Appleseed Shoot Rifle Review

[MeanStreaker]

I wrote a review of this past weekend's Appleseed Shoot in Carrollton, KY. I don't believe the story gives justice to how much I learned and how much fun was had.

You can read the whole article HERE.

Are You a Rifleman or a Cook?

In the closing days of 2006, I penned a short article listing a few of my New Year Resolutions. As you may have seen, I only mentioned those that pertained to defending our Second Amendment rights and kept the obligatory weight loss goal to myself for plausible deniability.

In reviewing that list, I realize that some efforts are progressing further than others. One in particular that I had been neglecting until recently was number four on that list:

Become a Rifleman. I have informally plinked my entire life but have never had any training with a rifle. This year, I want to compliment my handgun skills with some long arm abilities. There is nothing wrong with having a few more self-defense tools available if the need for them should ever arise.

To begin my journey, I read as much as I could, both online and in print, to try and learn the basics of rifle marksmanship. My spoiled, lazy rear convinced me that would be sufficient during the first cold months of an Ohio winter and I was on my way.

I could not have been more wrong.

That complacent attitude was officially banished this past weekend when I attended an Appleseed Shoot sponsored by the fine folks at the Revolutionary War Veterans Association (RWVA). Before I tell you about the training itself, I would like to recount my experience so that you can learn how I went from having fired twenty rounds of centerfire rifle ammunition in my life to consistently hitting (simulated) 400 yard targets with iron sights and a .30-caliber long arm after only two days of Appleseed instruction.

...

 

[MeanStreaker]

Here are a few pics from the event:

 

[j_d]

appleseed taught me more in one weekend than i have learned in years of shooting and reading about shooting. it more than doubled my ability, and got me making the equivelent of 250 yd headshots with open sights. it was the best $70 i have ever spent. im done being one of those jerks that shoots his $1500 m1a like it was some $100 (you choose the rifle). im done reading and posting and buying equipment while lacking the skill to effectively use that equipment. other wise i might as well trade in my rifle for golf clubs.
joshua

 

[22LongRifle]

What type rifle can you use in one of these shoots? Please no, ANYTHING. I need to narrow down a choice. Hopefully under $500.

Jerry

 

[MeanStreaker]

22LR, but you can bring anything!

Go to RWVA.org to see their forums and blog and they can answer any questions you may have.

To give you an idea... At our shoot, the majority of people had ARs, M1As, and FALs. However, there were a LOT of Ruger 10/22s present, a few Garands, at least one AK, and a smattering of other milsurp guns, including some bolt actions.

The basis for Appleseed is learning the mechanics of good shooting and the choice of rifle doesn't matter.

With that being said, if you're looking for specific suggestions (especially ones that won't break the bank) you could do a lot worse than a Yugo SKS. They're still cheap and are good rifles. I took it as my backup but didn't need it. You can find them for $130-160 dollars in really good condition. While a semi-auto (like the SKS) is preferable, any milsurp rifle will serve you well. The Swiss K31s are deadly accurate and pretty cheap, but the ammo is kinda costly unless you reload. Enfields, Mosin Nagants... take your pick.

Nothing wrong with a .22 semi-auto if you're just starting out. Cheap practice.

Ultimately, since this is instruction for accuracy at long distances, a lot of people prefer .308 ballistics, but you certainly don't have to start off with a $1300 M1A for the shoot.

 

[22LongRifle]

I'm looking into a good mil-surplus 8mm. I reload and cast, so it should keep the price down. Still saving up for that M1A!

Jerry

 

[mkh100]

Appleseed is about the shooter not the gun. You will likely get more from a rifle that can be loaded quickly. Mags best, stripper clips good.

I have seen the Appleseed COF shot.....well.......with a tube fed Marlin .22 Rifle

 

[Gun Wielding Maniac]

I was at this event as well. As always, the Appleseed people shined through the rain and inclimate conditions to provide outstanding instruction. It is not a combat event, but one which tries to teach the fundamentals of marksmanship without becoming bogged down by specifics. Of course, passing on tradition and history is also one of Appleseed's big goals.

If you get the chance to go, you should. Just remember to bring sunscreen and a groundsheet and water.