Originally Posted by
Mantra002
Hey guys!
So, I've been looking at buying a new rifle, and just to get the sacrilege out of the way, I’m looking at getting a semi-auto one. I did a search and went back to 2008 and didn’t see a similar thread so I figured I’d start a new one.
I’m looking for something in .308, mainly just because it’s a solid general-purpose caliber, I’m not tied to that though. Basically I’d just like to avoid the more odd-ball stuff.
Also, I’d love to go synthetic stock, ideally synthetic/stainless. I did some browsing and it looks like the BAR is pretty well received here, but there is a lot of talk about ones made in Belgium. I assume that’s some sort of older variety no longer made? If so, I’m not a very good gun buyer and am looking for something I can buy new in a store.
Oh, and to cap off this post that surely tags me as a total newbie (no argument there), I also haven’t a clue about optics, which I didn’t do a search about, but would love some recommendations.
My budget is anything within reason, I’m thinking like $2000 for everything, does that sound about right?
Thank you for your help!
Remington has a semi auto hunting rifle (I think the Model 750) that can be had with either a wood or synthetic stock. I'm sure it's a good gun and should leave you with some extra money for a better scope. I have a 3x9x40 Nikon Pro Staff scope that is a pretty good scope for me for the money, but hard core guys are spending more to get a Swarovski, which going by the word on the street is top of the line although I couldn't tell you because I don't have one. The only criticism that I got about my scope was not about being a lesser priced Nikon, but that it was a 3x9x40 rather than 3x9x50 which supposedly would give you an advantage during low light situations. Others say the 3x9x40 is fine during all legal deer season daylight hours, but that's just something that was thrown at me. As far as your caliber pick; I think you can't go wrong with the .308. I like 30.06 in my bolt, but in you case the 308 might have some advantage in the semi auto action and cycling with minimal terminal performance (ballistic) difference, which shouldn't make any significant difference for you during a hunt. Good luck! you should be able to get a very decent gun and scope for that money I think. You might not impress any Weatherby toting millionaires on a Safari, but it should buy you something that will do just as good.