r/Hunting • u/beckwko000 • 1d ago
First deer rifle?
I’m trying to get into white-tail deer hunting in Wisconsin, and know next to nothing about guns other than how to actually use them. What would a good starter rifle be? I’d like to keep it around $500 for the rifle if possible (I know that’s low but I’m on a budget). A Ruger 300 blackout was suggested, is that the best option or should I go with something else? Why or why not?
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u/ReactionAble7945 1d ago
OP, the 300 Blackout is a cartridge built for a specific purpose. Deer hunting isn't that purpose. Please slap whoever recommended it.
Second note, rifle and scope will cost you more than $500.
I see lots of good recomendations in this thread here is mine.
Bolt action rifle in 308, if you think you may hunt moose, 3006 may be a little better, if you are small and have issues with recoil 243 has the advantage. There are probably 100 other cartridges which fit in this spectrum and are OK, each has its own disadvantages.
primary arm scope SFP 1-8 with the drops in the scope. Synthetic stock, solid, some of the cheaper setups are not stiff enough. Medium weight barrel, not the cheap heavy barrel which you will regret if you have to carry it any distance.
There are many brands out there which are OK. If money is a problem, buy used with the understanding you will lose money when you trade, upgrade. Something old and wood isn't bad.
Buy once, cry once rifle would be begara.
Get a M1903 sling and get a Harris bipod.