Channel: @backfire
This video analyzes hunter feedback on rifle regrets, identifying common pain points that lead to dissatisfaction. Key issues include poor mounting systems (Tikka T3X Lite), lack of threaded muzzles, thin barrels (Howa 1500 Superlight), gritty triggers (Savage 110 Trail Hunter), excessive weight (Sig Cross), lack of adjustability (Ruger American Gen 2), and flimsy stocks. Despite these flaws, accuracy remains the paramount factor for many hunters, often forgiving other shortcomings, as seen with the Tikka T3X Lite's popularity.
This video features several hunting influencers discussing their preferred versatile cartridges for both general hunting and range use. Key cartridges discussed include the 300 Win Mag for its power and ammo availability, the 6.5 PRC for its balance of performance and manageable recoil, the 7 PRC for its flat trajectory and bullet selection, and the 6.5 Creedmoor for its accuracy, ubiquity, and affordability. The consensus leans towards cartridges that offer a good balance of ballistic performance, ammunition availability, and manageable recoil for a wide range of hunting scenarios.
This video details a One MOA accuracy challenge where shooters attempt to hit progressively smaller targets at increasing distances (200, 400, 600 yards). It highlights the significant difficulty of maintaining MOA accuracy beyond 100 yards, emphasizing the critical role of precise rifle systems, accurate ballistic data, and skilled execution. The challenge demonstrates that what appears achievable at 100 yards becomes exponentially harder as distance increases, even under ideal conditions.
This video debunks common rifle scope myths, featuring insights from John Snodgrass of Leupold. Key takeaways include that heavier scopes can be less durable due to recoil forces, environmental factors significantly impact zero, and reticle subtensions on second focal plane scopes are magnification-dependent. The discussion also covers rangefinder accuracy, the importance of lens quality over tube size for brightness, and proper scope ring torque specifications.
This review of the Weatherby Vanguard, specifically the Obsidian version in 6.5 Creedmoor, highlights its surprising accuracy for a budget-friendly hunting rifle. Despite a non-free-floated barrel and a stock design that isn't ideal for modern prone shooting, the Vanguard delivers excellent group sizes. The review details accuracy testing with various ammunition, long-range engagements, and a 'deadest moose test' to assess feeding reliability. The rifle is compared to competitors like the Ruger American and CVA Cascade, with the Vanguard praised for its Howa 1500 action and potential for aftermarket customization.
This review of the CVA Cascade Varmint Hunter in 204 Ruger highlights its exceptional value and performance for a budget rifle. The presenter, with apparent expertise in firearms, praises its smooth action, accurate shooting, and surprisingly good factory trigger, comparing it favorably to more expensive options. The video details ballistics testing, including velocity and penetration in ballistic gel, and discusses the rifle's suitability for varmint hunting and general use.
This video provides an in-depth review and testing of the new .25 Weatherby RPM cartridge, fired from a Weatherby Model 307 action. The presenter, with clear expertise, discusses its performance in ballistics gel, compares it to other cartridges like the 6.5 PRC, and analyzes its suitability for hunting applications, particularly for western mule deer and antelope. The review also touches on the rifle's features and the cartridge's technical advantages.
This video offers expert advice on avoiding common mistakes when purchasing hunting rifles. The presenter, with extensive experience, details six pitfalls, including not understanding product lines and specifications, falling for brand loyalty, prioritizing aesthetics over performance, choosing excessive calibers, opting for obscure cartridges with limited ammo availability, and accumulating too many similar rifles. He emphasizes the importance of researching specific rifle features, understanding barrel construction, and considering the practical application of a cartridge before purchase. The guide also suggests that investing in a precision rifle can provide a benchmark for accuracy and help diagnose issues with hunting rifles.
This video investigates an accuracy problem with a Browning XBolt 2 in 6.5 PRC, identifying a 1:7 twist rate as a potential cause for keyholing and poor performance with certain ammunition. The investigation involved testing the twist rate, examining the barrel, and consulting with ammunition manufacturers. The conclusion suggests a combination of an overly fast twist rate and ammunition construction issues led to the observed problems.
This review of the Browning XBolt 2 highlights its popularity among hunters but reveals significant accuracy issues with several ammunition types. While the rifle's feeding mechanism and build quality are praised, the inconsistent performance, particularly the keyholing observed with Remington ammunition and the potentially problematic 1:7 twist rate for 6.5 PRC, raises concerns. The Athlon Aries HLR 4-20x50 scope is noted for its excellent turrets and clear glass, though it's a second focal plane model.
This video provides a comprehensive ranking and review of various hunting rifle brands based on audience surveys and the channel's testing. It highlights Tikka as a top performer for reliability and accuracy, while cautioning against brands with high 'lemon' rates like Savage and Ruger. The expert discusses value propositions, aftermarket support, and specific model strengths and weaknesses across brands like Browning, Bergara, Seekins, and Horizon.
This video explores three distinct budget hunting rifle builds under $1000, featuring the CVA Cascade, Ruger American Gen 1, and Tikka T3X Light. The presenters debate the merits of prioritizing rifle action, scope quality, or accessories like bipods and slings. They conduct range tests to evaluate accuracy, reliability, and overall performance in simulated hunting scenarios, highlighting trade-offs inherent in budget firearm configurations.