osmedicus
07-24-2004, 01:09 PM
I have recently begun the process of building a custom 257 STW. More aptly put, I have begun the process of having my gunsmith begin building a 257 STW. I have chosen to build the rifle on a Remington Model 700 ADL action. The ADL was chosen over the BDL in order to add more stiffness to the rifle. The extra stiffness is afforded by not having the gaping hole in the bottom of the stock to accommodate the floor plate mechanism. I chose the 700 action over the model 70, mauser 98, and a custom Montana Rifleman action. The main reason for choosing the Remington action was due to the inherent accuracy of the model 700 mechanics. Finishing off the rifle will be an HS Precision graphite composite stock and a 28" Leija stainless barrel with a #6 contour and 1 in 10 twist.. Rounding out the package will include a Holland competition recoil lug, blue printing, total accurizing, pillar bedding, and action steel bedded to the stock. Providing the sight picture will be a Burris Signature Select 4X-16X with posi-lock and ballistic plex reticle. I figure this package would be an *** kicking long range antelope, deer, or sheep gun. Of course it would leave coyotes, fox, and rock chucks atomized into the atmosphere. I’m looking for any feedback on the selections I’ve made and data from those who already shoot this caliber. My gunsmith also shots a 257 STW and achieves 3800 fps shooting a 115 grain Barnes X. The 85 grain pill can be pushed to 41-4200 fps. I’m only expecting 1100-1200 shots with this barrel but figure it’s definitely worth the time and money. Any comments are welcome! This post has been sent while on station in Balad, Iraq and I am anxiously waiting returning home to my friends and family. God bless the coalition.