BLR .358 win

[BlackWolf]

Hello again, I just got back from the gun dealer's a little bit ago and have a decision to make.  The dealer has set aside a new Browning BLR .358 for me until tomorrow, this gun is the lightweight/stainless/grey laminate version.  I've been reading some really good things about the .358 and am very excited.  The only thing was - I went in looking for a pistol grip and this gun has a straight stock.  I held a non .358 with a pistol grip and I thought I liked the look of it more.  With that said... the straight stock felt better when brought to the shoulder.  Does anyone have any helpful advice on this caliber/gun and what difference does the straight/pistol grip make?   Also, is the bolt supposed to "bump" into the hammer when the bolt is worked?

Any advice that you can give before I go in tomorrow would be much appreciated.  Please feel free to share your thoughts on the .358 and also on the BLR.  I can't wait to hear from you all, you've given great advice in the past!

I've also set aside a Leupold VX-II 3-9x40 to go with it.

[Blackhawk44]

Like you, I prefer straight grips.  Seems to make them come to the shoulder more like an English game gun.  Regarding caliber in the BLR, the .243 is a little light for true big game, the .450's a short range round in a not-so-short range rifle and the long magnums make the rifle too long, heavy and don't handle well.  Any of the other .308 family or the short mags work well for about any game country.  With that .358 and about 250-300 yard range, you might look at a good 4X or 1.5-5X scope.  A 4X has always been plenty for me inside 300yds.  Just think you might have more scope than cartridge.  A smaller scope makes for a trimmer rig, too.  BOL   

[35Rem]

You are going to have to get the one that feels best to you.  Either is a good gun.  I kind of like the pistol grips, but that's just my opinion.

The .358 Win will handle just about anything in N. America. 

The 3-9 scope is just fine.  Just keep it on the lowest setting all the time, except when you might need a little more magnification in a stationary position, like a tree stand, when making a shot at stationary game.  If the game is moving, you'll do better on the lower power setting.


The bolt is what cocks the hammer, so yes, it's supposed to hit it.

[BlackWolf]

Thanks for your replys, I went to the shop again today and the .358 BLR followed me home.  It has the stainless barrel and grey laminate stock and topped with the Leupold 3-9.  I just have to try to find some ammo for it now!  I'll post pictures soon and I'll be sure to let you know how it shoots for those who are interested.  I can't wait to try it out!

[Blackhawk44]

On the next trip to town, you may as well pick up the near manditory .358 reloading dies.  You will spend far less time reloading than you would searching for factory .358 ammo.  Besides, everyone needs a second hobby.

[Rachel]

I just purchased a Savage 99F in the .358 Win, and cartridges are near impossible to find in my state. I am going to order reloading supplies, and until then, I can admire it. Rachel

[pastorp]

Rachel, congradluations on your 99f in 358. That is a very desirable gun in a hard to find caliber. I believe winchesters 200gr silvertip load is the only factory load available and you can order over the internet. Reloading however is the better way to go as it gives you much more flexabilaty in bullet weight. Also you can simply run 308 cases through your size die (lub necks) and presto you have a supply of 358 cases.  Regards, Byron

[BlackWolf]

You also have the option of ordering custom loaded shells.  I have 100 on order from www.cpcartridge.com.  They're ammunition looks to be at the upper end velocity wise and they are all premium bullets.  Enjoy your new .358 - Im still waiting on my ammo so I can shoot my .358.  Shoot straight!  By the way, the factory loads from winchester are like 40 bucks per box, 225 grain nosler partitions from cpcartridge are only like 34 or 35 bucks (and they're at the same velocity as the factory 200's).  Enjoy the great gun and OUTSTANDING caliber!!!

[Country Boy]

 You will love it. have 2 blr .358's and have taken a lot of game with them. I don't like the 20" bbl. Sat I played around with a new one  in 300 wsm. The balance was betteer with the 22" bbl. But I don't care for the .300 wsm.  I didn't like the pistol grip model ,it feels great but the forearm would shoot loose).308) after about 10 shots. Maby they are better now. You should reload, I use .250 speers at 2350 for big game, it really puts them down. Killed 26 bears, 2 elk and one moose with my little .258 and haven't had to track anything yet !  Use AA2520 powder. I use 748 but won't give the load only one manual lists it and it is way over anything in any other manual. but it works fine in my rifle.

[ga41]

Love my 358 Winchester BLR

[zipperzap]

Always (obviously) choose the gun that is comfortable to hold/sight ... it's as simple as that.
... and practice, practice, practice!