Stuck deciding between 2 different rifles

[J.Hancock]

Well there's a reason that the .mil switched to .308 probably.

OP, don't buy a heavy barrel anything.
30-06 is fine for hunting, but if you're only shooting under 200y then a .308 will do all of that, and in a slightly lighter package that is easier to shoot, with a wider selection of modern loadings and bullets for it if you do get bit by the longer range target shooting bug.

I'd personally look at Tikkas first if you're looking for a good gun to be 'set' with, or a rem 700 if you want something to 'lego' around with. I've never owned or shot a Browning, but equally I've never heard anyone sing their praises either, unlike Tikkas (quality of action) and remingtons (ease of parts availability to dress it up).

NWS point about resale is something to bear in mind. If you don't mind losing a $100 or two then buy whatever tickles your fancy and be prepared to sell it on if it doesn't work for you. Wisdom comes from experience, sometimes experience carries a cost.

The switch was partially cost related, as they are comparable cartidges, logistically the smaller package was the superior choice.

 

[Gilford]

Hi there,

As the title suggests I am stuck choosing between 2 rifles.
#1 being a Browning X-Bolt Hunter Long Range & #2 being a Remington 700 Long Range.
Both guns I'm looking at would be chambered in 30-06. Which one would be better just for hunting with the odd trip out to the 200yd Range?

P.s. I want a heavy barrel for hunting just to help reach out that little bit further with more confidence as I'm a relatively new shooter.

Thanks for any advice and opinions!

I personally use a 700, and was looking at the X-bolt. I love my 700 to death, BUT, under the current circumstances with Remington and warranty and support currently being non existent at this time - go with the X-bolt.

*NOTE* I am only suggesting the xbolt under the assumption that you are strictly getting a hunting rifle for now. If you plan to do any upgrades, the 700 is the way to go. My other concern for you as you stated you are a relatively new shooter, in the event you do get a lemon with a 700, again there is no warranty support so you will be paying out of your own pocket for any repairs.

 

[L42A1]

You don't want a heavy barrel for hunting. You will regret it.

 

[209jones]

Heavier barrels are really only good for varmint or stand hunting, or a range and competition. Plenty of guns around that will crack 9-10 lbs with scope & rings, and they get heavy over the course of a day of spot and stalk. Rem is back up & running now, but, the first thing I'd do on one, is put a Triggertech in it. And there are guns with better features out there and probably better QC, hard to say what new Rem owner will do, prsident is the same guy as when the went down the tubes, he was secretly behind the buyer, but, the problems they had were all due to Cerberus, thinking maybe now they aren't involved, he may improve things now that he can. Browning has been pretty consistent over the years since the 80's, not sure about their triggers and upgrades to them, but, seem to be a lot of people happy with them. Savage, Howa and Bergara and Ruger build some good stuff these days as well, and the Tikka T3X action and trigger choices are an industry leader as well Tough choices for a new guy, helps if you can get someone who isn't a brand ho and knows what is what to help you out with picking thru them.

 

[Frank870]

I'd pass on the heavy barrel for hunting as well !