Home Forums Hunting & Shooting AR and Tactical Rifles Good bargain bolt in .223/5.56...?

I'm keeping an eye out for one. I want a 1:8 or 1:9 twist, would prefer one that takes AR mags but that not a must.
I don't want a project so it should have a decent trigger.
Will probably buy new.

T/C Compass
T/C Venture
Ruger American
Howa 1500

Or ???

I’m a fan of the Ruger American (takes AR mags), I’ve only seen in tan (or is it FDE?) stocks. A nice, short rifle, with a pica tinny rail and a threaded barrel. If memory serves, a bit under $500.

I just picked up a Compass II. The trigger is great 2 3/4’ and 1-9 twist. Proprietary box mag. Have not shot it yet. About $250 after s/h and rebate. Hope it shoots.

Don't leave Savage out. They make some pretty accurate rifles. I don't believe any of them use AR mags though. If weight isn't a concern, look into the Savage 12FV Cabela's exclusive. They usually go on sale around this time of the year. I've bought them for around $319.00. They shoot pretty good, but are heavy..

Ruger RAR Predator. 1:8 twist, threaded barrel, accurate shooter. I picked one up from Scheels for $400.

I've had a CZ .223 bolt-action for several years. It has a 1 in 9" twist and is very accurate. I have no idea what they cost now, but doubt they're very expensive.

Having handled all the cheap stuff recently I can say I'd go this route. I have a C1 308 and a coup\le C2s. If threaded 22" 1 in 9 works. I think they are wayyyy superior in build to the RAR or Axis... Thought I was going to like the 783 until I held one.

I'd wait till I found a C2 in stock.

Bud's Gun Shop has the TC Venture II in .223 for $399 before $75 rebate. Another option to consider.

I don't think they make the 527 in .223 anymore.

The two different T/C's are interesting.
Keeping my eye out for "Cyber Monday" sales and used Savage short actions. Maybe even some others.
Too bad the old sporting Remingtons are slow twist.

I was talking to a guy at the range the other day and he bought a new TC compass II and he says it is damn accurate, but he hates the mags. "They are cheap and the rifle doesn't feed very well", according to him... He said he paid $179.00 for the rifle after some rebate, so he's not going to complain too much. As for the TC venture, my buddy has had them for years and he loves them, but he goes back to the Savage and more recently the Ruger RAR. I handload for his 270w Venture and it shoots very well. Sub 3/4moa for 5 shots. He told me he is going to sell it because he likes his RAR better. I thought that was strange since he's always been a 270 guy.. I don't think I'd pick the RAR over the venture though, as it has a pretty rough chamber and is hard on brass. From a reloaders standpoint, the venture makes more sense in his rifles case. Its also weird because his first RAR also had bore issues and poor accuracy. He sent it back to Ruger and had to fight tooth and nail with them before they would fix it..

As for what to buy. Its a buyers market right now. If you can find a good lightly used Savage predator, that would be a good one to look for too. Stevens 200's are very accurate, but their triggers suck. I know in your op you said you don't want to work on the trigger, so that may not be an option.

Thank you BSA, and everyone.

Yeah, a Savage for the right price would do it.too.
I dont mind a little polish but I don't want to buy a trigger and add to the cost.

Still undecided.