Company Background and Reputation
GA Precision
GA Precision, founded with a passion for building the most accurate rifles possible, has become a fixture in the precision shooting community. Their focus on meticulous detail, combined with a commitment to using only the best components, has earned them a devoted following. Known for their exceptional craftsmanship and dedication to delivering outstanding accuracy, GA Precision rifles are a favorite among serious competitors and discerning shooters alike. They’ve cultivated a reputation for building rifles that consistently deliver sub-MOA groups, and their reputation for producing high-quality, reliable rifles precedes them. Their track record in various shooting competitions speaks to their dedication and skill.
Surgeon Rifles
Surgeon Rifles, on the other hand, has established itself as a leader in innovation and design. They have a history of pushing the boundaries of rifle technology, pioneering advanced features and design elements that enhance both performance and ergonomics. Known for their rugged and precise actions, Surgeon Rifles are highly regarded by both military and law enforcement professionals, as well as competitive shooters. They are known for their precision-engineered actions and commitment to using cutting-edge materials and manufacturing techniques. Surgeon Rifles have earned a reputation for building rifles that are not only exceptionally accurate but also incredibly durable and adaptable to a variety of shooting environments.
Build Quality and Components
A custom rifle is only as good as its components. Both GA Precision and Surgeon Rifles understand this principle and use top-tier parts throughout their builds. Let’s examine the key components that contribute to the overall quality and performance of their rifles.
Actions
The action is the heart of any bolt-action rifle. It houses the bolt, which loads and extracts cartridges, and provides a platform for the barrel and other components.
GA Precision, while they have produced their own actions, are well-known for working with action manufacturers like Defiance Machine. The Defiance actions are known for their exceptional smoothness, reliability, and precision manufacturing. The tolerances are typically incredibly tight, resulting in minimal play and a consistent feel during cycling. The bolt designs often incorporate features like spiral fluting to reduce weight and enhance debris clearance. These actions are often meticulously trued to ensure perfect alignment of the bolt and receiver, contributing to enhanced accuracy.
Surgeon Rifles are synonymous with their actions. These actions are engineered for precision, strength, and reliability. Surgeon actions are renowned for their robust construction and smooth bolt operation. They often utilize a controlled-round-feed design, which is preferred by many experienced shooters for its reliability in challenging conditions. Their bolt designs are typically focused on maximizing strength and minimizing the potential for malfunctions. Their actions are generally known for their exceptional durability and the ability to withstand heavy use in various environments.
Barrels
The barrel is arguably the most critical component for accuracy. It’s where the bullet gains its initial momentum and direction.
GA Precision utilizes barrels from renowned makers such as Bartlein, Krieger, and others. These barrels are typically made from high-quality stainless steel, renowned for their durability and resistance to corrosion. They offer a wide variety of contours (profiles), lengths, and twist rates to match the intended caliber and shooting application. Their skilled gunsmiths are adept at ensuring proper chambering and headspace, crucial factors for consistent accuracy. They often take the time to hand-lap the barrels to further refine their internal surface, contributing to better bullet flight and increased accuracy.
Surgeon Rifles are also known for using premium barrels in their builds. They often source barrels from highly reputable manufacturers, selecting materials and profiles based on the needs of the client. These barrels are precisely chambered and installed to exacting standards. Surgeon Rifles often use match-grade barrels, known for their consistency and tight tolerances. The careful attention to detail in the barrel installation process contributes significantly to the rifle’s overall accuracy potential.
Stocks/Chassis
The stock or chassis provides the foundation for the entire rifle, housing the action and barrel while also providing a comfortable and stable platform for the shooter.
GA Precision typically uses a range of stocks and chassis, from traditional McMillan stocks to modern chassis systems like those from MDT (Modular Driven Technologies). The choice often depends on the shooter’s preferences and the intended use of the rifle. McMillan stocks are known for their ruggedness, stability, and wide range of customization options. They often feature adjustable cheek pieces and butt pads to tailor the fit to the shooter. Chassis systems offer a high degree of modularity and can be easily adjusted to fit a variety of shooters and shooting styles. GA Precision’s selection offers excellent options for any application.
Surgeon Rifles, similar to GA Precision, offer a selection of stocks and chassis systems. They often work with leading manufacturers to provide a variety of options, allowing shooters to customize the rifle to their specific needs. The chassis they incorporate often prioritize ergonomics and adjustability, allowing the shooter to fine-tune the rifle’s fit and feel. This allows for greater consistency in shooting, leading to improved accuracy and performance.
Triggers
A crisp, clean trigger is essential for accurate shooting. The trigger is the interface between the shooter and the rifle’s firing mechanism.
GA Precision typically utilizes triggers from reputable manufacturers like Timney or Jewell. The trigger’s pull weight and break are tuned to provide a consistent and predictable feel, which is crucial for accurate shot placement. They often are meticulously installed and adjusted to minimize any creep or overtravel. Their attention to the trigger system allows for the shooter to have the best possible trigger experience.
Surgeon Rifles, likewise, offer a selection of high-quality triggers, prioritizing precision and reliability. They usually work with well-known trigger manufacturers and often perform any necessary adjustments to ensure a crisp and consistent pull. The trigger is installed with an emphasis on precision and the overall quality of the build. This provides the shooter with a trigger that enhances their ability to shoot with greater accuracy.
Other Components
Beyond the major components, the quality of the smaller parts is equally important. Bolts, bolt knobs, magazines, scope bases, and other accessories must be selected with care to ensure reliability and overall performance. Both GA Precision and Surgeon Rifles use high-quality components in all aspects of the build. Attention to detail in all areas is a hallmark of both company’s builds.
Accuracy and Performance
Ultimately, the proof is in the performance. Both GA Precision and Surgeon Rifles are built with accuracy as a primary goal.
GA Precision rifles are known for their exceptional accuracy. They consistently produce sub-MOA groups and often achieve even tighter groupings, depending on the caliber, barrel, and ammunition used. The accuracy of each rifle can be attributed to many factors, including the selection of premium components, the meticulous build process, and the expert gunsmithing skills. They’re trusted by many to achieve great accuracy.
Surgeon Rifles are also renowned for their accuracy potential. Their rifles are designed and built to deliver exceptional performance at both close and long ranges. The accuracy of a Surgeon Rifle results from the combination of precision-engineered actions, high-quality barrels, and a skilled build process. Their rifles are capable of producing impressive results.
The choice of caliber and ammunition will significantly impact the accuracy potential of any rifle. GA Precision and Surgeon Rifles typically offer a wide range of popular calibers, including various .308 Winchester variants, 6.5 Creedmoor, and other precision rifle cartridges. Both companies are excellent choices for those looking for precision.
Customization Options and Services
The ability to customize a rifle to your specific needs and preferences is a hallmark of the custom rifle experience.
GA Precision offers a comprehensive range of customization options. Shooters can typically choose from a wide variety of stock and chassis styles, Cerakote finishes, and barrel contours. They also offer services such as muzzle threading, scope mounting, and trigger tuning. The level of customization offered often allows shooters to build a rifle that perfectly matches their individual needs and shooting style.
Surgeon Rifles is also known for offering extensive customization options. Their customers can select from a variety of stocks, chassis, and finishes. They also offer services such as barrel fluting, engraving, and custom bedding. They also pride themselves on their ability to accommodate special requests and unique builds, making them an excellent choice for shooters who want a truly personalized rifle.
Price and Value
Custom rifles are an investment, and the cost reflects the quality of the components, the expertise of the gunsmiths, and the level of customization.
GA Precision rifles are typically priced in line with other high-end custom rifle manufacturers. The final price will depend on the chosen components, the level of customization, and the caliber. While the initial investment may be significant, the resulting accuracy and reliability represent a good value for the price. Their commitment to precision justifies the cost.
Surgeon Rifles are also positioned within the premium segment of the custom rifle market. The cost of a Surgeon Rifle will vary depending on the options selected, but the investment is rewarded with exceptional build quality and performance. The rifles are built to the highest standards, and are known for delivering outstanding value for their performance.
The value of a custom rifle extends beyond the initial price. The durability, accuracy, and reliability of these rifles often translate to years of dependable service.
Pros and Cons
Here’s a summary of the strengths and weaknesses of each company:
GA Precision
Pros:
- Exceptional accuracy and consistency.
- Strong reputation for reliability.
- Wide range of customization options.
- Trusted by competitive shooters.
Cons:
- Price point can be a barrier for some shooters.
Surgeon Rifles
Pros:
- Cutting-edge design and innovation.
- Durable and reliable actions.
- Excellent build quality.
- Highly customizable options.
Cons:
- Price point can be a barrier for some shooters.
Conclusion
Choosing between GA Precision and Surgeon Rifles is a difficult decision, as both companies produce exceptional precision rifles. GA Precision has a well-earned reputation for building highly accurate rifles, consistently delivering sub-MOA performance and a proven track record. Their rifles are a great choice for any competition, and can be relied upon. Surgeon Rifles, on the other hand, stands out for their innovative design and robust build quality, with a focus on durability and cutting-edge features. Their rifles are built to withstand the most demanding conditions.
Ultimately, the best choice depends on the individual shooter’s needs and preferences. If a shooter prioritizes raw accuracy and a proven track record, GA Precision is an excellent choice. If the shooter places a high value on innovative design, ruggedness, and cutting-edge features, Surgeon Rifles is a compelling option. Both GA Precision and Surgeon Rifles represent the pinnacle of custom rifle craftsmanship, and whichever one you choose, you can be confident in your investment in precision.
