Need a new Predator Hunting rifle

Eastern...Your original choice of .243 might still be the way to go with 80 gr. factory loads. If you reload, you've got lots of options for reduced smaller loads in a very, very versatile caliber. I agree with you on the Savage 11 to by the way. I have Savages in .243 and .260 that are great shooters.
 
I dont reload, but lets say I do go with a .243, the factory 80 grain load will DESTROY a fox, but will do fine on a coyote and I need a load that is fur friendly on fox,bobcat, and coyote. If I could get something in a 55 grain softpoint or something, then I could see a bright future.
 
Savage Axis in .223 or .243 for $267 at the local WalMart. If you are not going to mod the rifle, it is a good choice (not much in aftermarket stuff out yet). You get an accurate Savage barrel and a utility synthetic stock for cheap. The trigger sucks, but a $1s worth of parts and an easy home trigger job gets you around 3#. The detachable mags are handy too. I am considering one when the left hand models hit the stores.
 
They have the same bolt head as regular Savages. Sometimes it is useful to replace the ball bearing that the extractor rides on with one of slightly larger diameter. No big deal at all. That would not scare me away in the least. And sometimes (rarely if ever) the ejector button can get stuck. Again same as regular Savages.
 
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Originally Posted By: EasternPredHunterQuick question... wouldn't the deer loads be the best because they wont have enough time to get to full expansion and the dont break apart?

There is some truth to that, however if you hit bone.... Harsh language will tear up a fox. In short, there is no perfect projectile, only safer bet options.

Chupa
 
You don't have to go with 80 gr. and up factory loads. I haven't shot them but I know Hornady makes a Varmint Express High Performance factory load in 58 gr moly for smaller game. Some other manufacturer might load something similar.
 
EPH, did you end up buying this shotgun?

Originally Posted By: EasternPredHunterI think I found a place where I can get the gun for like $80.....yep $80 BRAND NEW!!. If its that cheap I'm buying a new predator rifle.
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The Axis is a great rifle for the money. I did the free trigger mod on mine and am very happy with it. I did have a problem with the firing pin coming uncocked during ejection. I should be getting my bolt back from Savage any day now- fixed and ready to go. These groups were fired out of the box. Much easier to do after the trigger job though- and i no longer have 1 flyer out of 4 shot groups.

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Alright I think I'm gonna get the Stevens 200 in .223. Probably gonna replace the barrel with a bull barrel and drop a rifle basix trigger in and maybe a new stock. The reason for the bull barrel, is because I heard the rounds start making a line on paper because of the sporter barrel getting hot...I know this happens with others to but....
 
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