Understanding the Appeal of the 6mm BR Cartridge
The 6mm BR (Bench Rest) cartridge has solidified its place in the world of precision shooting. Its popularity stems from a combination of factors that make it ideally suited for competitive benchrest shooting, varmint hunting, and long-range target work. The 6mm BR’s design optimizes for accuracy. Its inherently balanced dimensions contribute to consistent bullet flight, while a relatively small powder charge allows for moderate recoil, making it easier to maintain follow-up shots and spot your impacts.
The cartridge’s ballistic properties are equally compelling. With a high ballistic coefficient, 6mm bullets, particularly those in the heavier 105-115 grain range, can resist wind drift and maintain a flat trajectory over impressive distances. This exceptional performance makes the 6mm BR an excellent choice for those seeking to push the limits of accuracy. It’s not just about hitting the target; it’s about hitting it consistently, shot after shot.
Why Convert a Factory Rifle to 6mm BR?
The allure of the 6mm BR cartridge is undeniable, but why consider converting a factory rifle rather than simply purchasing a purpose-built custom rifle? The answer lies in a combination of factors, primarily cost-effectiveness and access to a wider range of components.
Building a custom rifle can be a significant investment, often exceeding several thousand dollars. Converting a factory rifle, on the other hand, can be a much more budget-friendly approach. By reusing the action, stock, and potentially other components, the overall cost is considerably reduced, especially if you choose a factory rifle platform that already exhibits good quality.
Furthermore, converting a factory rifle offers greater flexibility in component selection. The market is filled with a plethora of aftermarket stocks, triggers, and other accessories designed to enhance factory rifle platforms. This allows for a highly customized build tailored to the shooter’s specific preferences and shooting style. For someone beginning the journey of long-range shooting, starting with a solid platform that they can modify over time offers a great learning experience and a more cost-effective entry point.
The Essentials of a 6mm BR Conversion
Before diving into specific rifle recommendations, it’s crucial to understand the technical requirements of a 6mm BR conversion. A well-informed shooter is a successful shooter. Several key factors must be considered to ensure a successful and accurate conversion.
Barrel Considerations
The barrel is arguably the heart of any accurate rifle, and its selection is of paramount importance in a 6mm BR conversion.
Twist Rate: The twist rate of the barrel is crucial for stabilizing the bullet in flight. Heavier 6mm bullets (e.g., 105-115 grain) typically require a faster twist rate, around 1:7.5″ or 1:8″. Lighter bullets (e.g., 80-90 grain) may be suitable with a 1:9” or 1:10” twist rate. The choice of bullet weight directly impacts the twist rate needed for optimal performance.
Contour: The barrel contour (its external shape and weight) significantly influences barrel stability and heat dissipation. Heavier contours, such as a bull barrel or a varmint contour, are often preferred for 6mm BR rifles. Heavier barrels absorb heat more slowly and are less prone to heat-induced point of impact shift during extended shooting sessions, enhancing consistency.
Material: The barrel material is another essential consideration. Stainless steel barrels are known for their corrosion resistance and are favored for their ability to withstand the elements. However, chrome-moly steel barrels can offer comparable accuracy at a lower cost. Barrel material choice hinges on your budget, environmental conditions, and planned use of the rifle.
Action Essentials
The rifle’s action, the mechanism that houses the bolt and allows for cartridge feeding and firing, also plays a crucial role in the conversion.
Action Type: Bolt-action rifles are the most common and generally the best suited for 6mm BR conversions. Bolt-action designs are inherently accurate and readily adaptable for precision shooting.
Action Strength: Ensure the selected action is strong enough to withstand the pressures generated by the 6mm BR cartridge. Fortunately, most modern bolt-action rifles are built with ample strength for this purpose. However, always verify the action’s specifications to ensure it is suitable.
Action Bedding: Proper action bedding is critical for optimal accuracy. Bedding refers to the process of precisely fitting the action to the stock. This provides a stable platform for the action, eliminating stresses that can negatively impact accuracy. A properly bedded action will greatly improve the rifle’s consistency.
Component Compatibility
Beyond the action and barrel, consider several other components to create a well-rounded rifle.
Stock: The stock provides the interface between the rifle and the shooter. Choose a stock that is compatible with your selected action and offers adequate adjustability. Options include traditional wood or synthetic stocks or even more specialized options such as chassis systems. Consider features like adjustable cheek pieces and length-of-pull to get the best fit.
Magazine: While some 6mm BR rifles are single-shot, allowing for precise cartridge placement, others utilize a magazine. Ensure magazine compatibility if you require multiple shots without re-loading. Feeding reliability is critical for a successful conversion.
Trigger: A high-quality trigger is non-negotiable for precision shooting. A crisp, clean break without creep or overtravel is essential for accurate shot placement. Many factory rifles have triggers that can be adjusted or upgraded.
Choosing the Best Factory Rifle
The process of selecting the *best factory rifle to convert to 6mm BR* is pivotal to the overall success of your project. Several factors should guide your decision.
Action Quality Matters
The quality of the rifle’s action greatly influences the rifle’s accuracy potential. A smooth, precise action is critical.
Bolt Operation: The bolt should cycle smoothly and without binding. A smooth action makes it easier to chamber rounds quickly and consistently.
Manufacturing Precision: The closer the factory’s tolerances, the better. Well-built actions generally exhibit greater precision, leading to enhanced accuracy.
Evaluating Barrel Performance
The barrel’s existing performance, even before conversion, should be considered.
Accuracy Potential: Although you plan to replace the barrel, consider the initial accuracy potential of the factory barrel, as the action’s quality will affect its ability to shoot well. If the rifle inherently groups shots consistently, this indicates a well-built action.
Ease of Replacement: Consider how easy the existing barrel can be removed from the action. Some rifles are easier to work on than others.
Cost and Availability
The budget and your ability to obtain the rifle must be taken into account.
Overall Project Cost: Factor in the cost of the rifle itself, plus the cost of the barrel, gunsmithing services, and any other modifications.
Market Availability: Consider the rifle’s availability, both new and used. Some factory rifles are easier to find than others.
Aftermarket Support and Accessibility
Consider the availability of aftermarket parts and gunsmith assistance.
Stock Availability: A wide selection of stocks, chassis systems, and other accessories opens customization options.
Trigger Upgrades: A readily available selection of trigger upgrades allows you to enhance your rifle.
Gunsmith Accessibility: Find a qualified gunsmith experienced in 6mm BR conversions who can accurately chamber the new barrel and bed the action.
Top Factory Rifles for Conversion: A Selection of Examples
Based on the above criteria, here are some of the *best factory rifles to convert to 6mm BR*, broken down into different categories.
Budget-Conscious Choices
These rifles provide a good starting point for the budget-minded shooter.
Remington 700: The Remington 700 is a long-standing favorite for conversions. Its widespread availability, the extensive aftermarket support, and relatively simple design make it an ideal platform. The 700’s actions are inherently accurate and are easily customized. However, older models may require some tuning to enhance bolt smoothness. This allows for upgrading the components over time.
Savage 10/110 Series: Savage rifles offer excellent value and feature the AccuTrigger, which can be adjusted for a light, crisp pull. Savage actions typically have a floating bolt head, which aids in accuracy. The barrel is easily swapped out, which reduces the labor cost.
Mid-Range Selections
These rifles offer a step up in quality and features.
Tikka T3/T3x: The Tikka T3/T3x rifles are known for their exceptionally smooth actions, excellent accuracy, and robust build quality. They are generally more expensive than budget options. They also come with a premium build that will result in better overall feel and performance.
Howa 1500: Howa rifles offer superb value, providing excellent accuracy and reliable performance. They typically feature a solid action and a good trigger. Their readily available after-market parts and accessories make it great for conversions.
Premium Options for Performance
These rifles deliver outstanding performance and quality.
Bergara B-14 Series: Bergara rifles are renowned for their high-quality barrels and accurate actions. The B-14 series offer exceptional value for the performance, often featuring pre-fit barrels that simplify the conversion process.
The Conversion Process: A Brief Overview
While the conversion process should always be performed by a qualified gunsmith, here’s a simplified breakdown of the steps involved:
Barrel Removal: The gunsmith removes the existing factory barrel, a critical step that requires specialized tools and experience.
Action Preparation: The action may need to be cleaned, inspected, and possibly trued to ensure precise alignment.
New Barrel Installation: The gunsmith will carefully chamber the new 6mm BR barrel and install it on the action. This requires precise measurements and expertise.
Stocking the Rifle: This step might involve a stock or chassis replacement.
Trigger Improvements: The trigger may be tuned.
Bedding: The gunsmith will bed the action to the stock to ensure a solid, consistent platform.
Post-Conversion Considerations
Once the conversion is complete, several steps are necessary for optimal performance.
Break-In: Break-in procedures are essential to season the new barrel and help it achieve its maximum accuracy potential. This involves gradually firing rounds, cleaning after each shot, and monitoring group size.
Load Development: Load development is a crucial process. Work through various powder, bullet, and seating depth combinations to find the optimal load for your rifle.
Maintenance: Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial for preserving the rifle’s accuracy and longevity.
Conclusion
Choosing the *best factory rifle to convert to 6mm BR* is a rewarding endeavor. The right factory rifle can be the foundation for a rifle with exceptional accuracy and great performance. The best rifle for you will be determined by your budget, your preferred action, and the availability of gunsmith services and aftermarket parts in your area. Thorough research and consulting with experienced professionals are key to ensuring a successful and accurate 6mm BR conversion. Enjoy the journey of crafting a rifle tailor-made for your shooting pursuits!
