modern "fighting bolt gun" hypothetical- update at end

[mattjmcd]

Imagine a scenario where one had no more access to semi-autos. What sort of bolt gun would you want for a defensive application? How would you set it up?

I am about to move on a long-awaited precision rifle project, and I think that a GP bolt rifle project will be next. I am interested to hear the thoughts of some smart guys here at M4C.

[kmrtnsn]

Because of the endless supply of AR options for barrel length, twist, rail accessories, stocks, etc. I would like to see a single shot, bolt action AR upper receiver. I think with the endless possibilities of AR options building a useful tactical tack driver in a wide variety of calibers is endless.

[geminidglocker]

I'de go with an Enfield SMLE. They can be operated quite rapidly.

[JHC]

I suppose my friend BigJon's Brockman "tactical" Winchester Model 70 .308 with it's 10 shot detachable magazine and low powered variable scope (conventionally mounted) - and BUIS. I thought I had a picture of it saved somewhere but I can't seem to find it.

[hopeitsfast]

I think this would be a good fighting bolt gun. Uses AK mags.
http://www.securityarms.com/20010315.../2700/2750.htm

[mattjmcd]

I think this would be a good fighting bolt gun. Uses AK mags.
http://www.securityarms.com/20010315.../2700/2750.htm

I seem to recall having seen that in some write-up several years- maybe more like 10+ yrs actually- ago. If it's a good design that'd be pretty viable.

I have an SMLE, and I think that it's a great option. Still, it's heavy. So is the ammo. Optics are a bit of a PITA, too.

[f.2]

Imagine a scenario where one had no more access to semi-autos...

Marlin 1894.

[mattjmcd]

I *think* I am down for the lever guns, but I have no experience with them myself.

How would you spec it? Are you worried about range?

I was thinking about one of the lighter or middle-weight offerings from Sako. IIRC, they have detachable box mags, but standard open actions. The mag is double column I think, which might allow for both single loading and mag loading. The bbls are known to be good and accurate. Maybe a long eye relief low-power variable like the Accupoint?

30-06, .308, or even .243

[rob_s]

I think we had this conversation somewhere, but...

Remington 700 action. Very common, so spare parts are most readily available.

Fed from FAL magazines. Common, cheap, come in various sizes. May need to be modified to work with Remington action.

16-18" lightweight profile barrel. We're not going to be firing volumes of rapid fire, and portability is more important than any perceived benefit from a big bull barrel.

Shortened stock to fit me. Most stocks are too long for pretty much anyone.

Iron sights.

Suppressor mount, just in case.

1.5-5 optic, although I wish someone made something like a 2-6x or 2-8 in the same compact size package.

[Littlelebowski]

How about one of those pump .308s?