Browning BLR .358 Win. - Straight or Pistol Grip?

[Googleplex]

Alright, so after a great debacle of mind maker-uping, I've decided to purchase a Browning BLR in .358 Win. However, one problem- I don't know which grip to get. I like the looks of them both, but I like the straight grip '81 style more. However, 've heard that this stock config increases felt recoil. Is this true? And if so, by how much?

 

[rcmodel]

Well, the stock dimensions are identical for both of them.
As is the weight.

Length of pull = 13 3/4"
Drop at comb = 7/8".
Drop at heel = 15/16"
Weight = 6 lb 8oz.

So I really don't see how the recoil could be noticeably different at all.

rc

 

[Googleplex]

Well, the stock dimensions are identical for both of them.
As is the weight.

Length of pull = 13 3/4"
Drop at comb = 7/8".
Drop at heel = 15/16"
Weight = 6 lb 8oz.

So I really don't see how the recoil could be noticeably different at all.

That's what I was thinking, but I want to be sure. If that's the case, then it's gonna be straight stock hands down.

 

[jerkface11]

Trust me the pistol grip models DO NOT feel right. Get the straight grip.

 

[Googleplex]

I've heard some mixed things about the pistol grip. Some love it, some hate it. I'd probably like the straight feel more, as I've not always been impressed by the feel of some PG rifles. The curve in the grip does kinda long looking- a problem I have with my handi-rifle. I can use it fine, but I don't particularly care for it's feel all that much. The straight is most likely gonna be the better choice.

 

[Maverick223]

In my experience pistol grip stocks mitigate recoil a bit better, but in the BLR it gives an already fairly clumsy rifle even more awkward geometry. I'd choose the straight grip stock hands down. FWIW I have a English style stock on my 1885 and even with loads on the heels of the .458WM the stock doesn't pose a problem...I don't see why you'd have a problem with the .358Win.

One thing to note about the BLR is that the action must be kept reasonably clean or you'll have reliability problems. It's the price you pay for that butter-smooth geared action.

 

[PedalBiker]

Are you getting a take down or fixed barrel?

 

[Googleplex]

In my experience pistol grip stocks mitigate recoil a bit better, but in the BLR it gives an already fairly clumsy rifle even more awkward geometry. I'd choose the straight grip stock hands down. FWIW I have a English style stock on my 1885 and even with loads on the heels of the .458WM the stock doesn't pose a problem...I don't see why you'd have a problem with the .358Win.

One thing to note about the BLR is that the action must be kept reasonably clean or you'll have reliability problems. It's the price you pay for that butter-smooth geared action.

Yeah. And for a rifle that's designed to be competant as both a close range brush gun and open country 200 yard shooter, added awkwardness is not a good thing, even if the gun has slightly more recoil in the process. When the bead is on the animal, you don't even really notice your gun's blast or buck. And off-hand I doubt it'd be that bad anywase. Definately couldn't feel any worse than a mosin-nagant steel buttplate. I hear Browning recoil pads are very nice. Also, the rifle probably wouldn't get too dirty. I don't plan to use it like a Kalashnikov.

Are you getting a take down or fixed barrel?

Fixed barrel. I'm not big on the takedown's gradual mechanical wear in disassembly. I wouldn't even use that feature much, anywase. Might as well spend less money and get the more solid platform.

 

[Maverick223]

Definately couldn't feel any worse than a mosin-nagant steel buttplate. I hear Browning recoil pads are very nice.

Not even close! If you don't mind a MN, I can guarantee that you'll have no problems with a BLR chambered for .358Win. (at least with regards to recoil). They use excellent recoil pads. If Pachayr doesn't make 'em they are a pretty good copy; at any rate I have never found a reason to replace a pad (damage notwithstanding) on a modern Browning rifle.

 

[Googleplex]

Not even close! If you don't mind a MN, I can guarantee that you'll have no problems with a BLR chambered for .358Win. (at least with regards to recoil). They use excellent recoil pads. If Pachayr doesn't make 'em they are a pretty good copy; at any rate I have never found a reason to replace a pad (damage notwithstanding) on a modern Browning rifle.

Then it sounds to me this rifle ought to be a very enjoyable shooting experience. My MN is very manageable, although definately not an all day shooter (I definately would not want to put that steel buttplate on any larger caliber.lol) If the BLR is nicer in delivery than that old tentpole, I foresee a beautiful range experience in the future.

 

[Silent Sam]

The difference between the stocks has nothing to do recoil other than what fits you better. The "dimensions" may be the same but they are two different animals. I have both. My 358 is straight stocked and I have a 300 WSM w/ the PG stock. I much prefer the straight stock based on handling, not looks or any difference in recoil management. The PG stock also has a right hand palm swell. Browning puts good pads on the BLR and the 358 is not that big a kicker. I have gravitated to 225gr loads for all my hunting. Perhaps overkill for white-tails but it is enough large game. I have taken elk and moose w/ 225gr loads. If you are not a reloader the 358 is not a good choice. There is but one factory load - Winchester 200gr SP. There are some 'custom' places that make 358 ammo but it will be pricey.

 

[Googleplex]

The difference between the stocks has nothing to do recoil other than what fits you better. The "dimensions" may be the same but they are two different animals. I have both. My 358 is straight stocked and I have a 300 WSM w/ the PG stock. I much prefer the straight stock based on handling, not looks or any difference in recoil management. The PG stock also has a right hand palm swell. Browning puts good pads on the BLR and the 358 is not that big a kicker. I have gravitated to 225gr loads for all my hunting. Perhaps overkill for white-tails but it is enough large game. I have taken elk and moose w/ 225gr loads. If you are not a reloader the 358 is not a good choice. There is but one factory load - Winchester 200gr SP. There are some 'custom' places that make 358 ammo but it will be pricey.

Oh, I'll most definately want to reload for it. My only concern about reloading for it though, is fire forming the brass. That smaller projectile bouncing around inside the bore won't damage the rifling, will it? As for the stock, fast handling will be desired with this rifle, so it does sound like the straight stock will be the better choice, especially if it's cheaper and has no increase in felt recoil. Sounds like a win-win.

 

[Maverick223]

That smaller projectile bouncing around inside the bore won't damage the rifling, will it?

It's not dangerous, but it certainly does your barrel no favors. I think your best option is to use a bit of pistol powder and cap it with a bit of cotton fabric (no synthetics!) instead of a bullet. The rapidly expanding pistol powder will increase pressures enough to fireform the brass, and reduce the chance of damaging your new rifle...it'll be cheaper to boot (no bullets needed & less powder consumed).

 

[tiwil]

I prefer the strait grip.

 

[Sav .250]

To me there is little or no difference. More of a personal choice.

 

[Googleplex]

It's not dangerous, but it certainly does your barrel no favors. I think your best option is to use a bit of pistol powder and cap it with a bit of cotton fabric (no synthetics!) instead of a bullet. The rapidly expanding pistol powder will increase pressures enough to fireform the brass, and reduce the chance of damaging your new rifle...it'll be cheaper to boot (no bullets needed & less powder consumed).

That's a good idea. I bet I'd have to give the gun a thorough clean out afterwards, but that's with anything. That's probably gonna be my main mode of operation. And the cotton fabric holds up long enough for the pressure to build completely?
Wow... they shoulda had that on the Red Green show.

I prefer the strait grip.

That seems to the general consensus. If it's a bit better handling, every bit as manageable in felt recoil, and less expensive, then that's probably the way to go. Looks like all I gotta do is save $$$.

To me there is little or no difference. More of a personal choice.

Yeah, that's probably pretty much what it boils down to. No two people are alike, and they'll probably have their own preference. It sure seems the majority of folks on here like the straight grip, though.

 

[Maverick223]

And the cotton fabric holds up long enough for the pressure to build completely?

Yep, pistol powder builds pressure pretty quick...don't know if it would work with rifle powder but I doubt it. Don't like cleaning?...use some cream-of-wheat as filler and you won't need to!

 

[Googleplex]

Yep, pistol powder builds pressure pretty quick...don't know if it would work with rifle powder but I doubt it. Don't like cleaning?...use some cream-of-wheat as filler and you won't need to!

Sounds like shooting Martha Stewart style.lol The last thing I want to do is shoot at an elk, miss with the bullet and spray it with residual soup. The elk would only die of laughter.

 

[BrocLuno]

For those that consider the BLR "chunky" - do you have the same opinion of the Savage 99? If so, put me in the camp that says pistol grip as straight grip stocks always seem awkward to my wrists. I'll take a pistol grip any day. I think the same was true of the US Military as they have all moved away from early straight stocks to pistol grip wrist and now full on pistol grips themselves - easier control.

Fit is personal - a committee like this gun board can't make YOUR decision. Which fits you the best?

 

[k soze]

I like the look of the straight stock, but bought the pistol grip because it mounted and pointed better /quicker for me with a 2X scout scope on the take down model. I would have liked it better with a lightning grip like my o/u citori shotgun.

 

[GooseGestapo]

I don't care for either of the new Aluminum reciever versions. Especially the long action versions.
I'd jump on an older steel reciever gun in .358 or .257Roberts. But, I'll pass on the newer ones. (I have).
I've got several Marlins including a straight stock M1895 in .45/70 and a .338MX. Like them both.
I'd get a .338MX Marlin over the .358 if you can find an earlier version or verify the "Remlin" dosen't have the "issues".... My .338 is very accurate and hits deer as hard as anything .35 to .45 I've used.

 

[Googleplex]

Fit is personal - a committee like this gun board can't make YOUR decision. Which fits you the best?

You got a point, there. In my experience, straight grip/pistol grip doesn't matter, so long as the grip is either full straight, or a well curved pistol grip. If it's halfway between the two, It just won't feel right. That's why I'm thinking straight-grip. The pistol grip on the BLR looks a little long in the curve, which doesn't appeal to me. My handi-rifle is a little long in the curve, and It's not ideal for me as far as grip fit. Usable, but not the best feel.

I don't care for either of the new Aluminum reciever versions. Especially the long action versions.

I've heard the only real difference is weight. Some love 'em.

 

[rcmodel]

I would not base it on "fits you best" alone.
The stock measurements are exactly the same.

If fast handling in the timber, or snap shots at running game, or comfortable carry at the ready with the gun in your right hand is in the cards?
Straight grip.

If benchrest target shooting, or rested long range shots over shooting sticks are the norm?
Pistol grip.

It all boils down to the angle of the dangle of your wrest during typical use.

rc

 

[Maverick223]

I've heard the only real difference is weight. Some love 'em.

Well the steel version is stronger...but I don't know of any particular problems that can be attributed to the Al. receiver. IIRC they don't even make a blued chrome-moly steel receiver, so the steel one doesn't even look better IMO. I'd base the choice on weight...if you can handle a little more, steel...if not, aluminum. Unless you have some crazy things in mind for this levergun, I doubt that you'll be able to tear up either.

 

[GooseGestapo]

With the pre '81's, the recievers were indeed chrome-moly. They were thinner (hence strength of newer ones approaching the older), but the older ones had a different balance (more between the hands, less barrel heavy) and the wood was less "proud" on them. They were indeed trimmer and quicker handling. The two in .308 and one in .358 I've shot were acceptably accurate but not bench-rest accurate. I've missed out on buying both that .358 (sold by widow after death of owner, didn't have the money and relative wanted it....) and a .257Roberts (didn't have money then, either.....). Same problem I've had with Savage M99's too.... missed out on a .250 take-down with engraving at a pawn shop. A coworker snagged it (Major's w/30yrs make more than a probationary officer, fyi). His widow sold it for $$,$$$ after his death. $300 was over my head in 1981......$15,000 in 2003 also.....

My only aversion to them (both BLR and M99) was that it was difficult/impossible to mount the scope low enough to have good ergonomics with the stock which was clearly intended for open-sight use. To me they feel "clunky" and un-balanced (top heavy) with and don't point where you look with scopes mounted.
Also, extra magazines were extreamly expensive.....(BLR'S) 1/4 the cost of the rifle at one point...If you could find one. Availablity is better now, and price more reasonable, but not inexpensive.

I find the Marlins to be much better in the area of ergonomics (fit to shoulder and chin, even when scoped). And no $$$ magazine to lose.

Edited to add: In my 25yr career as a gamewarden, I saw more than one BLR with aluminum recievers that had the screw holes for scope mounts stripped out from over torqueing the screws...... Another reason to be wary of the aluminum recievers.....