Which .223 Bolt Rifle for Target/Varmint With A Suppressor?

[bpl]

I'm contemplating a .223 bolt gun for target/varmint that would have a suppressor mounted. The suppressor would be for my ears, the neighbor's ears, and just because I want one. It would likely go on my AR as well.

Anyway, I'm looking for ideas on rifles and mounting options for the suppressor. Would I definitely need to have the barrel threaded or are there other practical options? How does the threading work on a heavy barrel?

This would be my first suppressor, so I'm definitely new at this. I was looking at the YHM Phantom. Any other good options for the suppressor and mounting options?

For the rifle, lets give $1000 or so as a budget, not including glass.

 

[Sunray]

Suppressors aren't legal for hunting or target shooting anywhere, Stateside.
"machine guns, suppressors, short barreled rifles and shotguns, are prohibited in Pennsylvania as “offensive weapons” unless they are registered under the NFA." You can have one, but you can't use it for hunting.
"...suppressor would be for my ears..." Geezuz, how new are you? Buy some ear defenders. Buy some shooting glasses at the same time.

 

[DougD]

While I cannot speak for Pennsylvania, suppressors are commonly used in Texas for target shooting. They are also used for hunting animals such as coyotes and hogs. They may not be used on deer. I personally use a Shark Suppressor.

The threading is pretty well standardized these days and most of the suppressor manufacturers use the common threads (e.g. 5/8X24). It's simple really, you get your barrel threaded for the suppressor you want. When you want to use it, you remove the threaded cap from the end of your barrel and you screw the suppressor onto the barrel. There are quick-connect systems but for precision rifle work, threading is the best way to go.

For your budget, it would be best to go with something domestic and practical such a Savage or Remington varmint models in .223. Even though many people go berserk with aftermarket work and options, either of these models performs very well right out of the box. A really good resource for you would be the Sniper's Hide forums where they have a whole "room" devoted to suppressors.

p.s. Hey Sunray, cut the guy some slack. How's a guy supposed to learn unless he can ask some questions? Way to act hateful. Gun owners and shooters need to be as inclusive as possible. Not cool, Sir. Not cool at all.

 

[TimM]

[/quote]"...suppressor would be for my ears..." Geezuz, how new are you?[/quote]

"The suppressor would be for my ears, the neighbor's ears, and just because I want one."

Sunray, I believe this ^ was the actual quote. It is people like you that make these forums so damned frustrating. If you are going to be a jerk at least be accurate about it.

 

[interlock]

my cousin shoots a CZ .223 (not too sure of the model might be a 527 american). this is fitted with a reflex T4 moderator on a threaded barrel. it mounts a bushnell elite 3-9 x 40 scope. that rifle is deadly, deadly, deadly ne shoots fox, crows and magpies with it. in the states you might be able to get a rifle cheaper. maybe the remmy 700 sps? a good rifle straight from the box and cheap as chips. .223 is great, if you don't reload there is a massive choice of readily available cheap ammunition.

in the uk using a moderator is very popular. i use one on my ruger .243 AI for hunting, varminting and target shooting. i use it for my ears. it is a reflex T8. I am not very new.

 

[bpl]

Sunray, first of all, I never said I planned to use a suppressor for hunting. Second of all, what is a legal hunting implement differs on a state by state basis. I do not intend to make my own suppressor! I will buy it through legal channels and it will be a registered NFA item. It will be perfectly legal for target shooting, and where allowed by state law, hunting as well. There is no problem with having suppressors in PA.

I already have ear defenders and shooting glasses, thank you!

 

[WoofersInc]

bpl, There are a couple of things to look at. Since you stated that you also want it to mount on your AR look at the ones that are quick attach. It will allow you to swap much easier. You simply have the bolt gun threaded and mount the flash hider/adaptor to it. Have the same adaptor on your AR and you are good to go. I have a Gemtech Halo that I am waiting for. It indexes on the standard flashider and can be moved from gun to gun in seconds.
Check over at SilencerTalk.com you will find plenty of info there.

 

[mljdeckard]

Suppressors are absolutely NOT prohibited for target shooting nationwide, and hunting laws vary from state to state. (If you aren't allowed to shoot targets with them, exactly what is it you ARE allowed to shoot with them?) Mostly, to shoot NON-GAME animals, if they are not regulated by license and season, they may be shot with suppressors. (Coyotes, jackrabbits, marmots, etc.)