I am considering a BLR in the new .325 WSM. I will probably use a 6X rifle or 1 1/2 X 5 shotgun scope on it. Any comments/advice on BLR pistol grip vs straight stock? My 3 Sav 99s and Marlin .35 rem are pistol grips. All of my other levers are straight. I can't seem to tell any difference, no complaints. I seem to have read somthing about hammer bite from a hard kick with a straight stock. I usually buy used and the market determines what I buy. The .325 Win is so new that I will have to buy new. The pistol grip lists about $30 higher, so that is not a big factor. Anyone seen a bargin on these? Thanks.

George

My .308's in a straight stock, and I like it just fine...preference only I think.

Same here, my .358 Win is a straight stock and it shoots great. Only thing I may wonder is if there's a difference in felt recoil of the straight stock vs. the pistol grip because if I remember correctly the stock drops a little and the gun only weighs about 6 1/2 lbs.

when ig ot mine i was able to handle both styles and i think the strait looks better and feels better to, i wouldnt pay extra for something that doesnt look or handle as nice as the stait

when ig ot mine i was able to handle both styles and i think the strait looks better and feels better to, i wouldnt pay extra for something that doesnt look or handle as nice as the stait


My .308 blr is straight stock. I like that better, but honestly its totally a personal fit issue. Do yourself a favor, go to the store handle both and see which fits you best.

uh i did? i thinkt he strait is better but like you said it's personal preference :)

My thinking the straight stock would recoil less. your more inline with the barrel.
The new BLR has an excellent recoil pad.

The BLR has no issues with hammer bite .

I shoot a 358W and have no problems with recoil ETC.

Not much has come forward on the WSM in the BLR , so it will be up to you to inlighten us.
I Would think she might bite you at the bench.
I would want to know how much felt recoil this comination would put out.
Happy Trails
Happy

yeah i am really interested in the .325 wsm and i love the blr so you will have to do a write up for us :D ;)

I had always preferred pistol grips and thought that, on average, they felt and handled better than straight grip models, at least in Marlins. I picked up a straight gripped BLR last year because I really wanted a 358. No problems with excessive recoil at all, even with heavy loads.

I got excited when Browning brought out the new pistol grip stock; it looks worlds better than the previous pistol grip stock, and it has sling swivels and no barrel bands, but the more I see it, the better I like the straight grip model.

I guess the person to ask about recoil would be someone with a BLR in 450 Marlin. If any chambering would exhibit excessive recoil, I'd think that one would do it.

yeah i definitley think the strait looks a lot better than the pistol, it has a more classic look

Now the question ...
Why a BLR? Why not a bolt for this round?
Would you spare some time with your thoughts.


Why would you want a lever to handle the Wsm in 325?
In my mind the 325WSM is close in comparison to the 338winchester.The range of this cartridge would allow you the time to place your shot at the game intended. You would not be making a snap shot at a deer flying through heavy cover .
You would not be using this cartridge where a second shot in thick cover was the norm, where you would need that much power.
I would be thinking of a bolt action rifle to get the very best from this cartridge.
The reason I have the BLR, is that I want a rifle that I can bring into battery very quick. The reason for the 358W cambering is to have enough power to drop a good sized bear and also to handle moose, all within 250 yards and down of mixed farm lands and heavy bush. I think the lever has the advantage over a bolt to get off that second or third aimed shot, at running game, athough I have not tried some of the short throw bolt actions.

I love levers and have a few in the box. But there are times where I feel I might be better off , with the ruger bolt in 3006.

I understand your question. It's not like it is 1968 and Jack O'Conner is whispering in my ear, ".270 Win in 700 ADL with Redfield mounts and a K4 Weaver". I have lots of bolts including .338-06, 300 Wea, 30-06, and .270 Wea. I have big bore levers including .45-70, .375 Win, .35 Rem, and .32 Win Spec. I do not have a BLR or any rifle in the new 325 WSM. I sold a BAR and it seemed like a good reason to get one. For quick pointing and fast second shots, I'm partial to a Rem 760 pump. I posted this stock question on two forums and was suprised to find that everyone seems to like the straight stock. Thanks.

George

FWIW, I recently played w/ both stock configurations of BLRs in a local shop. (One in .450, BTW) I went back and forth, snapping them to my shoulder, etc. In the end, at least to my hands, the straight stocked one felt slightly better.

yeah thats what i did and i definitley liked the strait more. i know i am probably one of the few that doesnt like bolt actions but i really dont, the only thing i see that they have over other rifles is accuracy but my blr is plenty accurate and if i ever need that second shot i know i have it but with a bolt i dont think it could cycle it fast enough to kill that deer. just my opinion

So then
Keep us informed .
It is you who needs to be happy.Not one of us.
A used BLR never stays on the shelf long in these woods.I sure like the straight stocked rifle I have.
Shoot her with pride as I do.
But you know what ?
In the thick woods in Deer season a little voice says
"GRAB THE 35 REM"