24 May 2006, 20:51
verhoositzVanguard Barrel/caliber swap ?s
I got the DumbAzzed itch for something I can't really afford and am looking for a cheap fix.
I have clean used 300Wby Vanguard in a Dlx wood stock spotted for about $350 out the door. What are the issues involved and costs concerned with swapping out the barrel for a 416 Remington since both the 300Wby and the Remmy are based on the basic H&H length round?
I also have a M70 Classic 300WinMg SS/Syn...would it be a better donor to come out with a 416 Remmy...I know it would take a 458WMg barrel convewrsion with little or no alteration, but I seem to remember seeing some posts about needing to cut a notch in the ejector port and re drill the rear scope screw holes yadda yadda.
Or would it be cheaper and easier in the long run to just buy a CZ 416 Rigby and tweak it as necessary - glass bed the stock etc?
Since I already own the 300WMg if it is not converted, it, or my 9.3x62 CZ, will go across the pond as the light half with whatever I can come up with for a heavy half and I like the 416's flatter and longer range. Rigby ammo is a pain though compared to the Remmy's. If CZ made a Remmy there would be a no brainer choice. Any comments appreciated.
Ron
25 May 2006, 00:44
MasteriflemanLots of Pro's and Con's involved here. The Weatherby (Vanguard) action is certainly long enough for the 416REM and the biggest drawback I can see would be feeding. With the larger diameter bullet, I can see the case hanging up about 1/2" into the forward stroke. Considering that a good smith will get $125 to $300 to make it feed right and at least $160-to $300 cost for the barrel and $165 to fit it, at a minimum of $450 + $350 ($800.00) it's not cost effective. Take the $350 you would put out for the Vanguard, buy the CZ and pay for brass and come out ahead. Brass is about $33 a box so, 100 are about $165 and that is for Norma, just about the best brass available. I think the CZ can be had for about $1000 + $165 = $1165 - $350 (Vanguard) = $815.