The $1,500 Mountain Hunting Rifle Setup Part 1 - The Perfect/Economical Elk, Sheep, Goat, Mulie Gun

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Cliff goes over the rifle build he commonly uses to setup lightweight and accurate hunting rifles for less than a total cost of $1,500. He has utilized variations of this setup on dozens of mountain hunts for bighorn sheep, elk, mule deer and mountain goats.
In Part 1, Cliff goes over rifle selection, installing a muzzlebrake, installing a forearm picatinny rail, and properly mounting and leveling a scope.
Gear discussed:
Tikka T3 Lite Stainless and Ruger American Predator Rifles
Muzzlebrakes
Hatch Bipods
Forearm Picatinny Rails
Leupold VX-3i Optic (Link Below)
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Below you will find Amazon Affiliate links to products discussed or used in the video. I make a commission from your use of these links, but using the link will not affect the price you pay for any items.
Leupold Scope VX-3HD 4.5-14x40 (30 mm) Side Focus CDS-ZL Wind-Plex
amzn.to/3TiphFH
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WATCH MORE FROM CLIFF:
Hunting Skillsets - • Hunting Skill Sets
E-Scouting Series - • E-Scouting
Hunting Gear - • Mountain Hunting Gear
Glassing - • Glassing
Catch, Clean, Cook Adventures - • Catch, Cook, Clean Adv...
Hunt Preparation and Logistics - • Fall Hunt Preparation
Hunting Horseback - • Horseback Mountain Hun...
Marksmanship - • Mountain Hunting Marks...
Wildlife Tracking - • Wildlife Tracking
PLEASE NOTE:
*Cliff no longer takes on new guided hunt or expedition clients. He sold all operating outfitting/guiding businesses prior to 2021.

Опубликовано:

12 авг 2020

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Комментарии : 253

@genericyoutubeuser1700 Год назад

Thank you for giving helpful instructions on scope mounting that consist of more than “this is easy, don’t think about it too much” or “spend $300 more on gear you’ll only use twice.” It’s clear the hunting industry has a captive audience willing to part with much of its money, but I don’t want to give them every dime I own.

@CliffGray Год назад

Glad it was helpful! thanks

@baby1971baby1971 9 месяцев назад

Still a great pump gun even though it is mostly plastic, ru-vid.comUgkxh4su9YgU1tWmjikirWcKJbjsFLEU62Bc but with care it will last a long time. It would be neat if Crosman would make a commemorative version of this with real wood stock, but of course it would weigh more and cost more, but hey, it would be cool. The included scope is more of a toy, but it does work for backyard plinking. I prefer to use pellets for greater accuracy, but BBs are just as good for plinking. This is not a Red Ryder folks; fully pumped it is 3 times the power of a Red Ryder and can be dangerous if not handled properly. Be safe out there.

@JohnLee-sq6ch 3 года назад

Great video. One of the best build video’s I’ve seen.

@CliffGray 3 года назад

Really appreciate the feedback, thanks

@principalhumancapital5373 2 года назад

This is an outstanding video Cliff. Thank you for posting. I have the Tikka t3x and have recently started hunting in BC. So many little tips and tricks you've mentioned here have helped me fine tune my setup. Using the magpul bipod on a sling stud, and a Swarovski 2.4-12 by 50 scope. Looking forward to part 2 : )

@CliffGray 2 года назад

👍great to hear it was useful!

@jmgates09 Год назад

How do u like the magpul bi

@chiliheadajfc Год назад

Another great video! Thanks Cliff!

@jamesmooney5348 2 года назад

Great video! Enjoyed it very much. I love Ruger American Rifles. I have a few and want to get a few more. Had a 300 blk out that was shot out. Put a 25" light varmint barrel in 223 Wyild on it myself. Got the go and no gauges from Manson reamers. Fixed 6x by swfa (moa). Shoots 3/8" groups at 100 yrds in either 77 gainers or 53 grain varmint rounds. Well pleased with. Now I gotta get my Boyd's stock installed.

@jacoboliver8316 2 года назад

For some reason I find this relaxing

@CliffGray 2 года назад

hahhaha!!! me too. Glad you enjoyed it.

@trevorgomez3343 3 года назад

* Browning X-Bolt Stalker Long Range 30-06. (Used) * Nikon Prostaff 4-12×40mm with a 4" screw on sunshade. * Bergara Omni .750 muzzle brake. *Butler Creek scope caps/ Limb saver Kodiak sling. Total $ 1,192.73

@tatsuhirosatou5513 Год назад

Ruger american predator 6.5 creedmor won its in raffle with a 24 gun safe for $25. Bushnell banner 6-18×50mm dusk and dawn scope $50. Weaver low rings $8. Total investment $83 and it shoots .44 moa at 350yds with hornady precision hunter 143gr

@Dave78Ivey 9 месяцев назад

Great video and channel! I have a Ruger American Predator in 6.5 CM for my 13 yo daughter. It puts shots through the same hole if you do your part. FYI you don’t need to pull the bolt back to reset the trigger, just lift it up then back down.

@41laureen Год назад

This is amazing! Loving it.

@timshapleyadventures Год назад

Well done.

@MrOlarry72 2 года назад

Great video Cliff!

@CliffGray 2 года назад

Thanks 👍

@othnielbendavid9777 2 года назад

Thanks for sharing! Blessings.

@xo200855 7 месяцев назад

Did you ever do a part 2??

@americansafarico Год назад

Thanks so much for this video! Now I know how to tweak my Ruger American!

@CliffGray Год назад

Glad to help!

@carypeaden4147 10 месяцев назад

Very good video. One thing you might should have mentioned is the scope magnification setting when adjusting scope placement. What zoom (min, max, middle) should the zoom be on?

@joelmeeter849 3 года назад

Great video, I have a Tikka T3x and a Ruger American and I would agree the Tikka is a much nicer action. I'm going to try adding a pic attachment for a removable bipod. I usually don't hunt with bipods but I can see the value of that set up with the removable bipod for for sure. I prefer a 3x9 scope, the 9x seems good enough for long shots and some of my elk taken in the timber have been very close, even for 3X. Looking forward to part 2.

@CliffGray 3 года назад

Good deal. I'll get the second video out here this winter! Thanks - Cliff

@flaganpetska6179 Год назад

I went with a javelin adapter for mine. I have the same peg on my bipod as I have on my tripod. So all of my rifles and optics will mount up to the same bipod and tripod

@youtubecomments5951 11 месяцев назад

After months of watching reviews I think I’m gonna get a tikka t3x too or the Bergara. Seems tikka is ahead though and gonna get my money.

@paulcox9366 4 месяца назад

Have a tikka t3 stainless in 243 for my first one.. I did buy second hand and it came with a Swarovski 4×12 scope all for under $1000. Very happy with my first rifle

@disposable_hero2748 11 месяцев назад

I’ve bought my first hunting rifle a few weeks ago. It feels like I’ve binge watched all your hunting videos in anticipation for my first hunt. 😮 I’m running 10mi/wk average supplemented with cross fit style training in preparation too. It’s given me a goal to work towards! Never felt better. I ended up buying a Remington 700 in 7mm, striker eagle scope. Just ordered a picatinny rail adapter and looking for a the right bipod. I’ve shot it at 100yards but will hopefully get an outdoor range membership that allows for long distance shooting soon. Thanks for all the info man! keep the vids coming 🤘🏾

@CliffGray 11 месяцев назад

Awesome man! Sounds like a good setup 👍

@mfallen6894 8 месяцев назад

Hey, good on you for getting in shape for the hunt! That's one thing I see so many people neglect, especially on their first hike-in/pack-in/etc hunt, and it's often overlooked by people giving advice to the new back country hunter. Stand-hunting for hog/white tail is one thing, going after elk/dahl/bear/mule deer in the high country is no walk in the park (literally...) Anyway, I hope your first hunt was a success and that it becomes a new hobby/way of life! Even when you come home empty-handed it's just so good for the soul to get out there and rough it for a few days, be it solo or with friends.

@disposable_hero2748 7 месяцев назад

@@mfallen6894 hey man! Thanks for the comment. It’s funny because I was out on my first whitetail hunt when I got the notification for your reply. Although it’s not anything like western hunting I’ve learned so much about scouting/topo maps/ using gear properly and shooting. I also bought a bow and have put in 20+ hours in the last month shooting in preparing for whitetail. Well yesterday was my 7th public land hunt on the ground with a bow of the season. I had a 4x4 buck within 25 yards on a bit of a decline and clean missed high and hit a tree behind him. It was devastating but glad it was a clean miss nonetheless. I learned so much from that hunt. It’s insane because I practice my 20/25/30 shot so much and got nothing but bullseyes. No matter how much I practiced it didn’t prepare me for the surge of adrenaline I got seeing that animal that close to me on the ground.

@disposable_hero2748 7 месяцев назад

Update ** harvested my first deer yesterday! Wisconsin public land with a bow on the ground 🙏🏽

@paultellier2147 7 месяцев назад

@@disposable_hero2748congrats!

@desperado8605 Год назад

Another trick for leveling the reticle is a stack of playing cards. First time I've seen someone do it with the light where I could actually see it done

@CliffGray Год назад

great tip!

@johnporter9752 11 месяцев назад

Amazing video thank you

@CliffGray 11 месяцев назад

👍👍👍

@Bladeunion5716 9 месяцев назад

I'm really liking the proof research mtr it's a little pricey though but lightweight and very accurate.

@BC-nz7gi Год назад

Gaining confidence through this build, thank you, I cannot find part 2

@CliffGray Год назад

Im still working on Part 2 - haha eventually I’ll get it out! Thanks

@freedomlover425 Год назад

@@CliffGray I'll be looking forward to it. In your vast guiding experience, how does 308 stack up for Elk?

@CliffGray Год назад

@@freedomlover425 There are better calibers for elk - 7mm mag etc... Below 400-500 yards, for a accurate shooter, .308 does a good job. Caliber available in tons of gun models, ammo available almost anywhere on earth.

@integgrity Год назад

@@CliffGray searching everywhere for part 2. Please let us know release date or link. Thanks

@abowhand 3 месяца назад

Never knew what the Ruger American zipper was until watching this video!😊

@garrettsoper5273 Год назад

Great video. Did this build in a 6mm creed swapped the scope for a cheaper Burris for antelope and blacktails. 1250$ all said in done I got some stuff on sale. Hitting steel at 700 yards. Then did a 300 win mag from bergara very similar for 1600$ 300 wm for 500-600yard shots on elk.

@CliffGray Год назад

awesome! good to hear your setup is working well

@codyhora7071 10 месяцев назад

Personal I would have tried to upgrade the stock.awesome video

@AZMarine513 2 года назад

I have a Ruger American Predator in 6.5CM. That little gun was very inexpensive and shoots fantastic. Arizona is legal for hunting with suppressors. Once you hunt with one. You never want to go without one.

@CliffGray 2 года назад

I hear you on suppressors! Sure seems like they should be legal everywhere

@NELLY-jg2rx 2 года назад

Cool video man, worth a sub I have a 300blk for white tail in Indiana and I love those rifles

@CliffGray 2 года назад

Thanks man!

@richardkramer1094 2 года назад

If I may offer a few other points having built a few hundred rifles. 1) Length of Pull (LOP) is something overlooked, off the shelf rifles have a pretty much standard LOP of 13 1/2 inches. That fine if you are between 5’8” and 5’9”. I am 5’11” and take a 14 1/4” LOP rifle to get the most out of my rifles. Rifle fit is essential to marksmanship. An experienced gunsmith cad simply replace your existing butt pad to adjust for your LOP for about $50 and you will see your accuracy improve with a proper LOP. 2) Leopold scopes are great and made here in the US. I only have 3 or 4 on my rifles. I prefer Sightron scopes, the S-TAC 3-16x42 FFP with a MOA reticle is my preferred riflescope. Why a FFP? Simply because when adjusting magnification the reticle shrinks or grows with the adjustment. This means the hash marks will always remain adjusted to the same distance at any magnification. In a SFP scope your hash marks are only good at the distance and magnification for which they were set which means you must dial your scope at that same magnification. If you need to take a quick shot you may not have time to dial a SFP scope but with a FFP scope your reticle is always set. FFP=set it and forget it, no dialing necessary. 3) It has been my experience that S&K Cone-trol rings and bases are some of the best there are for hunting. You can pre adjust your scopes windage by centering your reticle and adjusting the Cone-trol rings at the bases aligning your scope to your bore. Just a few tidbits of information.

@TheLbcool Год назад

I Disagree with you about the LOP, as you commented on a hunting rifle set up its worth noting that much of the rifles use will be during cooler fall temperatures; the user will be wearing a coat and often a backpack. having set many people up for hunts I have often recommended shortening the length of pull as it is less likely to get caught up on your backpack or clothing when trying to quickly bring the gun up. With everyone I have setup, I have never seen a drop in accuracy, rather the contrary much better performance. Again this is in regard to hunting, perhaps you are more looking at this from a bench perspective. Which brings me to my second point, there are many great options for optics out there, we truly are spoiled. But as this video was based on a mountain hunting rifle, leupold has the highest standards for ruggedness, it being well recorded that their torture test in house will break any other scope on the market. So maybe your sightron works great for bench rest and drive to a hunting stand. I agree with cliff that leupold is absolutely the way to go for a true mountain rifle. Leupolds do have their downsides and I do agree that ffp is preferable, but if I need to rely on an optic after packing all day and even taking some tumbles or slides there is no question that leupold is the best option

@richardkramer1094 Год назад

@@TheLbcool Valid points…but I’m not a benchrest shooter, I’m a hunter. Why in earth would I pay the labor for a Leupold when I can pay for the labor of the Japanese, which, by the way, supply Leupold with the glass they use in their riflescopes and who make their BX-5 Santium binoculars? I’ve never had an issue with the durability of a Sightron scope and some of mine bear the scars of rugged hunts. Top of the line riflescopes are priced in the labor to produce them and the highest priced riflescopes of European manufacture all use Japanese built equipment to grind and polish the glass for their scopes. My Sightron S-TAC 3-16x44 FFP scope is every bit as good and accurate as any Leupold I own and it is 3x clearer glass than any Nightforce scope I’ve owned in the past when compared side by side. The Sightron S-TAC is 1/3 the price of a Leupold…because of the labor differential. Check your bias, sir!😎

@sheerwillsurvival2064 3 года назад

Exactly right you don’t need to spend thousands to have a good rifle

@johnfrederikson2002 2 года назад

Nice work; thanks. J.

@CliffGray 2 года назад

You bet! thanks

@johnfrederikson2002 2 года назад

@@CliffGray You might want to try Mountain Tactical spring for your Tikka trigger; it takes it down to 2 lbs. You can get it from Mountain Tactical in Bozeman or from Midway. Very inexpensive mod for a Tikka. I have it on mine and it works. Thanks for the videos; they are good. J.

@CliffGray 2 года назад

@@johnfrederikson2002 ill check it out, thanks

@wolffo999 2 года назад

sweet !

@jamesbowie8874 Год назад

Great video as always, Cliff! Can I ask if you used the standard (27") hatch bipod or the tall (36") version?

@CliffGray Год назад

Standard 👍

@davidgreenapple9397 2 года назад

Outstanding video with all the right detail! I know it adds significant cost, but I changed out the Ruger trigger for a Timney trigger and put on a Bell & Carlson stock. I glass bedded my stock at the barrel / recoil lug and get consistent sub-MOA shooting. The B&C stock is beautiful too. Leupold VX-3 HD ($750) w CDS - lightweight and outstanding quality. It takes 2-3 months to dial it in for your load and then custom order the dial, so start the process in May - June. Puts you closer to $2,000 all in.

@CliffGray 2 года назад

Sounds like some great additions! appreciate the comment - super helpful for folks wanting to do some additional modifications. thanks.

@milo555100 Год назад

Where can i find the stock pic rail to replace the sling swivel? Thank you. Great vid.

@dkn2128 Год назад

Great video! Ruger American is quite underrated! Tikka action is much better! I use liquid electrical tape to hold the scope in the rings. Works really well, but I like the rosin idea.

@CliffGray Год назад

Great tip on the liquid electric tape - I'm sure works very similarly. thanks

@davidfarrell4289 25 дней назад

Cliff, please review the Rok Stock from Unknown Munitions!

@jeffersonsmith6109 5 месяцев назад

No part 2? It might have been nice to see how this rifle concept panned out. Great video anyways, as usual.

@ronws2007 Год назад

36:34 That is exactly what I do. Top stays with the bottom and in the same orientation. No mix and match or topsy turvy. And I buy matched precision rings, so, yeah, 150 ish but no problems later. You can have a fine car with a great motor and if you have the wrong tires, performance will suffer.

@CliffGray Год назад

for sure! thanks

@guidesoutdoors 2 года назад

Where do you buy your muzzle brakes? I’ve looked online and can’t find a place that has the multiport 360 in stock for a decent price. Thanks in advance and I’m really enjoying watching your videos.

@CliffGray 2 года назад

On those Rugers, I put a $25 AR stoner precision brake on. You will likely need a set of shims also, to get the timing right when you thread it on. I have all my tikka brakes made by a gunsmith. Hope that helps

@dustinhallett4160 9 месяцев назад

I’m using a mossberg patriot with a luepold scope

@BCvictoria Год назад

Current deer hunter is a Ruger American in 308. An inexpensive rifle and shoots great groups. It's not uncommon to get through and throughs at 150 yards, which is pretty damn good for a sub $500 Cdn rifle (that is when I bought it. I Think its closer to 650 cdn now). It's very light which is great for packing, but you definitely feel the extra recoil from that light weight.

@CliffGray Год назад

For sure - stick a muzzle break on it. Or a suppressor… recoil helpers

@PapaTannu Год назад

Its a great all around rifle. Personally I didnt love the angle of the stock grip so I picked up a magpul hunter american stock and it feels great. Also gives better placements for slings and bipods.

@captnd8107 Год назад

Excellent video! What is the final weight of this rifle setup after adding the scope and bipod?

@CliffGray Год назад

I’ll get it for you. I’m finally going to have part two of this coming out in the next month! I’ll put weights in there.

@markmartini8212 Год назад

Hey cliff, what magnification level is that scope ?

@snowypit 2 года назад

Thank you! I appreciate the wisdom on how to get the important things setup without getting suckered in to the hunting fashion show! What brand of pic rail did you add to the forearm? I have the same rifle and want to attach it that easily.

@CliffGray 2 года назад

I have used the inexpensive Seekins Precision SRS Picatinny Rail Bell & Carlson 2.5" rails without any issues.

@snowypit 2 года назад

I missed the seminar this year but now taking steps to get outside after watching the beginner hunts video! Starting with a hiking build up, angled mountain shooting and squirrels, then a boar hunt on a ranch. All the best to you, may you and your family dwell in the Lord's protection and peace.

@austinanderson8485 6 месяцев назад

Suppressor acquisition is pretty easy in the us just have to wait I would still recommend a supressor to anyone who thinks they ever have interest in one

@GostoFan Год назад

Great video, thanks. What are your thoughts on the Tikka RoughTech in 7mmMag for a mountain rifle? It’s about one lb heavier than the Ruger American in your video, but has a fluted barrel and factory brake.

@CliffGray Год назад

Looks like a great rifle. I have never owned one, but a lot of the modifications Tikka has made for that model are mods that I have made on my Tikka T3 lights. 7mmMag is a great caliber

@jmgates09 Год назад

The roughtek ember is a sweet looking gun wish I would have seen it b4 I bought my tikkat3x ss lite would have payed more at the time but would of left it as is instead of putting mine in a bell and carlson stock and chopping and threading the barrel

@jamesbowie8874 Год назад

Cliff, I'm trying to mimic your described setup as much as possible - I found a VX-3iii SF Windplex, so that's on the way. I already had a Tikka-T3x (7mm-08) before finding your video. What would you suggest for a pic rail for the Leupold scope and which rings would you recommend? Thanks again!

@CliffGray Год назад

Hi James, Talley makes a specific rail for t3s and they make great rings. I’ve used both with no issues 👍

@outlaw80178 2 года назад

Another great option is a savage axis 2.

@whiteyfisk9769 Год назад

No man...Savage is absolute dog crap these days unfortunately. Same as Remington, Savage is worse though

@cdmeredith 3 месяца назад

I know this video is a bit older, but appears the Leupold is no longer in production. Any suggestions for its replacement?

@TRyan3 Год назад

Hah, I did the same rifle etc. The RAP often needs the stock opened up at the forend to be truly free floated. Use a socket and sandpaper.

@CliffGray Год назад

Appreciate the tip. Thanks

@MAClegg Год назад

Cliff great Video. Really ties it all together for a new comer to the sport. I have the Tikka in 30-06 and really want to add the forearm Pic rail for bipod mount. I am a little unsure of my gun smithing ability’s. Would you say the Tikka is similar in difficulty of installation to the Ruger? Just want to get a idea of what I may encounter when installing on Tikka. Thanks for all the great videos.

@CliffGray Год назад

Yeah, just go little by little, measure twice, etc… You will be able to use the one sling hole, add one more. The stock tikka forearms are easy to drill 👍👊

@applejack815 Год назад

Where did you buy the shims?

@bofadeez498 2 года назад

Don’t forget about the Bergara b14 it’s a really affordable and accurate rifle

@flaganpetska6179 Год назад

They are just a little heavier than their competitors

@whiteyfisk9769 Год назад

Bergara were making very very nice rifles. The ones ive shot and owned that were made after 2020 have had nothing but problems in QC department. Its very unfortunate. Much like the Remington 700 they replaced, they seem to be going the same way

@jmgates09 Год назад

The bergara wilderness I have in 308 I've had no problems with bout the only rifle I've left factory I've got besides 22lr n 17wmr and speaking of bergara CVA is making the best budget rifle in my opinion that bergara barrel they shoot damn good

@mirmoney550 Месяц назад

Is that an 18” barrel that comes on the predator in .308?

@ronws2007 Год назад

Another good measurement in this build is spending at least as much on optic as you do on the rifle. Many rifles can average around 1 MOA but you need a good scope to get that. And like you said, the cheaper scopes are not going to be as accurate on the clicks or how the image appears in the glass.

@CliffGray Год назад

I agree! thanks

@brandonwalsh2804 2 года назад

What brand/model picatinny rail did you use for your Ruger American?

@CliffGray 2 года назад

I wasn’t too picky, just took my time mounting it. This was a Seekins rail from Midway.

@Patriot_-xe9qw Год назад

Shims are definitely a better idea for anything related to timing. But I am not a big fan of the muzzle noise b0m8 also called a muzzle brake. I’m not a small person, so I think I can handle the recoil a lot better than the average guy. I suppose there is a time or situation for a muzzle brake for some of these lighter weight people. Overall an excellent video Cliff.

@CliffGray Год назад

👍

@tatsuhirosatou5513 Год назад

@@CliffGray picking a muzzle break on a 308 just doesn't make sense in your context. A 308 with that short barrel is way to light to take those long shots so you would probably want to either take advantage of that break and go bigger or keep the 308 and restrict your range heavily

@Schmittywerben Год назад

Does the tikka t3x have a similar stock set up that allows for that short picatinny rail for the bipod or does it take some different steps to do this?

@CliffGray Год назад

you will have to add a rail on the forearm for the bipod. it's easy to do

@striderwolf687 Год назад

For the type of hunts you took folks on Cliff, what length of adjustable bipod would you recommend for elk/deer in CO?

@CliffGray Год назад

I like the ones that extend up to 26-28". That is tall enough to shoot sitting from (over sage brush), but you can still get them short enough for prone shooting.

@striderwolf687 Год назад

@@CliffGray thank you sir!

@mrmike1700 Год назад

Cliff what's your opinion on a .270? I have a thompson center venture in .270 with a 24 inch barrel it shoots 1/4 inch moa at 100 yards. I haven't had a chance to test it's long range ability but I'm curious is it worth trying because I can't find that much info about my specific rifles capabilities. Thanks

@CliffGray Год назад

.270 is a great caliber. I am not a big guy, sensitive to recoil. Before the days of muzzle brake popularity, I primarily shot the .270. To this day, I have killed more elk with that caliber than any other caliber. Many folks think it's too light for elk.... but accuracy is king. If you shoot a .270 better than a 300 win mag... even just a bit better... you are better off with the .270. Hope that helps. Good luck!

@mrmike1700 Год назад

@@CliffGray thanks it does help

@tfred2129 Год назад

We both know most of our clients will show up with a 300win or rum and will not shoot past 300 yards!

@weinerdog137 Месяц назад

Not past 300 is good! Always get closer.

@Paul-dc6sp Год назад

Just curious why so many people go with the Ruger American Predator with the shorter barrel over the Ruger American 22" barrel. I would think 22" gives better velocity thus better ballistics.

@CliffGray Год назад

Hi Paul, I get asked this a lot… sometimes even ridiculed, ha! On this subject. The vast, vast majority of shot situations on western game I’ve seen were sub 450yds, or could have easily been with a little more stalking. So is it possible to get an inexpensive, short, and light rifle together that can do that ethically. That’s all I was shooting for with this gun… it probably fell a little short… more like a 350-400yd gun. But man that short barrel is absolutely amazing to lug around… just easier to maneuver, strap on a pack, beat around with… that’s why I think you see it so often. For just practical applications in the mtns, I’d take 130fps less so I could get rid of 4-6” of barrel - any day of the week. Other folks will have different opinions 👍👊

@58harwood 10 месяцев назад

One click is not enough! After the first round, everybody gets seconds. This time around 2 clicks minimum, and 3 or 4 clicks won’t hurt! You can feel the difference in screw tension when you go back around for seconds!

@dionysis84 2 года назад

Tikka is literally twice the gun... action is light years above a ruger (i have both). Id spend the coin all day to to upgrade and then second twice that on the glass

@CliffGray 2 года назад

I agree that Tikkas are very nice guns for the money.

@ericb.4358 2 года назад

I HAD a 6.5 CM RUGER American Predator. I added a Timney trigger and a BOYD'S laminated Classic stock W/ metal trigger guard. Very accurate, VERY. BUT the damn thing had NO BOLT LOCK! I lost 2 cartridges while hunting and since there was NO FIX I sold it and bought a 6.5 PRC Browning X-Bolt Pro which I love. If you can abide the American's lack of a bolt lock then go for it B/C it has a lot of advanced design features and an excellent cold hammer forged 5R barrel.

@tealtazmanian966 2 года назад

I got rid of my Ruger American for the exact same reason. I had a sweet accurate 30-06 but couldn't carry it over my right shoulder or the bolt would open and eject a round...I spent way more money again on another Winchester with the 3 position SAFETY and don't worry about ejecting any more rounds no matter which shoulder i sling it.

@NCWoodlandRoamer Год назад

@@tealtazmanian966You made the right choice going to a real man’s rifle, the Winchester M70!

@trevorselch5574 Год назад

How close is too close to mount a scope to a barrel? Am I good as long as it isn't touching? I just used a spark plug gap tool to measure and mine is only 0.010" or 0.254mm.

@CliffGray Год назад

If it's not touching, its good.

@elkhuntr2816 7 месяцев назад

How do you deal with the increased noise of using a muzzle brake? I removed mine because there is no way I can shoot it without hearing protection if a bull or buck jumps up and I have to make a quick shot. I've done it a few times, and it is BAD for weeks.

@bspizzledizzle 7 месяцев назад

Hunting is fun, but who wants to be deaf for life. Take it off and deal with some recoil or save up for a suppressor.

@vincethewoodlander Год назад

Somebody may have asked but, was there a part 2? I'll confess I only dug around a little bit.

@CliffGray Год назад

Im working on it! Haha

@limonc77 Год назад

Hahaha I was looking hard for it!!

@jojo2891 3 месяца назад

What type of pic rail is that?

@golfnolsen Год назад

Nice work. This set up interests me for a future project. On a side note, this set up here in 🇨🇦 is about $2700 all in. That’s rifle is minimum $700 and that scope is going for $1300. Plus rings, pic rail, muzzle brake and entry level bipod.

@CliffGray Год назад

Inflation!

@UrMom_says Год назад

What picatinny rail did you use for the Ruger? I'd like to get the same one so the holes lineup like yours did

@CliffGray Год назад

Hi Landon, I bought it from Midway: Seekins Precision SRS Picatinny Rail Bell & Carlson 2.5" Hope that helps. Thanks

@UrMom_says Год назад

@@CliffGray thanks Cliff!

@jackbuendgen389 2 года назад

What's your take on cartridges for hunting the west? I just moved from MN to WY. I prefer to take shots with in 350 but want a fudge factor to 400 on elk. I like the 308 because it's so gosh darn available. But there are better performing options. What are your thoughts?

@CliffGray 2 года назад

Sub 450 yards, no one can argue that a .308 isn't acceptable. I've killed dozens of elk with a .270, because I shoot a lighter caliber more accurately... Admittedly I'm a skinny little turd that is recoil sensitive. Accuracy is king, and the majority of normal sized men don't shoot 300 win mags and similar calibers in light mountain rifle setups accurately. Too much recoil... usually resulting in subconscious inaccuracy. If you are going to shoot one of those calibers, use a break and other recoil mitigation.

@jackbuendgen389 2 года назад

@@CliffGray thanks for your input! I've been really enjoying your channel!

@timnichols3582 2 года назад

Try a 280 Ackley Improved. If you hand load you can get 7mm rem mag ballistics with a much more mild kick.

@terryslaton5582 2 года назад

Out West you want a flat shooting caliber that has energy when it gets there. If you reload look at the 6.5PRC ..if you don’t rl 7 mag is readily available on the shelf.

@boredboiseboy 2 года назад

Or just .280 rem! The AI doesn't really give that much more energy. .25-06 is a great western caliber too.

@chuck805 Год назад

Cliff or anybody, how do you keep your rifles non stainless barrel from rusting when it's raining? What about moisture getting between barrel and the stock? Does ruger American come in a stainless option? Thanks

@CliffGray Год назад

Hi Chuck - I don’t stop them from getting wet and rusting… I just make sure I get on it and clean them up asap after a wet day or trip.

@chuck805 Год назад

@@CliffGray ok thanks that helps.

@russellkeeling4387 Год назад

I didn't see you lap the rings. Even high quality rings will often need to be lapped. I also have had trouble with mounts and rings moving slightly even after torqueing on mag. rifles and break barrel air rifles. I apply a small spot of white out at the joint between parts. If a crack appears in the white out you know the parts are moving. I kind of question putting anything between the rings and the scope, as time passes there might be the possibility of "squash out" resulting in improper torque. If it works for you good.

@jamesmooney5348 2 года назад

Love the 308! So glad you didn't video a 6.5 C.R. for general elk rifle. So tired of it. Also building a Ruger American in a 30-06 Ackely Improved with a Boyd's pepper laminate stock with a 26" light varmint Precision S.S. barrel out of Apple Valley UT.

@phild9813 2 года назад

I love the 308 too. Might be my favorite round…right now. I’m also tired of the 6.5 fanboys, but also of the 6.5 CM complainers. I like the CM, and have 2. Definitely not the best elk medicine, and is certainly at the bottom as far as that goes, but it’s a fine round for what it is, just like every other round in existence.

@jamesmooney5348 2 года назад

@@phild9813 nail on the head

@flaganpetska6179 Год назад

Ruger American is fine, but I’d send the barreled action to be cerakoted

@JD83734 2 года назад

What rifle & optic do you recommend for 300WM?

@CliffGray 2 года назад

Same type of setup as I mention in the video. 300WM create recoil issues for a lot of folks, particularly in these lighter weight rifle models. However, if you don't want to carry a 10lb rifle up in the mountains you just have to deal with it via a muzzle brake or pad on the stock, etc...

@tjrich4020 2 года назад

Where did you get the hex bits?

@CliffGray 2 года назад

I just use high quality ones from Home Depot, Amazon, etc...

@diggernash1 7 месяцев назад

Needs an update. The Howa Carbon Superlite in .308 has redefined the factory mountain rifle. Around 1k for a rifle that you can keep under 6 lbs ready to hunt. Lose the rail, talley rings, develop an accubond or barnes ttsx load. I found a fairly mild load of 48 grains of Varget under a 130 grain ttsx to be a shooter and whitetail killer. I'd probably up the weight for elk or moose, but I do not have experience with those animals...I'd just be following conjecture. Go kill things.

@restedlis 2 года назад

Was the brake on your rifle made by Randy Selby?

@CliffGray 2 года назад

It wasn't, Can't remember where that one is from.

@russellkeeling4387 Год назад

I like to see you are aware of the Real Gunsmith. He went to school under a friend of mine, Bill Prator at Trinidad State Junior College. My father had the same teacher. Randy Selby knows that of which he speaks.

@llsnyderj Месяц назад

I can’t find video #2?

@mich5167 6 месяцев назад

Liked every thing but the rings, timney for the Ruger American or vortex pros are a much better value

@km6731 2 года назад

have you ever had problems with your scope loosening under extreme cold conditions due to the scope and ring metals contracting at different rates?

@CliffGray 2 года назад

I haven’t and I’ve had them in very cold conditions. I believe the key is to make sure you keep things aligned so your scope ring has uniform contact with the scope tube

@nated7373 2 года назад

Nice video, I have a tikka and Sako myself. But I really want to buy a Browning, based on you pro experience, does Browning has any potential problems? Why people always mention ruger and tikka, what is the negatives for Browning? Also, what is your opinion on using trekking poles as bi pod ? Thank you.

@CliffGray 2 года назад

On trekking poles, yes they work well. I mention this in a few videos, but I will use Quick-StiX with trekking poles on some hunt. They work well. Nothing I know bad about Browning... I just don't have as much experience with them. Generally, people are mentioning Ruger/Tikka because they both make rifle models that are cheap/durable/accurate out of the box. Hope that helps!

@nated7373 2 года назад

@@CliffGray Thank you so much for the information, looking forward to the part 2 video

@terryslaton5582 2 года назад

Tikka beats Browning every day...for 1/2 the cost...do your research.

@bigheadmarkie Год назад

Leupold no longer makes the Vx-3i. What is a current comparable leupold scope?

@CliffGray Год назад

the VX-3HD scopes are similar

@bigheadmarkie Год назад

Thanks Cliff ! Awesome videos !

@bigheadmarkie Год назад

Thanks Cliff ! Awesome videos !

@bigheadmarkie Год назад

Thanks Cliff ! Awesome videos !

@bigheadmarkie Год назад

Thanks Cliff ! Awesome videos !

@lyf45mo 3 года назад

Couple things I don't agree with, I am not going to hang a tripod on the front of a light weight rifle(that is just me)I also won't use a one piece Pic rail. I like to be able to pack the rifle by the scope.I don't leave the break on while hunting,a break that vents all directions will blow dust in your face in certain conditions.His choice of scopes is about the best you can do, on a 308 he could have went with 3X10 VX3i, that would save 3oz and couple $$.

@CliffGray 3 года назад

Thanks for the input. Everyone has preference on these things. Sounds like you have things tuned for your setup. Curious why you wouldn't consider a removable tripod for a lightweight rifle? I carry mine in my pack almost always, rarely on the rifle. I've shot many of these rifles with it attached, then over packs, on sticks, etc... very minimal poi change... .20 MOA at worst. I've actually found some extreme poi changes with break on vs off, hence I keep them on, perhaps the type of brakes I've used. Thanks for the comment. -Cliff

@wolverinekut 2 года назад

😎👍🔥

@josephking2055 Год назад

Do you see any guys hunting with AR15/AR10?

@CliffGray Год назад

There are people that hunt with them. Not very common in western states. AR15s due to the typical calibers they are in, are illegal in many states for big game species.

@onarampage247 2 года назад

Is this remi Warren long lost twin?

@CliffGray 2 года назад

bwhahahaha!

@onarampage247 2 года назад

Sorry I had to. You sound so much alike. I do have a legitimate question though. I like the budget setup. Why would you pick .308 or a 6.5 short action and why 2nd focal plane of the scope? I like to dial for elevation and hold for wind as well. Would ffp work better and if so what would be a scope you would recommend for a lighter weight hunting/ mountian rifle.

@CliffGray 2 года назад

Why I prefer 2nd focal plane - 1) I find it distracting for the reticles and hash marks to look different at low magnification vs high magnification. The difference can be extreme in 1st focal plane scopes, dependent on range of magnification, reticle type, etc... 2) Cost, 2nd fp scopes are more available and cheaper 3) Cranking your scope to maximum magnification is an easy habit to develop when you are setting up for long range shots. So, when taking longer shots with a 2fp, your hold overs using the reticle will always represent the same unit. On shots over 300yds, is there any valid reason to not have your scope at max magnification? I've had this discussion with range shooters quite a bit, and a lot of the time they argue "what about when you don't have time to change the magnification"... The reality is that in quick situations almost any proficient hunter I've dealt with reverts to body holds... They use the center of their crosshairs and hold an estimated distance on the actual body of the animal. Guys trying to dial or hold-over/hold-wind via reticle in time-sensitive situations almost never get it done... I'm not saying it's technically ideal, but it' reality. .308 because it's highly available and covers most big game animals in North America within reasonable ranges. Caliber has less velocity loss with a shorter barrel, i like the convenience of a short gun. Long winded man! my apologies. hope it helps. Might have to make a video on this topic :)

@jamesmooney5348 Год назад

remmi wishes...

@Robertlee530 Год назад

Where is part 2

@CliffGray Год назад

I have it 90% edited but need one more shooting session to get some footage I want to include. I know it is absurd it has taken this long!

@jamesmooney5348 2 года назад

What this rifle group at?

@CliffGray 2 года назад

That rifle is shooting .7-1” at 100yds, factory ammo

@nealwilson8741 Год назад

Why the muzzle break, I know you explained your reasons, eg muzzle flip but are you really taking two quick follow-up shots hunting? Second, I don't think recoil from a 308 is a big deal especially when you only take 1 to 3 shots max. Why am I arguing is because I think muzzle brakes aren't worth hearing the damage they cause.

@CliffGray Год назад

I wear ear plugs around my neck 100% of the time while guiding/hunting but understand your concern... it's real. For me, reducing rifle recoil makes me much more proficient. I shoot quite a bit so get trained to flinching quickly on even a .308. I actually think for people who shoot less, the recoil is less of an issue.

@chrismorlock2430 Год назад

Part 2?

@CliffGray Год назад

working on it. It's all filmed, just a done of editing to finish it up! I know, its been an absurd amount of time since Part 1

@chrismorlock2430 7 месяцев назад

@cliffgray you tease 😂

@andyclear6382 Год назад

What pic rail is that if you don’t mind me asking.

@CliffGray Год назад

The forearm rail: Seekins Precision SRS Picatinny Rail Bell & Carlson 2.5" Hole Spacing

@ratcamaro 2 года назад

Where's part 2?

@CliffGray 2 года назад

I'll get it up eventually! haha

@Canadianoutdoorsmen6 Год назад

@@CliffGray for the bolt trout where do you buy the metal one from to replace the plastic ones?

@CliffGray 11 месяцев назад

@@Canadianoutdoorsmen6 mine was from midway

@joshfillible911 3 года назад

Not a fan of the muzzle break on a hunting rifle I suppose if you hunt with hearing protection it would work. Personally I’m unable to use hearing protection about half the time I take an animal in the high country. Also, the added weight is not insignificant with that style of break.

@CliffGray 3 года назад

I gotcha. It's all give and take, personal preference. The hearing protection issue is the most significant con, something that you have to deal with. I grant it is annoying. Over the past 20-30 goat/sheep/elk hunts I've guided, I was able to get ear protection in without much of a blip... but that's taken me a long time to get second nature. When I wake up in the morning while guiding, ear plugs go around my neck at the same time I throw my watch on. I find that mountain hunters with super light mountain rifles are substantially less accurate than folks shooting heavier guns. I believe this is subconscious recoil sensitivity. They also have much more difficulty with getting second shots off, due to the muzzle flip on an unbroke light barrel. This is particularly the case with light, short barreled .308s. For me, a muzzle brake mitigates these recoil/flip/accuracy issues enough to justify it's weight addition to a light gun.

@jesseekeren2291 Год назад

@@CliffGray would like to see your preferred ear protection while in the field, maybe you have a video already. Just found your channel and enjoying it very much.

@CliffGray Год назад

@@jesseekeren2291 hey Jesse I have always used the semi disposable ear plug sets that are on a band you can put around your neck. Honeywell makes some. I ought a whole big box, went through a set every couple hunts. I throw them around my neck in the morning, right when I get up. That way they are always there. Hope that helps

@jesseekeren2291 Год назад

@@CliffGray awesome thanks Cliff!

@andersed1 5 месяцев назад

About the weight, you can get a titanium muzzle device they make for AR-10’s for under 100. Boo the NFA for making suppressors so hard to get. They reduce both noise, recoil, and muzzle flip so much better.

@scottkain7474 Год назад

Why 308 vs 300 win mag?

@CliffGray Год назад

Because I am too much of a weakling to handle the recoil of a 300 win mag

@jamesmooney5348 Год назад

@@CliffGray Even the recoil in the 30-06 with the standard Americans, is too much for me. And I'm a huge fan of the 30-06! And a huge fan of the 308. As well the 300 win mag. But my 300 win mag is 10 1/2 lbs, and I do enjoy shooting it with good form and a tight grip! I hunt with .284 and .308 cal's. Like Tina Turnner- Simply the best!