AR Hunting Platform for Kids

[another pake]

OK, here's the deal.

I'm going to put together a few AR platform target and hunting rifles. They will be shared among kids, grandkids and so forth. I'm thinking now that one will be a .223 Wylde. The other a 6.8 SPC. Targets and steel from 100 to 500. Hunting deer in willow thickets with the 6.8, and yotes in the open country with either.

I'd like to hear your experience and suggestions for stocks and hand guards particularly. Keep in mind kids, smaller hands, smaller frames. We won't be hanging flashlights and lots of other gee gaws from these guns. Weight and recoil are considerations. I am looking for high quality components, but don't need more than is necessary for a good hunting experience.

Ready,

Set,

Go. (And Thanks)

 

[jmorris]

For targets and steel kids like one of my heavy barreled 20" .223's with suppressor on it most.

Noise and recoil are not factors any more. I have a friend that bought a handy rifle in .223 for his son and he didn't like shooting it at all. One day we were shooting down at our farm and he didn't want to until I got one out and he didn't want to quit ringing the 300 yard 9" plate.

Set his dad up with a trust the next day.

Hunting recoil and noise really are not issues unless you bird hunting, you only need 1 good shot...

 

[Mike C2]

I think the AR is awesome for kids because of the adjustable stock. I have my 12 year old shoot mine and my preference is for a Magpul MOE (or CTR type) stock with the 3/4" recoil pad and a UTG slim free-float tube.

Obviously there are plenty more options, but those are quality parts at reasonable prices that work well for all size shooters IMO.

 

[Safety First]

When firing my 6.8SPC AR, I can't tell the difference in recoil in 223/5.56. Having one of each is fine and probably a good plan.

 

[Sunray]

It's 'gew gaws'(Reading too many western novels. snicker.) and good for you. Use the right bullet and assuming local legality, a .223 will do for deer too. Forget 500 yards when hunting for either though.
Really isn't as good idea to share rifles among kids or anyone else. Nobody is ever happy and the rifle usually doesn't fit 'em all. Even with one of the adjustable LOP stocks. Nor will the rifle be properly sighted in for the shooter for hunting. Doesn't mean shooting targets is out though.

 

[d2wing]

A standard M4 carbine with collapsible stock would be fine. 223 is fine. A red dot sight is easier to use. Using a short LOP, a shorter barrel, and low cap mags makes it easier for kids to shoot with the weight closer to their body. They make a great kid's centerfire. My kids have a hard time with AK's due the the long LOP and heavier gas system out further form the body.