I would like to convert one of my 243's into a longer range hunting rig. I want to keep it a 243 and use heavy hunting bullets. 26" barrel with a twist faster than 1-8. I would like to take more than 5 shots at a time before the starts barrel starts to walk. Have any of you done this? What barrel contour did you settle on? Thank you. Gary

I have a 6mm-284 that started out as a heavy-barreled 243 and was rechambered.
It will not stabilize a VLD but does wonders with 85-grain Partition bullets.

i have a custom 243 it has a lilja 1 in 13 twist 28 in 3 grove match grade in 6 contour it shoots 55gr nsbt at 4350ftps. very accurate havent tried any heaver bullets. its a little heavy to pack around all day,

I turned a Stevens 200 into this 13 lbs monstrosity:



100 yard round robin seating depth test.


300 yard group.


Stevens 200 CF action
Savage Pre-Fit .243 Win 26" Heavy Varmint McGowen 1:7 twist
Stockade tactical bolt handle, recoil lug, and lift kit
SSS Competition trigger
EGW 20 MOA base
Warne rings
Vortex Viper 6.5-20X50 PA
HS Precision stock and Savage bottom metal with detachable mag

Nice groups but I think that I want something a bit lighter so I can still field it ;?)

quote:

Originally posted by GaryG:
Nice groups but I think that I want something a bit lighter so I can still field it ;?)

I'd personally go 20-22", with a short shank, fast taper, and finish around .750" at the muzzle.