[45R]

Which would be better for a new rifle shooter.
Why?

[Marshall]

I would say your Remington Bolt would be the better choice for your first rifle. Frankly, it depends on what you want it for?

If it's hunting, any bolt action rifle would be your better choice over the M1A semi-autos, IMO. If it's for shooting paper targets, then it comes down to how much do you want to spend, what feels best and, do wan't to be able to go bang-bang-bang? ;)

[cratz2]

Of those you list, I'd have to recommend the Remington.

For a first rifle, I'd probably recommend a quality bolt action 22lr with iron sights then a scope later.

[AK103K]

If your just getting one rifle, and can hunt with an auto where you live, I'd say go for the M1A. It will cover all your needs and can be scoped, if thats what you want, although I personally dont like them scoped. The M1A isnt a difficult rifle to learn and shoot and will span a lot of different shooting disiplines. Its peep sights are the only way to go for iron sights in this type of rifle, and will allow target shooting and hunting from the same rifle with no need to change anything. If you go the bolt route, and decide down the road you want to get into DCM or high power shooting, you will need to buy another rifle. The M1A is also a very capable "homeland defense" rifle, if your into that.

[cheygriz]

I voted M1A with iron sights.

First, I must say that I'm NOT a fan of the M1A. However, of the choices you listed, it's the only semi-auto. I would much prefer a HK-91, Galil, or FAL.

Iron sights, because that's how you learn to shoot, and thats what you'll have for backup if your scope gets damaged.

[Steve Smith]

Most folks here know how I voted. While all the bolt guns you listed are great guns, I prefer the seni-auto and the aperture sights of the M1A. It will be easier to go from apertures to scope than the reverse as far as the learning process goes. Of course, learning to use the sights properly will be harder initially. I say get the M1A, run off to a local Highpower match and learn what you can. I won't try to indoctrinate you into HP ( :D ) but it will teach you a ton about using your rifle. Contact me if you need more info on it.

[Tropical Z]

A Saiga would be a better buy than any of those.;)

[Longbow]

Savage Tactical!:D

[aerod1]

I voted for the M1A peep sight. Great gun!
Jim Hall

[No4Mk1*]

Bolt actions will be legal to buy in California 10 years from now. I would rather have a Garand than the current California legal M1A. Maybe because I like historical rifles, not ones with political design changes.

[10-Ring]

I'm leaning more towards a bolt action myself. Simple, accurate & you don't have to buy mags for it ;)

[Schuey2002]

Savage Tactical!!
Did someone say.. Savage??!:D ;)

[flashbackk]

I just got a CZ 550 American in 308. What a fine weapon. If it was made in the US I wouldn't be able to afford it. That set trigger is wicked. Best bang for the buck there is. I used to say that about my Makarov.

[RustyHammer]

Other: I vote for M1 Garand chambered in .308 .... awesome combination.

[benewton]

With Rusty on this on, since an M1A, in NM config, will perform many tasks. Go first for iron, add the scope as needed.