6.5 PRC Light-Weight Build Part 1: Action, Chambering, Fitting

Full Story: bit.ly/35FbzTg
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UR on Patreon: / ultimatereloader
See notes below. The 6.5 PRC light-weight build is almost DONE! In this video I cover parts/components for the build, barrel work (including chambering and muzzle threading), plus fitting the action to the stock. Next up: bedding and then fitting the Leupold Mark 5 scope!
*Note: headspace annotation should read: "Go +0.0005", not "Go + 0.005"
*Note: The products shown in this video (build components and parts) were provided as samples for this build by the companies that manufacture these components. Ultimate Reloader is working with these companies (and others) to provide guidance and data for those who want to build 6.5 PRC rifles.
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Ultimate Reloader LLC / gavintoobe Disclaimer:
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The content on this channel (including videos, ammunition reloading data, technical data, comments, and any other information contained within) is for demonstration purposes only.
Do not attempt any of the processes or procedures shown or described in this video or on this KZbin channel (gavintoobe).
Any reloading data supplied on this KZbin channel (gavintoobe) or in this video, including any comments from viewers and readers must be assumed to be in error.
Always consult at least three sources of manufacturer's ammunition reloading data before reloading your own ammunition.
Do not attempt to repair or modify any firearms based on information found on this KZbin channel or in this video.
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Ultimate Reloader, LLC can not be held liable for any harm caused to any individual or any personal property related to activities, procedures, techniques, or practices described in whole or part on this KZbin channel (gavintoobe) or in this video.
By watching this video in whole or in part, you agree that you alone are solely responsible for your own safety and property as it pertains to activities, procedures, techniques, or practices described in whole or part on this KZbin channel (gavintoobe) or in this video.
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Ultimate Reloader LLC / gavintoobe Material Connection Notice:
The following Ultimate Reloader partners are featured in this video:
Hornady
Pierce Engineering
Benchmark Barrels
Ultimate Reloader partnerships involve one or more of the following:
Product supplied for evaluation + testing + features in videos/articles, paid advertising and promotions, engineering and product development services, scientific testing and evaluation, external media production and related marketing services.
Ultimate Reloader LLC is committed to publishing subjective and data-driven information+insights related to products whether it be favorable or unfavorable or both.
For more information about Ultimate Reloader partnerships, please visit: ultimatereload...

[@Ultimatereloader]

Interested in an Ultimate Reloader custom rifle? Sign up on the list here: ultimatereloader.com/rifles/

[@gtj2020]

Always intrigued and overjoyed to watch your videos and guest discussions and topics. You are a great communicator and video maker, making the viewers feel comfortable and attentive. You're a great guy and highly skilled gun machinist and smith. Thank you

[@richlovin2173]

As usual, I learned several things to check on when I build a rifle. Most important was the reamer fluting. i also had never considered bedding the rifle scope in the rings. Small details can make a big difference. Thanks.

[@cpfpv6410]

This rifle has me super excited. Keep up the great content with the 6.5 PRC

[@Ultimatereloader]

Thanks Chris!

[@PatriotPaulUSA]

Loved this series. Around this time I bought a 6.5 PRC Ruger Long Range Hawkeye. My first new magnum since I was 20. I'm now over 50. I have bought ammo, brass dies etc. I also bought a inexpensive Ruger Go Wild 6.5Creedmoor and did the same added loaded ammo, new, empty, middle of the road brass, and Redding dies. I'm now trying to find some Lapua 6.5PRC brass or Starline as a 2nd for my precision loads. But its been almost 2yrs of covidgedden so ya know. I'm still looking .

[@davidcoiner6550]

I’ve been waiting for this build for so long!

[@blindboyjonny]

As a retired machinist and gunsmith, you have my utmost respect and admiration for your skills. And we all thought you were just another pretty face. Keep up the great work! This build is awesome. I was wondering about the scope, as it appears to be way overkill for a lightweight rifle. My Christianson arms ridgeline titanium is fielding a fixed power sixx

[@GetMeThere1]

I'm KEENLY interested in seeing this project culminate in a great rifle. Gordy is an ACE. I've been planning to take his course for 4-5 years now, but never seem to get it to happen. You're a lucky guy to have worked with him.

[@madcow3007]

Love it. Interested in seeing what your final weights end up at and what scope you go with. Would be nice to get a breakdown of weights on the different components also

[@wadelandeche8632]

With your attention to the minute details you should be good to go on this build. I wish you were close by I'd love to sit in on some of these projects you're working on... Congrats on the build can't wait to see the shooting results!

[@Ultimatereloader]

Thanks Wade!

[@MichaelDFarrellJr]

With the rockies in my back yard, my feedback is that I would love to have a rifle like that. Looks like a great mountain gun that's presented some interesting challenges in your build process. Looking forward to seeing it come to fruition fully and the load development you work up. Looking forward to the next update!

[@singleshot2218]

Very nice bud! Anxious to see how it shoots!

[@Bill-v650]

Can't wait to see the rest on this build. I've really been thinking of a build almost exactly like this one. My take on scope ring lapping and bedding is don't. The scope should be straight and true and the rings should be identical and the base should be straight. Where the miss alignment in the system likely comes from is the action to base fit. This is especially true on actions with "flat" rear receiver rings. This in inevitably where variation in the machining comes in as they cannot be all identical and isn't really an issue on straight tube style actions. What I prefer is to bed the base to the action. Tighten only the front of it and check the rear for gap, then tighten only rear and check the front for gap. Bed the side that presents gap. I like to rough the underside with a dremel so the epoxy can bite to the surface.

[@Vohtwomax]

As a machinist and someone who is extremely interested in precision hunting/long range target rifles, this is such a sexy video. HOWEVER, you ask why one would NOT run a can on your hunting rifle? .....well....I live in communist Canada, that's why. Can't wait to watch the rest of this build!!

[@PatriotPaulUSA]

Yes Gavin !Please post some load development for the 6.5 PRC its still a new cartridge for most of us and we need all the data we can get. You have all those brands of powders it would be great to see what your custom gun likes !

[@bowtiedooley]

Glad to see the rifle builds getting started! It’s going to look great and I’m sure it will shoot just as well! I myself would definitely like to see another clambering video, to me that and bedding the action are the two most interesting parts of a build.

[@jjmckay6man1]

Beautiful build Gavin!

[@Ultimatereloader]

Thanks :)

[@karlweiby2307]

Great video and update. Appreciate the honesty and that not everything goes perfect and how to recover or prevent potential mistakes.

[@conservativesniperhunter7439]

Awesome job Gavin , can’t wait to see how this rifle shoots out to 500 to 600 Yards .

[@Ultimatereloader]

Me too- just broke in the rifle yesterday, and it's quite a shooter!

[@scotth7632]

Nice job Gavin! I really appreciate your engineering approach and the technical details you provide in all your videos and write-ups. Keep up the great work and happy new year! Scott

[@PatriotPaulUSA]

Wow! Really Nice gun Gavin ! Perfect for your enviroment as well. Someday I hope to have you or someone like you or Gordy Gritters chamber a 300 PRC for me. Who knows, maybe next year. Thanks to you I have set up my reloading/casting bench this year. I just got my 1st 2 precision rifles a 6.5 Creed Ruger American Go wild and a 6.5 PRC Ruger Long Range Hawkeye that I want to try long range target shooting with.

[@benhadlow5730]

Great content as always, Gavin The tolerances you have implemented are a lot tighter than my spud gun build. I am managing sub MOA @ 15 feet.

[@DusToDeath]

Love the humor

[@TheKajunkat]

If you are planning on using it out west I would suggest switching to idaho potatoes. I find I get an extra 3 to 5 feet of range.

[@scottgard3278]

Awesome build

[@Ultimatereloader]

Thanks dude!

[@invictus3598]

Awesome project! I would love to own one, since the PRC seems to offer the best of the 6.5 caliber. Really looking forward to your initial test firings with the perfect choice of scope.

[@rebelreloading5265]

The Ultimate Hunting Rifle, complete with a noise reducer, because I doubt you can silence that bad boy ☺️

[@ericblekkenk9471]

Nice looking rifle! Hope it shoots as good as it looks.

[@p.t.anderson1593]

What do I think, you ask? I think this rifle is the physical manifestation of the Venn diagram where art, craftsmanship and your soul overlap. At a glance it would look like just another nice bolt action.That would be incomplete. Getting to hear the story of it completes it and corrects the flawed initial perception. Thank you.

[@JakinHarp]

This is a short action - Confirmed with Peirce Engineering on the phone.

[@donseman7524]

Looks good so far

[@TheKajunkat]

The build looks really solid. The only comment I could make is about the aesthetics. The three tones of color with the stock clash with the three tones of color of the action and barrel. It would have been cool looking to match the stock colors to the titanium, carbon and stainless colors. I bet the colors won't make a bit of difference in how it shoots though.

[@goneballistic]

This channel is bad ass! Screw KZbin cause I'm sure they are hassling you, and this build is awesome. Really excited you see how it shoots. Especially interested in the mk5 scope as I'm evaluating one also for a Christensen 6.5 PRC rifle

[@foubert45]

You should build a and reload for 6.8 western!

[@spartan7.628]

Love the video, your attention to detail is second to none. I plan to have a rifle built in 6.5 prc with weight and handiness in mind. But what I dont understand about your build is why youd go with a 7-35x optic for a hunting rifle? Unless its going to be used as a long range hunting rifle (which weight would matter less for) I'd think the 5-25 or better yet the 3.6-18x mk5 would be a better choice. Or go with the nightforce nx8 2.5-20 and be better off yet. Just my 2 cents.

[@robertbrewer2055]

Man that's a fine looking rifle. Wish I could build one in 300 prc.

[@dantheman7624]

When lapping the lugs useing the trigger/fireing pin to add pressure....there is a chance of lapping the bottom lug more than the top (more pressure on one lug). Now the bolt can lock up out of square and brass will fire form with base out of square. All ways use a lapping tool not the trigger sear for pressure. Nice build BTW.

[@fedup3582]

Like your setup. Glad you picked the PRC over the creedmoor for a hunting round, not that the creedmoor is bad, i just think the PRC is a better hunting round. I would use a cap on the barrel instead of the can. I like your choice of 24 inch over 26 inch for the barrel, enough for good performance, but less "pool cue" effect, although your can kinda ruins that. But the noise reduction will be nice. When are you gonna deliver it to me? ;) :D

[@michaelshea5427]

Did you go with a Pierce 700 SA clone length action or extended length SA? I'm building my 6.5 PRC to shoot 147gr pills on a Defiance XM length action and an MDT chassis in XM length. Just waiting on MDT's XM magazine to be released in 30 or so days.

[@5RWill]

Love the build i recently did a 7 SS build similar to that on a 737R, proof sendero, manners PRS2, and TT Diamond. Absolutely love it used it during hunting season and couldn't be more fond of the rifle. So i'm curious to see how the benchmark barrel shoots i went proof since they came down in price and i had heard various reports on other wrapping methods. I wanted to ask though and not to knock Pierce but shouldn't going custom alleviate the need to lap the lugs? Granted i haven't checked our customs but i'd just assume they should be designed to not need lapping for 100% lug contact.

[@Ultimatereloader]

Thanks Will- RE: lugs- I just noticed that my Kelbly's Atlas Tactical also needs lug lapping. According to Gordy Gritters, a common thing even with custom actions :)

[@5RWill]

@@Ultimatereloader Damn what am i paying for then lol that's a little disheartening. I wish i had seen that pierce action when i had dad's 6.5 SAUM built. I went Bighorn SR3, MCS T, 3B fluted finished at 23". It's heavy for him though. If i'd have gone Proof sendero lite and the pierce action it wouldn't be so front heavy and probably be sitting around 9bls loaded.

[@martingagnon4547]

Maybe a tinny mistake on the numbers at 12:24, (go gauge + 0.0005'') not 0.005''. You're already forgiven! Have a nice day Gavin.

[@Ultimatereloader]

Yes, as noted in the video description (which no one ever reads :) :) )

[@martingagnon4547]

gavintoobe classic!

[@gunfather83]

Awesome build. One day I will get my own lathe and be able to spin up my own barrels. My only question is the scope. The 7-35 is awfully high magnification for a hunting rig in my opinion. Why did you pick it?

[@RumblestripDotNet]

It was free! Sorry, "sponsored".

[@JacksonMalcolm]

Thinking the same thing, probably would do the 3.6-18 if I were doing that build..

[@HerrGesetz]

Woo hooo,, he called it a rifle and not a platform. Long may it continue!

[@bwr3rd]

The link to Benchmark stocks in your "full story" page doesn't work.

[@DanielReyes-hz1qk]

What length action did you go with, what's the max COAL of the detachable magazines you use, and are you happy with the set up? I'm interested in a 6.5 PRC but need to get action length buttoned down before deciding whether or not to move forward with it.

[@prone_wolf8871]

Finally! Thanks man

[@dieselmakesmehappy]

What does it weigh without the scope? Im working on a 6.5cm with a Proof carbon fiber barrel. Not as much carbon fiber as I was hoping for still a little on the heavy side. You built a beauty.

[@davidorpwood8433]

HOW DOES the 6.5 PRC compare to the .264 WIN MAG .OR the 7mm RUM

[@Ron-tu3xq]

I'd like to know price cost you ended up spending? I'm thinking on doing one. 6.5 prc but , I have heard good and bad for Elk 7mag everyone loves. My buddy has a 7x300 a 300 win mag necked down to a 7mag...its a wildcat. Swears by it but he can shoot. 1200 yrd deer.

[@jameswells7754]

Might be a dumb question but is 6.5 PRC a short action or a long action?

[@long-range-eliminator]

Gavin, I see you do alot with building guns, I would like see something on cerakote. Most people do not go into detail the way you do on anything. Just a suggestion

[@bowtiedooley]

You could definitely make a 35mm ring lapping mandrel! I mean you DO know a guy with a lathe and mill.. 😎

[@mab0852]

Sweet build. Do not cut or grind carbon without a mask. That's not a mistake you want to regret.

[@SpudOutdoors]

What is the magazine length for the 6.5 PRC.

[@MonasheeStickbows]

Nice build, but why didn't you use a like a Hawkins Oberndorf M5 with a Wyatt's PRC box and follower to keep the weight down even more? Also why the Mark 5 that weighs 33oz vs the VX5-HD 3-15x56 which is 21oz if it's a true hunting rig! Other then that looks like a solid build!

[@DanDustEmOff]

That's a beautiful rifle you have got there, I hope it shoots as good as it looks. What's the weight without the scope and rings?

[@DusToDeath]

Love it! Really want to know how it shoots! Curious about the ring bedding too.

[@chug-a-lug6842]

Awesome video after I get my taxes back I’m going to get something done with one of my old rem 700 that just never shot well you want to build my rifle?

[@chaddrx]

Awesome rifle! I am looking to build a lightweight 6.5 Prc off a tikka action, proof 24in barrel 1 in 8 twist, and Mesa stock. I am looking to mostly hunt with it, but would like to shoot steel out to 800. My question is would you recommend a Leupold mark 5hd, vx 6hd, or a maven rs3? Looking to make this a lightweight mountain gun.

[@TheDWZemke]

Very nice. EST material costs and EST of hours????

[@7SlotRover]

Wish federal and others would pick up this caliber. Everyone raves 6.5 Creed, the PRC is that and more.

[@bigal4334]

Very cool!!!

[@rocketsurgeon1746]

I like the way you did the muzzle. Just one question. Did you true the face of the muzzle ring after install? Just a skim cut is all. Great work. Looking forward to range day.

[@billstevens5277]

How much did all the parts add up to?

[@brucerutherford3346]

Great caliber nice build, check out the Huber trigger awesome trigger uses ball bearings smoothest most consistent trigger I ever used. Huber concepts is the web site. I got the 2 stage. Love it

[@fattigla]

I really enjoy these videos. You said they're was a slight bend in the barrel from the carbon fiber. In your opinion, would this be a problem with Proof's Savage prefit barrels? The bend wouldn't be able to be clocked and a person wouldn't even know it was there. Should this worry someone thinking about a Savage prefit?

[@Ultimatereloader]

The "slight" bow is pretty normal. During break-in yesterday I was shooting three shots then cleaning (and repeat). I had three shots from one of the first such groups go into 0.225". And sub-1/2 MOA results with factory hunting ammo. This gun is a SHOOTER!

[@Shortdraw01]

What was the finished weight without optic/rings?

[@philthy5058]

My question exactly

[@MonasheeStickbows]

I'd like to know as well! Kinda kills the light weight build by throwing on a 2lb optic lol

[@fedup3582]

I agree about the 2 lb optic, but the lighter rifle will make a reasonable weight rifle with the 2 lb optic. I guess im old school like the more reasonable hunting range of under 400 yds, and a more simple lightweight old school scope for a hunting rifle. The PRC should make a great lightweight hunting rifle, fast and flat shooting to 400 and we can dispense with all the "twirling", but thats just my opinion, each to his own.

[@damonogle1103]

have 6.5 prc post your load developments

[@davidorpwood8433]

same cartridge but different rifles shoot different but a starting point .

[@davidorpwood8433]

@@jdirt1982 are you talking about the 6.5 needmoor they are lighting in a bottle & cure cancer & can shoot a rabbit or a elephant @ 1200 yards .

[@bigshowthe-tn-redneck2471]

What model number magazine is that. I'm building a 6.5 prc right now

[@duckslayer11000]

Custom action that requires lapping?

[@Ultimatereloader]

Yep, seen that in two custom actions now- but not much lapping (like you'd have to do on a factory action).

[@TTiger86268]

S.W.E.E.T.!

[@working_to_hunt]

Do you have proper cheek weld with that stock and such a large optic?

[@InTheYear]

What is your experience with 5R rifling?

[@nrspence8258]

What freebore reamer did you use GAP .1302 or saami.1882?

[@SoTwissted]

Silly question but how much does it weigh...Just 1 of many I had.

[@dragonflyfab8982]

How did you determine bolt lug engagement.

[@Ultimatereloader]

Very simple- clean lugs and seats, mark on back of lugs with red sharpie, then work bolt (with trigger in place). Engagement is shown where the red sharpie is worn away!

[@DusToDeath]

Is lapping the bolt lugs rather common on most builds?

[@thestacche6898]

What Freebore did you go with and why?

[@tjarmand]

I want one.. how much would you sell one of those in 6.5cm?

[@Minecraftstanley]

Did I miss the weight? Been through all 3 parts of the build video, must missed how heavy this build is’

[@wbwhite22]

Why not a PROOF barrel?

[@Ultimatereloader]

I may very well do one of those soon!

[@patrickbradford6223]

@gavintube- Think there is much difference in rifle chambering when using the smaller PM "gunsmith" lathe?

[@Ultimatereloader]

The PM-1340GT would do really well. I hear REALLY good things about them, but haven't had my hands on one... *yet* :) I would be confident with one if you don't need the 2" thru-spindle capacity...

[@Madskills-hw2ox]

👍🏻👍🏻

[@Ultimatereloader]

First!

[@williamheinbuch]

O_O Umm savage just announced one for 1500$... Their new ultralight 110 rifle.

[@Ultimatereloader]

Sounds interesting, saw that!

[@DMOUA_OUTDOORS]

Nice build but I don't know about Light-Weight.

[@magnus9165]

No barrels under 26".

[@C_Squared]

If you buy quality rings, you don’t need to lap them. The only rings I use are badger. I’ve used them professionally and on personal builds my whole life. Never. Never. Have I had to lap a badger ring.

[@atom-by5ur]

Can't find any info on the stock, what's the weight? Nothing like CF barrels, but next time save you the headaches a get a proof research.

[@scottwhite2002]

I've got to be honest, if I'm dropping $1500 on just an action, it will not require me to throw it on a lathe

[@bert5003]

go gauge +.005 is 5 thou over not a half. that would be +.0005

[@Ultimatereloader]

Yes, see video description :)

[@houstonjohnson7703]

I think I want you to build me one too lol

[@daviddale3624]

"Perfectionism" it's why people want YOU to pack their reserve parachutes.

[@davidorpwood8433]

WHY WOULD YOU USE A BENT BARREL. my friend shoot for New Zealand Forestry ,killing deer & goats every day . after bending his 303 barrel he had to adjust his scope everyday as it shoot straight .

[@Ultimatereloader]

Most barrels have some curvature- and I didn't want to delay this project for [additional months] - if it doesn't shoot- another barrel will go on :).

[@tjarmand]

lol

[@TheTmshuman]

Is it abnormal to be sexually attracted to a rifle? - Asking for a friend.