Proceedings of the First Scout Rifle Conference
Held at Gunsite Ranch, Arizona, on 6, 7,
8 December 1983,
under the auspices of the Ekeiboloi
Society
FUTURE DEVELOPMENTS
The conference engaged in quite a bit of shooting of various types, and most participants were impressed by the controllability of the five-pound Brown rifle and the speed of acquisition of the Burroughs sling. A majority were somewhat intimidated by the clay birds but that is only to be expected. Taking clay pigeons on the wing with a major-caliber rifle is a knack that calls for a little practice. It was introduced mainly to illustrate the striking advantages of the forward-mounted glass, which are not fully appreciated by people who have not tried speed-shooting with a rifle.
When questioned formally the members of the conference showed the greatest interest in the forward-mounted scope, the Burroughs sling, and the proof that a super-light gun need not be an inaccurate gun. It was demonstrated to all that a light weapon may be a tack-driver if it is properly assembled. There may even be a positive advantage to a short barrel, in that it permits less room for production errors. Crinkle stock finish and Teflon on stainless steel were also remarked by many.
The main problem remains the acquisition of a proper telescope sight.
There is still no weapon extant which includes every single desideratum, but all hands agreed to press for the appearance of such a piece in 1984. Here at Gunsite we will proceed with Ruger and ZKK examples, and expect difficulties only with the flush retractable bipod.
We hope for the enlightenment of the sight and mount makers, as we hope for the appearance of rotary barrel forgers on this side of the Atlantic.
The membership agreed unanimously on the need for another conference in the autumn of 1984. Its time and place will be announced.