Action Design For Hunting

[handwerk]

All my rifles custom or factory feature a 3 position safety, model 70s and kimbers…..I don’t see changing.

 

[grfox92]

Not true. I don’t believe in the chupacabra.

Valid point.

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[Kjc103]

I would be curious what event, experienced or heard of, brought you to this particular place.

With all the firearms you mentioned having, it would seem this particular issue for you now, wasn't one at the time you purchased the designs you are unhappy with now.

Two relatively easy fixes have already been identified. Either purchase your preferred design or hunt with an empty chamber.

But I am curious what has led you here now?

1. Idaho unit 14.

My guide this year said “look, we’re in Timber, you’re going to have only a few seconds to take your shot”. The recommendation was to carry the rifle in hand instead of slung and be ready to shoot. Loaded.

He was absolutely right. I didn’t see a bull but I did get a nice buck. I had seconds to process the entire situation and not having to rack a round or worry about the security of the safety all day carrying it settled it for me.

The guy with me whom I didn’t know, had an A-bolt, he seemed like he shot a whole lot less than me and I wasn’t loving the idea he didn’t have an inert rifle like I did (unless cocked).

2. I have shot only five animals total. I screwed up a 6th opportunity on a cow. I’m not claiming to be an expert, I’m pulling from the experience I have had. Half of those shots were all from the off-hand. Meaning, they were relatively quick or split second scenarios. Having a safe way to carry a loaded round is important in my mind.

 

[grfox92]

1. Idaho unit 14.

My guide this year said “look, we’re in Timber, you’re going to have only a few seconds to take your shot”. The recommendation was to carry the rifle in hand instead of slung and be ready to shoot. Loaded.

He was absolutely right. I didn’t see a bull but I did get a nice buck. I had seconds to process the entire situation and not having to rack a round or worry about the security of the safety all day carrying it settled it for me.

The guy with me whom I didn’t know, had an A-bolt, he seemed like he shot a whole lot less than me and I wasn’t loving the idea he didn’t have an inert rifle like I did (unless cocked).

2. I have shot only five animals total. I screwed up a 6th opportunity on a cow. I’m not claiming to be an expert, I’m pulling from the experience I have had. Half of those shots were all from the off-hand. Meaning, they were relatively quick or split second scenarios. Having a safe way to carry a loaded round is important in my mind.

So if you have the rifle in your hands it would be super easy to see if the safety had somehow in been flipped to fire. You could actually carry the rifle with your thumb on the safety. I think you are talking yourself out of using a particular action for a reason that isn't realistic.

When we decide to go hunting there is inherent risk at all times. There is a risk of falling, getting attacked by a predator, breaking or dislocating a bone. Tearing a ligament or tendon. Falling on to a sharp stick and impaling yourself.

Some might argue that your rifle is a variable that you can control. But the variable id like to control in terms of my rifle is reliability, availability of aftermarket support in order to maximize my performance behind the gun, and action that performs well in inclement weather, an action that feeds reliably, a smooth bolt and an affordable price.

Do you carry a pistol when your hunting? A pistol is way more likely to be accidentally pointing at your buddies or yourself when you are maneuvering around, crouching down, bending down to shoot. Most pistols guys carry now are striker fired pistols, chambered, often with no safety at all.

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[Steve300xcw]

These threads pop up every so often. And it always seems to be folks trying to invent problems where there arent any

 

[SloppyJ]

My preference is the 3 position on model 70s. I do enjoy the fact that I can unload a 700 with the safety on. Yes, it does feel odd switching the safety off on my Tikkas to unload it.

I dont find any of them more "safe" than the others. Youre in control of the rifle and operating it. Make sure your muzzle is clear before unloading the Tikka and its all good. In all reality its a more simplistic design with less parts to fail.

This feels like we are trying to make something a big deal here. If you don't like flipping the safety to unload a Tikka then maybe just stick with what you like?