Help me pick a budget .308

[target_shot]

I am currently considering

-Savage Axis XP
-Marlin XY7
-Mossburg Patriot Super Bantam
-Remington 783

Pros/cons? I have an Axis XP II in .223, and I do have to admit that I like it, but the stock seems too light for a .308. Advice/opinions appreciated.

[ar15barrels]

In budget guns, pretty much all of the stocks suck.
Just plan to replace the stock.
Now, pick based on what will have more options in replacement stocks.

[ErnstHatAngst]

Honestly, if I were in your position I'd be scouring the private sales long guns section looking for a deal. You'll also expand your selection by being a bit flexible on what a rifle is chambered in if you aren't already dead set on .308win.

That being said, if I had to pick from the ones you listed: Savage.

[ErnstHatAngst]

Jeez, look here! Winchester Model 70 in 7mm for $400.

http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/showthread.php?t=1107845&highlight=%24400

And I didn't even look hard. Good Luck!

[target_shot]

In budget guns, pretty much all of the stocks suck.
Just plan to replace the stock.
Now, pick based on what will have more options in replacement stocks.

This makes sense. It looks, after some brief searching, that the Remington has the most aftermarket stocks.

Honestly, if I were in your position I'd be scouring the private sales long guns section looking for a deal. You'll also expand your selection by being a bit flexible on what a rifle is chambered in if you aren't already dead set on .308win.

That being said, if I had to pick from the ones you listed: Savage.

I was strongly leaning towards a .308 as I can get a little under 2000 rounds free from a friend. Plus, its a "larger" caliber (than 5.56) that isn't as expensive as my 300 WSM or my Beowulf AR

Jeez, look here! Winchester Model 70 in 7mm for $400.

http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/showthread.php?t=1107845&highlight=%24400

And I didn't even look hard. Good Luck!

Thank you

I already have a Model 70 though, and it looks that 7mm is much more expensive than .308. Your effort is appreciated though

[Cowboy T]

I'd also suggest you add Ruger's American Rifle to your list of choices. I picked up mine (in .308 Win) for $297 on a Black Friday sale at Wal-Mart. CA prices will likely be a little higher, but still pretty close to that.

Here's what it can do if the shooter does his part. The distance is 900 yards. The rifle is on the middle far-right of the picture. The ammo is Hornady Match A-Max 168gr. The barrel is 22".



The only "modifications" to the rifle were the addition of the bipod and riflescope. No sanding out of the barrel channel, none of that. Bone-stock.

Full range report on this rifle here.

And yes, also do consider the used market. You can find some very good deals in the used rack.

[SansSouci]

target_shot,

If you're planning on hunting with your proposed new rifle, and a .308 Win will kill everything in North America as long as you put bullets where they need to go, my advice is to keep saving your money until you can afford a Tikka. Then put a Leupold VX-3 2.8x8 on it. This is merely one way to go. The point is when you buy a rifle for hunting, go with the best quality you can afford.

[Steponmytoes]

I would add Howa to that list

[ElvenSoul]

Can get the Patriot in a wood stock for only $25 more.

[baih777]

I would add Howa to that list

My vote also.

[TMB 1]

Of the rifles listed. I like the Savage and the Remington the best. I don't like the stocks on either, I would replace with a Boyds stock. The Remington has better magazines that cost less. The Savage has better bolt handle and metal trigger guard replacements available not sure if the Remington does. If I was getting one to keep as is or just replace the stock it would probably be the Remington.

[alfred1222]

Howa if you want to stick in your budget. Rem 700 if you decide to save a little

[DrunkN_MastR]

+1 on the Howa. You lookin to add your own scope or are you gonna rely on what's packaged with the rifle?

[Varg Vikernes]

I paid less than $600 for my Tikka. Thats in budget range IMHO.

[junior40er]

have you considered the Ruger Precision?