I need a lightweight .223 bolt gun - Suggestions?

P

prairieguy

CGN frequent flyer
Rating - 100%
177   0   0
Location
Alberta
Hello CGN.

Courtesy of our overlords I now have optics, reloading gear and a supply of ammunition in need of a rifle.

I am looking to tap into the collective wisdom of CGN for some suggestions about .223 bolt guns.

Ideally I would like to find a lightweight rifle suitable for coyote hunting with aftermarket trigger and accessory choices should I decide to tart it up.

I have been doing my own research but not coming up with much of anything that fits the bill. I am hoping to find something off the shelf rather than go the custom build route.

What I'm not interested in are cheap single shot break open action rifles, anything made by Ruger, and oddball items without aftermarket options.


Here are my requirements:

Caliber: .223 / 5.56 Nato
Barrel twist: 1 in 7" (No 1-9" or slower twist)
Max barrel length 20"
Threaded action. No pressed in barrels
Weight: as light as possible. No heavy barrel varmint rigs
Action will accept a one piece picatinny rail scope mount
Detachable magazine


Any and all suggestions welcome.
 
I'm not sure you'll find a 1-7 twist in a factory off the shelf rifle. I think a 1-9 twist is perfect for targets. And for coyotes a 1-12 is just fine.
 
REM 700 SPS TACT 16.5" in 223.

You say you are trapping so a nice compact rifle... If it is too heavy im sure there are things you can do like a different stock. Rem 700 definitely have the support to "tart it up"

Or yes, the tikka t3
 
Thanks for the suggestions.

The Mossberg MVP, CZ527 and Rem SPS tactical all have 1-9" barrel twist rates, so not really what I'm looking for.

The T3X compact is closer but still only 1-8". Sako makes a few .223s as well, all with 1-8".
 
I pick up a white rock, was going to get the black rock but it was an assault rock and deemed an AR15 variant so it is now prohibited.
 
Ruger American Ranch in 5.56

Compact rifle
16" 1:7 twist
A version takes AR magazine, the other has the rotary mag which isnt too bad honestly.
The trigger is very decent
Optic ready
Threaded muzzle for flash hider/muzzle brake

Comes at 7.9lbs with bipod, bushnell 10x40 and a 5 rounds magazine


Nevermind, just read the " no ruger requirement"
 
Last edited:
As others have noted not a lot of 1-7 twists from the factory. I believe Howa's mini action is a 1-8, but I'd have a hard time picking anything but a tikka t3 compact for an off the shelf option. Of course you could find a used Remington model Seven and spin a suitably twisted barrel on it.

I wouldn't sweat the 1-8 twist. Mine does well with 50-80 grain bullets and truthfully the velocity loss from 80 grain and heavier bullets sent me back to 75-77 in the .223. Unless restricted by competition rules I want more powder behind the ultra heavy .224 bullets.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top Bottom