Bergara’s Collin Russell took the time to walk us through Bergara’s new offerings released at the 2023 SHOT Show. We’ve already had hands-on experience with the all new Bergara B-14² Crest and fell in love with it.
Disclaimer
Ultimate Reloader LLC / Making with Metal Disclaimer: (by reading this article and/or watching video content you accept these terms). The content on this website (including videos, articles, ammunition reloading data, technical articles, gunsmithing and other information) is for demonstration purposes only. Do not attempt any of the processes or procedures shown or described on this website. All gunsmithing procedures should be carried out by a qualified and licensed gunsmith at their own risk. Do not attempt to repair or modify any firearms based on information on this website. Ultimate Reloader, LLC and Making With Metal can not be held liable for property or personal damage due to viewers/readers of this website performing activities, procedures, techniques, or practices described in whole or part on this website. By accepting these terms, you agree that you alone are solely responsible for your own safety and property as it pertains to activities, procedures, techniques, or practices described in whole or part on this website.
New Rifles
Russell explained that this year, Bergara is filling in some gaps in their existing lineup as well as releasing some new offerings. To recap the current families, Bergara has the B-14 series, B-14 Wilderness line and Premier series. New to the Wilderness series is a carbon option for the Wilderness Ridge and Wilderness HMR.
We had the chance to shoot the Wilderness Ridge Carbon in 6.5 Creedmoor on range day and were super impressed with it. This lightweight rifle comes in at about 6.6 pounds and should have a street price around $1300.
Russell recently harvested an antelope with this rifle and found it not only a pleasure to carry but accurate as well, even with a suppressor. The Ridge features a traditional hunter-style stock that is still quite popular, though other Bergara models offer various other options.
The Wilderness HMR Carbon is 2.2 pounds lighter than the standard steel version, which we’ve highlighted on the channel. The HMR has the features of a PRS-style rifle but saves on weight, making it ideal for an NRL Hunter match.
Perhaps the biggest news from Bergara is the new Bergara B-14² Crest, which falls between the Premier and Wilderness series. We’ve spent a good bit of time with the Crest, the first offering in Bergara’s new B-14² line.
We added a BANISH 30 suppressor, though I also appreciate the included brake, which is slim, easy to remove, and has a low-profile. Perhaps our favorite thing about the Crest is its ergonomics. Russell agreed the stock is what sets the Crest apart. It is of monocoque construction, completely made by Bergara, and a pleasure to shoot. It is currently available in 308 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC and 300 Win Mag. Russell noted that even with the insane wins on SHOT Show range day, attendees consistently had 900 yard shots on steel.
Conclusion
This year we’re looking forward to doing more work with the Bergara B-14² Crest as well as pushing the limits of Bergara’s competition series rifles.
What are your thoughts on Bergara’s new hunting rifles for this year?
Get the Gear
Don’t miss out on Ultimate Reloader updates, make sure you’re subscribed!
Thanks,
Gavin Gear
