Remington 870 shotgun
Posted on 11/06/2013 12:31:49 PM PST by bigtoona
I know this will get a lot of replies but go for it. I just want to get some opinions on the different rifles out there to help me decide.
I grew up in PA until I was 11 so I never got to actually hunt with my brother and dad so I'm not super educated about all of the rifles out there.
I have pistols, shotguns and a couple of .22 rifles but now I would like to get a decent rifle for deer in case I get an opportunity to go hunting with a friend. Nothing too fancy or massively powerful, just good quality and dependable. Thanks all!
Remington, Winchester or Savage in .308, 30-06 or .270. Can’t go wrong
In answer to the original question, it’s hard to go to far wrong with a Savage in .308
“I’m inheriting a 30/30 and was wondering how that compared to a .308”
A 30/30 is less powerfull than a .308. Roughly the same bullet, fired at a lower velocity.
“While I’ve never shot an AR, how does that compare to a 30/30 in stopping power?”
An AR can be built in a lot of calibers. .300 AAC is roughly equivalent to 30/30 in stopping power
If you have a range that rents firearms in your area, take an afternoon and go shoot. You need a firearm that fits you, not one based on various posts here.
For example, instead of a .223, I would recommend a .308 or .300 Blackout. More stopping power. An AR has a synthetic stock making the rifle much lighter. The stock bolt-action 30-06 kicks like a mule as there is no gas recovery system to absorb the recoil.
However, the main point is how the rifle fits you. Do you feel at ease with it? Can you hit your target with it without having problems holding the rifle for the extended period waiting for your target to clear some brush? Availability of ammo, ability to add scopes, etc, all are individual items.
Now, if you have money to burn, there’s a company in Austin that sells a rifle with electronic sighting system that analyzes air pressure, wind, humidity, etc, and will automatically track a target at up to 10 mph. It is a click and shoot, and is 100% accurate to 850 yards. However, starting price is $22,500 and there’s a 3 month wait.
So, go shoot and have fun making your decision.
I’m thinking of stopping anything as far away as possible. I don’t know the range of a 30/30 nor an AR.
Don't dismiss or neglect Ruger.
I used to own both, before that terrible boating accident...
What are you planning to stop?
Better:
Cartridge Bullet weight Velocity (muzzle) Energy (muzzle)
5.56 62 gr 3,100 fps 1,797 J
.308 147 gr 2,749 fps 3,275 J
if in woods shots under 100 yards a good 44 mag in a lever or automatic is great light short and deadly
if you want a bit more a 45-70 in a lever or single shot again light and not bad recoil with a 325 grain hornady leverevolution round I have never had one go over 15 feet its like hitting them with a bowling ball
Thanks. The 30/30 rifle is missing a magazine so I’d like to find one and try it out. All my dads guns were made in 1950 to 1965 and some I’m told not to shoot but sell to a collector, so I may do that as long as I can get something better.
Remington 870 shotgun
Thank you! I need to stare at that for awhile and soak it in.
OK, how far is possible FOR YOU to shoot a 2.5" group?
My AR-15 and my Marlin 336 both shoot farther than I can consistently hit. YMMV.
Thank you. I heard ARs can be widely configured but I did not know that included caliber as well. Very interesting.
What are you planning to stop?
Anything, and the further away the better.
I have been looking at the Henry rifles too, they are nice
FWIW, I'm also inheriting a .44 magnum. The rounds look like it will really kick! I love my .357 but that .44 looks like it might hurt.
That would be my choice as well. A rack-grade Win70 in ‘06.
Second choice, rack-grade Win70 in .270 Winchester, especially if one is in the western US.
Simple, easily supported recommendations.
I’d also stick with either a 4X or 6X fixed power scope.
You will shoot your eye out.
I'll second that. And 30.06 is cheap and versatile.
Disclaimer: Opinions posted on Free Republic are those of the individual posters and do not necessarily represent the opinion of Free Republic or its management. All materials posted herein are protected by copyright law and the exemption for fair use of copyrighted works.