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Project Rifle...35 Whelen or 370 Sako?

ssi
Want some opinions...planning to rebarrel a US1917 to larger bore...the rifle was already nicely sporterized when I purchased...thought the heavy action would be better suited for larger bore and I don't have a BIG one now (hee...hee)....please share your thoughts on the 35 Whelen. 370 Sako...I'm primarily interested in 35 cal or larger but have no experience. HELP ?
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Comments

10 comments

Date Votes
  • ern98
    One thing about the 1917 action that I've liked is that it lends itself to true magnum length cartridges better then most milsurplus actions. If you want to stay in 35cal, how about the 358 STA, shooting time alaskan. That's the 7mmSTW or 8mmRemMag opened up to 35cal. Or how about the classic 375H&H.
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  • DENWA
    I always think about what I could buy off the shelf with relative ease. Then think about what would be easier to sell or get rid of if I didn't like it.

    a 35 Whelan is great so is a 370 but I'd prefer a 9.3x62 myself.

    It just seems like you could to better if you were to spend $$ get something no one else has on their shelf.
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  • ssi
    Thanx...actually, that's exactly why I was interested in feedback....I want something different...and I want a "project" that would include hours of research on the loading bench,etc. the resale value is irrelevent to me...it's the "journey" deal/situation. I received the same comment about this actions Magnum versatility from a gunsmith back east...he also advised that I strongly consider this...I've played with the STW, STE's before...great performers..I'll look into the 9.3x62..sounds interesting and is new to me..
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  • laogai
    no experience with the others, but I LOVE my 35 whelen improved. not as "unique or interesting" as say a 9.3, but plenty powerful, efficient, easy recoil, and fun. and at least not real common!
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  • Hawkshaw
    HELLO SSI----If you are considering a 9.3, why not go all the way to a
    9.3 x 64 Brenneke
    It is a nonbelted case!!!
    equals or exceeds the .375 H&H
    It fits in an 06 lenght action
    Loading data is available in the Nosler No. 6 manual. Read Chub Eastmans evaluation on this puppy in the same manual. The only draw back for me is that Brenneke, is european for $$$$$. Call me when you want to sell!!!!! Good Luck
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  • ssi
    Hi Gang....just finished reading around an interesting net site...35cal.com "Whelen's Northwood Trails" This gentleman is playing with numerous 35 cal cartridges and powder/case designs...I'm greatful for the feedback from each of you. Let me know what you think about this site. The $$$$$ is not unlimited in this project...willing to invest the price of a decent rifle ($600-800) for quality barrel and installation..but have no desire to end up with cartridge cases that cost $5.00 apiece blah blah...let me know
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  • tsr1965
    Since that bolt is set up for the 30-06 head size, I would go with the Whelen or an improved version of the Whelen. That way, all you have to do is change the barrel.

    Best
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  • jptatum
    What about a 358 Norma. Definitely not common and it really packs a punch.
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  • Ambrose
    Since you've got a .30/06 bolt face, I'd vote for either of two chamberings: .338/06 or the 9.3x62 that has already been suggested. You're going to find neither in every deer camp!
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  • ssi
    Thank you...I've spent many hours researching the suggestions...love this 9.3x62 and the 370 Sako...the 358 STW is appealing and I'm a huge fan of Lane Simpson's efforts...was wildcatting with his ideas 25 years ago....all 3 of these are a little more GUN than I'm looking for...not that I'm practical, but I am finding myself doing a full circle thing and seeing the fun in choosing an 06 variant. It's narrowing down to 8mm/06, 338/06 or the 35 Whelen and more than likely an Ackley Improved version of one of these...little more velocity, longer case life(?) and "why not?" 200gr bullets and decent powder chg make the 35 Whelen AI ok here on west coast hunting...and the heavier stuff for woods hunting...I would be more likely to leave the house with one of these instead of my pet 270 Win or one of WSM's...had been thinking I would pick up a 375 Ruger cal. for an Alaska hunt...this research on the 9.3x62 and 370 Sako will delay that decision
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