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FAQ

Some of the most common questions answered for you.
If you can't find the answer you looking for, feel free to send an email.

Accuracy | Ammunition | Barrels | Custom Orders | Muzzle Brakes | Recoil Stocks | Strength | Triggers | Warranty

Accuracy

What is the most accurate way to shoot long distance?
How far can I shoot a .50 cal rifle?
How accurate are State Arms rifles?

 

What is the most accurate way to shoot long distance?
The ideal way is to rest the forearm on a sand bag. The bipod on a State Arms rifle is designed primarily for hunting situations where a shooting bench is not available or practical.

How far can I shoot a .50 cal rifle?
The effective range for a good .50 cal rifle is about 2500 meters. (You will need a good scope to see anything that far away.)
The maximum distance the round will go is about 4 1/2 to 5 miles. Always be sure what is behind your target !

How accurate are State Arms rifles?
All State Arms Rifles are built to exacting specifications and held to a very high degree of quality control. Any rifle we build is capable of sub-minute* of angle with custom ammunition. *( less than 1" for every hundred yards to target )

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Ammunition

Isn't .50 BMG ammunition very expensive?
Where can I get .50 BMG ammunition?
Can I shoot reloads in my State Arms rifle?
What is the best bullet for long range accuracy (over 1000 yds)?
Can I shoot the .50 BMG ammo my grandfather brought back from WWII?

 

Isn't .50 BMG ammunition very expensive?
Most normal hunting ammunition is around $ .50 to $ 1.00 per round. Some big game cartridges sell for $ 20.00 per round and more. Military surplus .50 BMG costs around $ 1.75 to $ 2.50 per round.

Where can I get .50 BMG ammunition?
Military surplus is available for about $ 1.75 to $ 2.50 per round. Shotgun News has many sources listed.
Several custom ammo makers are loading .50 BMG. Be prepared to pay between $ 3.00 and $ 5.00 per round.
State Arms offers an RCBS Ammo Master press and C&H dies for $ 440.00 plus shipping. My advice is to reload your own. It will pay for itself in 150 -200 rounds. Bulk powder is available for $ 2.50 - $ 3.00 per pound. 1 lb loads about 25 rds. Primers are $ .18 - $ .23 each. Cases are $ .25 - $ .45 each. Military pulled AP bullets $ .30 - $ .60 ea. Prices are approximate, shop around for best prices on components. Be wary of pulled bullets with "slight pull marks". Some surplus bullets were pulled with a vise and are usually out of round.

Can I shoot reloads in my State Arms rifle?
Yes, as long as the ammo does not exceed military specs for 1980 and later ammunition. Know who loaded the ammo, and to what specifications. Improperly loaded ammunition can cause damage to the rifle and severe injury to the shooter.

What is the best bullet for long range accuracy (over 1000 yds)?
The longer the distance, the heavier the bullet should be.
Up to 1000 yds        650 - 750 gr.
1000 to 2000 yds     800 - 950 gr.
Over 2000 yds        Move Closer !!!

Can I shoot the .50 BMG ammo my grandfather brought back from WWII?
NO ! It will most likely fire, but due to the powder deteriorating with age, stay away from ammunition over 10 years old. Ammunition that has been stored under ideal conditions should be useable for considerably longer. If you don't know how it was stored, follow the 10 year rule. Better Safe Than Sorry !

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Barrels

What is the optimum barrel length?
What barrel weight do I need?

 

What is the optimum barrel length?
You need at least 29" to get maximum velocity with military ammunition. A 36" barrel accommodates more powder types, including 20mm powders, which need a minimum of 34". For competitive shooting a 36" barrel is recommended.

What barrel weight do I need?
Hunting - a light weight barrel is sufficient. Easier to carry, but should wait about 2 minutes between shots.
Target - A bull barrel is best for bench shooting and / or when you must be able to fire 5 shots within 2 minutes.

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Custom Orders

What do I have to do to order a custom State Arms Rifle?
How do I measure length of pull?
Does State Arms make a left handed action?
How long will it take to get my custom State Arms Rifle?
What are shipping costs?

 

What do I have to do to order a custom State Arms Rifle?
Custom orders require a $ 300.00 down payment and a signed FFL, or customer must pick up at our shop in Waunakee, WI.
We need you to tell us the complete details of what you want. Remember to specify the model and any options, including:

  • Length, Weight, and Twist of Barrel
  • Type of Muzzle Brake
  • Flutes or No Flutes
  • Steel or Aluminum Bipod
  • Scope Ring Size
  • Type of Finish, Blue or Nickel
  • Type and Color of Stock ( include length of pull for wood stocks )

If you have other questions or requests, call us at 715-366-2006 or send a e-mail

How do I measure length of pull?
Measure from the inside of your elbow to the first joint of your index finger.

Does State Arms make a left handed action?
Yes we do! A left handed action costs $ 100.00 more. We aren't picking on you, it just requires different set-up and tooling so it costs a little more. Most companies don't even give you the option.

How long will it take to get my custom State Arms Rifle?
Most models with a military stock can be delivered in 8 days.
Rifles with custom wood stocks take 2 - 3 weeks due to glass bedding and finishing time.

What are shipping costs?
Current shipping costs are about $ 75.00 per rifle.

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Muzzle Brakes

What is the best muzzle brake for me?
Tank Brake - very effective, light weight, most affordable. Preferred for hunting or shooting from the ground.
Round Brake - medium weight, moderately priced, streamlined. Very good for shooting from a bench.
Fish Gill Brake - Most effective, heavier, most appealing, more costly to manufacture. Excellent brake for any shooting situation.

You must consider how you will use the rifle and factor in the following: Weight, Recoil Reduction, Cost, Appearance. 
 
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Recoil      Possibly the most popular subject

Does a .50 cal rifle have severe recoil?
What has the most effect on recoil?
What does a State Arms rifle weigh? How does it kick?

 

Does a .50 cal rifle have severe recoil?
Depending on the weight of the rifle and the type of muzzle brake used, a .50 BMG can have less recoil than a common hunting rifle.

What has the most effect on recoil?

  1. Rifle weight - More weight, less recoil.
  2. Muzzle Brake - Bigger is better.
  3. Ammunition - Heavier bullets produce more recoil.

What does a State Arms rifle weigh? How does it kick?
Depending on options:                                 Recoil similar to:
Light Weight rifle        22 - 23 lbs                 10 ga. Magnum
Rebel light barrel        24 -25  lbs                 12 ga. Magnum
Rebel bull barrel         28 - 32 lbs                 12 ga. Standard
Big Bertha (wood)        34 lbs                        20 ga.
Big Bertha (alum)        42 lbs                        20 ga.
Competitor                 40 - 50 lbs                 .410


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Stocks

Which type of stock is better?
Custom Laminated Wood vs. Machined Hardcoated Aluminum.
The laminated wood stock is more traditional and many color choices give a truly custom look to your rifle. Unfortunately wood is affected by temperature and humidity making it subject to influence by weather conditions
.
The aluminum stock is care free, adjustable for length of pull, and gives a military appearance. Built in cross-level and carrying handle. Available in gray or black.

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Strength

How strong is a State Arms Action?
An independent engineering firm located in Texas performed destructive testing on a typical State Arms short action.This means the receiver was subjected to extreme forces until it failed, destroying it. The test results showed the action withstood in excess of 600% it's rated strength.

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Triggers

Does State Arms offer a match grade trigger?
The State Arms adjustable trigger ( 1 1/2 to 4 lbs ) is fully capable of match grade accuracy.
However, if you feel you need an "extra edge", a Jewell trigger
( 2 to 8 ounces ) is available on the Competitor 2000 model.

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Warranty
 
What kind of warranty will I get?
All State Arms Rifles carry a lifetime warranty on materials and workmanship of all metal parts.
We can not warranty wood against breakage or wood and metal finishes against scratches or damage from handling or carelessness.

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Owner: Larry Lyle • 6319 5th Avenue, Bancroft, WI 54921 • 715.366.2006 • eastrdge@uniontel.net
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