Does anyone currently sell a ready made LTR thats got all of the bells and whistles right out of the box? I know part of the fun is building them up yourself but some people would prefer to pay to have everything they need in one fell swoop without having to source all the parts and put them all together. For some people, time is money and getting all the bits and pieces takes time.
I am considering a possible business venture in producing turnkey LTRs for Appleseed shoots or whatever kind of shooting you prefer. I'm wondering if someone is already doing this and if so what parts and pieces they are sourcing.
I'm considering building up LTRs on Nodak Spud NDS-22 receiver, Green Mountain fluted heavy barrel, NDS-23/25 aperture sights (I like them better than Tech-Sights), Hornet Custom trigger group, Hogue overmould stock, Unkle Mike's 1.25" swivels and USGI web sling, with three 10rd Ruger mags and one BX-25 mag. Maybe some other accessories like a chamber flag, sight tool, soft case, etc. Would any of you find this a useful setup if you could buy it as an absolutely turnkey product sold at a modest markup above what it would cost to put it together yourself? I'm not looking to make a living at this by any means, just trying to offer a service where I see an unmet demand.
BTW, I'm aware of all the 07 FFL legal details and pitfalls, excise taxes, liability insurance, ITAR, etc etc, so don't go there.
http://appleseedinfo.org/smf/index.php?topic=15075.0 (http://appleseedinfo.org/smf/index.php?topic=15075.0)
I think it's still a good idea. Your's is considerably more complex and with more accessories then Douglas'.
Now, to the real point of my post: If there's any way an Idaho IT can help out with field testing or anything, you be sure to let me know, OK? ;D
What price point are you looking at?
I think the issue is cost.
It is easier conceptually to buy a $200+ 22 rifle, $70 sights, $20 sling and swivels than it is to buy a $300+ rifle all set up. Lot easier to rationalize the cost. Plus most people don't know what they want or need until after they go to an Appleseed.
I can supply any bell or whistle you want on a rifle. The factor is cost. O0
I supply the most mentioned options that the members of this forum wrote that they wanted to see on a LTR. What is left out of Mac66's comment is the time to bring everything together. Drilling the stock to accept the sling studs. Removing the stock sights without damaging the rifle barrel and providing and fitting a slot blank to fill the cut for the rear sight. Then there is a complete tune-up of the bolt and the trigger group.
I think that for what I offer, the price is a good deal. Not everyone is a smith and can make the changes to the rifle.
I think your idea is sound and has a market. I'm wondering about shipping costs becoming prohibitive though. And would there be a legality involved from state to state with transportation?
I charge $20.00 for packing and shipping via UPS.
The only issue with shipping interstate is you must have an FFL receive the rifle at the buyers end and do the form 4473 and background check. $25.00 is the normal cost that I have heard being charged for this service. Shipping to CA is a PITA, but doable.