General purpose rifle

[Manny]

Before you purchase which ever rifle it is that you get, I encourage you to go check for ammo availability and price for which ever cartridge you decide on. Ammo cost is a big factor in how much you'll be able to shoot, particularly on a grad school budget.

Also know where you are going to shoot. For me, my longest easily accesible range is 200 yards. If I want to try my hand at varmint hunting a small bore with frangible ammo is ok, as they will minimize issues with richochets, but a big bore with it's tougher bullets isn't around my populated area, that's why they are banned for deer hunting.

I had a .308 & went to a .223 for ammo price and more usability of the cartridge for the shooting opportunities where I live. The only drawback I find is that the bullet holes are harder to see through the spotting scope @ 200 yards.

 

[Reloadron]

That is exactly where I am. My wife and I are both still in grad school and money is tight right now. One day I'll be able to get specialized guns, but for now I need to stick to the basics and it may be some time before I can buy a second rifle. I'll probably end up with an AR someday, but I feel like a bolt might be my best course of action right now. Keep the advice coming though, being new to centerfire rifles I'm soaking it all in.

All in due time. With school and other things I am sure a rifle is not the most important thing and a nice to have. Keeping that in mind and all things considered...

I would still suggest the .308 in a bolt action rifle. I am not knocking the SKS suggestions as I have one around here somewhere but given a choice for a first rifle and general purpose use I like the .308. Yes, as mentioned an AR 10 especially a good one is nice but not quite a budget rifle either.

If I went new I would be thinking Savage rifles in your price range. Now if you consider used you may be able to get more bang for the buck. There are plenty of used like new rifles out there to be had.

As to the .308 in general? You really aren't giving much up between the larger 30-06 and a .308. Yes, as mentioned the 30-06 will toss the heavier 220 grain bullets out there. I have a few 30-06 rifles and have never felt the need for a 220 grain bullet, then too I never went after elk with the guns.

Your rifle and your call and the only thing important is once you decide is that you are happy with your decision. No shortage of great advice here for the decision making process.

Ron

 

[Hokkmike]

Go with a medium caliber bolt:

257 Roberts
7mm 08
6.5x55
.260


Did I mention the 6.5x55

 

[Jaxondog]

Lever guns in 30-30, 357, 44mag, 356 or 358. I would prefer the 356.