BAT Rifle Actions: In-Depth Overview

If you are familiar with Bat Machine, you know they have a reputation for extreme accuracy. What you may not know is just how many different types of rifle actions they make, and how many configurations and options are available. In this video and article, I’m joined by Bruce Thom from Bat machine to cover their rifle action lineup “from A to Z”.

Benchrest Actions: SV, B, DS, 3L, 3LL, M, Nuevo

In the above picture we have the complete Bat benchrest lineup (minus the SV), from left to right: Neuvo (Light weight short version), Neuvo LR (F-Class version), Model M, Model 3LL, Model 3L, Model DS (named for Dwight Scott), Model B.

In the proceeding section, we’ll look at these benchrest actions from small to large (non-exclusives), then the Neuvo.

Model SV

The Bat Model SV (not shown in lineup above) is Bat’s least expensive action due to the fact that we do not offer many options. This action is 6.565” long and 1.35 inches in diameter. Average weight is 28 oz and varies with options chosen. Load port length is 2.30 inches and barrel tenon is 1.062 x 18 tpi.

Model 3L

The Bat Model 3L is Bat’s smallest 3 lug action. It is comparable to the 2 lug model B and DS in size. The 3 lugs advantage is that the bolt throw is only 60 deg (it is 90 deg on the 2 lugs) and the bolt body covers the lug area reducing the chance of blow by getting to the shooters face. This action is 7.43” long and comes in several body shapes. Starting weight is 33 oz and varies with options chosen. Load port length is 2.70 inches and barrel tenon is 1.062 x 18 tpi. This can not be made as a repeater action.

Model B

The Bat Model B is one inch longer then the model SV to allow for larger cartridge length and more bedding surface. This action is 7.565” long and has several exterior shape options. Starting weight is 33 oz and varies with options chosen. Load port length is 3.00 inches and barrel tenon is 1.062 x 18 tpi.

Model DS

The Bat Model DS is based on the model B action and comes with the most desired features standard, these include an adjustable trigger hanger, a roller cocking piece and a dual port setup. Also the load port is a little shorter as it is designed specifically for short case lengths that allows for a faster and smother bolt cycle. This action is 7.565” long and only comes as a 1.35 round. Weight is 32.5 oz but varies if features are excluded. Load port length is 2.80 inches and barrel tenon is 1.062 x 18 tpi.

Model 3LL

The Bat Model 3LL is Bat’s largest 3 lug action. It is comparable to the 2 lug model M in size but will only work on cases up to Magnum size. The 3 lugs advantage is that the bolt throw is only 60 deg (it is 90 deg on the 2 lugs) and the bolt body covers the lug area reducing the chance of blow by getting to the shooters face. This action is 8.43” long and comes in several body shapes. Starting weight is 38.5 oz and varies with options chosen. Load port length is 3.325 inches and barrel tenon is 1.062 x 18 tpi. This can not be made as a repeater action.

Model M

The Bat Model M is .935 inch longer then the model B to allow for larger cartridge length and more bedding surface. This action is 8.500” long and has several exterior shape options. Starting weight is 48 oz and varies with options chosen. Load port length is 3.35 inches and barrel tenon is 1.125 x 16 tpi. This action requires a 1.25 inch diameter barrel.

Bat Neuvo (Bullet Central Exclusive)

The Bat Neuvo was developed as a joint venture between Bat Machine, Chris Harris and Dwight Scott, and is sold exclusively through bulletcentral.com. One of the unique features for this action is its horizontal lockup 2-lug design.

Large Actions: EX, EXS, L

Model EX

The Bat Model EX is the largest action Bat makes. It was designed to work with the 50 BMG cartridges. This action is 12.00” long and has two exterior shape options. Starting weight is 128 oz and varies with options chosen. Load port length is 5.50 inches and barrel tenon is 1.5 x 16 tpi. This action requires a 1.75 inch diameter barrel.

Model EXS

The Bat Model EXS action was created to make it easier to meet the 40lb weight limit imposed at some ELR matches. To do this we took our popular EX action and removed 2 inches from the length. We also offer this with two equal size ports to reduce the wight as much as possible.

Features standard on the EXS:

  • Isonite LiFe metal protection process is done to all critical components.
  • Recoil lug is fitted and bolted to the bottom.
  • Slide plate style extractor and plunger ejector.
  • Large anodized aluminum knob with 5/16-24 thread.
  • Includes: Aluminum 60 MOA Picatinny rail, pillars, Aluminum trigger guard and action bolts.

Barrel tenon is 1.50 x 16 tpi.

Model L

The Bat Model L is 1.5 inches longer then the model M & CT and has a larger barrel tenon. This action is 10.00” long and has several exterior shape options. Starting weight is 80 oz and varies with options chosen. Load port length is 3.80 inches and barrel tenon is 1.25 x 16 tpi. This action requires a 1.45 inch diameter barrel.

Tactical Actions: TR, Igniter

Model TR (Tactical Repeater)

The Bat Model TR is aimed PRS and similar tactical bolt rifle competitions and scenarios.

Here’s the quick facts for the BAT TR:

  • Remington 700 footprint semi-clone
  • 2-lug 90° throw
  • Short action only
  • 1 1/16” x 18 TPI tenon/receiver threading
  • Compatible with most Remington 700 stocks and accessories
  • 8.08” long and 1.35 inches in diameter, 33.4 oz in weight
  • Optimal for use with 1.200” and larger barrel shanks
  • Removable and adjustable trigger hanger
  • Bottom cut to allow the use of AW mags.

Be sure to check out my articles and stories covering my own Bat TR Rifle Build:

This action can make for some “exceptional” accuracy:

NEW! Model “Igniter”

The Bat Igniter is all about premium features at a reasonable price. how do they do it? It’s standard-issue (no options on this model) and is focused on the fundamentals rather than the “nice to haves”. With prices starting below $1000 (as of this writing) that’s a serious value considering that this action cuts no corners on precision.

Hunting Repeater Actions: VR, HR

Model VR (Varmint Repeater)

The Bat Model VR has a Remington 700 Short action footprint. This action is 8.00” long and 1.35 inches in diameter. Average weight is (integral rail 33.4 oz) and varies with options chosen. This is normally a repeater action but can be ordered as a single shot. Load port can be cut for almost any 700 SA bottom metal. Ejector port length is 2.55 inches and barrel tenon is 1.062 x 18 tpi.

Model HR

The Bat Model HR has a Remington 700 Long action footprint. This action is 8.860” long and 1.35 inches in diameter. Average weight is (integral rail 36.4 oz) and varies with options chosen. This is normally a repeater action but can be ordered as a single shot. Load port can be cut for almost any 700 LA bottom metal including the extended Wyatt boxes. Ejector port length is 3.52 inches and barrel tenon is 1.125 x 16 tpi.

NEW Aluminum Repeater Actions: Bumble Bee, Vampire

The all-new Bat Bumblebee action (short action) and Bat Vampire action (long action) have aluminum bodies with steel inserts for threads. These actions are super-strong, and not prone to some of the issues encountered with titanium actions.

Bat Bumblebee quick specs:

  • 11.4 oz lighter than the VR/TR action!
  • 31%-42% stiffer than light weight steel actions and over 130% stiffer than round Titanium actions!
  • Action body is made with a combination of Aircraft grade billet 7075-T6 Aluminum and hardened 4140 Chromoly Steel to gain the best combination of light weight and high strength .
  • Integral 20 MOA picatinny rail comes standard this allows easy 100 yard zero and gains the maximum capability of your scope for the long shots. Also you can sleep at night knowing your bases won’t be coming loose.
  • Modular bolt for lower cost bolt face changes.
  • Features Bat’s proven .070 firing pin diameter for maximum accuracy and reliable ignition.
  • Comes with a medium size aluminum knob. The handle has a 5/16-24 thread.
  • LiFe (Melonite) treated firing pin, bolt and shroud for extremely smooth bolt movement and low maintenance.
  • Extended extraction cam for smooth bolt opening.
  • Allows use of most Remington 700 SA components including the ability to run extended Wyatt’s Outdoor boxes.
  • Right and left hand versions.
  • Barrel tenon is 1.062 x 18 tpi.
  • Comes with Bat’s made-in-house LiFe treated Deep hex 1/4-28 action screws.

Bat Vampire long-action aluminum action:

The Bat Vampire has the same standard features and specs as the Bumblebee, except these differences:

  • Long-action length
  • 10oz lighter than Bat’s HR (comparable all steel) action!
  • .480 (Standard 308) and .550 (Magnum) bolt face options.

Detailed Breakdown from Bat Machine

If you want to see all of the details, specs, and options in one place, please visit the following page on batmachine.com:

Bat Machine Configuration and Pricing

And if you’re wondering what Bat action is right for you, there’s a guide here:

Bat Action Selection Guide

If you have questions or feedback on Bat actions, please leave a comment!

You won’t want to miss my upcoming rifle builds using Bat actions and other updates, make sure you’re subscribed!

Thanks,
Gavin

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