BERGARA PREMIER 7MM SAUM BUILD

Gavin of Ultimate Reloader is one of the best at providing authoritative and expert opinions on all things related to precision rifles and reloading. His data-driven approach offers objective information to help viewers make informed purchasing decisions. But he’s more than that. In recent years, Gavin has dedicated himself to becoming an expert gunsmith, focusing on building precision rifles. In this latest episode, he demonstrates his skills by building a 7mm Short Action Ultra Mag (SAUM) by using quality components from Bergara, MDT, Oregon Mountain Rifle Barrel Company, and Leupold Optics.

THE PARTS LIST

As for the build itself, the core component is the newly released standalone Bergara Premier Action. Priced at an MSRP of $899.99, this action is available in both .308 and magnum bolt faces in short action, as well as long action magnum bolt faces. It features a Remington 700 footprint with upgraded elements—including a side bolt release, fluted bolt, dual ejectors, and sliding plate extractor, constructed of 416 stainless steel, along with an enlarged bolt handle, pinned recoil lug, and quick toolless bolt disassembly. Honestly, this is the action Remington should have produced.

For the barrel, Gavin chose an option from Oregon Mountain Rifle Barrel Company. OMRBC uses a Krieger-built stainless-steel core and then applies a proprietary carbon fiber mixture that is wrapped longitudinally. OMRBC’s unique process is to produce a stiffer barrel that performs better during extended range sessions.

And for the stock, Gavin has gone with the relatively new MDT CRBN rifle stock. Available in Remington 700 SA footprint and four different colorways, the CRBN is a revolutionary design for hunters and shooters demanding the best. The CRBN uses a magnesium micro chassis with V-block bedding that provides a rock-solid foundation. The forend is widened and has an integrated ARCA rail along with several M-LOK slots. The carbon fiber shell is wrapped around a rigid foam core that helps absorb harmonic vibrations—providing a more comfortable shooting experience. Finally, the user can select between a hunting or precision bottom metal.

THE BUILD

Gavin takes viewers on a journey of building a rifle, from choosing components to detailed machining plans, lathe work (as much as he can show on YouTube), Cerakote application, laser engraving, and final assembly. He then guides shooters through initial load development and range sessions. It’s clear that when you combine quality parts and expert gunsmithing, it results in a package that performs exceptionally well.

ZOOMING OUT

Gavin is a wealth of information, whose channel I’ve recommended for years to people looking to get into reloading, gunsmithing, and more. This video encompasses all the aspects that make these videos “must-watch” TV. To see the detailed build along with accuracy testing, make sure to check out this video. To catch more of Gavin, check out his YouTube channel here.