Anyone use 308 varmit hunting?

[hoser]

I was considering a AR or 223 bolt action for varmit hunting ground hogs, squirrels, coyotes, ect. But the thought crossed my mind about just using a 308 rifle since it's much more versatile for pig, deer, ect.

Sure, it's waaaay overkill for groundhogs and the like, but certainly more versatile. Am I nuts?
[img]images/icons/confused.gif[/img]

[sub 10/22]

Sure, why not ? I got my .308 for that very purpose. I am slowly working up a load using VV 110 with 55gr JRP projectiles and so far have just cracked the 4000fps barrier. The idea being to get a nice warm load that will allow me to get out to 500yrds. It also seems to like 155gr Lapua palma's and 110gr V-max's although the V-max projectiles are proving a hassle to reload.

I suppose when i have the $$ i'll get a 6.5/284 but until then it's the .308.

[demarpaint]

The .308 is an excellent choice for varmints. I think just about every 30 caliber combination ever chambered is being used for varmints. Overkill ????????/dead is dead, fun yes. Enjoy!

[ 05-01-2004: Message edited by: demarpaint ]

[old fart]

Hoser - my 308's have been used for everything from ground squirrels to elk - I have never bothered to go lower than the 150 gr bullets ,it works all the time.

[RiverRat]

I have used the 308 for groundhogs, coyotes, crows, and assorted other vermin for many years. I prefer the 125 Nosler B.T. or the 125 Speer TNT to any 110 gr. bullet I have ever tried. The B.C. is so much better with the 125's and the velocity is nearly the same. Try either IMR 3031, or Win 748. The 125 gr. bullets blows chunks out of coyotes at around 3180 fps. Try it you'll like it.

May I be half the man my grandson thinks I am..RiverRat

[RBrowning]

Just watch out for ricochets. The bigger bullets will tend to hold together better than the lighter and faster varmint variety. If you got a good backstop, no problem.

[COBrad]

One of my favorite varmint rifles was a Ruger 7mm mag. Accurate, wind didn't blow bullets around like a .22 cal, and after shooting at PD's out to 400+, a shot at an elk with that rifle felt like shooting at a house. I have my daughter shooting at varmints with her Savage 7-08.