Author Topic: Help!!! Which Rifle??? (Read 644 times)

ShottieMan · « **on:** January 23, 2005, 10:16:40 AM »

I have Read a few topics dealing with this but I would like to see what kind of responses I get. I was wanting to purchase a good deer hunting rifle and I am one of the many people that is on a tight budget. I was looking at the Remington Model 710 and That Savage rifle. I have been leaning more towards the Remington (Have an 870 Express and Love it). I would prefer to purchase a handgun (Glock 19 or Walther P99) cause I could just outfit my 870 with a slug barrel and I am good to go. I live in PA so max distance to a deer will be within 100 yds (had a doe this year at 25 yds. but had no doe tags :? ) What would you guys do in this situatuion? Handgun or Rifle? Which one?

Vern Humphrey · « **Reply #1 on:** January 23, 2005, 11:14:58 AM »

In the end, only you can answer the question, because it's really about what floats your boat.

The idea of getting a rifled barrel for the 870 for deer hunting is sound -- I used to hunt in Tidewater Virginia, where shotgun-only was the rule, and I have killed many deer with a shotgun.

If you intend to get a Concealed Carry permit, then the handgun is the best choice (along with the rifled barrel for the 870).

On the other hand, a rifle will give you more capability when hunting. I would go with the Savage over the Remington -- the Remington 710 is made to be cheap to produce and looks it. The Savage was also designed to be cheap to produce, but has racked up an enviable reputation for accuracy and performance. With the Savage Accu-Trigger, it will be all the better.

And for what it's worth, you can change calibers with the Savage -- Midway USA sells conversion kits. The first kit will require a barrel vice, barrel nut wrench and action wrench, but later conversion kits only require the new barrel, magazine, and headspace gauge.

mountainview · « **Reply #2 on:** January 23, 2005, 11:34:14 AM »

Vern pretty well summed things up in a succinct manner. Sounds like your heart is set on the handgun but go with what you really want the most at this time. You can always get the other later on and if you are like most of us, there is always going to be something else you want/need. I don't have much experience with the 710 since the Savages haveeally impressed me (currently I own 3 and hope to add another later this year finances permitting).

I hunted PA for years before moving out this way and a shotgun with a rifled barrel would handle most of the shots you'll encounter but note that the cost of sabots is pretty steep (which is one of the reasons I now use foster slugs). If you'll be shooting more than 5-10 shots per year (e.g. range practice) a smoothbore/foster slugs would still handle most of your hunting needs and the ammo would not break the bank. The farthest shot I took in PA was 40 yards even while carrying a rifle and that distance is well within the capabilities of a smoothbore slug gun.

Safe shooting.

ShottieMan · « **Reply #3 on:** January 23, 2005, 11:47:24 AM »

Ultimately it will be my decision but every opinion counts. I have been looking for reviews on these guns all day and it is a mixed bag. The only reason I am considering a rifle is cause my woman believes I will get more use from a rifle rather than the handgun. If I go for the rifle it looks as tho' the Savage may be the purchase. Unless there is a better rifle/scope combo for $500 bux (the limit I have to spend)?[/quote]

ShottieMan · « **Reply #4 on:** January 23, 2005, 11:53:43 AM »

Quote from: mountainview

Vern pretty well summed things up in a succinct manner. Sounds like your heart is set on the handgun but go with what you really want the most at this time.

My heart is very set on the handgun. I may be wrong but I believe that handguns ARE legal arms for deer. I am sorry for going OT but I am trying to weigh all options. I would really hate to get a gun that is only going to be used for a week and that is it. But I am sure (like you said) If i don't get one of them now.....I will eventually get it down the line!!!!!

Vern Humphrey · « **Reply #5 on:** January 23, 2005, 12:00:35 PM »

If you want a handgun for deer, I'd recommend a revolver -- preferrably in .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum or .45 Colt (the latter being capable of real power with handloads.)

Probably the best bet would be a Ruger Blackhawk -- you can find them pretty reasonably priced on www.gunsamerica.com. Go to your local pawnbroker and offer him $10 to handle the paperwork for you, and have it shipped to him.

Vern Humphrey · « **Reply #6 on:** January 23, 2005, 12:10:40 PM »

Here's one from www.gunbroker.com

$400.00 Ruger Bisley Blackhawk. 45 Long Colt with a 7 1/2 inch barrel. Gun is new in the box. This gun features a unfluted engraved cylinder, and all steel ejector rod housing.

ShottieMan · « **Reply #7 on:** January 23, 2005, 12:52:12 PM »

Quote from: Vern Humphrey

If you want a handgun for deer, I'd recommend a revolver -- preferrably in .357 Magnum, .44 Magnum or .45 Colt (the latter being capable of real power with handloads.)

Probably the best bet would be a Ruger Blackhawk -- you can find them pretty reasonably priced on www.gunsamerica.com. Go to your local pawnbroker and offer him $10 to handle the paperwork for you, and have it shipped to him.

I'll have to look into that. Thanx for the heads up!!!

Vern Humphrey · « **Reply #8 on:** January 23, 2005, 01:32:36 PM »

You're welcome!