Ar or Bolt action for yotes?

denny2

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May 11, 2010
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WI
I am thinking of buying a Rock River Arms Ar or a new bolt action rifle in 22-250.
But I cant decide!! I will be reloading for either one. The Ar would be nice for quick shots, but I like the accuracy of a bolt. Any Thoughts?
 
22-250 would have to be an AR-10, so I'd say bolt if you're set on that cartridge. If you're happy with an AR-compatible cartridge (say 6.5, 6.8, any WSSM) then the AR can be very handy. I'd keep it light whatever you do.
 
The Ar is a friends that has been used very little and looks new.It is chambered in .223 /5.56
 
Oh ok - I thought you meant AR in 22-250 or bolt in 22-250.

Do you need the extra speed/range of the 22-250? Lots of coyotes have fallen to 223s. I'd get the AR if it's setup well for coyotes (i.e. barrel weight, length, etc).
 
I try to call coyotes, not too much success. so I probably would be fine with the .223. It is a 16" barrel. I used to have a 22-250 bolt and liked it a lot. But I bet I would like an Ar because of the quick handling and being a semi-auto.
 
I've run 'em both. I'm a bolt guy. I never fealt the affinity for the AR I do for my bolt guns. The AR never fealt second nature to me.
 
I have both for coyotes, a Savage Predator bolt in 22-250 and a R-15 Varnint in 223. Either one has no problem nailing a coyote, or the occasional prarie dog or woodchuck out to 500 yards. I find my self using the AR most all of the time. Better for fast follow ups if they are running, or there is more than one. Its a personal thing, but for me the AR is the perfect rifle for this. Ergonomics are excellent, and with practice, it's very fast to get into action.
 
Well I went to the Dark side and bought the Ar. It has the tall front site and removable handle with peep site in the rear. To mount a scope on it I was told I should get a different gas block that replaces the front site. Any recommendations?
 
I also shoot both. I have a light Dan Carey built AR with all the bells and whistles and a Savage Predator Hunter both in .204. As to accuracy, RRA makes some nice rifles that will shoot with most bolt actions any day. That said, the AR is a different beast. They definitely have a different feel and handle than a bolt rifle. Some bolt guys never quite get used to them. The AR has also become very reliable but never quite as reliable as a bolt. Too many moving parts. I shoot both and I'm comfortable carrying both but when the fur has to hit the ground, I find myself packing the bolt rifle.

But, if you haven't done the AR thing yet, it's worth trying to find out for yourself. The fast follow-up is pretty nice and when you get one running across open ground, it's kind of fun to "stack some brass"! Good luck! Hope you pile up some coyotes!
 
If you get a scope more than about 3x, you can leave the front sight. You won't see it. I recommend the LaRue LT-104 mount for whatever scope you choose.
 
Well I went to the Dark side and bought the Ar. It has the tall front site and removable handle with peep site in the rear. To mount a scope on it I was told I should get a different gas block that replaces the front site. Any recommendations?

I personally wouldn't bother. I have mounted scopes on the base rail with no problems at all. Why loose the flexibility of the open sites, or spend the $ on a new gas block and flip up front sight. IMHO
 
If you haven't done the AR thing before, keep in mind that the scope will need to mounted much higher (and possibly further forward) than your bolt rifles. The Larue that Nomadpilot suggested is excellent or you can use high or superhigh rings. Another option is to use a riser on the rail to get the heighth you need. The straight stock that accomodates the buffer and spring makes the cheek position much higher than your bolt rifles.

The front sight probably won't cause you problems but changing it will clean up the rifle and keep the sight from snagging on cases and such. Hope you enjoy the new rig. everyone should have at least one AR!
 
I'm with TT and Nomad, hunt with it a few times and see if the sight bugs you, I'd only pull it if you need to. The Larue mount is hard to beat, but a little spendy. The Nikon M223 or Burris PEPR are both similiar and are pretty solid as well, plus they cost Way less. I'm using the Burris with an A2 stock and I love it for yotes.
Cody
 
tt35 has some good advise. the charging handle gets in the way of low mounted optics. a scope with 5" of relief is a good idea along with high rings or risers may be needed. my yote ar is an lr-308 ;)
 
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