Rebore a Ruger Express rifle 30/06 to 338/06 or 35 Whelen

[Brac2005]

I just bought a NIB Ruger Express rifle in 30/06.  I love the rifle, but the good old '06 is just too generic for my taste.  I have been thinking about having the original barrel rebored to either 338/06 or 35 Whelen (my 2 favorite calibers).  Once again, this is the Express rifle with the express sights machined into the barrel, so the original barrel must stay, so please no "it's easier and cheaper to rebarrel it" posts.  I know that.  I wish to keep the rifle looking exactly as it came from the factory.  Who would you recommend to do this work and to which caliber.  Any other calibers I should think about...maybe a 9.3?

Thanks,
Rob

[gunnut69]

I would do the 35 Whelan, or maybe a Brown Whelan if your a reloader.  The Brown Whelan requires a fireforming step but produces a case with a more possitive headspace datum line, so they tend to last a bit longer.  Much as the K Hornet inproves the original Hornet...  The 338-06 is just not enough gain and 338 diameter bullets tend to be produced with the 338WinMag in mind and sometimes don't produce the results we're looking for at the reduced velocity of the 338-06..

[Judson]

What about the 9.3 X 62?    It is a bit more then the Brown Whelen and sort of a classic.

[VFR]

I had Danny Pedersen rebore a M70 in '06 to 9.3x64.  Perfect cartridge for a standard length action.  Natchez carries RWS brass for about $16/box.  This will give you something approaching a .375 with bullets from 250gr to 320gr.  Real sweet cartridge.