bar 308

[davey]

have bar 308 #137 PV 17655  very good cond (1980s?)- has not been fired for 10-15 years, should i have it cleaned, by gunsmith, ( or are there instructions avail for disassemble type cleaning) before using ?

dont know what ammo was used before, any ideas for factory ammo to try for best groups?
also , what might be worth                thanks

[mcwoodduck]

There are some general books on firearms disasembly that cover the BAR.
I do not think you need a gunsmith.  But look at the instruction to disassemble and follow them to the basic part at first.
I would not go farther than the basic field strip.  The books are available at Boarders or Barns and noble on line.
I would get a good cleaning spray and use it in the barrel and the gas port. 
Keep the spray off of the wood.  It may screw up the finnish if the gun is from the 80's.
as far as ammo goes.  I do not think the BAR is pickey.  i would try out the 150 or 180 grain stuff first as those were the two main flavors of the time.  At least all I remember getting for my 308 then was 150 or 180 by the big three (win, Rem and fed) and some 125 grains by winchester.

[davey]

thanks for info - is there any cleaning info or browning manual links online?-- will try federal , maybe hornady unless there are any other ideas

was told gun maybe worth $450?

[mcwoodduck]

Depending on condition ... OK.
Was it someone offering you 450 for the rifle?
You may want to go on the Browning site and see if they have instruction manuals on line.

[Rangr44]

FYI - Your .308 was made in 1985.

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[1sourdough]

 I bought a used 243 BAR a few years ago, to go with my 308 BAR. I gave it a good cleaning before shooting, & fixed the stock. I don't remember if I went off the owners manual or more detailed instructions. I had it taken apart pretty good & it went back together fine & is working great.

[davey]

thanks for info-
are there any manufacturers marks that make 1985 bars different values?- will post pics

[rfletcher]

There are manuals online at the browning website.  I would just clean in accordance with the manual.  Also, look at gunbroker.  If your rifle is in good condition it should be worth more than $450.00.  Good luck.

[pastorp]

Is it blue with a wood stock or matt with the synthetic stock. I bought a lightweight with synthetic stock for 525 a couple of years ago. If your in a area with high unemployment it may not bring much. Right now with the recession guns are not selling as well unless their really desirable or cheep. JMO

Regards,