Thread: Advice on new .308 Remington ,Savage, Mossberg, Other ??

I would look at a "as new" barely used rifle. You can get a much better deal on a more or less new gun, and get a better quality rifle than if you bought new.

For cheap rifles, Howa seems to get a good review but many folk here.

I like Tikka rifles, nice and light for carrying around. Will find heaps of second hand ones on Trademe some already suppressed for a good price.
Savage would be my next choice, not as many second hand ones, but they do come up.

Never used a Howa, but between them and a Remington, would be a toss up.
If a Remington model 7 came up on trademe would go for that instead of a 700.

Some folk say you don't want a a removable magazine for a bush gun.
But other than my shot gun, every rifle I have owned or used extensively has had a detachable mag and I have never lost one.

I used a Savage axis and have looked at the Mossbergs and personally rather buy something second hand, but not knowing your history or intended use wouldn't go as far to suggest you not go for either. The Ruger American seems to have some positive reviews too.

As far as calibre, .308 or 7mm08 would be my choice, I think ammo price would be much the same, but may find bulk .308 easier and/or cheaper.

Originally Posted by Beetroot

I would look at a "as new" barely used rifle. You can get a much better deal on a more or less new gun, and get a better quality rifle than if you bought new.

For cheap rifles, Howa seems to get a good review but many folk here.

I like Tikka rifles, nice and light for carrying around. Will find heaps of second hand ones on Trademe some already suppressed for a good price.
Savage would be my next choice, not as many second hand ones, but they do come up.

Never used a Howa, but between them and a Remington, would be a toss up.
If a Remington model 7 came up on trademe would go for that instead of a 700.

Some folk say you don't want a a removable magazine for a bush gun.
But other than my shot gun, every rifle I have owned or used extensively has had a detachable mag and I have never lost one.

I used a Savage axis and have looked at the Mossbergs and personally rather buy something second hand, but not knowing your history or intended use wouldn't go as far to suggest you not go for either. The Ruger American seems to have some positive reviews too.

As far as calibre, .308 or 7mm08 would be my choice, I think ammo price would be much the same, but may find bulk .308 easier and/or cheaper.

I agree. I normally recommend buying a good condition, better quality rifle second hand rather than a "cheap" new one. If you look around there are some real good buys to be had out there.

Generally speaking, its pretty easy to tell if a rifle has been used and abused just by looking at it. I've yet to buy a real dud second hand, but am cautious about what I buy.

Any of the "common" calibres will be fine for what you are doing, 243, 308, 6.5x55, 7mm-08, 270, etc.

Always buy a rifle that fits you. It'll make everything easier down the track. To try the fit of rifles in Chch, go to Guncity, Hunting and Fishing or Shooters Supplies. Don't be pressured into buying something.

Tikka T3 243. | Trade Me

Tikka 270WIN M695 | Trade Me


Even putting a WTB in the buy sell section may pull out a nice rifle sitting in someone's safe. There's been a few Model 7 Remington's pop up in the last wee while that have caught my attention!