Lightweight hog and deer gun
 

I'm looking for a lightweight rifle for hunting hogs and deer. I have looked at the winchester trapper and ranger models, the ranger seems like the better choice with the longer barrel. Also the marlin lever actions. Anyone know any affordable lightweight rifles?

calibers too, I know I want a caliber at least .30 or larger. so thats like 7mm, 30-06, 308, 30-30 etc...which would be a good one? or would they all pretty much work on hogs? I've hunted hogs a lot in Hawaii, and my friends claim the 30-30 doesnt work well on hogs, they claim the bullets dont mushroom and pass straight through the hog causing minimal damage. what does everyone say about this?

evan

RE: Lightweight hog and deer gun
 

I have never gone hog hunting but from what i have read, a larger caliber is ussually prefered.. like you said 30 cal or better, as far as the light weight goes you seem to like lever action and Browning makes a sweet one... i have 2 and both are about 6.5 lbs.
They come in many different calibers, you might want to think about the .358 winchester.
A nice big bullet for those pigs..it come in 200 grain from the factory loads and you can make your own with 250's. And the .358 does a nice job on deer too.

RE: Lightweight hog and deer gun
 

Check out the Browning BLR. You might find a used one at a good price. The BLR has a lot to offer and is chambered in many useful cartridges. Also the Savage M99 was available in .308 win, .284 win, .358 win. All of these are excellant dual purpose rounds.

RE: Lightweight hog and deer gun
 

http://www.winchester-guns.com/prodi...item=535931255

Read the weight on that one :)

RE: Lightweight hog and deer gun
 

I think any of the 300 Mags. would be a good all around rifle for you. Good luck.

RE: Lightweight hog and deer gun
 

I have a 7mm-08 and I love it it works great for deer I have never shot a hog with it but lots of deer and it is awsome.

RE: Lightweight hog and deer gun
 

Maybe look a little bigger. Hogs are a little toothy I belive. How about a 45-70. A marlin 1895 guide gun is quick and nimble. Their short and light, fast handling, hard hitting, and that cartridge has the guts to drop a peeved of pig! It may be a little overkill in some peoples eyes, but think of how great this thing would be for gophers and squirrels!:D