Recommendations on model/caliber

[Kaneda13]

So, I've been enjoying shooting my 22LR, but I bought it with the goal of working up (or out as the case may be), and I'm ready to start taking those steps. Here are my requirements/preferences, let me know your recommendations.

No hunting, target shooting only. Ideally would like to work up/out to 450 yards (this us the furthest distance I can find to shoot on the property of people I know). New or used is fine, $400+/- budget for bare rifle. Bolt action only (totally a personal preference). Ammo readily available locally retail, I don't reload. Needs to be of appropriate size for me (I'm 6'-4", and struggle with my Ruger bolt 22LR). I shoot for enjoyment, not for competition, so something I can shoot comfortably and not be sore at the end of the day. Availability of aftermarket parts if I want upgrades.

Would be nice:

Available in OD Green stock (match my 22LR). Threaded barrel. I have been looking at the Ruger American Predator line, but I don't want to overlook something that may be a better fit/value.

 

[redwingshooter]

Savage Hog Hunter line can be found on GB for about $400-450. This is minus shipping and transfer though. Most of the ones I looked at had OD stocks. Either 223 or 308 will get you there. Also has a threaded barrel.

 

[Kaneda13]

Thanks. I should have said shipping/tax/FFL etc are not included in the rough price range.

 

[redwingshooter]

I'm a pretty big Savage fan, I've had very good luck with their rifles and the common consensus on here is that they are the best value for accuracy out of the box.

 

[x10]

my thoughts on this is stay with 223 just because the cost of the components and ammo are going to be the lowest, even top end 223 ammo is less than good 308 ammo. and if you get into reloading the same applies

Also if you go with a rem 700 actions there are more doo dads and upgrades available at good prices than I can count

 

[Kaneda13]

Ok, had several people comment on the Remington as being a really good choice, so I'm looking that way. Found this on Rural King (not having nay lock with finding a used one within my price range):

Remington 700 ADL .223 Rem Bolt Action Rifle w/ 3-9x40mm Scope 84600 : RK Guns

Not a huge fan of the blind magazine, but it's something I could certainly live with.

 

[redwingshooter]

There are about a gazillion accessories for the R700, so you could definitely pretty her up later down the line. Probably could change out the bottom metal to take detachable mags too but don't quote me on that as I am not a R700 expert by any stretch of the imagination.

 

[Kaneda13]

Yeah, I just watch a video on it, and was checking pricing, looks like about $150 (plus stock cost) to swap from ADL to BDL, and that opens the door for all the different upgrades. Still, I think the ADL would be good to start with, then I'll do the conversion and stock swap first.

 

[KJQ6945]

Another option for you would be the Mossberg MVP series. 5.56 bolt action, takes AR mags and it's fun to shoot. You can also get it in OD Green.

 

[Kaneda13]

I'll ad that to my list, as I'm still looking. Not much in .223 bolt in the classifieds right now, just about only a "high mileage" Howa 1500. I'll keep searching, and I'm still open to any recommendations!

Anyone recognize this rifle? It's on Armslist in Scottsburg, just a bit more of a drive than I was looking for.

http://www.armslist.com/posts/5588890/indiana-rifles-for-sale--ruger-ranch-rifle-in-5-56

 

[johntheplinker]

Lots of good choices. My advice is to go out and shoulder as many as you can and see what fits you best before you order something only to find the stock is too short, doesn't balance well, or whatever and you're disappointed in it. I'd also avoid the combos, like the RK 700, as most of the scopes are flat junk. Save a few $ by getting a bare rifle and put the savings into a good scope.

 

[ram77]

I'd go with a savage bolt action or build a long range ar

 

[bigelowe]

There is a thread on here about the savage 12sv. $419 at Cabelas with a $100 rebate. Pick your caliber. .223 or 308 will get you to 450yds. With .223 being easy and cheap to shoot.

 

[Kaneda13]

I ended up getting the Howa 1500 that was here in the classifieds. It'll be next week (at the earliest) before I can get a silver scope for it (come on, I can't put a black scope on a stainless barrel after all). I've found quite a few after market parts for it, though the more I hold the solid wood stock, the more I'm liking it, so that'll probably stay. Just need to find myself a good place outdoors I can go and shoot.

 

[Hookeye]

Black scope on silver rifle is fine, just use silver rings.

 

[Hohn]

A little more money, but I don't think you'd regret it: Check out what I found on GunBroker.com!CZ USA 527 M1 American 223 Rem 21" Barrel NIB : Bolt Action Rifles at GunBroker.com