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!

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.

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.

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

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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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..

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.

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.

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