Choosing the Core Components
The Heart of the System: The Action
The action, the rifle’s central operating mechanism, is the crucial starting point. Consider it the very heart of the system, determining the overall quality and performance. Quality counts, because a poorly made action will limit the full potential of the cartridge, no matter how meticulous the other components. There are several options to contemplate.
Many shooters opt for a custom action, precision-engineered with tight tolerances and designed specifically for accuracy. These are typically made of high-quality materials, meticulously machined, and offer a range of features tailored to long-range shooting. However, high-quality actions, may come with a high-price tag.
For the budget-conscious, consider quality Remington 700 clones – actions that are built off of the proven Remington 700 footprint. The 700 footprint means vast aftermarket support to find various products for your rifle. These can be a cost-effective way to enter the world of precision shooting without sacrificing too much in terms of quality.
Consider the following aspects:
- Bolt Face: Ensure the action’s bolt face is appropriately sized to receive the 6mm Dasher case head.
- Action Length: For the 6mm Dasher, a short action is the optimal choice, providing efficiency and a streamlined design.
- Material: Stainless steel is the preferred material for the action due to its corrosion resistance and dimensional stability.
- Trigger Compatibility: Verify compatibility with aftermarket triggers, as this component significantly impacts your shooting ability.
- Accuracy Potential: Research the accuracy reputation of each action model under consideration.
Defining the Barrel: The Path of the Bullet
The barrel is the single most critical component for accuracy. It guides the bullet and dictates its trajectory. It’s where the magic happens. Selecting the right barrel is essential for maximizing the Dasher’s potential.
Barrel manufacturers such as Bartlein, Krieger, and Proof Research are consistently held in high regard. Each company employs different manufacturing processes and materials that result in different performance characteristics. However, these manufacturers have stellar reputations.
Barrel profile, length, and twist rate all play a crucial role. The barrel profile directly affects its weight and balance. The 6mm Dasher does well with a longer barrel, but this is, of course, a personal preference. A popular option is a barrel with a length of 26-28 inches, as it balances velocity, stability, and handling. The twist rate is critical, as it provides rotational stability to the bullet. A 1:7.5″ to 1:8″ twist rate is generally recommended for the 6mm Dasher to stabilize a wide range of bullet weights.
Considerations here:
- Contour/Weight: The choice of barrel contour depends on intended use. Heavier contours (bull barrels) are better for competition shooting due to their reduced vibration and better heat dissipation, while lighter contours are preferable for hunting and carrying long distances.
- Chambering: This is the most specific and precise step. Chambering involves cutting the precise shape of the Dasher cartridge into the barrel. This is best left to a qualified gunsmith to guarantee accuracy and safety.
- Fluting: Fluting can reduce weight and improve heat dissipation, however, it is a cosmetic choice.
Supporting the System: The Stock or Chassis
The stock or chassis is the platform that unites the action, barrel, and trigger, and provides the shooter with a stable platform. Stability is paramount for achieving consistent accuracy.
You have several options, including traditional stocks and chassis systems. Traditional stocks made from wood or composite materials can offer classic aesthetics and a comfortable feel. Chassis systems, typically constructed from aluminum, offer enhanced modularity and customization. They are popular for their adjustable features.
Consider the following when choosing your stock/chassis:
- Adjustability: Look for a stock or chassis with adjustable features like comb height and length of pull.
- Bedding: Bedding the action involves precisely fitting the action into the stock or chassis for optimal stability. Glass bedding is a traditional method. Pillar bedding involves using metal pillars for a secure and consistent interface.
- Weight: Consider the overall weight of the rifle, particularly if you plan to carry it over long distances.
Precision Control: The Trigger System
A good trigger can dramatically improve your shooting ability and overall results. The trigger is the final point of contact between the shooter and the rifle, controlling the release of the bullet.
Aftermarket triggers are a popular option for the 6mm Dasher. These often offer adjustable pull weights, eliminating any creep, and minimizing overtravel.
Achieving the Perfect View: Scope and Mounting
A high-quality scope is essential for reaching the full potential of the 6mm Dasher, allowing you to accurately place shots at long distances.
The magnification range should suit your intended use. Magnification ranges such as 5-25x, 6-24x, or even higher can give you the flexibility to engage targets at varying distances. Features like a reticle with holdover points, and reliable adjustment turrets make for a better experience.
High-quality scope rings and/or a mount that securely attaches the scope to the rifle are also crucial. These components must be precisely aligned to guarantee accuracy.
Extra Touches: Accessories to Consider
While not essential, these accessories can elevate your shooting experience and precision:
- Muzzle Brake or Suppressor: Muzzle brakes reduce recoil, allowing for faster follow-up shots, but can significantly increase the noise levels of the shot. Suppressors reduce both recoil and noise.
- Bipod or Front Rest: They provide a stable platform for shooting, especially at longer ranges.
- Rear Bag or Shooting Rest: These aids add additional stability and consistency.
Bringing the Rifle Together
Constructing a 6mm Dasher rifle is a significant undertaking, requiring precision, patience, and an understanding of mechanical principles.
Deciding on the Path: Professional or Personal?
You have two main options: engage the services of a qualified gunsmith or undertake the build yourself. Hiring a gunsmith provides you with experience and the right tools for the job.
A DIY build can save money and increase personal satisfaction. It is, however, a project that requires a dedicated work area, specialized tools, and a commitment to learning.
Joining the Pieces: Barrel Installation
If you choose to chamber the barrel yourself, you’ll need a barrel vise, action wrench, headspacing gauges, and a skilled gunsmith. The barrel will be expertly threaded and chambered, with attention paid to a proper head space.
If you choose to let a gunsmith chamber the barrel, you will still want to be familiar with the installation process, understanding the importance of proper torque and alignment.
Assembling the Platform: Stock and Triggering
This step involves installing the barreled action into the stock or chassis, including any bedding procedures. If bedding is required, ensure you follow all instructions carefully. Torque action screws to the manufacturer’s specifications to achieve a secure and stable fit.
The installation and adjustment of the trigger are also essential. Set the pull weight, creep, and overtravel to your preference.
Securing the View: Mounting the Scope
Carefully mount your scope onto the rings or mount. Precise alignment is vital for optimal performance, so make sure the scope is level.
Developing the Perfect Load
Safety First: A Critical Reminder
Always prioritize safety! Reloading requires a meticulous approach, constant attention, and unwavering adherence to safe practices. Always wear eye protection, and handle reloading components responsibly.
The Foundation: Brass Selection and Prep
Selecting the right brass is essential. Brass quality dramatically impacts accuracy. Brass from Lapua or Peterson are commonly regarded as high-quality options. Proper brass preparation improves the consistency of your loads. This includes neck sizing, trimming, deburring, and chamfering the case mouths.
The Power Source: Primers
Primers ignite the gunpowder. Choose primers known for their consistency and reliability. Different primer types will affect the load.
Fueling the Flight: Choosing the Right Powders
Powder selection is essential. Your choice of powder will directly affect velocity, pressure, and overall performance.
For the 6mm Dasher, powders like H4350, Varget, and Reloder 16 are often chosen. When starting, always refer to published load data. Start with the minimum recommended load and gradually increase it while monitoring for signs of excessive pressure.
The Projectile: Choosing Bullets
Bullet choice is also a critical component. Popular options include bullets from Berger, Hornady, and Sierra.
Bullet weight is essential. For the 6mm Dasher, bullets in the 105-115 grain range are common, but the ideal choice depends on your twist rate and intended use.
The Procedure: Loading the Cartridge
The loading process requires precision and consistency. Neck sizing or full-length sizing are choices that may need to be made depending on your preference and the nature of the rifle. Seating depth, the distance from the bullet’s ogive to the lands of the rifling, is essential.
Always load with attention to detail.
The Test: Range Testing
The range is where you’ll determine which load produces the tightest groups and the best results.
Shoot groups at various ranges to test your load and to record data. Record information such as powder charge, seating depth, velocity, and group size.
Finding the Peak: Optimizing
Carefully evaluate each load’s accuracy. Optimize your loads by adjusting the powder charge, seating depth, and evaluating for velocity. The “sweet spot” is where your rifle consistently produces the tightest groups and the highest velocities within a safe pressure range.
Caring for Your Creation
The 6mm Dasher is a precision instrument and should be treated as such. Proper maintenance will help to keep your rifle in top condition.
Keeping it Clean: Barrel Cleaning
Clean the barrel after each shooting session, or when accuracy begins to degrade. Regular cleaning removes powder residue and fouling, preserving your rifle’s accuracy. Use a quality bore cleaner, patches, and a brush for proper cleaning.
General Care and Maintenance
Regularly check action screws for tightness. The bolt and action should be lubricated to ensure smooth operation. Always inspect the rifle for signs of wear or damage.
Concluding Thoughts and the Path Forward
Building a 6mm Dasher is a journey that combines technical skill, patience, and a profound appreciation for the science of accuracy. The result is a rifle that is capable of exceptional precision.
The satisfaction of building your own rifle, meticulously crafted from the ground up, is immense. The thrill of shooting a rifle you built yourself is one that will last a lifetime.
Embark on this adventure, learn from each stage of the process, and you will experience the joy of owning and shooting a custom-built 6mm Dasher.
Your journey awaits!
