I have heard that you could rebarrel an older standard length actioned rifle to a big bore.

The example I was given was a 7mm Mag to some sort of 416.

I ask this because I see all sorts of used 7mm Mags in my area.

What big bore calibers (I'm thinkin' 416) would be possible converting from a 7mm Mag?

Actions to look for? Actions to avoid?

Is a 416 Rem possible? Any others?

Hope I'm not opening too big a can o' worms.

For some reason I have a pathalogical hate for 7 mags so rebarreling to a bigger bore is something I heartily recomend

If it is truly a standard length action, than your easiest choices are the 416 Taylor and 458 win mag. I know folks seem to totally igore the old 458, but it is a grand round, and no ifs ands or buts about it being a big bore.

The next step up would be using something bases off of a shortened 404 Jeffrey or rem ultr mag case, and there are a variety of wildcats in .416 (Howell), 404 (.423" bore), 458 (450 G&A, 450 Vincent short) and now AR's own chambering the 470 AR. Most of these will feed equally well as the belted case and don't require the boltface or extractor to be opened up.

The next step up are shorted 416 Rigby or 460 wetherby based rounds, extensive magazine and feed work required, though you have the option of going up to .550" for a 550 Express.

Some std length actions can be easily opened to take the full length case, which makes the 416 rem mag, 458 Lott or 470 capstick options.

Just remember that some rounds require extensive magazine and feed rail/ramp work to get reliable feeding. Darn few smiths are up to that work, and the expense for it would pay for a new off the shelf rifle. Heck, for the price of a used rifle and have a smith fit a new barrel, you're often in the ballpark for a new rifle.

Just remember to total up the cost of re-barreling, finishing, sights, opening up the stock, and the parent rifle cost and compare that to a new CZ-550 big bore before sinking dollars in a conversion.

thanks for the feedback, Paul

I think I like the 416 taylor - I'll do more research

Contact Jim Dubell of Delta Gun Shop. He does reboring so he can let you know how big you might go with any specific contour.

His web site should be http://www.deltagunshop.com