Good Choice for an AR?

[Dr.Steel]

Hello, So I just purchased my first rifle about a month ago, a mosin, unfortunatly I have become addicted to shooting defensless paper targets. Im looking to get an AR by May so I have plenty of time to gather enough info on what would be the best choice. I have a 100 questions so anybodies input is appreciated. I was looking at this http://forum.pafoa.org/newthread.php?do=newthread&f=42 . I want decent groupings at 300yds. This is mostly for target shooting, but I would like to hunt with it in Montana. Also what are the ups and downs of the .223 and .309.

[24/7dude]

I'd go with a Daniel Defense one now. You get a $250 gift card for accessories from there website when you purchase one! Of course, it doesn't seem like that great of a deal if you get the DD M4... you could always sell the card to me for $100

[Lycanthrope]

I don't think you link is what you wanted it to be......


I wouldn't want an M4 profile for a 300 yard hunting rifle........

Why don't we start with your 100 questions.....?

Lycansowecangetanswersthrope

[mojo]

Originally Posted by Dr.Steel

I want decent groupings at 300yds. This is mostly for target shooting, but I would like to hunt with it in Montana. Also what are the ups and downs of the .223 and .308.

Those requirements don't always equal the same rifle. What do you desire the most and what kind of target shooting are you planning on doing?

[Xringshooter]

I'm not familiar with Montana laws, so I don't know if you can hunt with a semi-auto (not like PA ). I agree with Lycanthrope, lets start with the 100 questions. After going through those I think you'll be able to make an informed decision.

[Dr.Steel]

Sorry I pasted the wrong IRL its this one http://www.rockriverarms.com/index.c...ategory_id=230

I am I new gun owner so my experience and knowledge is limited so if there is any tinkering needed, a gunsmith will be doing it. Are AR's difficult to maintain?

I honestly like shooting a 7.62, but what are the ups and downs compared to the 5.56. I hope to be target shooting mostly?

I want a balance b/t range and accuracy. I kind of thought that an AR would be pretty accurate at 300 yds. If not, say so. And how does the caliber effect my range. If I remember correctly, the 5.56 has greater range because of its smaller size?

How much affect does the barrel length have on the range of the bullet?

I picked the coyote rifle from River Rock Arms (link above) honsetly because of the skeleton stock and the free float tube. If I am going to pay that much money, I want it to turn heads. But looks are not everything. Is this a good choice for a first AR

[Lycanthrope]

OK, let's break it down. Depending on the game the .223 may be just as good as the .308 at ranges to 600 yards and beyond.

In fact, the .223/AR15 is VERY accurate to 600 yards and can often outperform the AR10. Typically, out to 600 yards in a semi-auto, the .223 wins. In a full blown bolt gun, the .308 wins. Bolt guns tend to be more accurate and the .308 has better ballistics with certain bullets. The .308 carries more downrange energy for hunting.

What can you expect? A typical non chromed .223 AR15 with a free float tube can shoot 1 moa or better. A GOOD barrel with reloads in an ar15 can cut that in half. That puts it in the same league as some semi custom bolt guns. AR10's? You can get close to that, but on average I think it's a bit less accuracy that the .223....but no much.

Lycananswer#1thrope

[Suburban]

How do you plan to hunt?

Heavy bull barrels are easier to hold on target, but the RRA you posted a link to is closer in weight to a military M-16A2/A3/A4 and will be easier to carry around than a 10+ pound bull barrel rifle with another pound and half plus of scope and mount.

[mojo]

Just to give you an idea. On the military channel there was a "sniper" competition that pitted teams from around the world (mostly .mil people). They had all different types of rifles. The only non .mil team was the SWAT guys from Pittsburgh's Police force. They used their Colt 14.5 " barreled M4 (5.56) and were shooting out to I think 800 meters. They didn't win but they didn't suck. Now, being able to just hit a target and having enough "power" to kill game at distances are not the same.

[NightRocker]

Originally Posted by Dr.Steel

Sorry I pasted the wrong IRL its this one http://www.rockriverarms.com/index.c...ategory_id=230

I am I new gun owner so my experience and knowledge is limited so if there is any tinkering needed, a gunsmith will be doing it. Are AR's difficult to maintain?

I honestly like shooting a 7.62, but what are the ups and downs compared to the 5.56. I hope to be target shooting mostly?

I want a balance b/t range and accuracy. I kind of thought that an AR would be pretty accurate at 300 yds. If not, say so. And how does the caliber effect my range. If I remember correctly, the 5.56 has greater range because of its smaller size?

How much affect does the barrel length have on the range of the bullet?

I picked the coyote rifle from River Rock Arms (link above) honsetly because of the skeleton stock and the free float tube. If I am going to pay that much money, I want it to turn heads. But looks are not everything. Is this a good choice for a first AR

I think your on the right track with that rifle, that is a good choice, They make a very good AR. Don't forget optics! I own a Rock River and I'm very pleased with it. It does everything I need it to do, and It can be configured just about anyway you like. From a battle rifle to a target rifle to a hunting rifle. Part of the enjoyment is putting one together. Good Luck!