rnhunter Report post Posted October 12, 2013 I know this has probably been a fairly often asked question on this site but I was wanting to get a few opinions on some good gunsmiths in the Phoenix/east valley area. If it matters I am looking at having a deer caliber sized rifle made. I have shot the 7mag for many years also looking at the .280 Ackley improved if anyone has any thoughts on that caliber. Tagged out in Sept on a beautiful 350 archery bull; my thoughts turn now to rifle deer...although no tag in hand this year. never too late to get ready for 2014. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
azgutpile Report post Posted October 12, 2013 Phoenix custom rifles and you can't go wrong with a 280 ai. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
cbryant11 Report post Posted October 12, 2013 I plus +10000000000 that as soon as i can afford a donor action iam having phoenix custom rifles build me a 280 ai Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
briant_az Report post Posted October 13, 2013 Phoenix custom rifle is awesome!! They built a 280ai for me recently and I couldn't be happier with the rifle. I Highly recommend pcr for any build! Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rnhunter Report post Posted October 13, 2013 Thanks. I will look into Phoenix custom rifles. What about the brass for the ackley improved? Do you recommend the fire forming route or buying ai brass. Does Phoenix custom help with the work-up for loads? Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
cbryant11 Report post Posted October 13, 2013 Iam sure they would do that but i havnt asked them, i usually work my own loads up Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rossislider Report post Posted October 13, 2013 I've used a few different easy valley gunsmiths. Phoenix Custom does a pretty good job, I'm happy with what they have dobe for me. BUT, I much prefer Lance at Dane Customs. Of all the gunsmiths I've used no one takes the time to do the clean quality work that Lance does. IMO Lance prides himself not only on functionality and accuracy, but also appreciates the aesthetics of a beautiful firearm. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rossislider Report post Posted October 13, 2013 FYI, Phoenix Customs is just off McClintock in Tempe, about a mile south of ASU. Dane Customs is in Chandler just off of Elliot and Arizona Ave. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
briant_az Report post Posted October 13, 2013 I am using nosler 280ai brass. They didn't work up loads for me but I didn't ask either. That's part of the fun of having a custom rifle if you ask me. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
rnhunter Report post Posted October 14, 2013 Thanks gents for all the info. Anyone have any opinion on Kimbers 280AI in their mt ascent rifle. Looks like a nice lightweight gun. I ask about custom loads because I just seem to be so short on time anymore. I have enjoyed reloading for many years but the more I learn about precision shooting the more inadequate I feel with my subpar equipment and lack of time to really do what it takes to create a tack driver. Share this post Link to post Share on other sites
