Ok so I had my first chance to shoot at beyond 100 yards a few days ago and loved it (approx. 350). Now I finally want a bolt gun. I get it. Problem is that I don't have anywhere local to shoot more than 50 so I'm not going to spend a lot (looking at the Ruger American). That gets me to my dilemma.
Assuming you're going to shoot 200-350 yards, would you go with:
7.62x39 for super cheap ammo but ballistics that are dropping fast at 350 OR
6.5 CM for great ballistics but more expensive ammo.
The x39 would be steel cased surplus (they're getting 1-1.2MOA out of Wolf with those) and the 6.5 would be handloads.
I don't hunt but either would be capable of taking deer at the ranges I would be hunting.
I know it's a stupid question/dilemma but I've really been going back and forth for over a week now changing my mind. The only REAL advantage I can think of is with the x39 I could pair it with an AK for a decent battle/hunting combo.
So, thoughts on my insanity? And no, I'm not looking to spend more on a Savage/700/etc. and the only other caliber I would consider is 308 which doesn't hold any real advantage for me.
Assuming you're going to shoot 200-350 yards, would you go with:
7.62x39 for super cheap ammo but ballistics that are dropping fast at 350 OR
6.5 CM for great ballistics but more expensive ammo.
The x39 would be steel cased surplus (they're getting 1-1.2MOA out of Wolf with those) and the 6.5 would be handloads.
I don't hunt but either would be capable of taking deer at the ranges I would be hunting.
I know it's a stupid question/dilemma but I've really been going back and forth for over a week now changing my mind. The only REAL advantage I can think of is with the x39 I could pair it with an AK for a decent battle/hunting combo.
So, thoughts on my insanity? And no, I'm not looking to spend more on a Savage/700/etc. and the only other caliber I would consider is 308 which doesn't hold any real advantage for me.