What other .223 Semi Auto's are out there?

[x2bax]

Ok, So I have had a pretty good gun year this year, I got a 870 for home defense, and just snaged up a Taurus 709 slim for my carry peice. So the next item on the list for my SHTF prep is a .223 rifle once I get my tax return.

I have looked at all the AR15/M4 variants out there. I'm also familier with the Ruger mini 14 and the Kel tec SU-16 (which I am leaning towards at the moment). My question is what other Semi Auto's are out there. I'm looking for stuff in the $500-800 range to leave some money for ammo and assesories.

Requirements are:
good ammo availablity ( 7.62 is an option but I dont like the weight)
Rugged
Accurate
And finally easy to operate and clean for a rifle newbie.

Thanks

 

[Tonyscomputery]

Galil clones are nice
Galil 'Golani' 223 Side Folder, No Bayonet Lug

 

[Dyerbill]

I love my Ruger mini-14, with factory mags its a blast. No groups target gun, but a great SHTF self-defense weapon

 

[NateIU10]

Saiga 223

ARs can be had for ~$500-$520 if you build it now

 

[dave29]

Although you said some other weapons........
You can buy a brand new DoubleStar AR-15 from buds for $649 delivered and still have enough to buy a half case of ammo and a couple more mags for $800.

 

[Bruenor]

At the last 1500, I saw a basic AR-15 from DPMS for $600. It was a flat top without any optics, but adding what you need to it that should be in your budget. That's probably what I'm going to get early next year.

 

[nahfuten]

Saiga 223

ARs can be had for ~$500-$520 if you build it now

I would like to build an AR for $500.... Except I have no clue how to even start. Do we have an AR building FAQ on INGO?

 

[OneBadV8]

You could get an FAL or PTR91 possibly around the $1000 mark in .308.

Otherwise if you don't want an AR platform in .223 you're looking at a Galil, MSAR STG556, VEPR, KelTec SU-16CA, Mini-14, Saiga or other AK Variant in .223

 

[Mgderf]

Saiga 223

^ That!

 

[UncleRed]

C93 Sporter

From Aim Surplus:

Newly manufactured C93 Sporter 5.56/.223 Rifles by Century International arms. These Rifles were modeled after the HK93 Rifle. They were built using New US made Barrels and Receivers with used, refinished HK33 parts kits. As pictured. Includes 2 used HK33 40rd magazines, and used HK33 Bayonet and scabbard.

AIM Century C93 Sporter 5.56/.223 Rifle Century C93 Sporter 5.56/.223 Riflehttp://www.aimsurplus.com/acatalog/New_Rifles_.html

currently sold out, but I think if you look around you can find them. Classic arms may have them too.

-UR

 

[U.S. Patriot]

Ok, So I have had a pretty good gun year this year, I got a 870 for home defense, and just snaged up a Taurus 709 slim for my carry peice. So the next item on the list for my SHTF prep is a .223 rifle once I get my tax return.

I have looked at all the AR15/M4 variants out there. I'm also familier with the Ruger mini 14 and the Kel tec SU-16 (which I am leaning towards at the moment). My question is what other Semi Auto's are out there. I'm looking for stuff in the $500-800 range to leave some money for ammo and assesories.

Requirements are:
good ammo availablity ( 7.62 is an option but I dont like the weight)
Rugged
Accurate
And finally easy to operate and clean for a rifle newbie.

Thanks

I have not shot a Kel-Tec SU16, however I have read many good things about them. I do own a the SU22, which is the .22 model. The nice thing, is the ability to place extra mags in the stock. Also it easily folds to fit into a back pack, or behind a truck seat etc. Of course as you said, there are many AR/M4 models to choose from. I did own a Ruger mini-14 when I was younger given to me by my Father, honestly I did not care for it. I personaly think they are overpriced. For the money I would rather have a AR/M4.

 

[SamW]

Were you serious about your SHTF requirement? If so, I would be looking at the Saiga line (uber-reliable) or an AR platform gun (reliable, spare parts everywhere, can use parts from mil. issued weapons, fires a nato round, etc.)

If your Kel-Tec breaks, you'll be looking for a whole new rifle.

 

[Fargo]

You could also look into an AR180 or AR180B which is a piston gun originally designed to compete with the ar15 for military contracts. I believe AR180B's are currently in production or at least were within the last few years.

Best,

Joe

 

[caseychadwell]

The Saiga rifle is a great platform. There are a lot of modifications you can make to the rifle, or keep it as is for a more "sporter" look. And, with a 16" barrel will shoot very accurately. They also make a wonderful little truck gun. You can pick one up from Center Fire Systems right now for around 329 too, which makes it very affordable.

 

[alfahornet]

I love both my Sig556 and my MSAR556 (Steyr Aug clone). Both are a little pricier but well worth it. Especially the MSAR556 it is really short and looks more like an SBR but it has a 16'' barrel.

 

[IUGradStudent]

Casey: Those centerfiresystems prices are incredible. Thanks for the tip.