Budget Bolt Gun

[Springer]

Looking to pick up a bolt action (223, 243, or open to other options) for around 400 for just the rifle.

Been looking at the Marlin X7, Howa 1500, Savage Axis/Axis 2, and the Stephens 200.

Is there a good place in the Indy area that has a wide selection of bolt actions I could check out?

And does anyone have any advice on which would make a decent paper puncher and possibly varmit hunter?

 

[throttletony]

you could add ruger american/ ruger american varmint to the list.
Or, if you watch sales and rebates, you might be able to get a Thompson Center Venture (w/ 5r rifling!!) which is a great value!

I hate to recommend Gander Mtn.m but they mgiht have msot of these on the shelf

 

[Excalibur]

You can still pick up a Mosin nagant for under 200 still

 

[Springer]

I will take a look at the Venture. I have a TC Omega and I have been really happy with it so far.

Not really interested in a Mosin right now, thanks for the suggestion though.

 

[DRob]

Though I don't have any of them, I think any of the guns you mentioned will do the job. I agree the Ruger American might fit into your mix as well. As for caliber, .223. Try to get something with a 1:9 twist for versatility.

Edit: Oops, I forgot the wife's Howa 1500 SV. It was beyond your stated price but shoots lighter bullets very well. It's a 1:12.

 

[saleen4971]

i love my ruger american rifle. got it in 30-06 - for the price, its hard to beat. some good suggestions posted before me as well.

 

[99zhuggerz99]

around Thanksgiving and X-Mas time Dicks normally has a decent sale on the heavy barrel Remington 700. real close to your price range.

 

[Nevernoluck2]

Howa or Stevens

 

[Brennend08]

i would go the marlin x7 because its a newer-ish gun on the market, and the accuracy ratings are better than the ruger. I had issues with my ruger american so i would consider the savage as well but i like the marlin x7.

 

[45fan]

Not to throw another name in the mix, but if you keep an eye on the adds, a Remington 700 is not out of the question either. I picked up a 700 SPS Varminter in 308 (with scope) for around $500. I would imagine that with a bit of diligent shopping around, and watching for the sales, it isnt out of the question.

 

[biggen]

I have a Marlin X7VH in 223 and it is very accurate with my loads, I can't say how it is with factory ammo, as I've never shot any out of it. But it is an easy 3/4" rifle even with the P.O.S. Centerfire scope . I had a Stevens 200 in 223 and just couldn't get the groups out of it that I wanted. Of all the tupperware stock rifles that I've messed with, the stock on the Marlin is the stiffest I've come across also the trigger is very decent.

I'm looking to pick one up in 22=250 eventually

 

[Dudelittle]

Ruger American's are nice "cheap" rifle's. I own one in .308 and i really enjoy it. They come in the calibers you are wanting. The varmit version would be even better do to the medium barrel.

 

[tge45]

Mossberg MVP. I have a 5.56, accurate, inexpensive quality.

 

[lawnpros]

Picked up a venture when they had a rebate. great shooter but bolt catch needed a little work as it allowed the bolt to slide out the back when cycled firmly. Camo with camo scope made nice outfit. shot 1.5 at 100yds with leupold. never got to the 1 inch as advertised.

 

[IUprof]

I had a Stevens 200 in .223 and it was a good rifle. Inexpensive and has aftermarket stock options. Google "budget precision rifle build" and you will get some good information. Especially the snipershide or savage shooters forums.

 

[sgreen3]

If your wanting a budget bolt gun for just paper take a look at the Savage Axis Heavy Barrel hard to beat for the money although might be a bit heavy if you plan to lug it around in the woods.

 

[Yeah]

Ruger American is the only move there.

Twisted right, chambered right, magged right.

 

[meyer4589]

I love my Axis in .308. Its been accurate right out of the box and I havent had any problems with it. I would recommend it for an entry level rifle for hunting or general use.