Recommendations - Groundhog rifle?

[BerksCountyDave]

I have a few farmers in my area that are looking for help with the groundhog problems, but I can't hunt with my AR, so I need a hog killing gun. I'm thinking .223 since I already plan on reloading for it for the ARs. Who makes a good, accurate .223 that doesn't cost an arm and a leg?

I'd like to use the Barnes Varmint Grenade bullets, which are available in either 36gr or 50gr, so I'm not sure what twist rate would be ideal?

I'm thinking Savage. . . but I'm open to suggestions!

[sluggie24]

Where are they! I will gladly help out by taking a few groudhogs if needed! Just show me the way!

I would not suggest buying a rifle just for taking a few groundhogs for othe people. If this however is the way you are justifing making another purchase for yourself then.........more power to ya!

That being said why are you fixed on 223? While it is a fine round there are many others available. It all depends on what ranges you will be shooting and if groundhogs will be the only purpose for the rifle. Out to 100yds a 17 HMR or 22LR would probably be pleanty and save you some money. Personally I feel if you are going to a bolt gun and already have an AR why not increase your capabilities by going with a .308? It will cut a groundhog in half and it is effective well beyond the range of a 223.

[BerksCountyDave]

I was only thinking .223 because I'm already getting the gear to reload .223, so I thought it would make more since than buying the dies, brass, primers etc to reload .308 on top of that

[Karys]

I picked up a Remington 700 SPS in .243 specifically groundhogs and coyotes. Their .223 models come with a 1:12 barrel. I'm not sure if that will work with the 36 or 50 grain Barnes bullets that you want to use.

They are not the prettiest rifles in the rack but they're much less expensive than the pretty ones and mine is damn accurate.

[Steve in PA]

I have this for some 200-300yd LEO precision rifle classes........and varmits/woodchucks/coyotes, etc...........

Savage 12FV .223 with a DuraMaxx stock and a Mueller 4-16x 50mm tactical scope (with illuminated reticle).

[dodge]

It all depends if you're going to be walking the fields or just sitting on the edge. If I was going to be just wlking the fields then I would look at a Stevens Model 200 for around $300 but if you're going to just sitting on the edge then I would look at a Savage heavy barrel. I personally have a Remington 700 VLS that shoots just fine with Hornady's 50 gr V-Max for that job and for walking I have a Savage 110 in 243.

[seoulstice]

This is what I have, heavy stainless fluted barrel Savage 12BVSS in .223. Excellent for shooting from a portable bench, too heavy to carry around all day.

36gr bullets sound much too light, btw

[D-FENS]

Can't shoot groundhogs on your own property with an AR? I know you can't hunt with a semi-auto but I thought you could perform pest control with em.

/going back home and was hoping to pick off a few with the new toy.

[BerksCountyDave]

Can't shoot groundhogs on your own property with an AR? I know you can't hunt with a semi-auto but I thought you could perform pest control with em.

/going back home and was hoping to pick off a few with the new toy.

I don't have any on my property. Not sure if you can or not.

[kevindsingleton]

Look at the CZ 550 Varmint, too. Nice, heavy barrel, laminated stock, sub-MOA accuracy from my .22-250 with factory or handloaded ammunition.

I paid about $550, for mine, a few years back.