Best cost effective 223 bolt rifle for blasting coyotes, ground squirrels and rocks?

[tominboise]

Well, the good news is that it sounds like between the Axis, the American or the Tikka, there are some good choices. I will look around and see what turns up.

 

[TheOtherZilla]

Which TC did you buy? I almost threw out TC Venture as an option because of my experience with one in 30-06 that I won a few years ago. I sat on it until this year before I finally mounted a scope and worked up a load. I was pleasantly surprised in its accuracy. I figured the .223 version would be pretty good as well.

Mine is the Venture II. Deadly accurate. Changed the shorty bolt handle though.

 

[ohlongarm]

I am thinking about selling my single shot Cooper bolt gun in 223 and picking up a more sporter weight bolt gun for coyotes, crows, whatever. The Cooper is extremely accurate and lovely, but it sits in the safe. I already have a CZ 527 in .22 Hornet and a Remmy 700VLS in 221 Fireball, along with a varmint weight AR. So I don't really need another rifle for ground squirrels, but I have a ton of 223 loaded up and so why not.

Ruger American, Savage Axis predator, something else?

I'd go with a Thompson Center venture, or Compass, they're sleepers and as accurate as you'll need. They're out there, my Venture is 204 and a laser, only thing I did was get the trigger done by Mcarbo in Florida. Coopers are beautiful but no varmint on planet earth will know the difference between the two different rifles, as the Thompson will hold it's own.

 

[Mr. Ten-X]

A Savage will do all that you heed to the 250-300yd capability of a .223Rem.

 

[Mark M.]

Well, the good news is that it sounds like between the Axis, the American or the Tikka, there are some good choices. I will look around and see what turns up.

Buy the Tikka and don't look back, ultra smooth action and superior accuracy and quality

 

[moorepower]

I will throw in a wild card. Howa mini. Mine is a deuce, but a .223 would be sweet. No bad choices in those on your list.