Bolt action or SAPR

[jclem2009]

I would like to eventually get into and learn long range target shooting. When I say long range I can't imagine myself realistically shooting an incredible distance like beyond 400 yards or so. Right now all I've got is basic AR15.

I've checked all sorts of bolt actions like the the Remington 700's, Savage 10 series and others.

Then I read that Ruger is making their new Precision Rifle. And after looking at all the pricing info it finally dawned on me that for just a few hundred more dollars I can get a semi-auto S&W AR10.

The AR10 seems like a great value.

But will using a semi-auto like the S&W have any disadvantages to learning long range like less emphasis on each shot? Should I just learn on the AR15 with cheaper .223 or should I hold out for ta bolt action like the Ruger??

I know there are unknowns and no one has a crystal ball, but any help would be greatly appreciated. There is a ton of experience on these forums.

[JMP]

There is no comparison between the accuracy in a bolt action and a semi-automatic of a remotely comparable price. The bolt action will be much more accurate. That said, you are not looking to shoot far. Most would consider 400 yards to be a fairly short range so you can get the job accomplished with an AR-10 or AR-15. It depends on the level of accuracy you desire at this range. If you want to hit a torso at 400, either is fine. If you want to hit a golf ball at 400, then you want to go with a bolt action.

[CK_32]

Yea what he said^

[Need More Ammo]

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make sure you spend a few hundred on a good scope too.

Start with a SWFA 10x. More than enough magnification to get you to 400 and beyond.

[NorCalFocus]

If you decide to stick to an AR platform, skip the AR10 and go to a larger caliber AR15. The 6.5 Grendal, 6.8SPC, 6mmAR are all fantastic rounds for the AR15.


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[Sir Toast]

That's awesome you want to come out and shoot long range. DO IT! You'll love it.

I really encourage you to buy a bolt action rifle, even the new Ruger rifle because you want to target shoot, which means max accuracy.

Take a look at the Savage Model 10 FCP. They have them in 20" and 24" threaded barrels. Great starter rifle for $500 [with rebate] to $600. Also, look at the Bushnell Elite Tactical and Vortex PST scopes.

Plenty of 308 match ammo, cheap.