7mm PRC Perfection: Custom Medium Action

What is the optimal action length for 7mm PRC? We put together the perfect 7mm PRC build with a BAT Vesper Medium Action, Carbon Six Barrel, Foundation Ezekiel stock, Hawkins DBM, and Leupold optic. Check it out as we cover the build process end-to-end, and put it to work!

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Build Components

Normally, 7mm PRC requires a long action, but it is perfectly suited for a medium action! Medium actions split the difference in action screw hole spacing and overall length between short and long action. I decided to use the BAT Vesper M—a medium action with a magnum bolt face—to take full advantage of what medium actions can offer!

The Vesper M mag cut maximizes cartridge overall length, making it possible to fit a 7mm PRC into a medium action. It also optimizes weight and allows for a more compact rifle.

I paired this action with a Foundation Ezekiel stock, a Carbon Six 22” 1:8 twist .284 barrel, TriggerTech Diamond two-stage trigger, and Hawkins Precision Hunter DBM and Hunter Mag. This combination of components makes for a top-tier, lightweight hunting rifle.

The Ezekiel hybrid hunting stock has an adjustable cheek riser and is composed of a unique blend of carbon fiber, Kevlar, close-cell foam, and micarta.

A full-length, skeletonized ARCA rail allows for the quick addition of accessories while saving on weight, making it ideal for long treks.

The Hawkins Precision Hunter mag fits nearly flush with the bottom metal. This system offers greater versatility than an internal magazine without adding undue weight. The Hawkins Hunter DBM is also compatible with standard AICS magazines for medium action.

About the PM-1440GT-VS

I chambered the 7mm PRC barrel on my Precision Matthews PM-1440GT-VS using a PTG reamer and guidance from Rifle Builder PRO.

This was the very first barrel I chambered on this lathe. It was a joy to use, particularly with the lift kit I added.

Key features of the PM-1440GT-VS include:

Variable speed
3-Speed Range Gear Box
All Taiwanese built with Japanese spindle bearings
2.055″ thru-spindle capacity
14” swing, 40” between centers, 1” follow rest capacity
D1-5 Chuck Mount
MT3 Tailstock Taper

If you’d like to know more about the PM-1440GT-VS, check out our full overview HERE.

Assembly

Once I chambered the barrel and torqued it onto the action, I installed a TriggerTech Diamond two-stage trigger.

This is the same trigger I hunted with in South Africa.

The BAT Vesper M fit perfectly in the Ezekiel stock with no bedding. I don’t know of anyone who does more precise stock inletting than Foundation. The Hawkins Precision Medium Action Hunter DBM slid in with some resistance but fit perfectly in the inlet.

With no magazine, muzzle device, optic, or rings, this rifle weighed in at 7.55 lbs. In my opinion, this is ideal for a lightweight magnum.

Before heading out to the range, I added a Leupold Mark 4HD 6-24×52 and Maverick suppressor from Area 419.

I specifically chose a 22” barrel for use with a suppressor. The scope may be a little much for hunting, but I prefer to use the same tactical scopes I use for target shooting on my hunting rifles.

Shooting

For my initial testing and future load development, I am using Peterson Brass.

After learning more about the Peterson process during our factory tour, I took special note of how easy it was to seat primers and bullets in virgin Peterson brass. They utilize a proprietary EZ-Seat coating to aid in this process.

I followed my usual break-in procedure, shooting off the 100-yard bench.

My first three-shot group measured 0.520” (0.497 MOA). Though this is a small sample size, I generally shoot three-shot groups as a baseline.

This is also a good sample size for lightweight magnums with carbon barrels to give the barrel time to cool down between shots.

After confirming zero, we headed to the ridgeline to shoot steel. After dismantling several fallen trees blocking the road, we started with steel rockchucks at 335 yards.

Next I moved to 706 yards, the furthest I am comfortable taking a shot on a game animal. I used the data I had collected at the 100-yard bench to calculate my DOPE for the other distances.

Conclusion

The medium action represents an industry effort to standardize specifications and provide other options for cartridges like 7mm PRC that are too long for a short action but do not need the full length of a long action.