I'm not here to tell you what to like. If you want to like a poem written by an old lady about her dead cat, you go right ahead, but that won't make it a good piece of literature."
Last edited by John_G; 07/23/10.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 412
Campfire Member
|
|
Campfire Member
Joined: Mar 2010
Posts: 412 |
This debate reminds me of a literature professor I had in university. He said, "I'm here to teach you the difference between good writing and bad writing; I'm not here to tell you what to like. If you want to like a poem written by an old lady about her dead cat, you go right ahead, but that won't make it a good piece of literature." Man, did I hate every lit class I took. What a crock. Pride and Prejudice has to be the worst piece of writing I've ever had to skim. Since we all live for a while and then die. I think good must be dictated by the individual. If someone thinks it's a good gun then it is. It made one person happy. Tom
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 14,151
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Sep 2004
Posts: 14,151 |
DENMARK! Anyone else want to post a country name too? Why you gotta use Denmark?
Well we're Green and we're Gold, and we play better when it's cold. All us Cheese heads have our favorite superstar. We love Brett Favre.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 105
Campfire Member
|
|
Campfire Member
Joined: Mar 2007
Posts: 105 |
No reason whatsoever - first country that occurred to me.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 5,932
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Jul 2004
Posts: 5,932 |
[quote=Sitka deer]The model is responsible for more personally-witnessed in-field failures than ALL other models of rifles combined. Yet only a small fraction of my rifle experiences afield include A-Bolts.
Usually the trigger groups rust to a fixed mode and refuse to fire. Often they do it in just a day or two.[/quote
WTF are you saying. More mumbo jumbo from the ABolt Haters Club. The A Bort makes the grade as a varmint rifle, IMO. The Abort 243 WSSM won't win the Wimbleton Cup., despite being favorably twisted; The only saving grace is its 22 Hornet Micro Medallion...shoots very well. More the tube than anything else, really. I'd not throw Art under the player hating club...... He's prolly seen more fail in the field than you've used; just a WAG on my part, but will hedge my bets.... I'd venture to say that he hasn't seen any fail in the field and the only thing you've seen fail in the field is your xxxxx. A classic example of being "turdlike" and a sample of one. Need to add that any of my cheesey, clubby and clunky Abolts will out shoot any of your cheesey, clubby and clunky Kimingtons at any range.
Last edited by AlabamaEd; 07/24/10.
Beware of thieves, scammers and dishonest members on the "Fire" classifieds. Ya there is a thief here too. Whatever!!
They're all around the CampFire and everywhere.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 584
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 584 |
If there's not a proverb about spending your time listening to other people's opinions versus figuring it out yourself, there should be one!!
My 30+ year-old A-bolt stalker in .300 WM is still puttin' them in under an inch. No failures from -20 degrees to 100 degrees.
My Ti A-bolt in 7mm WSM puts 160gr Accubonds in .75" at nearly 3000 fps. It's a nice gun to carry when it ain't flat.
Earlier this year I bought a double-abomination - Stainless A-bolt in .223 WSSM. It's a real PITA - I'm getting so many sub-half-inch groups (62gr Barnes TSX @ 3550 - 3600 fps) it makes 1" groups in my other rifles look silly.
I've only owned 3 Brownings. Maybe I just got lucky 3 times in a row...??? Only a few other rifles I have match them and NONE beat them. YMMV
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 10,084
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Feb 2004
Posts: 10,084 |
My 30+ year-old A-bolt stalker You must be lucky, you owned one before they were available...
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 584
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 584 |
My 30+ year-old A-bolt stalker You must be lucky, you owned one before they were available... I thought I bought it around 1980 - they had just been released. I don't have the receipt handy. Maybe it's only 25-years old....in any case I know it was a long time ago and it's a purchase I've never regretted.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 8,759
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 8,759 |
My 30+ year-old A-bolt stalker You must be lucky, you owned one before they were available... I thought I bought it around 1980 - they had just been released. I don't have the receipt handy. Maybe it's only 25-years old....in any case I know it was a long time ago and it's a purchase I've never regretted. Happens to alot of us, we lose track of time. The first A-Bolt Stalker (syn stock) was offered in '89 IIRC. Other than maybe the Weatherby Fibermark, it was the first factory synthetic stocked rifle offered to the masses. MtnHtr
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 1,742
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 1,742 |
I'm pretty sure the a-bolt stainless stalker was the first commercially available stainless rifle in 1986.
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 7,263
Campfire Tracker
|
|
Campfire Tracker
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 7,263 |
I'm just glad I didn't get that Buck Head logo tattoo on my butt.
"When you disarm the people, you commence to offend them and show that you distrust them either through cowardice or lack of confidence, and both of these opinions generate hatred." Niccolo Machiavelli
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 1,742
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Oct 2009
Posts: 1,742 |
I'm just glad I didn't get that Buck Head logo tattoo on my butt. Where did you get it then?
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 8,759
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 8,759 |
I'm pretty sure the a-bolt stainless stalker was the first commercially available stainless rifle in 1986. It was offered as the first commercially available SS rifle in 1990 no doubt. I won $1800 worth of Brownings in 1990 for snapping a picture in 1989: ![[Linked Image]](http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v130/MtnHtr/Project17-1-1.jpg) One of the rifles I won: ![[Linked Image]](http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v130/MtnHtr/Project78.jpg) MtnHtr
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 584
Campfire Regular
|
|
Campfire Regular
Joined: Aug 2005
Posts: 584 |
Was the composite stalker (not stainless) introduced at the same time??
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 8,759
Campfire Outfitter
|
|
Campfire Outfitter
Joined: Jul 2001
Posts: 8,759 |
Was the composite stalker (not stainless) introduced at the same time?? No, the first composite stalker (syn stock-matte blue) was introduced in 89, then in 90 Browning offered the same rifle in SS, dubbing it the SS stalker. I ran tang safety Rugers prior to these and the lighter weight, matte finishes and scratch resistant syn stocks were a welcome change. I also had a post Win 70 featherweight in 06 at the time, but these early synthetic stocked rifles won me over. I was used to scratched up wood stocks and the Tru oil routine. They were especially nice if you pack hunted back then: ![[Linked Image]](http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v130/MtnHtr/92Packcamp-1-1.jpg) Same hunt and rifle, 7RM SS Stalker ![[Linked Image]](http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v130/MtnHtr/Project20.jpg) MtnHtr
|
|
|
|
|
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 2
New Member
|
|
New Member
Joined: Jul 2010
Posts: 2 |
This happens with anything which becomes too popular: eventually you become a victim of your own success.
I don't own an A-bolt, so I don't have a dog in this fight... but some of you need to put a little thought into what your saying, because it's pretty illogical, as well as ignorant of mass market and industrial forces.
Example: Many people in this thread have claimed they "see buck mark emblems everywhere" or that "around here, browning is the norm" and statements to that effect. If this is true, Then it follows logically that a large percentage of failures they see will be with Brownings, simply by virtue that is the rifle most often used. Using this as evidence against the Brownings design is flawed logic, because the statistics are so skewed: there isn't a substantial sample of other brands to compare it against.
This is the same problem Glocks have: they are so ubiquitous that simple percentages dictate they will have more malfunctions - there are machines after all, and all machines malfunction eventually.
In reality it is most likely the case that the A-bolt is not significantly better or worse than any other name brand hunting rifle in its class, just as a Glock is not significantly better or worse than any other pistol its class.
Many of us like to pretend that out pet brands are somehow better than the others. This is not usually true, unless comparing apples to oranges outside of like categories (IE Huglu to a Fausti double gun); It's also a little juvenile.
I'm probably not going to make many friends here with the tone of my first post. Even so, this is how I see it. A gun is a tool; some are artfully crafted tools, and others are utilitarian. Neither approach to manufacture is a strength or weakness of itself. Any claims for or against quality should be supported empirically, and any comparisons made between like kinds; otherwise we speak idly and without point.
Last edited by Jimbo_Kern; 07/27/10.
Look out! It's coming right for us!
|
|
|
|
|
602 members (007FJ, 12344mag, 1beaver_shooter, 10gaugemag, 02bfishn, 160user, 62 invisible),
2,898
guests, and
1,232
robots. |
|
Key:
Admin,
Global Mod,
Mod
|
|
|
Forums81
Topics1,191,346
Posts18,468,775
Members73,928
| |
Most Online11,491
Jul 7th, 2023
|
|
|
|
