Semi Auto Upgrade to .223 for emergency use

[jwalker497]

I'm looking for a more powerful semi auto rifle to compliment a Mini 14 in .223. I am thinking a .308 or a 7.62 not really sure which of those 2 would be better.. I am looking for a very cheap option 750 or less USD. I am not very familiar with my options so I would appreciate if anyone can tell me what I should be looking for. Reliability is the second main concern after price. What are my options???

 

[rbernie]

What is your definition of 'more powerful' and how do you envision using that 'extra power'?

 

[jwalker497]

PS - Especially interested in Bullpup designs

 

[H2O MAN]

I recommend an 18.0" M14/M1A.
The Bush, Scout Squad or MK14 (Mods 0 & 1) are excellent choices.

 

[LeonCarr]

Get a Mini-14/Mini-30 in 7.62 x 39 or 6.8 Remington SPC. Same manual of arms, and better for deer sized animals if that is one of your goals. Also, several companies make bullpup stocks for the Mini-14 rifles.

Just my .02,
LeonCarr

 

[LaEscopeta]

Use the search feature on this site for "Saiga .308"

http://www.raacfirearms.com/Saiga_308.htm

 

[GunTech]

7.62x39 is no much different than 223 in most applications. A small gain with soft points.

In 308, cost goes way up for semi-autos unless you are looking for a non-military type like a Remington 750 which is easily in your price range.

Already mentioned is the Saiga which is another inexpensive choice and has the option of larger capacity magazines.

 

[PandaBearBG]

For the budget minded go with the Saiga

 

[RonE]

To compliment the Mini 14 only more powerful?

Look for a Ruger .44 Mag carbine (Deerslayer or Deerstalker if I recall).

 

[Z-Michigan]

What do you think you need it for? Attack of the zombie bear herds? In most "emergency" situations I would rather have greater quantities of .223 than smaller quantities of .308.

 

[UnTainted]

Z-Mich, You mean you'd rather carry greater quantities of .223 than .308. Having quantities of the .308 doesn't matter if you're not moving around a lot.

 

[Z-Michigan]

It also matters if you're less wealthy than Bill Gates. .223 is significantly cheaper than .308 at comparable quality and performance levels. But yes, most important for carrying, or having 30rds per mag instead of 20.

 

[H2O MAN]

The 7.62 x 51 rifle will be a needful thing during an emergency situation.
All of those with .223 rifles will be happy that a few chose the larger, heavier round.

 

[Norinco982lover]

If you already have the .223 I would go with a .308. The saiga with the longer barrel is a good suggestion.

If you have to go with 1 rifle I would go with a 7.62x39 (AK).

~Norinco