Which First Rifle...?

[txhoghunter]

That is a great decision. Now for which .308

 

[classic.rocker978]

I think I'm going to get a Stevens 200 in .308 eventually get a heavier barrel, better stock and probably a better trigger.

With a leupold fixed 4x scope.

 

[Durty]

Sounds like you plan on just replacing the entire rifle over time. Why not get the one you want to start with? There good options out there on varmint rifles chambered in 308 that already have heavy barrels and decent stocks. If you have $750, you have enough to find something that you are not going to just going to end up replacing all the parts to.

 

[Geckgo]

Remmington 700 in .308 win.

I have a 30-06 but you mentioned 308, and I think 308 cartriges are easier to find, specially now days.

You should be able to get the gun for 300-500 bucks and scope it in your price range. When I got my 06 they were on sale for 250 and I think the whole package, gun/scope/case/cleaning kit/bullets was less than 800 bucks.

Save your brass, you may need it someday

p.s. I have heard that the 270 shoots a little flatter than the 30 cals, you may want to consider that for the target shooting you plan on doing, but at 500 yards, the lighter bullet will slow up considerably.

 

[jpwilly]

I think I'm going to get a Stevens 200 in .308 eventually get a heavier barrel, better stock and probably a better trigger.

With a leupold fixed 4x scope.

Sounds like you want a tactical bolt rifle not a hunting rig.

 

[classic.rocker978]

Yea, I would like it to eventually be a good setup to take to the range as well... I like the idea of building my own though because I can get it my way. I might end up having to get a variable scope after all. I dont see how I can get by with a fixed 4x at the range and I dont see myself using a fixed 6 or 10 to hunt with lol.

 

[jpwilly]

Well, at least you have the "I want" part figured out. A Savage or Stevens is a good DIY rifle. Have fun, start saving up it gets pricey.

 

[country boy marksman]

IMHO, 308 is to 223 as 45 acp is to 380... theyre both fun to shoot, but if you want something that will perform outstandingly on any North American game at ranges up to if not over 600 yards, .308 is the way to go!

 

[GuysModel94]

Check out the Weatherby Vanguard Syn. Package, it is available in about a dozen cal. and my choice (for your guide lines) would be the 7mm-08 or the .308.

 

[Kentuckiana rifleman]

Don't forget to check out HOWA rifles, they build the barreled actions for weatherby. Check out their website, lots of cool stuff there howa.com

 

[snakeman]

If I were you I would take a good look at the howa 1500 but the stevens is good too just don't expect a whole lot of stock options.

 

[sappnasty]

.308 is a great round...all around. As far as distance, FPS, FPE, etc. Plus .308 is pretty easy to find and is relatively cheap. Not as cheap as a .223 or .22...but compared to most big game rifles it's not too bad. I have killed plenty of deer with a .223, however if your talking longer shots, with windplay and large game...i would say a little bigger. But .223 is nice. Just my thoughts!