Inexpensive bolt action rifles

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buckchaser

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Ottawa
I do a lot of ice fishing in reasonably remote areas with strong coyote/wolf populations. After finding a wolf kill yesterday while fishing I thought next winter I might bring along a rifle in a suitable cartridge (223, 22-250, etc) in case a target of opportunity appeared or perhaps do a few calling sets while waiting for the fish to bite.

This rifle is going to take some punishment rattling around in my ice fishing sled (obviously encased) and I'm not looking to spend to the same level as my big game rifles (both Kimber Montanas). I'd also use it for general target practice and introducing new hunters to shooting (I have several nephews/nieces moving into hunting age).

I haven't done much research on the various budget rifles and have never handled any of them - Ruger American, Winchester XPR, Browning A-Bolt 3, ? Any feedback appreciated.

Thanks in advance.
 
I would go with an American Ranch. AR mag variant

My 223 axis is accurate but I like the ruger better
 
I have long recommended buying a package - preassembled rifle, rings, scope, sling and a case. For a while Savage had good deals. Nowadays, the gun companies have to deliver reliable rifles to keep people in jobs.
 
maple_leaf_eh said:
I have long recommended buying a package - preassembled rifle, rings, scope, sling and a case. For a while Savage had good deals. Nowadays, the gun companies have to deliver reliable rifles to keep people in jobs.
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I would not buy a modern rifle or 700 model style trigger for something that’s going to ride in a sled, or slung over your shoulder sleding . Mil surplus, sks, an old 98 like others posted you can get a good gun that will always work from one of the business that took over tradexx for not a lot, a cased rifle is not useful. Spend money on ss if you want but choose carefully and function test under real conditions. Out of your choices I’d buy a tikka in 223 or 22-250.
 
I have a Howa mini action in 222 rem that I pack on the trapline all winter in a skimmer.
Moderately priced detachable mag.
Built well for a reasonable price.
 
I’d just bring one of the Montanas.

If you want a dedicated wolf whacker though, id probably step it up a notch over 22 cal. 243?
 
Simple, reliable, cheap, fast bolt, ten round mag, readily available ammo, no tears if it falls into the lake...

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Don’t you guys know expensive guns are prone to ceasing to function if you actually try to use them in the field?

Much better off with something poorly made that can really handle the outdoors.

I don’t know if an ultralight mountain rifle is really “perfect” for varmint hunting, but riding around in a skimmer encased (preferably in a hard case) isn’t going to hurt it.
 
T/C Encore or Contender with a variety of bawrills tuh suite yer needs.
Short, light, compact, and versatile.
Oar the mighty 94/92 in yer flavoring.

Life is nawt that diffeecult.
 
Surplus 6.5 x 55 Mauser. some available for <$300 at Intersurplus. Perfect round for coyote and wolf
.
 
Savage axis, Ruger American or a Remington 783 would be perfect for this. I've had and shot all 3 with great accuracy, I prefer the ruger or 783 but for the intent an axis will do the trick. Id lean towards 223 for cheaper ammo and availability. Should be able to find something used, cheaper on EE or gun post.
 
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