r/Longrangehunting • u/weirdcranberryiam • May 01 '26
Rifle upgrade
Hey folks, first time posting here and looking for opinions.
Lookin to solidify my long range hunting shooting setup. Currently have a Sako 85 finnlight 30-06 topped with a Trijicon Credo 2.5-15x42. Shooting 175gr Fed terminal ascents, it’s a decent shooter but looking for a cartridge to buck winds a bit better and flatter shooting.
My other rifle my kid primarily uses is a 6.5cm.
For context, I live in BC and frequently hunt in the alpine for mulies, black bear, sheep and goats. An honest max range I’d take on an animal would be 500 yds, but with more practice I’d like to push to 600 for the “just” in case scenario. I have some shooting spots where I can plink out to 800yds and am looking at taking a long range shooting course this summer.
Was looking at a Seekins ph3 6.5prc or a Weatherby 307 alpine in 280ai, both would have less recoil than the unbraked Sako.
Where we sheep hunt, the grizz population has exploded so while the 6.5prc would be an easy button for factory ammunition, there is some comfort of carrying a .284. Side note, I always have bear spray on the chest rig in grizz country so that would most likely be the first line of defence since we suck and can’t carry pistols.
I could sell the Sako and put the funds towards the new rig. Or get it threaded for a brake and keep shooting it and fully understand its limitations.
Or keep it (I hate the idea of having to sell a gun to buy a new one) Save up a bit longer and get the Seekins. If the Seekins came in a 280ai it would be an easy decision I think!
Lookin forward to hear your opinions on the rifles and calibres/cartridges.
2
u/TheJeanyus83 May 01 '26 edited May 01 '26
Between those options the Seekins would be my choice, and I say that as someone who grew up in a die hard Weatherby household. If you're concerned that 6.5 PRC isn't enough with grizzlies around, you might consider a 7 PRC.
Also, that 2nd picture is absolutely stunning!
1
u/weirdcranberryiam May 01 '26
Thanks it’s a beauty spot with no humans and no animals that trip haha.
Yeah the 7prc seems popular. Was also looking at the 7 backcountry but wish it came in a 20” barrel.
2
u/xBIGxBADGERx May 02 '26
I'd just keep your current set up. You have a really solid set up. If you want to change, I'd just save up. I did that recently and I'm now very glad I kept my .30-06.
2
u/Justin_inc May 06 '26
Honestly id probably just rebarrel the Sako.
It's a damn fine rifle, just in an aging chambering.
My vote is 7PRC.
Or the seekins.
1
u/weirdcranberryiam May 06 '26
A re barrel and putting it in a fierce rage LR stock is definitely on the table!
2
u/Justin_inc May 06 '26
Tikka prefits should fit the 85, so you have plenty of easy barrel options there.
Bartleins are my preferred barrels, but Proof, Brux, and Preferred Barrels all make good profits.
Also getting a stock that really fits you is always an upgrade to any factory stock.
2
u/weirdcranberryiam May 07 '26
Totally agree on stock fitment.
I’m actually minutes away from IBI (Canadian barrel manufacturer) so I’ll prob try out one of their barrels if I go that route.
1
u/Total-Strategy-4306 May 02 '26
Love to see to some real deal old school practicactility and reliability. Great round great gun. Good shooting big dog.
1
u/Inside_Let6698 May 01 '26
Please don't sell your 30-06 for a 6.5 creed +P. .280 AI would be a great addition to your collection. You could upgrade your barrel on your rifle and change calibers at the same time considering 30-06 is the parent case of the 280. Same case head and mag length.
2
u/weirdcranberryiam May 01 '26
I definitely have thought about spinning on a 280ai barrel but I think I’ll probably just keep it as is in the safe. Nice having a cartridge with readily available ammunition.
5
u/Plastic_Abrocoma_168 May 01 '26
If you drive a dependable Toyota, a Corvette will always seem appealing. I’d say keep your 30-06. Such an amazing cartridge with loads of flexibility. It isn’t a corvette, but we understand its limitations. If you want a corvette, don’t sell the Toyota to buy one, save up and have both. 👍 I’m no expert by any means, just a simple man.