Browning BAR accuracy potential?
I am left-handed and would consider the Browning BARs, whether they are lefthanded, or possibly right-handed as well. My questions are:
1. What is the accuracy potential of these, in general? Is there any difference in the older models that were made in Belgium, and the new models with regard to accuracy? I consider 1 to 1.25 MOA quite good for larger calibers such as 7mm Remington Magnum, 300 Winchester Magnum, and .338 Winchester Magnum, but would want 1 MOA or better for something like a .243.
2. Does the stock have a cant or is it neutral. What I am getting at is whether I could use the right-handed models as easily as a left-handed model, or is the stock set up for a right-handed shooter with some cant to it?
1. What is the accuracy potential of these, in general? Is there any difference in the older models that were made in Belgium, and the new models with regard to accuracy? I consider 1 to 1.25 MOA quite good for larger calibers such as 7mm Remington Magnum, 300 Winchester Magnum, and .338 Winchester Magnum, but would want 1 MOA or better for something like a .243.
2. Does the stock have a cant or is it neutral. What I am getting at is whether I could use the right-handed models as easily as a left-handed model, or is the stock set up for a right-handed shooter with some cant to it?
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I've had half a dozen or so of these since buying the first one in 30-06 in 1968. Most have been Belgian guns but I think the Japanese one's are equally accurate. All the ones I've had, except for a 338 Win Mag, were in the accuracy range you mention; an inch to 1.5 at 100 yards. The 338 was more in the 3 MOA range but I never really tried to tweak it to improve it. The BARs, in my experience, are accurate out of the box and are better in that respect than other semi-autos I've used. Can't offer much useful info as to your left vs right hand fit question. I think the stocks are "neutral" in terms of cant but never really tried to assess that. I'd say try one for fit and I'm pretty sure you'll find the accuracy acceptable. 0 -
I have an older Belgian BAR in .243. It will hold 5 shots in a nickel at 100 yards, consistently. 0 -
I had a BAR in 338 Winchester Magnum. I LOVED that rifle and deeply regret selling it. I shot a full house load of R-19 and a Hornaday 225 grain spire point bullets. It would shoot 1-1/4 inch groups, feeding flawlessly.
They are very good rifles IMHO.0 -
Will probably shoot as good as your capabilities with quality ammo.
If you plan to reload, be advised you may need a "small base" die for optimum reliability.0 -
shoot one first if you can. most automatics tend to blow a few flakes of powder into your eyes when shot from the wrong side. can be uncomfortable when the wind is right. i love bars but usually shoot mine right handed. 0 -
I have a 7mm BAR that I bought in 1981. I am left handed and it is the only rifle I shoot. I have never had a problem with powder in my eyes from shooting it left handed. I love the gun and swear by it. I have never been a person that goes to the range for shooting groups but I can tell you that I take it out before hunting season and shoot it once or twice at 100 yards to make sure it still hits the bullseye. This year I took a pronghorn in NM a mulie in CO and a whitetail in TX and it grouped beautifully into the heart area. I believe you will enjoy it.
TK0 -
I am left handed and own a right-handed BAR in 30-06. Accuracy 1" groups at 100 yards. No issues here with a right handed BAR. The stock is neutral on mine--no cant 0 -
Thank you to all for the excellent information and input!! 0
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