Which rifle to choose....

[mac67]

I'm not a rifle guy. Growing up in MA I've always hunted w/a shotgun or bow. A group of guys I hunt with are considering a NY Whitetail rifle hunt next season. I was checking out various rifles. I really like the looks,feel, ergo's on the Ruger Scout in 308. I've got a bum shoulder and I'm slightly concerned about the higher caliber in a smaller/lighter bolt action. I'm embarrassed to say I've only fired a high caliber rifle one time years ago. It was an 30-06, bolt. I don't remember the recoil being an issue, but it was a long time ago. What's a good option in a SEMI, that's the same size (carbine) as the Ruger in say a .243 or .270 ?

Any advice would be helpful. Thanks

 

[mike93lx]

A semi is going to be a lot heavier than a bolt. The 243 is 308 based and will require something the size of an AR10 to get a semi. The 270 is 30-06 based and a semi will be even bigger.

Do you own an AR15? There are a lot of calibers that you could swap to with just a new upper (the WSSM's, 458 socom, 6.8, etc)

You could always try some low recoil ammo for the bolt gun or wear a shoulder pad.

 

[mac67]

Thanks Mike. The Ar10 may be an option. What about the M14/M1 platform. Can you get that in .243 ?

 

[msdamato]

If your hunting with a 12 guage shotgun and a slug in mass then almost any rifle mentioned will have similar or less recoil. My mossberg kicks like a mule. Plus if you get the chance to line the sights up on Brown you'll never feel the recoil over your heart racing.

 

[PatMcD]

Thanks Mike. The Ar10 may be an option. What about the M14/M1 platform. Can you get that in .243 ?

No. Semi-auto hunting rifle usually equals HEAVY. I wouldn't do it. Find a decent used bolt rifle in anything from .243 to 30-06. If you can find one in 7mm-08, .260, 7x57 or 6.5x55, grab it. Low recoil, excellent killers.

 

[mac67]

Thanks guys. After hearing from you (got a few PM as well) I'm less concerned about the recoil thing and more concerned with something accurate and handy to carry. Any specific bolt actions in .243 that you'd suggest ? (middle of the road price point)

 

[mac67]

Been poking around. Found this at CDNN. It's a Howa. Thoughts............ View attachment 29365

 

[Woodstock]

Howa makes good rifles. That action is the same as the Weatherby Vanguard. It's also been used by Smith & Wesson and others. Question is, how does it fit you? Take a look at the Savage line, too. Very accurate and priced right. Made in Westfield, MA.