Hey all,

I currently have a Encore in a 7mm08 15" factory bbl that shoots mighty fine .75 @100yds.. But have been thinking about turning it into a AI... But my question is will I really gain anything goin to a AI?? Im currently running 139's right around 2560fps... Thanks

6.5 Bandit

Why not just rechamber it to a 284 Win. and save yourself expensive wildcat dies and the fireforming process. You will also get a noticeable increase in velocity. You should be able to bump up that MV to aroud 2700fps.

Ernie

I'd keep it and buy another barrel!

"I'd keep it and buy another barrel! "

No kidding! A factory barrel that'll do .75" at 100 yards is a keeper. Going to the AI version won't give you that much more. If you really do need more speed and won't get another barrel, the suggestion of rechambering to .284 Win is a good one, but I sure wouldn't do a thing to that barrel!

Tony D ><>

Thanks for the replies.. Think ill take the all the advice and just get another bbl in .284...

6.5 Bandit

Someone correct me if I'm wrong, but, if it's already a 7-08, then you can't make it a 7-08 AI.....from what I understand, the chamber is too deep on a standard cartridge to cut it to AI....I know in bolt guns, they remove the barrel and face off the chamber end....then run an AI reamer in.....giving a slight "crush fit" with factory ammo.....at least that's the way I understand it??

Yep your right,on the chamber. you'd have to go to something longer.
Rich Jake

Good point I never even gave that a thought... So that really gives me a reason to tell the wife I need a new bbl..

6.5 Bandit

Of course you could just have it rechamerd to 7-08AI and make long necked 7-08AI's out of 30-06 brass.

Why.... I dunno.

You could have it chambered in 7X57AI and bored for a rim and use 444marlin brass.

Albert