Looking for good .223 options

[u/ExpressSize9383]

Looking at getting a 223 for target shooting at local range, I was looking at some of the savage models like the Axis II or Apex Storm, but I see a lot of mixed opinions on them. Would it be fine for target practice for a beginner? And before you say it, yes I have a 22, I was just looking at someone with slightly more kick and range.

Edit: im seeing alot of tikka T3x replies and all im wondering is: A, is it worth the extra 400 above the axis 2 and B, do i need a $1500 range .223

[u/Zorr101]

Let me tell you something NOT to buy, an Adler AD500.

Bought one of those and had to open every bolt and threadlock it. Hell; the pic rail got loose while I was trying to sight it in 😂😂

[u/DarkHeroes5]

Tikka T3X

[u/CandyReady → u/DarkHeroes5]

Tikka t3x varmint

[u/Ceoofgym → u/CandyReady]

Tikka t3x super varmint

[u/Vlad217]

I really like my cz600 alpha. Solid rifle for the price, but there is absolutely no aftermarket, sadly...

[u/No-Today5207]

Howa mini are on the cheaper end and great shooters if you wanted a bolt action rifle.

It depends on your use case. As its a target rifle i'd pick something with a heavier barrel profile. Savage axis are solidly average rifles for the price, but they have a thinner barrel profile so after 3-10 rounds the barrel heat will affect groups, but a totally serviceable firearm that will give you good enough accuracy if cost is a concern. The apex is a step up in Savage's line, but depending on barrel profile which appears to be more of a lighter profile i think you'd have the same barrel heat issues with longer strings of fire.

[u/ExpressSize9383 → u/No-Today5207]

The apex is $999 w/scope, the Tikka t3x is $1199 without scope and I found a Howa mini action without scope for $800, I also see that I could get the Howa Mini in 7.62x39. Since I plan on hitting target should I get a 7.62? I know the ammo is similar price

[u/Commercial-Detail-31 → u/ExpressSize9383]

Ammo is actually cheaper as Howa minis are excellent to run surplus ammo into which costs around 40 cents a round or less.They are sub moa with surplus ammo in my experience.223 on the other hand is better if you plan to shoot farther than 300 yards as its more of a flatter round but comes to around 60cents for cheapest ammo.I personally love my howa mini in 7.62x39 as i have a lot of surplus ammo can shoot pre consistent out to 300 yards.

[u/Deadlydelta45]

Buy a Tikka there great

[u/ExpressSize9383 → u/Deadlydelta45]

well if i get a tikka ill have to get a scope with it and scope and gun will run me probably $1400, thats not too much for just range target shooting here and there?

[u/Ok-Raise-5115]

If you want cheap get an axis, plenty of aftermarket support and mine with just a cheap bipod and mediocre scope is an absolute tack driver

[u/Mysterious_Sleep7443]

Get a Tikka CTR

[u/-FingerOnTheTrigger-]

Depends what you actually want it for and how far you are planning on shooting. If you are trying to hit a 12” metal plate at 100 yards, pretty much anything will hit it. If you are reaching out to farther distances and want nice tight groups, get a tikka or something else. For the most part, you get what you pay for.

[u/CamoGuy13]

You can get some deals on Gp. Just looked and you can get a tikka ctr 223 with scope for $1700 or alone for $1100.

Tikkas are reliable and best at price point

[u/ExpressSize9383 → u/CamoGuy13]

what about the tikka t3x lite, that and the varmit are the only ones ive seen, I havent seen one tikka ctr

[u/-FingerOnTheTrigger-]

Also as far as scopes go, I recommend you look at Arken optics EP-5 gen 2 series. Their scopes punch above their weight for the price.

[u/KTMan77]

If your range allows standing shooting and you like to burn money, the Henry supreme would be a load of fun. I've got the long ranger and it's shockingly accurate and very fun.

[u/GodsGiftToWrenching]

I'd go for a tikka, it's nicer made for sure, that's coming from a savage fan.

One point: do not even consider the Ruger American gen 2, absolute POS those rifles are, I unfortunately got one so I could use my bulk supply of STANAG mags... Just take the L and use AICS or factory mags

[u/ExpressSize9383 → u/GodsGiftToWrenching]

is it worth it to drop 1200 on the rifle plus another 200 for scope just for the range?

[u/Revo-Lution2020]

You'll luv a tikka t3x varmint. 223 its totally worth the money and you won't be disappointed

[u/Clover_Lawn_4440]

Find a Classic Remington Model Seven. Great great guns

[u/Dependent_Account603]

My Savage 110 varmint 223 does 0.5" to 1" five shot groups at 200y with handloads. 53gr VMAX on 25.6gr varget. Great shooter out of the box. You'll see more savage rifles on the bench rest lineup than Tikkas.

Savage single shot heavy barrels will do even better.

[u/Standard_Custard2338]

Tikka is awesome. For a more budget friendly option that is light years ahead of Savage, look at a Howa Mini Action. Get a heavy barrel.

I used to have an Axis Scout and will never do that again. Currently I run both Tikka and Howa. Both are great, Tikka is better but Howa is fantastic too. My one Howa i love is in 7.62x39 and I am looking at a mini action in 223 right now to build up for my daughter.

[u/Twitch89]

I like my MRA Renegade

[u/Prestigious_Fig4800]

Crusader Backwoods - you can tac it out quite a bit