$500 Budget, Which Gun?

[Cap't Ernie]

So...this week I got one step closer to my summer job being almost confirmed completely and it looks like I might be making some good money this summer (commercial roofing). I think I will have somewhere between 500-600 to spend on a gun...and now I'm honestly up in the air. I need some brainstorming. We all do a good job of picking our favorite guns and what five guns we'd live with, but how about a budget?

I've currently got the basics: a semi-automatic .22, an 870, and a muzzleloader. The later two are unscoped.

A few options I've considered would be getting a pistol, an O/U, or a bigger rifle...and then there's the question of ammo prices and maybe buying something used?

Pistol: Revolver options? Something I could carry in the future.

O/U: The only thing I've found that fits in my price range would be a Stoger, and I'm wary.

Rifle: something used probably in bolt, probably in a popular caliber, .223, .270 or 30-06.

I know that this is a wide can of worms, but if I gave you $500, what would you go buy?

[benehunter]

It looks like it's time for a bow:D:whistle:

[ohiosam]

$500 is a tight budget for most high power rifles with a GOOD scope. You might think about an NEF Handi rifle or a used Savage.

[killa gorilla]

You can get a mosin nagant for under a hundred and still have money left for a kicka** scope n mount,or any other mods.I just ordered another 8oo rounds off the internet for under 200 bucks.just a suggestion.

[hedgelj]

Yeah this'll probably open up a can of worms. But here is my $0.02, and I'll probably owe you some change afterwards.

You said you have a .22, a good shotgun and a muzzleloader. Here are some questions I'd ask of you first.

Have you been wanting optics on your 870 or muzzleloader? Do they make since for the type of hunting you do with them?

What other hunting are you interested in getting into? Varmint, Out of OH big game? plinking? Trap/sporting clays?

When you mentioned the pistol you mentioned revolvers and to carry, as in CCW or to hunt deer with?

Pistol options:
If you are looking for something to carry CCW, I'm a big fan (and saving up for) the S&W MP series in either 40SW or 9mm. Both are in your budget if you find them on sale or a deal at a gunstore/show.

I'm not a big fan of revolvers and most of the ones I do like are out of your price range (super redhawk, etc).

Over under:
I was looking for one for a while but have since decided against it. My 1100 and I routinely outshoot guys with guns worth 2-3x my gun's value and I can't afford one that has the quality I want yet. Unless you get an awesome deal at an auction, gunshow or some similar I haven't found any that truely balance well and point naturally for under a grand.

Rifle:
I know you like Remington so if you're looking for a bolt go with the 700. Now onto caliber. Depending on what you want to use it for I'd look at .243, .270, 30-06, or .300 win mag (or short mag).
I have a .243, its great for groundhogs out to around 4-500 yards and would probably go farther if I had a better scope on it. I can also load it heavy enough to go out of state for deer sized game.
The .270 would be a step up in power and would allow you to go for larger game out west or here in the east. Still flat shooting and useable for groundhogs.
30-06 is easily one of the most versatile calibers out there. It just may not be the most glamorous caliber but it will get the job done if it walks on this planet.
300 win mag (or short mag). Very flat shooting, lots of power to take down anything that walks, but also comes with a lot of recoil so may not be right for everyone. If you reload you can load light 130ish grain bullets for goundhogs and then go as heavy as you need to for big game.

Since cost of ownership is also a concern let me add in a few other ideas.

17HMR. If you are looking at doing groundhogs its a great round out to around 150 yards, or further if you have good shot placement. Its also a pretty cheap round to shoot as 50 rounds will run you around 10 bucks if you find them on sale. Not as cheap as your .22 but definitely cheaper then factory rounds for any of the other calibers I mentioned above. You can get a nice varmint barrelled savage or marlin for around 350 without a problem (sometimes even with a scope included). Then have plenty of $ left over to improve the scope or for ammo and maybe optics for your muzzleloader.

I think if you spend the summer looking around for a good deal you could get any one of those rifles and still have some money left over for a decent scope.

If you handed me $500 right now I'd go one of a few ways.
I'd get the MP pistol mentioned above if CCW was my focus.
I'd get a 17hmr if I wanted to get cheaper groundhog shooting.
I'd get the 300 win mag if I wanted a big rifle.
But I'd probably get a reloader set up first, because I already have a rifle and have access (through family) to many of the calibers I mentioned above so then I could reload for them to what I wanted to do with them. Since you don't have a rifle it'd be hard to tell you to go that route though. Though depending on how much shooting you do with the 870 maybe a shotshell reloader?

Hope that helps, ymmv and I hope I don't owe you too much change. ;)

[hedgelj]

$500 is a tight budget for most high power rifles with a GOOD scope. You might think about an NEF Handi rifle or a used Savage.

Not if you look around. My brother just picked up a savage 300 win short mag with a bushnell elite scope, the reloading dies, 150 rds of nickel cases, 2 boxes of ammo for $550. So just look around.

[Cap't Ernie]

Thanks for your responses, I'm not making any decisions yet, just brainstorming. This is good.

hedgelj- Dad has a S&W MP Compact, 9mm. While I enjoy the gun, I don't shoot it well. I've found that I don't shoot the light semi's as well as I do a revolver or a full sized pistol. Weird, but that's the reason I'd go revolver.

I was actually looking at Savage/Stevens 22mags (groundhog gun?) before this. And SW revolvers. And Steoger O/U's. I think I just like looking at guns...

And the reloader, a scope, and a crap ton of ammo might not be a bad idea. But not as much fun as a new gun. The other thing I've thought of that leans me towards a pistol or a new gun, is how much longer is it going to take for a large gun tax to come around? Lots of questions...

[hedgelj]

I was actually looking at Savage/Stevens 22mags (groundhog gun?) before this. And SW revolvers. And Steoger O/U's. I think I just like looking at guns...



I'd go 17hmr over the 22 mag, especially for groundhogs. But that's my opinion. SW makes darn nice revolvers I just know little to nothing about them. If you didn't like your dad's compact MP try the full size one, just a little larger but no biggie we all have our preferences. I've looked at a bunch of the Stoeger O/U's and I'm not impressed, I'd rather get a different gun for that type of money and save up for a O/U.

[antiqucycle]

You are young, it takes time to build a gun collection and very selective purchasing. My philosophy ia to keep some ready cash for the real deals that come out of nowhere. Since you have 3 basic guns that would let you hunt most all game in Ohio, If I were you I would be looking for a deal on a horton crossbow to extend deer season, one somebody is trying to sell for $200. then hold the rest of the cash and find somebody desparate for cash to make a mortgage or rent payment begging for a gun buyer.
I think people make the worst deals when they narrow their pick and pay whatever it takes to get a new one. Thats not the way I got my collection at the prices I paid.
In the mean time, pick 10 guns you like, price them at the big name shops, price them at gun shows, and news ads so you can get a real knowledge of prices so you recognize a bargain when you see it.
the more you look, the more you will know.

Have patience when buying. Obama certainly would like to tax guns out of existence but it would cost him and the d a** democrats too many votes and their jobs.

[ohiosam]

Not if you look around. My brother just picked up a savage 300 win short mag with a bushnell elite scope, the reloading dies, 150 rds of nickel cases, 2 boxes of ammo for $550. So just look around.

Which is why I said look for a used Savage, good guns and not hard to find them at a price that allows you to stay in a $500 budget even with good optics.

There are deals out there, last year I bought Win 70 stainless classic 7mm rem mag with a cheap scope and 100 rounds of premium ammo for $500. But you won't find that deal too often.

[Deehntr56]

When I get home later tonight...I'll throw out some options as well...but answer me one thing.......you posted this at 2:12 am capt......isn't this party week, since finals are done????:biggrin::biggrin:

Bored?:biggrin:

Need a GF?:biggrin:

More school?:biggrin:

But again, my college kids are up to 3-4 am many nights anyway...

[Cap't Ernie]

56, hahaha.

I actually couldn't sleep last night. I got done with my work at 1 and couldn't sleep.

As for the gf, if you've got a gun loving, hunting tolerating daughter in college...let me know :D

[ap0317ah]

The Remington 700, S&W MP .40, and savage 110 are all great options in that price range.
Tom

[Schu72]

There are many guns out there that would fit your criteria, but maybe the real question is "what type of firearm would get the most use, or would give you the most enjoyment".

When I was your age the idea of purchasing a new firearm was cause for great excitement, but today most of those guns sit in my safe and only come out to be cleaned. If you are happy with your 870 and muzzleloader I would consider scoping them and/or adding a tactical stock....you know just something to freshen them up and give you a little added range. If they don't meet your needs or desire pick a firearm/bow that relates to your favorite game to peruse....that way it is unlikely to reside in your safe untouched after the thrill of buying it wears off.:)

[Cap't Ernie]

I agree. I'm not going to run out and just buy a gun to buy a gun, I can't afford that. My thinking as to buying a pistol would be so that I can potentially carry it when I turn 21.

That said, for my current pursuit of game, I think that I would scope my muzzleloader before my shotgun. I am doing more and more small game hunting- squirrels and rabbits, and wouldn't mind an O/U that's lighter than my 870 and also do a fair amount of skeet shooting as well.

I'm up in the air. Thanks for the good suggestions and brainstorms, keep 'em coming...

...and then there's the crossbow question...probably not....but tempting.

[Thunderflight]

Save your money.

[Outdoorsman]

Springfield XDM 9MM OD GREEN WITH STAINLESS RECIEVER

Not exactly $500 but in the $500-$600 range or a

Glock model 34

[antiqucycle]

The cross bow should not be a question with compounds loaded up, running over $1000. You should be able to pickup a used horton hunter at 200 or less. do look now, pennsy hunters are going nuts buying crossbows.

I think you have to be 21 to buy a handgun off a dealer so that can be postponed a few years.

[Cap't Ernie]

My father would be the one making the handgun purchase.

[Schu72]

is your 870 a 20 or 12? If you are in to small gaming a 20 can be a joy. I used to shoot a Franchi 20 ga ultralight when I was younger. Great for long days in the field. But that thing kicked like a mule with slugs in it.

[Beentown]

There are alot of good used semiauto handguns (some new ones also) available for well under $500.

- New XD series
- New M&P
- Glocks
- Berettas (92 series is full size and shoots great) new $549 used $449
- CZ plenty of choices

And on and on...Go to a good range and shoot a few. One will talk to you. A revolver that might tickle your fancy is the GP100 series from Ruger. I am picking up a 4" Stainless .357 tomorrow. Can't wait. $460 NIB

FWIW I spent probably $150 in range time before purchasing my first two pistols. It was well worth the money because now I have something to judge upon.

Beentown

[Cap't Ernie]

My 870 is a 12.

What about a side-by-side? Does anyone have (or have shot) a Remington SPR210 or 220?

[ohiosam]

My 870 is a 12.

What about a side-by-side? Does anyone have (or have shot) a Remington SPR210 or 220?

I haven't shot one but I've handled them and personally don't like the way they feel. The CZs are much better imo, you can find used for around $5-600.

CZ's O/U Mallard has a MSRP of $568 with double triggers and extractors.

[antiqucycle]

Thats what you call a "straw" purchase

[deerhunt45]

Thats what you call a "straw" purchase

Stop accusing...his father will have responsibility for the gun until such time Capt E is 21. Doesn't mean Ernie can't help him decide which one to buy and shoot it from time to time :whistle:

[Cap't Ernie]

Exactly 45.

It's not my fault I could go to Iraq and carry a pistol and get killed by one, but the govt won't let me buy and carry one.

[ohiosam]

Thats what you call a "straw" purchase


http://www.nraila.org/Issues/FactSheets/Read.aspx?id=43&issue=006The purchase, sale, possession and transportation of firearms in the United States are regulated by tens of thousands of federal and state laws and local ordinances. Many of these regulations impose greater restrictions upon persons below certain ages, with age cut-offs ranging from as high as 21 years of age to as young as 12.


Most federal laws regulating firearms are included in Title 18 of the U.S. Code -- the Gun Control Act (GCA, 1968) as amended by various subsequent laws, including the Firearms Owners` Protection Act (1986), the Youth Handgun Safety Act (1994), the Gun-Free School Zones Act (1996) and other laws. Details on federal firearm laws are available from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms. (www.atf.treas.gov (http://www.atf.treas.gov))
Federal law imposes the following restrictions aimed at younger persons:

A person must be 21 years of age to purchase a handgun or handgun ammunition, and 18 years of age to buy a rifle or shotgun or ammunition, from a retail
firearm dealer. (GCA, 1968)

A person under age 18 may not possess a handgun or handgun ammunition, and it is illegal for a person to provide a handgun or handgun ammunition to a person under age 18, except for target shooting, hunting, or certain other exempted purposes. (Youth Handgun Safety Act, 1994)

It is a federal felony to provide false information (such as lying about one`s age) to a firearm dealer, to deceive the dealer into selling a firearm to a person not entitled to make the purchase. (GCA, 1968)

Regardless of age it is illegal to possess a firearm on or within 1,000 feet of school property, with limited exceptions.
--------------------------------------------------------------------
The basic objectives of Title I of the Gun Control Act of 1968...
Specifically, Title I prohibits dealers from selling any firearm or ammunition to any person who is:
e.less than eighteen years of age for the purchase of a shotgun or rifle
f.less than twenty-one years of age for the purchase of a firearm that is other than a shotgun or rifle

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

So there is nothing I can find in the Federal Law making it illegal for someone between 18-21 from possessing a handgun. It is also legal for a parent to provide a handgun to a child between 18-21(under 18 for the reasons listed). The 21 restriction on purchasing a handgun only applies to purchaser from licensed dealers (however I'd advise against selling or giving one to anyone but your own child).

[Deehntr56]

I haven't shot one but I've handled them and personally don't like the way they feel. The CZs are much better imo, you can find used for around $5-600.

CZ's O/U Mallard has a MSRP of $568 with double triggers and extractors.

My son has one of these. Goes to the shoulder well, and has a nice balance to the gun.

No issues either. You can get one for closer to $500.00

There is a mossberg O/U, Silver Reserve That is priced similar and we have that one too, but I would choose the CZ. Better quality wood...and I like my wood!:biggrin:

IMO, at your age get a gun that you will use...now!

A shotgun is a good choice in Ohio. A rifle would be a good choice, and there are several options around that price, if your planning on hunting outside of Ohio.....Unless your varmit hunting. Then you may want to go that route.

If you choose a rifle, the winchester Model 70 has been a great gun, and nothing wrong with the 30-06 caliber. You can hunt game from Deer to Moose. All around great cartridge and the gun can be had for a tad more today. I paid $195.00 new in the 70's!:biggrin: Being you go to school in PA. If you hunt there, then it could be an option.

Plenty of handguns available at that price range in Colt and Smith and Wesson.

At this stage of your life, go for a gun that will give you plenty of use. As you get older, you can start buying, because you like them...just don't tell the GF or the wife how much your spending, they'll want to spend the same amount!!!:biggrin:

[vvarmitr]

There is a lot of wisdom in what Antiqucycle said, but if you're anything like me the $ I would set back would end up going for car parts or the ike. :irked:

I know for me now I want to up grade my scopes.
A gun safe is another thing to consider iffen you're planning on having a collection.

Don't look to buy a gun that you're going to marry. You don't marry guns so when you pick out something remember you can always trade it in & upgrade w/ the next extra $500.;)

[antiqucycle]

Maybe I should apologize about the "straw purchase" remark, but I live in Youngstown and all the street thugs are not just toting 9mm's that were stolen somewhere. I have seen too many purchases at gun shows from dealers by shaky looking dudes(over 21) with their underage posse types that are under 21. You can tell the under 21 guy is picking out the gun. The buyer is the guy with the clean background.
They later report the gun stolen, after they sell it on the street corner for a nice profit.

The one other bit of advice for Ernie, right now stick with guns easily resold at a later date. but concentrate on what is usefull for deer hunting, as there is always somebody looking for a slug gun, a good muzzleloader or a crossbow.

I suggested the crossbow because it will get a lot of use.

[Cap't Ernie]

antiqucycle,

No harm done. Don't apologize for following the law. Thanks for all the advice.

...

So on this topic of not marrying a gun so that I could potentially sell it down the road, what about buying a gun used? I'm afraid of buying something that's crap.

And back to the crossbow. I've been pretty vocal in my distrust of bow hunting. But I do see how opening up more hunting time would be in my favor. I don't think that right now I have enough time to commit to shooting, learning how to shoot, and staying practiced up. On the other hand, a week from Wednesday I will go home and the next day I will go turkey hunting. I haven't shot my shotgun in 6 weeks and with my turkey choke in a year (the last two shots in the field have dropped a gobbler, let's keep it that way) but I know exactly how that gun is going to shoot when I pull it up to my shoulder. I'm keenly aware that being an ethical bowhunter (whatever flavor) requires more practice and confidence and that's not something I can see myself doing. It's one thing to pull my shotgun out of my closet and go after game after not shooting for 6 weeks, or even a year with that setup, I think the last time I was home it was for the first time in 10 weeks maybe more, the same isn't true for a crossbow going after a deer.

Capt

[ohiosam]

So on this topic of not marrying a gun so that I could potentially sell it down the road, what about buying a gun used? I'm afraid of buying something that's crap.


Used from private individuals is where you will find the best deals. Look it over good, research the model on the internet and learn if there are any problems to look out for. I've bought quite a few used over the years and had very few problems. If you are going to own a gun for a long time buying new isn't too bad, if you are planning on trading often don't buy new, you'll usually waste a lot of money doing that. However if there is a very specific gun you want you might have to buy new.

[Hoytmania]

It looks like it's time for a bow:D:whistle:


My thoughts exactly. I have a nice Hoyt I could sell ya that would fit real nice in that budget. :idea: PM me if you are interested Capt.

[Thunderflight]

Save about $50 more and get this!

http://atwelltactical.com/images/GSG5.jpg

[Beentown]

I guess you are really just going to narrow it down to what type of firearm you would like most... then we could be of more help. Especially what to look for in a used one.

Just for a quick run of what I look for:

Revolver - First take a snap cap of what caliber you would like to purchase (the same for a semi auto). Lets you get a good feel for the trigger. Actually I will start another thread and copy/paste what I've dug up.

Semiauto - Again gotta love snap caps;) Have the owner field strip it for you. Give the barrel a good look. No buldges, good rifling and fit/finish. I check other things like the extractor, feed ramp, safety (use snap caps), mag release, and overall fit and finish. There is no substitue to firing the darn thing:D

Hope this helps,

Beentown

[Beentown]

Save about $50 more and get this!

http://atwelltactical.com/images/GSG5.jpg


Can get that now for $499 at http://www.budsgunshop.com right now.

Beentown

[Thunderflight]

Can get that now for $499 at http://www.budsgunshop.com right now.

Beentown

Man I hope they have one this Summer. I'll have my wife pick it up for me! Either that or I'll have to wait until November.

[Deehntr56]

Their actually out there a tad cheaper...seen them for around $469.99...

[Thunderflight]

Their actually out there a tad cheaper...seen them for around $469.99...

Any places in central Ohio?

[Deehntr56]

Not that I am aware of yet.....but now their backordered and they went up to $489.99......

I'll keep my eyes open when I'm looking for other items....


http://www.gsg5rifle.com/item/77083_GSG-5_Rifle.aspx

Impact Guns has them at $499.99

http://www.impactguns.com/store/GSG5.html