Looking for a recommendation on a paper puncher

[brianr23]

Okay, here is the scoop. I am looking for a light recoil, centerfire rifle for target punching to 300 yards. Basically, a range rifle so weight doesn't matter. Centerfire because I reload and want to play with the loads so caliber is no concern other than light recoil. Light recoil to me means any of the .22, 6mm, .243 variety in a standard weight rifle. In a heavier rifle I would consider a bigger caliber. I want something I can shoot a bunch throughout the morning and enjoy it. The various varmint rifles seem to fit my bill pretty well but there may be others out there I am missing. Price under $800 for the rifle. Can be a single shot, bolt or semi I don't care.

 

[G27RR]

I would considera Remington 700 SPS .223 with heavy barrel given your relatively short range and paper punching needs. You should be able to shoot all day given the very light recoil. I have less than $800 in this stainless SPS with Bell & Carlson stock, not counting optics. It will easily shoot 1" groups with factory ammo at 100yds, so it would be a very good starting point for you.

 

[Floppy_D]

If you were wanting to do this for less than $800 with optics, a Stevens 200 in 223 or 243 with a Stocky's Stock would leave you around $300 for a scope. For a range rifle, it's hard to get a more comfortable stock.

 

[peptoe]

Brand new DPMS Ar's are going for that price ($750 here), they aren't the best AR's but they make one hell of a solid plinker IMO. I have one on layaway now and can't wait to get it.

 

[brianr23]

I have a Stevens in .223. The stock does leave a lot to be desired and the trigger is a tough pull. It is accurate and I have put quite a few rounds through it. I was looking to replace that.

 

[BrocLuno]

I bought a custom built 22-250 on a Mouser action that was from an estate for less than $400. Light recoil and you can poke the same ragged hole at 50, small group and 100 (<1") and maybe 2" or less at 200. Load development would cut that even more, but I have too many other projects. I can recommend .22-250

 

[David Sours]

I would consider 223 or 243. I have a 243 as a paper puncher/varmint rig and I love to shoot it mild recoil and if I want to stretch my legs with it I can. We haven't shot past 500 yds but we have a spot where we can get 800 and I am looking forward to that. I am looking to get a 223 for very similar purposes that you are talking about and I am probably going to go with the Savage Model 10 Precision Carbine. I priced that gun locally for 699.00 i just haven't placed the order yet.

Good Luck,
David

 

[HOOfan_1]

Savage 12 FCV .22-250. Load up some 69 grain SMKs

 

[jwsracin]

the local dicks sporting goods has a 700 26" bull is 223 on sale for $449 with a 4-12 scope, the stock is a cheap camo plastic - but good gun to start with- then a great walnut stock for boyds or any hs prec. would be an easy replacement