Is there a "precise" long range AFFORDABLE platform recommended?

[Jharry777]

So, here I am. Rookie of the year... Well rookie anyway. I've been looking to CGN for all of my gun related answers for years. I've been a registered member for all of about an hour now! This is my very first crack at this, so thanks for doing what you all do, and critique away!

Anyway, the question that brings me on board finally is this... I am looking for a weapon platform that, ideally, will let me hold a 6" group at around 3 to 5 hundred yards.

Preferably, this platform would be chambered in something with a little more punch than the .22 variants. Single, or semi, doesn't really matter, as fun as semi would be, I'm aware of the sacrifice in precision that comes with it.

Lastly, and sadly the most limiting factor, is affordability. My budget here is not to exceed $1000... Any suggestions?

[rbahri5206]

I would recommend a Remington 700 in .308 cal

[jamesg35]

I 2nd that it is accurate and easy to upgrade as budget allows!
you can get a sps or spsvarmint with good glass for less than a $1000

[MrEd]

Most platforms can hold a 6 inch group at 3 to 500 yards , the only problem is your budget . Out of the box a savage will by far exceed your requirements for example . The question is , what about glass ?
You can get an "accurized" AR with bull barrel and it should fit the bill also .
Specialized precision platforms at your budget , not a chance .

[LRShooter]

$600 or so should put you into on of the heavy barrelled Savages, Remingtons, Howa, etc.. .223 or .308. $100 for a set of Warne rings/base and then $300 for Glass. 10X Super Sniper from SWFA.


With money being a concern, get the rifle in .223. Ammo is a little cheaper so you can shoot more.

Turner's has the Rem. SPS in .308 or .223 for $639 right now.

-- If you want to go really cheap, just buy one of the package rifles that comes with a scope.

[voiceofreason]

$600 or so should put you into on of the heavy barrelled Savages, Remingtons, Howa, etc.. .223 or .308. $100 for a set of Warne rings/base and then $300 for Glass. 10X Super Sniper from SWFA.


With money being a concern, get the rifle in .223. Ammo is a little cheaper so you can shoot more.

Turner's has the Rem. SPS in .308 or .223 for $639 right now.

-- If you want to go really cheap, just buy one of the package rifles that comes with a scope.

^^I concur.^^

The scopes that come with the rifles usually aren't a particularly good deal.

Better to get the rifle + quality rings + glass you picked yourself.

May we inquire as to WHY your require a platform to meet those requirements? 6" at 300-500?

Are you anticipating picking off moving targets in the sandbox (doubt this), target shooting with buddies, competing, a specific precision rifle course?

I'd recommend going with the .223, starting with a sub-MOA group at 100, and slowly moving out from there.

Most times, the equipment is fine, it's the shooter that needs to improve the skillset.

[MrExel17]

+1 on SPS

[Kerplow]

Stolen from CAPRC:

Remington 700 sps varmint
bushnell 321040M 10x
Egw aluminum base
Burris 1" aluminum rings
Harris S-BRM bipod
KMW Pod-Loc
Triad wedge rear bag
TI Quick-Cuff sling
$1,036

[jamesg35]

question is , what about glass ?
that is the truth my Vortex pst ffp cost close to $1000 alone but its worth it, i started with an inexpensive scope then quickly moved up to good quality glass.

[Jharry777]

Aaah yes,

Yea I'm just now gaining interest in the long range department... The 6" group at the given distance is no specific requirement by any means... Given my skillset, that grouping at that range is just something that i would enjoy being able to do. None of my local ranges have anything over 100 yards. My super secret BLM playground could provide I think. I'd have to measure out a stretch with a sufficient backstop.

As far as the glass, thats not part of my budget. I guess I should have specified that. Im checking out all of the suggestions right now.

Awesome, you guys got me fired up to hunt down the next member of the arsenal. The wife worries when I get like this, as its usually not long before i come home with another gun... Its okay though, as soon as she shoots it she loves it. Shes a closet fanatic.

[Stoopy]

Remington 700 for sure. Many upgrades for it later when you know what you like and want.

[Skipper]

Savage Model 10 Precision Carbine

[voiceofreason]

Budget for a good spotting scope as well

[Jharry777]

I have a direction now. Thank you all... You've come through for me again! It'll be a while, but I'll let 'ya know how it turns out.

[scidx]

Might I suggest...

Keep an eye on the used market, here. There are always rifles that could accomplish what you're asking right here, for sale. Get the best deal you can on a decent, big name rifle. Save your money for ammo and a good scope. When I say "good scope" I mean: plan to spend more than the price of your good-deal-rifle. With that said, price is not always a guarantee of quality, but plan on it. You want the best clarity and reliability you can afford. Unless you've practiced a thousand times before, you'll need lots of ammo. There is more to hitting at 5-600 yards than trigger control.