Thread: beginner varmint hunter

I tend to agree with the guys above, while I have several dedicated varmint rifles, the .223 is the most versatile, esp for NZ conditions, were we go hunting for small game ,and may take a deer or pig should the opportunity, present its self,
Get a good pr Binos, a bi pod or something for a front rest,(small back pack with a rolled up swani) and a .223 or .222, with a accurate load, in the 50-55g weight, a scope of 12-16 power, a sound moderator and your golden for starting out. Once you get into it you can and likely will, modify your gear,
Nothing wrong with the .204, its likely the better varmint cal, but its not legal on crown land, nor as versatile.

I have over 2000 rounds threw my CZ .204, seen as you asked, I Know of rifles with over 6000-7000, I have been working and living in Canada for several years, and, do quite a bit of varminting on ground squirrels, (size of a rat) nothing to shoot 500 plus in a day, barrel life depends on powder burnt, heat and maintenance,(cleaning), I would expect a well maintained .223 to do close to 6-10000 rounds.
for this high volume shooting, like the varmint field in Canada, I favour .17 hornet, .17 fireball, but just sold my .204 for a .20 vartarg.

Nz you won't get that sort of numbers, start of with a general purpose .22 cal centerfires,(.222,.223) and then if you decide to, get a dedicated varminter like, .17 fireball, .204, .20 tac,.17 hornet etc.