Center fire for Youth

[NaClAddict]

[Imageview]

22-250 is pretty light for big game, but it's got quite a bit more oomph than 223 at least. For heavier bullets you'll want at least a 1 in 9 or faster twist. Very shootable though. Definitely look at the heavier lead free options and twist required, and a lot of time behind the trigger to be absolutely sure of making the shot.

What sort of range are you thinking about? That might help narrow things down for recommendations.

[Steve45-70]

I used to be super against 22 cals for any type of big game but they have improved bullets over the year. Problem, as pointed out before, is we have to shoot non lead and you are going to need a fast twist.

Really the difference between a heavy 22-250 and a light 243 will not be much. They will weigh and recoil about the same. I would look at the 243 but shoot those 80 gr Barnes bullets. They don't kick at all really. I recently loaded some up for a 243 and was really impressed with how they shot in standard twist guns.

[Epaphroditus]

Yes, 243 and 80gr bullets - for the children!

[JTROKS]

Caliber: How about a 300 blackout? If only they make a light handling carbine chambered in it.



Found one: https://ruger.com/products/americanR...ets/26968.html


To actually find one in stock…. Goodluck.


I wouldn’t doubt the effectiveness of a 30 caliber medium velocity pig rifle. I’ve used my AKs to hunt feral pigs. Many folks used their 30-30s. I’m sure there are plenty of non-lead expanding bullets for the 300 Blackout.

[RNE228]

243 should be ok.

A rifle that fits well is what I'd look at. You may need to consider changing LOP and recoil pads; this might include shortening the stock. Definitely take her to look at rifles and pick based on fit. Don't just go buy a rifle.

You could still find a youth-to-adult rifle. But consider stock changes.

I don't care for muzzle brakes generally, but this may be a good application for one.

Another consideration is an AR based platform. 6.8spc, 300blk etc. That platform has negligible recoil...

[LynnJr]

700 adl in 223 and chop it off so it fits properly. You can glue it up yourself so dont worry about looks just make it fit. They are cheap as well.

[theduracellbigd]

Plenty of Hogs have been killed with a .223. I am the first to say bigger cartridge/caliber for hunting, however I know your situation might dictate a .22 caliber projectile. A .223 with the Remington Hog Hammer Ammo will work fine.

[TKM]

Give them a buck knife and send them into the burrows.

[JackEllis]

I've got a friend who is in her 70s, about 5'3" and 135 pounds. She shoots a .30-06 and she's got a whitetail from Canada to prove she can hit something with it.

I'd second (or third or whatever) a .243 with 80 grain lead-free bullets, mainly for stopping power. Ammunition will be more abundant and likely less expensive than for a .22-250 or similar high powered 22 cal. Once your relative has gotten used to shooting the rifle off a bench, have them practice exclusively off both the field rest they plan to use (sticks or tripod) and prone. And emphasize making sure the butt is firmly in their shoulder so the scope doesn't rear back and bite them.

[TMB 1]

Youth/compact 7.62x39 bolt action or a Chinese SKS, they have a pretty short stock.

[Canucky]

Youth/compact 7.62x39 bolt action or a Chinese SKS, they have a pretty short stock.

Bought a cz527 carbine just for the kids to try. Fun little rifle.

[LindenBruce]

Here you go. B.

https://ruger.com/products/HawkeyeLaminateCompact/specSheets/17108.html

https://ruger.com/products/HawkeyeHunter/specSheets/57104.html

[Enzo rules]

I’d go with a .223.

[ar15barrels]

300 blackout, 30/30 or 7.62x39 would all be good options depending on what type of rifle action they prefer.