Every rifle build is a balance of purpose, reliability, and preference. This rifle wasn’t about chasing specs on paper or building something flashy — it was about putting together a system I trust that performs consistently and does exactly what I need it to do.

My Purpose with This Rifle

I had a few things in mind before starting this build:

For me, this gun needed to be under 16 lbs completed to make weight in the “Open Heavy” NRL class. I wanted it to be as close to 16 lbs as possible to help control recoil when using it in other disciplines like PRS, and it needed to consistently touch targets out to 1200+ yards for competitive use, as well as stretch further at my home range.

That drove the decisions that followed.

The Action

I went with the new lightweight Pristine short action because it gives me exactly what I want in a foundation — rigidity, light weight, repeatability, and clean integration with the rest of the system.

The integral recoil lug and pinned 20 MOA Picatinny rail eliminate unnecessary variables, and the classic two-lug bolt head gives a smooth, positive lockup. It’s a solid base that doesn’t need babysitting or constant adjustment.

The Barrel

Barrel choice was all about achieving the desired weight while still getting good bullet speeds and maintaining proper balance in the rifle. I opted for a 6.5 mm blank from International Barrels with a 7.5 twist to support heavier 6.5 mm bullets.

The barrel contour is a Remington Varmint, and the length is 25" to achieve reasonable velocities while still keeping the rifle moderately maneuverable.

For what I plan to use this gun for, I need consistency, maneuverability, balance, and good bullet velocities.

Chambering

I chose 6.5 Creedmoor because this chambering fits the role — efficient, predictable, and supported with good component availability and barrel life.

For this rifle, I’m not interested in chasing obscure cartridges that are hard to feed or tune. I want something I can load for easily and trust every time I pull the trigger.

Stock / Chassis

Fit and ergonomics matter more than most people realize.

I went with the MDT XRS and added the enclosed forend to gain the integral ARCA rail. This setup gives:

• Proper cheek weld

• Consistent eye alignment

• The ability to securely mount bipods and tripods

If the rifle doesn’t sit right behind the gun, your groups will show it — no matter how good the rest of the components are.

Optics

Glass was selected based on reliability and tracking, not just clarity. I went with the Telson Target Master 5–25×56.

Key priorities:

• Repeatable adjustments

• Durable internals

• A usable reticle

There’s a lot of “nice to have” in optics, but if it doesn’t track, it’s useless.

Final Thoughts

This build isn’t about hype — it’s about building a shooting system that works.

Every component was chosen because it contributes to:

• Consistency

• Reliability

• Ease of use

There’s no magic in any single part. It’s how everything works together that matters.

If you’re planning your own build, start with the end use and work backward. Don’t get caught up in trends — build something that actually suits how you shoot.