Alright guys, I'm ready to join Team 223.
I've got some questions about the setup. Any input is appreciated.
For reference, this setup will be mostly for training, not hunting (I know, "famous last words, etc."). For me but also for young and new shooters.
Action: I'll get a RH Tikka T3x Lite in .223 Rem
Barrel: I'll have it cut and threaded for my .30 cal GEMTECH Tracker. I really don't want to buy a dedicated .223 can if I can help it. How's that 30 cal can going to work for sound suppression?
Thinking about cutting it to 18" (can is 7"), sound about right? Guessing I'll need to loctite on a 1/2-28 to 5/8-24 adapter, sound right?
Stock: I have 3 options on hand, what direction would you go?
Factory stock. Would add LOP spacers, vertical grip, and build the comb up with something.
I have a McMillan Game Scout (adj comb, standard fill) lying around I could use.
I have a KRG Bravo I could try out, but I'd probably get another one dedicated for this rifle because I like my Bravo where it is (on my 6.5CM). I'm definitely leaning this direction just because of the adjustable LOP (see above comment about "young and new shooters).
Optic and mount: I have a 6x and 10x SWFA already. I know people seem to like the 6x for this setup, but my 10x is just sitting in the safe currently so that's what I'm thinking. I guess I could just buy another 6x since they're back in stock. Thoughts?
I can't use the T084s because my long LOP means I need the scope mounted farther back than the arrestor pin will allow. Probably put on a 10 MOA rail and Seekins Extra-Lows (which I already have lying around).
Ammo: This is where I'm really looking for help. I don't reload. The 77TMKs seem to be the go-to choice here, but I'm not concerned with terminal performance since I'm just planning on shooting steel.
What's a good "plinking" round? Cheap-ish, accurate-ish, readily available-ish, etc.?
I'm not at all familiar with .223/5.56 offerings (this will be my first rifle in this chambering). Getting ammo is a pain in the a** for me where I live, so I can't just go pick up some boxes and "see what it likes." I need to buy a few cases to make the freight charges worth it. So I'm looking for direction on what factory loads to look at. Really appreciate input here.
Am I missing anything? Thanks!