Any advice on "assault" .308/ 7.62x51 rifles?

[762gunr]

Don't get a military-style semi-auto battle rifle with the idea of hunting with it. While possible, it's not well suited to the job (unless you get something like an 18" AR15 in 6.8 SPC). Lots of bolt-action battle rifles work fine for this, though.

FN-FALs are good, well-balanced rifles. M1As look like the best rifle from WWII (which they should), but aren't good for scoping in traditional mufti. If you plan on getting a M1A and dropping it in another chassis, you should just buy a different rifle to begin with.

John

I own 2 FAL's and they are the last thing I would grab to defend myself or hunt with. Carrying an AR or SCAR to hunt with is just as easy as carrying a bolty with a much better chance at a follow up shot.

 

[Wapato]

Looks like this thread has run its course.

I'd like to thank you guys for your informed and helpfull replies!

Unfortunitly at the moment it seems that it would be easier to get a unicorn than one of these, but I've learned a fair bit and I'll be able to dig this thread up when and if the manufacturers start catching up and/or the gunshow prices drop back to sane levels and I can get to one.

 

[Kansan]

Another option is to look at the rifle that saved the free world from slavery and is the "greatest battle implement ever devised" according to Gen Patton: the M1 Garand. The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) does not appear to be sold out of either Garand or ammo and they have .308/7.62x51 models or .30-06. All the Assault Weapon you will ever need!

 

[Baba Louie]

Unfortunitly at the moment it seems that it would be easier to get a unicorn than one of these, but I've learned a fair bit and I'll be able to dig this thread up when and if the manufacturers start catching up and/or the gunshow prices drop back to sane levels and I can get to one.

While no one knows what tomorrow will bring, don't overlook the Saiga or VEPR line of .308s for hunting purposes.

If it's a semi-auto or self loading rifle the old BAR from Browning in .308 can also be found.

Never considered it "assaulting" Bambi, but maybe from the ungulates POV it qualifies.

Also, look for Rugers new GunSite bolt action 77. What with the detachable magazine and flash hider, I'm sure it too will be deemed "assault" worthy by those who fear such things and knoweth not what they do. Or maybe they do know? I think they do myself.

 

[MistWolf]

Can we say FAL rifle, select fire. Chambered in 7.62x51/.308, it is every bit of an "assault rifle". The term is a word made up by the media/politicians to scare the general public, don't fall for it. Yes, the correct term would be battle rifle, just like the current M16/M4 series is the current battle rifle of the US.
I would pick up a FAL, CETME, G3, SCAR, simply because they may be harder to find. Compared to the amount of AR's (Armalite Rifle, not assault) out there. A better return for resale down the road.

The term "assault rifle" (sturmgewehr) was coined by Hitler to describe the StG44