First Rifle

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hjynn

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Planning to get my first firearm soon, many people have recommended 22’s for a first rifle, wondering if 308 would be too big to start with.
Also was planning to get something second hand, likely off the exchange forums. Whats something I should look out for? Anything I should closely inspect or anything like that?
Thank in advance guys.
 
What do you plan on doing with it?
Have you got a place to shoot?
If you are planning on buying used, do you know what to look for?
 
A .22 Long Rifle bolt action is my suggestion. It is something you can shoot all your life. I had my first one when I was 6, I still have one at 82.

A 308 as your first rifle is a poor choice in my opinion.
 
My first one was an Xbolt 30-06. Still have it to this day. Added more xbolts since. Didn't mind the power behind it.
Later on I got into the 22 and other calibers.
All depends on what you'll be using it for.
308 is nice too. Can take it to range and hunting too.
 
.22 learn how to shoot, lots to learn with a .22 Before stepping into a larger caliber learn to shoot, and if you think a .22 is too easy you are too close to your target of the target is too big.
 
maynard said:
.22 learn how to shoot, lots to learn with a .22 Before stepping into a larger caliber learn to shoot, and if you think a .22 is too easy you are too close to your target of the target is too big.
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how far would be ideal? i think most ranges around me are pretty short at least in my research
 
If you’re set on buying used, take your time to give the rifle a really good once-over. Check the bore for pitting or rust, make sure the crown at the muzzle isn’t damaged, and look at the stock for cracks around the recoil lug or tang. Work the bolt a few times to feel for smooth cycling and consistent lock-up.


Also, inspect the screws and pins - if they’re all chewed up, that’s usually a sign the rifle’s been taken apart without much care. If possible, ask to dry fire it (with permission) so you know the trigger breaks cleanly. A second-hand rifle can be a great buy, but a careful inspection saves a lot of headaches down the road.
 
Well I would start off with shooting steel gongs, for a new shooter this will give you instant feedback when you hit it. Let's say a 4 inch gong at 50 yards. fire 10 shots with 10 hits, perfect. Now try the same thing with a 2 inch gong, if the results are the same, 10 shot 10 hits you are getting there. Now do the same thing at 75 or 100 yards. When that gets too easy, try 1 inch gongs at 50, 75 and 100 yards.
Now move to paper target with Shoot N See target dots, you can buy these for cheap from a guy called jimmyjazz here on CGN. Again, keep shooting smaller targets at longer distances until you can do it with ease every time.

The limitations with a .22 usually ammo related. However even if you pay $150 a brick (500 rounds) of mid-grade match ammo, it will be cheaper than 4 boxes (80 rounds) of centerfire ammo.
 
308 is pricey caliber to shoot. For the first centerfire rifle I would consider 223.

That being said, 22lr is very common and probably cheapest to start with. Good 22lr rifle will give you opportunity to work on your techniques like breathing control and trigger squeeze.

Ruger and CZ are some of the brands to consider.
 
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I started with a semi Ruger 22 because it wasn't too pricey, it had plenty of customization opportunity, and I was able to inspect a bunch of them at a local shop. Was a great start, it's easy to move around, use, and cheap ammo.
 
Depending on your intended use...
General suggestion, a 22lr for cheap practice and small game. Then a medium deer sized cartridge eg 270.
Soon after you should have the bug and will fill a small bedroom as your collection grows 😉
 
I would start with something like a savage mark II, bolt action rifle that's very accurate for the price. Not too expensive and it will help you figure out what you want from your rifle. A 308 has way more kick and is far more expensive to buy and the rounds are more than 10 times the price.
 
Buy the highest quality .22 you can afford. You will lose interest in the .22 if it isn't a good one, and then the money will be unrecoverable. Shoot it until you think the rifle is the limiting factor. If you start with a "big" calibre, the consumables (targets and ammo) will add up quickly. If you are near Calgary, send me a message and maybe you can come out and try before you buy some things...
 
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