223

[Whacked]

I was cleaning out my closet when I came across a old ammo can I forgot about. Inside was was about 300rds of .223 REM.
I no longer own a .223

I see 2 options:
I could give it to a friend of the family (only one I know and like that owns a 223)
Or I could be selfish, keep the ammo, and buy a new 223 rifle.
I'm leaning towards the latter

I would like another mini-14 but its outside my budget.

Any options for something in the $4-500 range?

Aside of the 22lr, the 223 is the only cartridge rifle I've ever owned, and I bought those decades ago. Searching thru a few gun sites I am surprised to see the likes of 300, 30-06 etc dirt cheap, like $300 or less. the very few 223 were double that price. what gives?
Also the 243, is that something fairly recent? I know i've been waaaaay out of the loop, since the late '80s, but is whats the skinny on that rifle?

Hmmm, more I think about it, maybe I'll dump the ammo and get a 308 bolt...

 

[T Bran]

Check out the H&R Handi rifles.
T

 

[mdauben]

Any options for something in the $4-500 range?

I think the problem is, most rifles chambered in .223 are either semiauto military style rifles, or varmint rifles, both of which tend to be a bit more expensive than "normal" rifles. While you might be able to pick up a used bolt-action .223 in that price range, the only new guns I know of for less than $500 are the single shots from Rossi and H&R, which are in the $300 range.

Also the 243, is that something fairly recent? I know i've been waaaaay out of the loop, since the late '80s, but is whats the skinny on that rifle?

No, the .243 Winchester has been around since the '50's. Its a transitional caliber, intended to work for both varmints and medium game (deer, antelope). Its also popular as a "first gun" for teens and women, although I know a few men who like it for the mild recoil.

 

[T Bran]

The only reason I mention the handi rifles is that you mentioned possibly wanting more than one caliber. Once you have the base rifle you can purchase additional barrels in different calibers. The drawback is that it is a singleshot the benefit is that it can also be a shotgun. Another plus is that once you fit the stock to your liking and install a nice recoilpad you are done since this part dont change.
If however you prefer a bolt gun SAVAGE/STEVENS has a good reputation for accuracy at an affordable price.
Good shootin.
T

 

[juk]

Marlin XS7 would be a good gun to look at. I think the heavy barrel still comes in around 400$.

 

[W.E.G.]

Sell the ammo on Gunbroker.

 

[451 Detonics]

Wait till the Mossberg MVP gets out to the market...I currently have one on order and think it will be worth the wait. Uses AR magazines, will have a good factory trigger, and is in a stable laminated stock. Should be under $500.

 

[aw93332]

Saiga 223 and Kel Tec Su16 are decent options for semi-auto in the price range around 400 you mentioned. I picked up my Saiga for $350 after looking around. The Su16's are a bit more, never owned the su16 just got to shoot one at the range once. Both are better options than the mini IMHO, just as accurate...if not better, my saiga has eaten cheap steel case where my 580 series mini was hit-and miss with them, and yeah half the price.

 

[Whacked]

The Savage and Marlin looks interesting
I like the Mossberg too.

Think I'll have to talk to the LGS and see what can happen.

Thanks for the ideas everyone. my pathetic search just turned up AR/AK types and those ain't my style.

I see a nice bolt action in my future

 

[Rshooter]

Check out CDNN, Mini's are $589.00.

 

[stchman]

You have a few options.

I've seen used Mini-14 Ranch rifles (blue with wood) for $450. Around my area the Mini-14 Ranch rifle (stainless with composite stock) runs around $700 brand new.

If you want precision, one of the Savage AXIS .223 bolt action rifles are real accurate shooters for <$300 brand new. You will however have to get a scope or some other optic as they have no sights. A decent scope is about $80 - $100.

 

[Whacked]

Mini-14 Ranch rifles (blue with wood)

Thats what I used to have. Much prefer over the look of stainless/composite.
However, I've yet to see one used at that price.

Not in a hurry to make my purchase so I can keep a lookout.
thanks again for the help

 

[Mike1234567]

I've give you $30 shipped for the ammo.