First Shots: Springfield Armory Model 2020 Waypoint Rifle

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posted on March 19, 2021
Springfield Armory released the Model 2020 Waypoint rifle to much fanfare and anticipation, as long-range precision shooters were eager to get their hands on a rifle with many custom features but not the custom rifle price tag. 

The Waypoint rifle doesn't disappoint. It comes with a Trigger Tech trigger, adjustable from 2.5 to 5 pounds, a carbon fiber stock, and the option to have a carbon fiber wrapped barrel, which improves cooling efficiency, looks sweet, and lightens the load. The rifle also features a three axis adjustable cheek piece (optional), a SA Radial brake, and it accepts AICS-pattern magazines. A Pachmayr decelerator pad reduces whatever recoil the rifle produces. 

Weighing in at 7 pounds, 10 ounces, the Waypoint is a viable option for competition or hunting purposes and can be carried afield without much trouble. Compared to other long-range rifles that can exceed 15 pounds, the Waypoint is plenty light enough to carry all day. 

For this review, the Waypoint was topped with Leupold's Mark 5HD 5-25x56 mm scope, which is one of the best options for long-range work on the market. It features illumination, first focal plane construction, side adjustable parallax, and remarkable glass that performs at full magnification in low light conditions. 

I also replaced the Radial brake with SilencerCo's Omega 36M can, which is a multi-caliber suppressor capable of handling everything from .22 Hornet to .338 Lapua. It weighs 16 ounces, which means it does add some bulk to the rifle, but it also creates an impressive balance point for incredibly stable shooting position. 

The Waypoint in 6.5 PRC does not disappoint in the accuracy department, either. I was banging steel out to 1,187 yards with consistent center punches on steel, and at 100 yards the rifle is well under the .75-MOA accuracy guarantee. This with Hornady's Precision Hunter and Match ammunition, which is geared for conquering long-range targets. 

The other convenient thing is that you can choose the number of custom-type features you want on your rifle, which makes the price tag variable. Fully loaded like the rifle I reviewed, you're looking at an MSRP of $2,399, which is far cheaper than you'd expect to pay for many custom rifles with similar features.

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