Browning BLR in .308?
 

I'm new to the site and have my first question. I currently own a A-bolt in 30-06 and have been wanting something a little lighter/quicker for MI deer/bear hunting. I've been thinking of getting a 7mm-08, but recently came across an older used Browning BLR (has the straight stock and steel receiver) in .308 for $400.

It sure seems like a sweet gun for the price. Does anyone have any experience with this gun in .308? Or should I wait and save my $$$ for a Remington model 7 in 7mm-08?

Thanks!

RE: Browning BLR in .308?
 

Sounds like a BRN mod 81. The more modern 81's have aluminum recievers and sell Newbetween $650 and $700. If I had to pick, I'd go with the Rem mod7 7-08.

RE: Browning BLR in .308?
 

I have an old BLR in 308. It shoots very well for a lever gun. I used it to hunt hogs from a horse years ago but rarely take it out now.I'll probably never part with it.

RE: Browning BLR in .308?
 

If you are looking for "somthing lighter and quicker" for deer and bear at close range in thick cover, the short levergun in .308 will be great.

I have a Sav. 99 in .300 sav. for the same kind of duties.

The model 7 is maybe short and light but it is still a bolt gun. I know in a perfect world the first shot should be accurate and all you need. But in the real world, in the bush, when a buck jumps up in front of me I want to get on him fast and shoot as many well aimed accurate shots as I can in as short a period as I can.

Robin down under

RE: Browning BLR in .308?
 

I agree with DUFFY...

You can't go wrong with the lever action for quick and accurate shots. The model 7 is a good gun and nice to look at and all, but you want light and quick for your hunting(deer/bear).

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RE: Browning BLR in .308?
 

I ended up getting the gun - I cannot wait to shoot it. I'm looking at scopes now - thinking of getting the Nikkon 4x40 for it. Any other ideas? Also - what ammo shoots well? I bought 40 rounds of 150 grain Federal sp for sighting in..

RE: Browning BLR in .308?
 

I have owned a couple of BLR's myself and I think you won't regret the purchase. As for scopes you want something like a Leupold VXI 1x4 variable.

RE: Browning BLR in .308?
 

tqilson

I would put a low power variable on it and carry it set on the lowest power. That adds to the quick pointing, quick getting on target charicteristics of the rifle. Even a 4 power is a little high for this use.

Robin down under.

RE: Browning BLR in .308?
 

Nikon Monarch Gold, 1.5-6X42. A little pricey, but one sweet scope.

RE: Browning BLR in .308?
 

My stepfather has older BLRs in 308 and 243. I used one a couple of years ago when I was having problems with one of my rifles. I took a good eight point that day and he didn't go far (five feet). They are easy to handle, point well (which is a plus in thick woods where you might only get a quick shot),and get the job done.

RE: Browning BLR in .308?
 

I have the BLR 81 in .308 and I like it very much. Pretty accurate, quick handling and light. I have a Weaver K2.5 power scope on it. Its very bright and has a wide field of view. The scope is however limiting for distances, but this is my "bush" gun. I'm sure you'll enjoy it.

RE: Browning BLR in .308?
 

I stopped by Cabela's on my way home from work tonight to pick up the best "cheap" scope I could find. I looked at several scopes (Bushnell, Tasco, Simmons...) and ended up getting a Nikon Pro Staff 2x7. For the price ($129) it blew all the others away - I may not even replace it with another higher end model. I cannot wait to hit the range this weekend!