I've been interested in getting a BAR, but I want one in an intermediate powered cartridge with a 22" barrel for a fast handling woods rifle that would still be comfortable reaching out to 250 yards if necessary. I want something with more power than the offered .243 Win, but less that the 270 Win, .308 Win or .30-06. They offer the BAR in .25-06, but it has a 24" barrel which, IMO is barely adequate for the .25-06 and makes the rifle longer than I want. The optimum, IMO, would be either the 7mm-08 or .260 Rem, but neither are offered with the BAR...

So, on a whim, I decided to call Browning customer service to suggest that they consider chambering the BAR for either of the two, and as it turns out the BAR Short-Trac will be chambered for 7mm-08 in 2009 (to be on the shelves before deer season next year). I asked if there were plans to offer the Safari grade in 7mm-08, and he said not now, but put it down as a customer suggestion so maybe we'll see it by 2010. I'd prefer the Safari over the Short-Trac, but I'd be happy with either in 7mm-08. And it appears I'm going to get my wish (thank you, Browning).

Mike