I really need some help and advice.
Here it goes: so just recently completed my Hunters Ed. Online course. Before I go and purchase a license, I need the help of this community to help recommend a nice, budget friendly rifle/AR for big game. Looking for a budget of 1,200 or under. Thank you! You guys are the best!
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What game, deer, elk, bear?
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You state AR, which in normally chambered in 223 or 556. Be sure to check regulations as they are not allowed in that caliber for some taking. I think I read they are not eligible for deer, and would imagine that applies to Elk as well. Would not want to try and stop a mad bear that is charging with either one.
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The State you hunt in and the game you’re targeting are the big factors. I started with a bolt action 30-06 but in some states like Ohio you have to use straight walled cartridge, 45/70 for example.
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Mainly deer. I never hunted before and beginning a new hobby of it.
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My local gun store said that it is legal for AR use for hunting, I just don’t know the calibers just yet. Still doing more research in my state (California). I’m mainly just looking for deer to start with.
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Thanks! I’ll look into that for sure
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I use a Remington 700, 30-06 for pronghorn deer and elk.
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You want a bolt action rifle in the .30cal range, .20cal-anything are varmint rounds.
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- Decide what you want to hunt.
- Identify the organizations dedicated to hunting what you want to hunt.
- Use YouTube to develop perspective and expand your basic knowledge.
- Identity retailers and organizations supporting your preferred hunting goals.
- Talk to gun store staff and hunters.
- Identify ranges with a good range of rental rifles.
- Shoot a variety of rifles so you can relate to comments and reviews about them.
- At this point join an organization supportive of your hunting preferences.
- Develop an understanding of the things you will need to purchase beyond the rifle itself.
- Prepare a budget and stick to it.
- Be safe. Have fun. Kerp learning.
- Did you think doing it right would be easy?
- Have fun.
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I love this response by far, THANK YOU
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I have hunted for years with a bolt action 30-06 or a 308 reasons good for most big game and allowed in most states. But @Larry130 points are a great list of steps to be sure.
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Welcome to the community, Scott455, we’re glad that you’re here and hope that you enjoy it.
Take care & be well
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I have had a lot of different calibers, but like the 308 for all around hunting current mod Ruger 77 compact That,s what my brother shoots elk with.
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You are right on point,to do anything hobby / interest takes time and money.
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I’m a small bore guy. Deer I use 22-250 or 243, Elk Moose 270 or 30-06, Bear Probably if I’m feeling brave and stick with the 270 or 30-06.
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Remember that lead is verboten for hunting in CA, so you’ll probably want a rifle with a twist that will stabilize lighter weight (copper seems to be the norm) projectiles if you want precision accuracy.
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Not AR platform.
Not asking you to drive to Nor-Cal if you’re in So-Cal.
But sharing to give you an idea, see S&W 1854 and Tikka.
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My go to hunting rifle for big game is my Browning X-Bolt Hells Canyon chambered in 7 mm Magnum.
I’d go with a bolt action over a semi-auto for better long range accuracy in all weather conditions.
If you mainly want to hunt deer, I would recommend less than 30 caliber. There’s plenty of good options like .270, 7 mm Mag, .284 Win, .28 Nosler, etc.
The main reason is less meat wasted on the exit wound, typically the shoulder, when using .30 calibers. All the calibers I mentioned are great for long range but even for close range. I was successful from 30 yards to 360 yards with the 7mm and they dropped instantly.
Next will be your scope. I have a Sign Sauer that my wife bought me for Christmas. But price wise, I would go with Vortex. They make excellent scopes for a decent price.
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