Advice on hunting rifle?

[flamin lib]

Target is feral pig up to 300 pounds at max 200 yards. Currently shooting a .30-06 and can group 1 inch at 100 yards w/4x scope (4 inch w/.223 iron sites, so I'm no slouch) but will lose both when SIL moves here Jan '10. My brother nailed a 200 pound boar @ 170 yards with a .270 lung shot in the moonlight (yeah, he's good) and the pig only ran 25 yards b4 dying. Experience is: 30-30, .30-06, .223, 270, M14, M16 and .25-06.

It's been a long time since the Big Red One rifle team in '71 and technology has changed so am looking for advice. I don't hunt much so don't want to break the bank and am not averse to used/pawn purchase. Best choice in your opinion and expected purchase price would be most appreciated.

[safeinOhio]

1. I'd switch to

rabbit hunting.

[aikoaiko]

2. Seems like most people get good value out of Savage in hunting rounds.

.308 is my favorite all-purpose round.

[SteveM]

3. Get a hold of Field & Stream (on-line or mags) -- they evaluate rifles.

Some are below $500 -- even with an inexpensive scope. Most rifles suitable for deer are good for pigs.

[old mark]

4. Never had a bad used Savage - I found an old .30-06 years ago

under $200, cleaned it well and tightened all the screws - it was the most accurate rifle I ever owned.

I'd recommend the .30-06 - more options on loaded ammo - bullet styles and weights - available over the counter than any other cartridge, not much beats it for accuracy, and the ammo is relatively cheap and available anywhere.
Really, not that much is different - just a lot more salesmanship involved, selling stuff you don't need.

Enjoy.

mark

[oneshooter]

5. The Savage 110 in 30-06 can be found used for $200-$300

Often with a scope included. The Savage are well known for out of the box accuracy. If you can find them they are a real bargain!

Oneshooter
Armed and Livin in Texas