The article in brief
Discover the best weapons for long-distance shooting and expert advice on how to improve your accuracy.
- Bolt-action rifles are the undisputed queens of long-distance shooting
- The choice of calibre and the quality of the canon are crucial to performance
- A good optics and the right accessories are essential
- Investing intelligently and training regularly are the keys to success
Ah, my shooting friends! Today we're going to talk about a subject I've been passionate about ever since I opened my gun shop: the best guns for long-range shooting. Believe me, I've seen a lot of rifles come through my shop, and I'm going to let you in on all my secrets for choosing the perfect equipment for your long-range precision shooting sessions.
Bolt-action rifles: the undisputed queens of long-distance shooting
When we talk about long-distance shootingthe bolt-action rifle is the absolute benchmark. And why is that? Well, let me explain:
Choosing the right calibre: the key to performance
The calibre is like the engine of your car: crucial for performance! Here's a quick summary of the most popular gauges:
| Caliber | Effective range | Popularity |
|---|---|---|
| 308 Winchester | Up to 1000m | Very widespread |
| 6.5 Creedmoor | Up to 1300m | Booming |
| 338 Lapua Magnum | 1500m+ | For professionals |
I remember a customer who came to buy his first precision rifle. He was torn between the 308 Winchester and the 6.5 Creedmoor. After a long discussion over coffee, we opted for the 6.5 Creedmoor. A few months later, he came back with a smile from ear to ear, proud of his groupings at 1000 metres!
The importance of the gun: precision at the end of the barrel
The barrel is the heart of your gun. For the long-distance shootingHere's what to look for:
- A heavy barrel for greater stability
- Match" quality steel for optimum precision
- A suitable scratch pitch, ideally 1/10″.
- A length to suit your shooting objectives
Don't hesitate to invest in a threaded and fluted barrel. It may seem expensive at first, but believe me, you won't regret it when you see your groups magically tighten up!
Stock and trigger: comfort for the shooter
A synthetic or aluminium stock, adjustable and fitted with an accessory rail, is the must-have for the long-distance shooter. As for the trigger, opt for an adjustable 'Match' model. This will allow you to adjust the starting weight to your liking and improve accuracy.
Optics and accessories: essential allies
Now that we've covered the basics of the rifle, let's talk a little about what will enable you to turn your weapon into a real jewel of precision.
The rifle scope: your eyes on the target
Top-of-the-range eyewear means sine qua non for long-distance shooting. Here's what to look for:
- Variable magnification (e.g. 6-24×50 or 5-25×56)
- A 30mm or 34mm tube for greater adjustability
- Preferably a graduated MRAD reticle
I had the opportunity to test a telescope Stribog SR9A3 recently, and I have to say I was blown away by the optical quality. This really is competition equipment!
Essential accessories
To stabilise your shot and improve your accuracy, don't forget :
- A sturdy bipod
- A rear shooting bag to support the stock
- A laser rangefinder for precise distance measurement
These little accessories can make all the difference between a good shot and an exceptional one. Don't neglect them!
Tips for getting started in long-distance shooting
Ready to embark on your long-distance shooting adventure? Here are a few tips to get you started:
The budget: investing intelligently
Long-distance shooting isn't cheap, I'm not going to lie to you. But there are tricks you can use to optimise your budget:
- Start with a multi-calibre rifle and work your way up
- Don't hesitate to look at good used cars rather than cheap new ones.
- Invest in good optics as a priority - that's often where the difference is made
Practice: patience and perseverance
Rome wasn't built in a day, and neither is your accuracy! Take the time to learn the basics, understand ballistics and, above all, train regularly. That's the key to success in long-range shooting.
The last word
That's it, folks! You now have all the cards in your hand to choose the best weapons for long-distance shooting. Don't forget that the most important thing is to enjoy what you're doing. So choose the equipment that's right for you, train hard and, above all, have fun!
And if you have any questions, don't hesitate to drop by the armoury. We can have a chat over a nice cup of coffee, just like old times!
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