Browning BLR - takedown or not?

[Triggernosis]

I'm in the market for a BLR in 7mm-08, but can't decide on whether or not I want the takedown model or not. I don't need the takedown feature at all, but how in the world would one clean the non-t.d. model without damaging the crown?

[madman4570]

Myself---------No takedown!

[Rimfire McNutjob]

I think Tycer bought one in 358 Win. earlier this year. I'm curious as to how solid the takedown is as well. Hopefully he'll respond with the lowdown on the new take-down BLRs.

[Tycer]

Last time out I took ten shots scoped without removing the barrel and ten shots removing the barrel after each shot. The groups were the same. 100 yds. RECEIVER mounted scope. I like it.

Here's some pics of the takedown mechanism. It's very easy and solid. I keep it greased like I do the upper part of the barrel extension on my 1100s.

http://www.levergunscommunity.com/viewt ... =+takedown

[blackhawk44]

I vote no on a takedown. For me, too much worry about zero each takedown. One hundred yard zero may be OK, but what about 200 and beyond? Also there could be the remotest chance of developing future looseness. Who knows? I'm sure some takedowns work fine, but why take a chance when the rifle is so short anyway? About muzzle cleaning-just use a good brass muzzle guard, a quality rod and care. Seems to work for me since my old BLR from 1974 (bought used) will still group better than most bolt actions.

[Bruce]

I have two BLR takedowns and I have no zero problems after taking them apart and putting them back together. The td feature does make cleaning easier, but other than that - I can live w/o it.

[Buck Elliott]

The take-down feature on the new Browning BLRs is very solid and sure.

I just can't get next to the "modern" lines and feel of the BLR, in any form.

Whoever engineered it was NOT a seasoned levergun shooter.

[Terry Murbach]

... but how in the world would one clean the non-t.d. model without damaging the crown?[/quote]
USE A MUZZLE GUIDE.

[Triggernosis]

I understand about using a muzzle guide, but I don't like having all that solvent and mess all caught up inside the receiver area.

Can anyone recommend a specific muzzle guide?

[PaulB]

Use those OTIS flexible cables, so you can pull the patch from the breach. Stand the gun vertically (barrel down) while pulling the patch in so the juice does not go into the action.

I wouldn't mind a takedown, but I'd mount a scout scope on the barrel. Then no possible zero problems. No way to scout my older BLR, though.

[Bruce]

I use a good non metal cleaning rod, a jag and liquid Wipe Out. No need for a brush or anything else and no mess. Once I tried the Wipe Out, I don't use anything else. No need to oil behind it either. There is a foam version of the Wipe Out, but I prefer the liquid.

[86er]

I tested the new BLR's extensively and the take-down was as accurate overall as the fixed model plus the td held the group when we shot 10 groups of 5 with a td between groups and when we shot 10 shots with a td between shots. I like the td for the unique ways you can conceal, hide and transport it. An old cello case works good, two Fed Ex tubes, mini-guitar case, etc. Also, if I were to hike in to hunt a long way I could put the two halves in my backback and have hands free. In my safe I can put the broken down rifle on the shelf and save a space on the floor for another rifle. In airline transportation you can use luggage or cases that do not look like, nor carry like a big gun case. The TD gives you two scope mounting options (scout and traditional). You save a bag when you put the rifle and your clothes in the same suitcase. Lastly, the cleaning is a little easier with the gun in half.