Ed9362 wrote:I always recommend new shooters but a 22LR for their first rifle unless they have a specific task they want to do with the rifle.
you can get away with spending very little on a 22 and still have a decent rifle to learn with.
FlyingStick wrote:Apologies about the wording - I'm not even sure why I used weapons rather than firearms.
So .22 seems the consensus - a small step up like .223 wouldn't be a good idea?
And I guess the essence of the question - am I better of spending a little less on the shotgun to fit in the rifle?
FlyingStick wrote:Hi All,
Need some guidance and advice here. My license application is in progress and I am currently researching my first shotgun, and possibly, rifle.
So. Shotgun is almost sorted, either the Miroku MK70 or MK10. Reason for miroku is I love my brother in laws MK10 and I have been told by some experienced range officers that its a good fit. I definitely need the shotgun as the family is into duck hunting.
Question is, do I spend more and get the MK10 or do I opt to spend less and possibly go MK70 (or similar) and fit in a small calibre rifle too?
Regarding rifle, looking to use it for general shooting and target, hunting small game and fox etc. Originally I thought .22 was a good choice given it's so economical but starting to think something bigger??
Also, what sort of $$ should I set aside for rifle and scope?
Cheers!
Gwion wrote:Totally agree a 22cal centre fire is a better choice for foxes, etc.. Most beginners don't start by bagging foxes, though. They start by practicing their basic shooting skills. A 22lr is a much better option for practicing as you can rattle off 5shots for the cost of every 1shot of a 223rem.
Shooting (well) is an acquired and perishable skill. Having a 22lr to keep your eye in without breaking the bank or needing too much space is always going to be a handy thing.
Gwion wrote:I started shooting at the age of 11. Practicing at tin cans with my mate's .177 and .22 slug guns.
There is nothing 'nambie pambie' about practicing shooting skills to be able to confidently make clean kills.
Gwion wrote:Fair enough but as s novice shooter only used to the odd run with s shottie, I'd still be encouraging him to start practicing with a 22lr and get confident with clean kills out to 50m on bunnies before stepping up to foxes with a centre fire.
He will never regret owning a 22lr for fun and short range hunting.
Gwion wrote:Imagine how much cash you've gone through in all the swapping and changing!?!
I really need to thin some out but I find it hard to let go of them because of all the memories associated with them.
Gwion wrote:If you like having them, they are worth more just sitting in the safe than their cash value if sold off. You know how quick any spare cash can get swallowed up by household needs!
brett1868 wrote:I really need to thin some out but I find it hard to let go of them because of all the memories associated with them.
Had that same thought myself Bigfella, but it lasted only a nanosecond before I regained my senses. I'm sure that thought will soon pass for you as well
happyhunter wrote:FlyingStick wrote:Apologies about the wording - I'm not even sure why I used weapons rather than firearms.
So .22 seems the consensus - a small step up like .223 wouldn't be a good idea?
And I guess the essence of the question - am I better of spending a little less on the shotgun to fit in the rifle?
haha.. Don't worry about the terminology. Anything can be a weapon, even logic.
Very good rifles can be bought cheap, but a nice shotgun is something you will be glad you invested in down the track. Big plus for the 22LR. You can put in 1000s of rounds of practise without bothering anybody (noise). Not always possible with a shotgun or center fire rifle, unless you have access to large private properties.
22LR and 12 gauge are fine for shooting foxes. I use them all the time although I have a couple small center fires for the same purpose under different conditions.
FlyingStick wrote:Apologies about the wording - I'm not even sure why I used weapons rather than firearms.