*Affordable* Semi-Auto 223 for Yotes!!

TDizzle

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Hi guys,

Not sure if this is the right forum, but does anyone have any suggestions for a decent semi-auto 223 for a coyote rig that doesn't cost an arm and a leg?

Basic requirements are reliability, accuracy (at least around 2-3 MOA), weight (don't want something stupidly heavy when walking a mile into a call location), and possibility for aftermarket upgrades (unless I like the set up as purchased).

Looking to spend around $1500 or less. I've been doing some research, and obviously there isn't a ton of options out there. But curious as to whether there's one that's a step above the rest? So far I've been looking into the following -

Ruger Mini-14 Ranch Stainless Synthetic - The Mini-14's used to be known for their extreme inaccuracy. But after a bunch of research, this isn't as much the case anymore. Looks to be a decent rifle. I can pick one up for around $1249 new.

Norinco Type-97 NSR FTU - I don't know very much about these....just the fact that it's another option for a non-restricted semi-auto that doesn't break the bank. Can pick one up for around $1249 from what I can see.

Kel-tec SU-16 TAC - Seems like a decent rifle. It's a little more "tactical" looking, but from what I've read on the Kel-tec's should be fairly reliable. I do like the fact that it has the adjustable buttstock. Can be purchased for $1149.

Benelli MR1
- This one brand new is a little out of my price range, but I did find a decent used one for $1500. Seems to me that it might be my best bet. But not sure if it would be worth $250 more than all of the other options, and as stated, in used condition.

Anyway, just curious as to your guys' thoughts on what might be my "best bang for the buck" option, or if you might have some other ideas that might fill my needs better?

Thanks for your thoughts and advice!!
 
I have the mini, newer production, it's been really reliable, decently accurate, I haven't scoped it so I cant give you a real moa. I've put the barrel strut and done a few other things. It's light and handy. No front sling stud so a bipod isn't as easy as most to attach. These should be 700-800 dollar rifles in my mind anyways. I want to like the type 97. But too much bad press has me convinced to save my money for something else. As a side note ,people mentioned If you like the garand action you could get a m14( m305) and about 500-700 rounds of bulk ammo for about the same price as the mini by itself,assuming the 7.62X51 appeals to you... I wish there was more options in this price range also.
 
If you decide on the T97 see if you can try shooting someone else's before commitng to buying one. Reliability and accuracy is not an issue here but I could not stand the sluggish trigger
 
I had the same thoughts and search a short while ago, ended up grabbing a used Mini for around $900. Happy about the decision so far. It's light, compact reliable, handles fantastic and able to hit yote sized vital targets at 100 yards which is what I bought it for. Maybe mine would do better for accuracy if I had a different optic on it. This Burris fast fire dot I think is 4 MOA.

 
AR180B if you can hunt one down, CSA VZ58.

If semi isn't a "must" you could try a TROY P.A.R. . Are you stuck on .223? Lots of cheap 7.62 floating around
 
Semi auto rifles are very popular for coyote hunters, it's too bad we can't use our AR15's like they do in the USA. The AR15 is the go to yote rifle these days there.

In your price range, a new model Min1 14 might be the ticket if you are willing to find what ammo works best with it (unless you handload) Most reports give them about 1.5 MOA with good ammo, so that's well within the parameters of a yote rifle, even if most of us want .5MOA :)

The TROY PAR rifles are pumps and good accuracy is also reported from them. The SL8 might be out of your price range but it certainly has a good accuracy reputation.

Benelli I've heard good and bad things about their accuracy.
 
Get a bolt action and actually hit one...

X2! ................... Real snipers use a bolt action.


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The keltec and the t97 are a waste of money.

The Mini and the MR1 both have their merits. If you already have a pile of STANAG mags then the MR1 is a good choice although it is more expensive. The Mini 14 like most Ruger firearms is a damn hammer and just as accurate as the MR1 (if you get the new 581+ series) BUT extra mags will cost you as much as a kidney transplant IF you can find them.
 
The keltec and the t97 are a waste of money.

The Mini and the MR1 both have their merits. If you already have a pile of STANAG mags then the MR1 is a good choice although it is more expensive. The Mini 14 like most Ruger firearms is a damn hammer and just as accurate as the MR1 (if you get the new 581+ series) BUT extra mags will cost you as much as a kidney transplant IF you can find them.

I got 4 20rd mags new for $55 a piece taxes and shipping included. Not great but certainly not the worst priced mags out there.
 
Sometimes it's nice to have a variety, I'm sure you can appreciate that.

I do have a variety... just not when I am serious about "hunting..." well that is not really true, as on occasion, I do take a No.1 out now and again... but a Mini-14??? Not so much.
 
I can tell you from experience. Stay away from t97 both gen and anything keltec. Sl8 is better but that plastic receiver is not there to last.
 
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