[WildWolf]

If buying a .308 for under $1000, what would you choose and why?  Looking for a light, accurate hunting rifle.  Curious to hear your thoughts

 

[SicSemperTyrannis]

Savage. I was led to believe they were low quality etc... Until I bought a cheap-o Savage Axis in .30-06 for a first hunting rifle. They really stand by their statement about accuracy, even that entry level rifle put 3 shots touching at 100yds with Federal Fusion 150gr hunting ammo. When it's time to upgrade, forget Remington, Weatherby, etc, I'm buying another Savage.

 

[Big Matt]

I am looking at Savage 14 series right now.

 

[gunsngolf]

I recently picked up a Thompson Center venture. Great price (around $500) and sub-MOA out of the box. Comes with an adjustable trigger. I'm very happy with it!

 

[bobbyholdem4]

I just saw a savage sniper model in 308 for around 900 that was beautiful. Campsite had it in lefty but sold it. Nice muzzle break and super accurate

 

[Mad Russian]

Savage. I was led to believe they were low quality etc... Until I bought a cheap-o Savage Axis in .30-06 for a first hunting rifle. They really stand by their statement about accuracy, even that entry level rifle put 3 shots touching at 100yds with Federal Fusion 150gr hunting ammo. When it's time to upgrade, forget Remington, Weatherby, etc, I'm buying another Savage.

Ditto that for my Savage Stevens in .308: three shots touching with a cold barrel. Don't need anything more than that for hunting.

 

[WildWolf]

I understand that Savage is an accurate rifle......it is not a beautiful rifle nor does it have a superior action.  I am trying to find something that I can hand down to my kids in 30 years.  If not Savage then what?

 

[helmup]

I'm surprised no one mentioned the Winchester model 70.
It has been called "The Rifleman's Rifle" ... accurate, reliable controlled round feed, and different versions to fit your wallet and aesthetic taste.
I do not own one, but it is probably going to be my next bolt action rifle.

 

[AkunaMatata]

I've had good luck with Howa rifles from Legacy International in the past. Same thing as the Vanguard, but a little cheaper (Howa makes them for Vanguard).

They sell them complete with a scope and a pillar bed stock for around $550 I think... Or get the barreled action and order the full bed stock for a little more.

I have one in 223 with the full bed stock, a BSA 4-12x, and the detachable magazine kit; it's a great shooter... If I could afford to shoot 308, I'd have one of those too.

 

[cobra]

http://www.cheaperthandirt.com/2REM84218-1.html
http://www.cheaperthandirt.com/80563-55.html
http://www.cheaperthandirt.com/42483-55.html
http://www.cheaperthandirt.com/52591-55.html

just a few I like

 

[Mad Russian]

I understand that Savage is an accurate rifle......it is not a beautiful rifle nor does it have a superior action. I am trying to find something that I can hand down to my kids in 30 years. If not Savage then what?

If the rifle is accurate, and reliable, then there must be something superior about it. If your shopping a name that's one thing, if your shopping a shooter, then its another.
If you want to hand something down to the kids, buy a Mauser, or a Swiss K31, pack them both in Cosmoline, and in thirty years they will have something interesting.

 

[stalker42]

I like my Browning Xbolt.  She shoots fine, but make sure you get a scope with a lot of eye relief.

 

[WildWolf]

Does the Xbolt kick a lot in .308?

 

[SicSemperTyrannis]

If you take care of any rifle, it will last. Neglect any rifle, and it won't. Keep that in mind. I see no reason a well maintained Savage couldn't be handed down.

 

[PaulyFu223]

I never talk anyone out of a Savage, they simply are great rifles.  I do like the Weatherby rifles though.  I shot a Vanguard on several hunting trips and always came home with food!

 

[stalker42]

Does the Xbolt kick a lot in .308?

It does have some kick, not enough to cause shoulder pain though. Nice soft pad is much better than the soft steel pad on my Mosin.

 

[WildWolf]

I picked up a X-bolt stainless stalker. Putting a Nikon monarch 3X12 scope on it.  can't wait to take it to the range!