caliber choice: .223 or .308

johan

johan

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Hi, I'd like some opinions on this (and help deciding)

I'd like a rifle, but can't quite decide to chamber it in .223 or .308

arguments for .223:
I already have a 16" AR in .223
lower ammo cost
lower noise & recoil
I probably won't get out to any 800+m ranges anyways
I'll only be punching paper

arguments for .308:
I already have a 16" AR in .223 :)
I may want to do longer distances in future
the notion of stepping up to a "big/big enough" caliber. Maybe this is misguided?

the rifle in question is probably a Rem700 or a Tikka T3 Varmint Stainless.
thanks..
 
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For punching paper, I would go for the .223 in a heartbeat, based on ammo costs alone, nevermind all the other things I like about a .223....
 
I just picked a T3 Varmint in 223 last week and will try it this coming weekend.

If you want to do a lot of customization go with the Rem700. There are tons of parts out there. On the other hand T3 is well known for its accuracy out of the box.

If you want to use the rifle to hunt big games, buy a 308. Otherwise 223 is the way to go.

Good luck!

Danny
 
I bought a Savage 10FP LE1A (20" 308). I would shoot it a whole lot more if it was chambered in 223. (cheaper ammo ;) ) I may just have to get one it 223. :confused: :D
 
I fully agree with "NINE" above, a 223 bolt action rifle would be cheaper to shoot and allows for a lot of practice.

A friend for several years competited in the BCRA Sniper Match using a Savage FP in 223 and Remington yellow box 55 gr FMJ ammo. A Savage FV in 223 with a 26" barrel can be purchased from Wholesale Sports for under $600, add a Leupold VXII 3-9 power scope and you are all set.

A Remington 700 Police in 308 with Badger Ordnance rings, bases and Leupold MK 4 3.5-10 would probably set you back over $2000.
 
Get one of each, you seem to be leaning toward the 223 to start. Then get the 308, next a 300 win mag, etc... eventually get up to the 50 cal. Then you will have all your bases covered. :)
 
I like the lower recoil of the .223. having said that, a .308 can reach out and touch stuff at a much longer distance, and with more force (I'm not going to debate the "slow and heavy VS. light and fast" with anyone right now k). it all depends what you want to use it for really. if you find a gun chambered in 7.62-51 insted of .308, surplus ammo is cheaper then normal stuff. I picked up a M305 from marstar for a super price. add that to the two crates of surplus ammo sitting in my basement, and I do alittle happy dance! somthing to think about anyways.....(the gun, not me doing a happy dance!)

cheers,
BCtrigger
 
So lets say you agonize over what to do and decide that the .223 is the way to go. It won't be long before you get that little voice in the back of your mind starts saying "I should get a .308 too" I guarantee it.
 
I have an accurized .308 and had an AR-15. I bought a Rem700P in .223 so that I could shoot more precision rifle and get in more practice with cheaper ammo, so I agree with your premise.
Problem was I fell in love with the accuracy of the bolt gun and sold my AR-15:mad:

Keep in mind that there may be safety issues with milsurp .223 ammo that was made for your ar-15. NATO and SAMMI chambers are not the same. I had pressure problems (bolt stuck) in my bolt gun when I tried to use IVI surplus ammo left from my AR-15.
 
After debating .223 vs. .308 I recently bought a 700P in .223. for three reasons.

1) I don't reload (yet) and practice .223 is cheaper

2) As a beginner to precision shooting, I appreciate the low recoil while learning other skills.

3) I'm only punching paper at short distances at the range. ORA matches aside, there isn't much opportunity for real long range shooting where I live.
 
I'd like to thank everyone that replied. Excellent advice and well considered opinions.

.223 it is. There will always be time for .308 as my skill (and $$$) improves.

Ultimately...yes, .308 is where I want to go. But i think I'm better served developing my shooting first, and that's best done with .223

besides it'll be a good excuse to get another rifle later on :D
 
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Johan,
What ever .223 you get, make sure it is a fast twist. This will allow you to shoot 80 gr bullets. If you are concerned about shooting IVI or military surplus ammo, take the rifle to a gunsmith and have him tickle the chamber with a .223 Wylde reamer. It will still shoot regular .223 handloads and will shoot military ammo without pressure problems.
 
johan said:
I'd like to thank everyone that replied. Excellent advice and well considered opinions.

.223 it is. There will always be time for .308 as my skill (and $$$) improves.

Ultimately...yes, .308 is where I want to go. But i think I'm better served developing my shooting first, and that's best done with .223

besides it'll be a good excuse to get another rifle later on :D
Click to expand...

Next reply!
 
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johan said:
I'd like to thank everyone that replied. Excellent advice and well considered opinions.

.223 it is. There will always be time for .308 as my skill (and $$$) improves.

Ultimately...yes, .308 is where I want to go. But i think I'm better served developing my shooting first, and that's best done with .223

besides it'll be a good excuse to get another rifle later on :D
Click to expand...

Next reply!
 
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