I posted briefly about 4 or 5 weeks ago with some pictures of my rifle, and I wanted to do a formal review.
The build took a longer time than what I think the shop normally quotes due to the fact this was during a transitional period from when Fred left until Nick began. So the time the rifle was in the shop was about 8 months. They gave me every opportunity to pick it up and find a different shop, but to be honest I really wanted Fred to do the build, and not knowing anyone else, I decided to stick with them, I figured they want a good product too, as it is their reputation after all. In the end, I was a little bit concerned that I didn't know what I was going to get in the final product.
As the weeks and months went by, I gradually supplied all the parts from the base Remington 700, to the Benchmark barrel, Timney trigger, etc. The shop ordered the new large fluted bolt from PT&G. I paid up front for the cost of the bolt, which was expected, but damn, it took 3 months or so for the bolt to arrive at the shop, each one is built to order.
I think I might have pestered them quite a bit, It got to a point where Josh recognized my phone number and he knew me by name, not sure if that's really a bad thing :)
I FINALLY received the call that it was ready late March. Aside from the fact that the rifle ended up costing way more than I intended, it is #&%@'ing beautiful! I told my wife the total $$$ I'm into this for and she was like WTF, but she just got a new car, so she quickly dropped it, thank God :)
Anyway, I was out shooting today and thought I'd share my best target so far, keep in mind, I'm still new to this, so this is only a 100 yard target, but it's a cloverleaf.
I also wanted to give my thumbs up to the guys at C.a.R they did a fantastic job, and I wouldn't hesitate to work with them again. I did have some other issues with them during this whole process, but I've decided to look past them. I just hope the timetable is more in my favor next time. Again, my situation was unique because of the transition and staffing issues, but that aside, based on the quality of work, I'd gladly give them an A for delivering a kick ass rifle.
Build list:
Remington 700 SPS short action receiver in .308
Benchmark stainless steel barrel 24 inch 1/10 twist
Benchmark muzzle brake
Timney 2 stage Calvin Elite trigger flat fased
MDT ESS chassis in fde
Athlon Argos 6x24x50 ffp optic
Burris Xtreme rings
EGW 20MOA pic rail
PT&G large fluted bolt with Badger Ordinance bolt knob
cheap bubble level
Upgraded carbon fiber forend and cheek riser
Accu Tac LR10 bipod
Pete