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10 Best 308 Rifles for the Money [Bolt Action & Semi-Auto]

Best 308 Rifle

We know how hard it is to look for the best 308 rifles. Especially if you’re just new to firearms culture. So, we wrote this guide to help you decide which 308 rifle suits you perfectly.

If you’re in a hurry and want an option you won’t regret buying, we recommend the FN SCAR 17S. It’s accurate and good for short and long-distance.

But if that doesn’t float your boat, we have a ton of options below!

Best Value
Savage Arms Impulse MSR 10
Best Overall
FN Scar 17S
Best Budget Pick
Ruger American Predator

Top 10 Best 308 Rifles for Hunting and Accurate Shooting

1. FN Scar 17S

BEST OVERALL

FN Scar 17S

Model Number: 98561-1

BUYING OPTIONS:
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This Scar (short for Special Operations Forces Combat Assault Rifle) model is a battle rifle type.

It was originally made from Belgium — U.S. Army used them during wars. Equipped with front and rear sights, this 308 battle rifle is perfect for long-range shooting.

Specifications:

  • Type: Semi-automatic rifle
  • Caliber: .308 win
  • Twist: 1:12″
  • Magazine: 20
  • Barrel: 16″
  • Length: 28-1/2 to 38-1/2″
  • Weight: 8 lb

Overview

The FN Scar 17S has many great features you’re not going to want to miss. But first, let’s go over its basic specs.

Speed is on your side with this rifle — being used by U.S. Army, this one is pretty great to use as a defense weapon. This exact model is a civilian version of FN Mk 17.

Appearance-wise, its barrel is cold hammer-forged and free-floating as well, so you can rely on its durability as this one is resistant to recoil.

And again, since this is semi-auto, it’s capable of carrying 20 round magazines! 17S also has a muzzle brake to direct gases to the sides and to reduce felt recoil too.

Features

Let’s dive into the sweeter parts of this rifle.

Its polymer stock is a telescoping side-folding type or in layman’s terms, it’s a collapsible stock. With this, you can retract and fold its buttstock to shorten it whenever you like so the whole rifle becomes more compact.

It also has a hinge attachment so you can lock it to prevent unwanted movements of the buttstock. That’s not all.

Surely, you didn’t think our best overall would have that little to show, right? Get a LOAD of this:

  • It has an adjustable folding front and folding/removable rear iron sights. You can adjust them to however you like.
  • Its grip is also A2-style. Users reported this style feels sturdy and very grippy.
  • It uses a Picatinny rail system, offering you three accessory rails for mounting scopes, sights, and lasers.
  • Oh and most unique of all, the whole rifle is fully ambidextrous, meaning whether you’re a lefty or righty person, you’ll find it easy to use this rifle.
Pros
  • Collapsible stock
  • Adjustable front and rear sights
  • Ambidextrous rifle
Cons
  • Expensive

Is FN Scar 17S Rifle Right For Me?

Being the best overall here, this is going to be your best choice if you’re looking for flexibility.

Though it’s considered as one of the battle rifles, it can be used in almost ANY situation. It’s customizable so if you’re looking for versatility, look no further!

2. Savage Arms Impulse MSR 10

BEST VALUE

Savage Arms Impulse MSR 10

Model Number: 22940

BUYING OPTIONS:
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As the name implies, Savage Arms Impulse is made for competition shooting. You can expect it to be worth the price because it’s stacked with high-end components. This rifle won’t fail you.

Specifications:

  • Type: Semi-auto
  • Caliber: .308 win
  • Twist: 1:10″
  • Magazine: 20
  • Barrel: 18″
  • Length: 37.13″ – 40.3″
  • Weight: 9.05 lb

Overview

Savage Arms Imuplse’s barrel is carbon wrapped stainless model.

This makes your firearm resistant to heat erosion and rustiness. Only a little cleaning is needed because it won’t corrode anyway. This is definitely a PLUS POINT compared to other tactical rifles.

It also has a detachable box magazine so you can unload and load it WITHOUT HASSLE while it’s detached from your rifle.

And also, with a Magpul CTR buttstock, you can lock it to significantly minimize accidental movements.

Savage Arms Impulse also has a 2-stage trigger, making you feel safer to shoot thanks to the gradual increase of pressure before going off.

Features

Now, with an adjustable gas block, it won’t only improve your overall shooting experience but will also provide less wear and tear as the gas tube and bolt can wear out faster if the firearm isn’t doing optimal cycling.

Other features that make the Savage Arms Impulse a worthy best value option include the following:

  • Its grip is Hogue. You can also replace it with anything as long as the grip is Hogue-made.
  • An ambidextrous magazine release and safety selector.
  • And most importantly, it features 5R rifling. Thanks to this, the barrel will be much easier to clean! Sloping the transition to the groove makes it possible for your cleaning supplies to reach into the depositories and clean all the superheated materials that are left after shooting.

Saving the best for last, Savage Impulse provides great accuracy! The bullet that enters your barrel will no longer be squeezed since, in 5R rifling, the shape and configuration of the lands and grooves are enhanced.

It’s great for both hunting and long-range shooting, and maybe even competitive shooting if that’s what you’re after.

Pros
  • Adjustable gas block
  • Ambidextrous magazine and safety controls
  • 5R rifling
  • Lockable buttstock
Cons
  • Expensive

Is Savage Arms Impulse MSR10 Competition HD Rifle Right For Me?

If you’re looking for something that’s worth the price, this is the one!

It’s modern and customizable as well, not to mention ambidextrous-friendly. It’s perfect for you if you want a sure-win rifle for competitions.

3. Ruger American Predator

BEST BUDGET PICK

Ruger American Predator

Model Number: 6974

BUYING OPTIONS:
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Ruger American Predator is another lightweight bolt action 308 rifle recommended to use in short-range shooting.

This one’s most famous for being so affordable — for only about $400, you can already afford a quality 308 bolt action rifle at a very reasonable price. It’s ideal for beginners and money savers.

Specifications:

  • Type: Bolt action rifle
  • Cartridge: .308 win
  • Twist: 1:10″
  • Magazine: 4
  • Barrel: 18″
  • Length: 38″
  • Weight: 6.2 lb

Overview

Just as we said, the American Predator is a lightweight rifle, next to Winchester.

Although its barrel length is kind of short, it’s still a cold hammer-forged barrel, similar to Daniel Defense’s rifle. This means it’s tough and durable enough to handle any worry or fear you have of your 308 rifle wearing down.

Imagine, for a reasonable price, Ruger could build something like this? We think that’s pretty incredible.

Its safety by the way is a Tang type. This is pretty common among break-action shotguns too. With a sliding bar, it will block the firing action just as easily as that.

Features

Now, this 308 rifle features what’s called a Ruger Marksman adjustable trigger to allows a shooter or hunter to tweak it.

How does this help? Well…

It helps manipulate the amount of force it takes for the trigger to go off.

And with a 70° bolt throw, it provides multiple locking lugs, fast and smooth operation, and no scope interference.

Also, with power bedding, an integral bedding block system makes it possible for this 308  bolt action rifle to increase accuracy by relieving stress and free-floating the barrel.

The best part? It comes with a soft rubber buttpad for less felt recoil, and a threaded muzzle for less muzzle flash.

Pros
  • Adjustable trigger
  • Bedding system
  • Durable
  • Very affordable
  • Smooth operation
Cons
  • Stock is narrow and flimsy
  • Doesn't feel stable on the bench

Is Ruger American Predator Rifle Right For Me?

If your highest priority is affordability, you might want to choose the Ruger Predator since it’s the most affordable among all 308 rifles here.

Don’t mistake price for a lesser value.

You get more than what it’s worth, so it’s a great rifle for money savers and for beginners.

4. Springfield Armory M1A SOCOM 16 CQB Rifle

BEST IN SHORT-RANGE

Springfield Armory M1A SOCOM 16 CQB Rifle

Model Number: AA9611PK

BUYING OPTIONS:
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While the Springfield Armory M1A SOCOM 16 308 rifle is specially designed for CQB (short for Close Quarter Battle) or military and law enforcement officers, it can still be used in any kind of situation. Though of course, it still works the best when it comes to short-range shooting or as a tactical rifle.

Specifications:

  • Type: Semi-automatic rifle
  • Caliber: .308 win
  • Twist: 1:11″
  • Magazine: 10
  • Barrel: 16.25″
  • Overall Length: 35.5″ – 38.5″
  • Overall Weight: 9.3 lb

Overview

Being a semi-auto rifle, it helps you follow up your shots faster because they automatically reload. This will be the rifle to bring you victory if you’re in a timed close-range shooting game.

M1A is actually a civilian variant of M14 — a widely known rifle during the 1950s.

M14 was originally made for long-distance shooting, but since they wanted to release a civilian shooter version, they decided to produce a short version — with a 16.25″ barrel length. In turn, this has effectively become a great tactical rifle.

Take note of its one drawback, though: The barrel length is actually very short. Your shots won’t be that accurate compared to using longer ones. Good thing it’s made for short-range shooting.

The barrel of this tactical rifle is made of carbon steel. It may become rusty over time, but it’ll exhibit long-lasting life nonetheless thanks to the material’s unyielding quality.

And being equipped with a muzzle brake? Springfield Armory M1A will be even STURDIER than you could ever imagine! The muzzle brake counters any recoil it experiences, making it more stable to use than ever.

Its trigger is also a 2-stage type, which means you’ll easily know when your trigger will exactly go off because of that distinct wall you’re going to feel when you shoot.

Features

As a successor of M14, its features won’t fail you.

The Springfield M1A tactical rifle has a CQB adjustable stock that lets you adjust your rifle’s buttstock until you’re satisfied with how it fits your body.

The adjustable stock offers you flexibility with its 5-position length and 2-position adjustable cheekpiece. LOP would be about 10.3″ – 13.3″.

It also has an AK-style pistol grip that is similar to Kalashnikov rifles. You can replace it with any kind of grip as long as it’s AK-style.

And most of all, this tactical shooting rifle has a pre-mounted Vortex Venom for the rear sight. It has a red dot in the center to help you aim more precisely.

Now, What About the Front Sight?

For the front sight, it’s equipped with XS post with Tritium insert as well for low-light conditions.

Also, it’s also enclosed with M1 Garand-style iron sights.

With iron sights like these, you’ll be able to use Springfield M1A as a target rifle. Although it’s not the way it’s intended to be, at least you know it can be flexible to any type. Oh, but of course with an exception with long-range shooting.

And it also has an M-Lok Rail system with 1 seven-slot and 2 three-slot rail segments. This tactical rifle will be ready as ever for any new rifle accessories.

Pros
  • Adjustable stock
  • Comes with front and rear sights
Cons
  • Odd op-rod placement
  • Doesn't feel natural holding the rifle

Is Springfield Armory M1A SOCOM 16 CQB Rifle Right For Me?

M1A is perfect for you if you’re considering using this for tactical shooting situations or for military and law enforcement purposes.

And as we mentioned, as long as you’re in the short-range, you’re good. Even as a scout rifle, it will work fine too.

5. Remington 700 PCR

BEST FOR TARGET SHOOTING

Remington 700 PCR

Model Number: 84597

BUYING OPTIONS:
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Remington 700 PCR (short for Precision Chassis Rifle), is a great precision rifle series to use in long-range shooting.

If you’re one of those precision shooters that have an interest in target shooting, this is a recommended 308 rifle for you as well. This may not come with default sights, but you can always mount it with any scope you like.

A long-range precision rifle combined with your preferred scope, it’ll undoubtedly be your best 308 rifle for the shooting range.

Specifications:

  • Type: Bolt action rifle
  • Caliber: .308 win
  • Twist: 1:10″
  • Magazine: 5
  • Barrel: 24″
  • Overall Length: 44″
  • Overall Weight: 10.5 lb

Overview

Remington Model has a 24-inch barrel length — this is actually an ideal size for a 308 rifle.

With a size like this, you’ll find it easier to hit your target more accurately because of less felt recoil and reduced jump angle and muzzle blast. And also, the longer the barrel, the MORE it increases the rifle’s effective range.

Since these precision rifles are for long-range shooting, you already have a good spec with the barrel size. Shooting long-distance shots will need more accuracy after all.

Now, since this is also a bolt action type, you have to load the chamber each round you shoot. You don’t have to worry about having a slower rate of fire because this, on the other hand, provides more accuracy than semi-auto rifles.

It is a little bit longer and heavier than the ones mentioned above, but given that this is for long-range shooting, it’s just fair.

Oh, and by the way, Remington 700 is also made of aircraft-grade aluminum alloy chassis — this will give you better stability and reliability for precision shooting.

About its design, you can find it with walnut stock style too although it’s kind of a rarity. So you’re in luck if you ever get a hand on this.

Features

When it comes to features, you won’t be disappointed as well.

This precision rifle comes with Adjustable Magpul PRS Gen 3 stock which features tool-less LOP and cheekpiece height adjustment.

It’s actually surprising it has this kind of stock because this is actually intended for semi-automatics but oh well, as long as it works, why not, right?

Remington 700 also has a Magpul pistol grip and X-Mark Pro adjustable trigger. It’s also equipped with a threaded muzzle for flash or sound suppressors.

As for the railing, it uses a Picatinny rail system. With a Picatinny rail, you’ll be able to move to a different slot easily if, for instance, you aren’t satisfied with the scope’s eye relief.

And by the way, you can also put some ridiculous things there such as a bottle opener, cup holder, and even chainsaw grip. Worse, you can equip it with an actual chainsaw too… we’re not joking.

Pros
  • Affordable
  • Adjustable stock
  • Adjustable trigger
  • Durable
Cons
  • Heavy

Is Remington 700 PCR Rifle Right For Me?

This 308 rifle works the best in target shooting, so if you’re an active participant in precision rifle shooting sports, this is a great option for you.

6. Winchester Model 70 Featherweight Compact

BEST 308 HUNTING RIFLE

Winchester Model 70 Featherweight Compact

Model Number: 535201220

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This Winchester Model 70 isn’t just called Featherweight Compact for no reason.

With a weight of 6 lbs, you’ll find this easy to bring anywhere; whether you’re a hunter, a shooter, or you’re just new to firearms, this one’s an excellent choice if you’re looking for a small but feature-packed rifle.

Specifications:

  • Type: Bolt action rifle
  • Caliber: .308 win
  • Twist: 1:12″
  • Magazine: 5
  • Barrel: 20″
  • Overall Length: 39 1/2″
  • Overall Weight: 6 lb

Overview

The Winchester Model 70 Featherweight is a bolt action type of 308 rifle.

This may not impress you with its loading speed, but it’s great when it comes to reliability… and it’s less painful for your wallet. Because bolt action rifles are designed with a simple mechanism, it’s not prone to malfunctions.

Also, with a small dimension like this, this can be a great option for ladies, young people, or any smaller-statured shooters or hunters out there.

Although its barrel length might not be up to the ideal size for 308 Winchester rifles, it still provides you better accuracy compared to shorter ones.

Winchester also has a 3-position safety which offers one unique option that allows you to open your hunting rifle WITHOUT accidentally triggering it.

As for design, we’re calling out all satin lovers out there — you’ll be thrilled with its finish!

It’s checkered with walnut stock and it has a Schnabel-style forearm. It looks so stunning — the color, design, and style, are all a good match for outdoor hunting.

Features

Moving on to its features, they are all pretty great as well. For one, this hunting rifle is equipped with a Pachmayr Decelerator recoil pad to help you withstand any felt recoil.

Winchester also has a muzzle type called Recessed Target Crown — this one enhances your accuracy and protects the rifling.

And with alloy one-piece bottom metal, Winchester is hard as a rock. Being rigid also provides greater accuracy.

Winchester is also equipped with a Pre-64 Style Controlled Round Feed. Now, what is this for?

Well, basically, your claw extractor grabs the rim of the cartridge as it guides it into the chamber.

This can be pretty reliable when it comes to extraction because the cartridge follows your bolt wherever it goes. Your cartridge won’t get stuck in the chamber while your bolt is feeding another round.

Pros
  • Lightweight
  • 3-position safety
  • Easy cartridge extraction
Cons
  • None

Is Winchester Model 70 Featherweight Compact Rifle Right For Me?

This Winchester model is the one for you if you’re mostly going to use it for hunting or stalk hunting.

Although this can also be considered as a scout rifle too since it’s light. So, if you ever find yourself mostly on the move, then this one might be for you too.

7. Bergara B-14 HMR

BEST 308 BOLT ACTION RIFLE

Bergara B-14 HMR

Model Number: B14S351

BUYING OPTIONS:
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Bergara B14 is an HMR type (short for Hunting and Match Rifle), meaning this is built and made as a competition and hunting rifle.

This rifle is high-quality despite being cheap in the market, making it perfect for you if you’re looking for an affordable and top-quality bolt action precision rifle.

Specifications:

  • Type: Bolt action rifle
  • Caliber: .308 win
  • Twist: 1:10″
  • Magazine: 5
  • Barrel: 20″
  • Length: 40″
  • Weight: 9.5 lb

Overview

Once again, this is a bolt action type of 308 Winchester rifle, so if you’re someone who’s into traditional and manual loading, bolt guns like this are definitely for you.

If you also like carrying rifles around knowing that it’s still there, not worrying that it went missing or something, this one’s good too because of its average weight and dimensions. That means it’s easy to carry around and hardly any hassle on your shoulder & back!

It has a 20-inch barrel as well just like Winchester, EXCEPT it’s a little bit lacking but it will still work fine for 308 Winchester rifles.

The B-14 HMR also has a free-floating type of barrel — it’s specifically designed for a precision rifle to increase its accuracy even more.

It also has a curved trigger that helps your finger feel a fair distribution of pressure when you push it.

Though, this is more of a preference because some like it flat. So, if you find yourself more inclined to flat, then maybe this is goodbye…

Just kidding.

As if that’s going to make you take off… Or is it?

Well, to make sure, let’s get into the features right now. After all, this might change your mind… you know, just in case.

Features

To begin with, Bergara B14 HMR features an integrated mini-chassis that is molded onto the stock to fill away the gaps with bedding to provide a rigid foundation, which then provides accuracy in return.

Here are additional features we know you’ll love:

  • Their stock is also adjustable, and they come with Quick Detach flush cups for easy attachment and detachment of slings.
  • These precision rifles also have what’s called a One-piece B14 Action which offers a 2-lug system with a sliding plate extractor and a coned bolt nose and breech. During extraction, your cartridge doesn’t accidentally get stuck in the chamber.
  • Bergara B14 HMR also has an AICS type of magazine that is detachable. You won’t have to use any tool to remove it from rifles.
  • Its muzzle is threaded as well, so in case you want to add some suppressors, you’re good to go.

We also believe this is worth mentioning: Bergara was awarded 3 TIMES in 2017!

  • Field and Stream Best of the Test and Best Bargain
  • NASGW/POMA Caliber Award for Best Rifle
  • Outdoor Life “Editor’s Choice” Award
Pros
  • Affordable
  • Easy cartridge extraction
  • Adjustable stock
  • Detachable magazine
  • Bedding system
Cons
  • None

Is Bergara B14 HMR Rifle Right For Me?

This is one of the best 308 hunting rifles out there, of course, next to Winchester.

Also, not to mention it’s also made for competition shooting. It’s one of the few two-in-one 308 rifles you just can’t resist. So if you’re someone who’s into these, you don’t have to look for any other rifle options anymore because we’re confident this is the 308 rifle you’re looking for.

8. Daniel Defense DD5 V4 AR-10

BEST 308 SEMI-AUTO RIFLE

Daniel Defense DD5 V4 AR-10

Model Number: 15813210047

BUYING OPTIONS:
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This one is good enough to be considered as a long-range precision rifle.

DD5 V4 AR-10 works great in target shooting with the right optics equipped. You can also use it as a hunting rifle if you want — either way, it’s still going to be precise which is always a good thing when it comes to firearms’ quality.

Specifications:

  • Type: Semi-automatic rifle
  • Caliber: .308 win
  • Twist: 1:11″
  • Magazine: 20
  • Barrel: 18″
  • Overall Length: 33 3/8″ – 39″
  • Overall Weight: 8.6 lb

Overview

It’s been a while since you’ve last heard of semi-auto, right? Well, we have another one again. You can take a breath now. Don’t worry, this isn’t a guide for bolt action rifles only.

As much as we’ve been pointing out all the good things in bolt action rifles, there are advantages to using semi-automatic rifles as well.

A semi-auto rifle can still be accurate even when shooting at a long-range distance because of the fast rate of fire you have — this is in terms of how many chances you’ll get to hit your target.

In fact, a lot of people use them as their big game hunting rifle because they’re able to kill common animals such as whitetail deer, mule deer, elk, and black bear more easily with this type.

Semi-automatic rifles also tend to be more capable of carrying more rounds such as this, with a 20-round magazine capacity, this is already a lot compared to bolt action rifles which typically only have a 5-round magazine capacity.

Also, with a cold-hammer-forged proprietary steel barrel, this AR-10 also becomes even more durable and tough, which then provides BETTER ACCURACY because of its unshakable quirk even under heavy recoil.

Features

Now, the DD5 V4 AR-10 rifle has a user-adjustable gas block that allows you to fine-tune the gas needed to run the system.

You can tune your rifle for different ammunition types if you ever want to try any cartridge aside from 308 Winchester. And also, it’s not only for that. It’s also for suppressor use.

Next DD5 V4 AR-10’s other great feature is its innovative 4-bolt connection system which increases the connection surface area between the barrel and upper receiver. This is to ensure greater accuracy.

Want a feature that’s even better?

The super finished and DLC-coated bolt carrier group allows for smooth, clean cycling and operation which also improves recoil impulse.

Finally, they also have GRIP-N-RIP independently Ambi charging handle with anti-gas features for gas diversion and of course, the charging handle for effectively clearing malfunctions and stoppages, giving you a better shooting experience.

Pros
  • Adjustable gas block
  • Charging handle with anti-gas
  • Smooth operation
  • Durable
Cons
  • Trigger isn't crispy

Is Daniel Defense DD5 V4 AR-10 Rifle Right For Me?

If you like shooting long-distance, whether it’s target or hunting, this Daniel Defense 308 rifle is a solid choice. It’s accurate — you’re not going to have to adjust so much anymore to achieve precise bullet drop.

9. Accuracy International AX

BEST 308 SNIPER RIFLE

Accuracy International AX

Model Number: AX308

BUYING OPTIONS:
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AX308 is known for being so pricey, but for one, it’s capable of delivering the ultimate performance so if you’re looking for a very high quality and first-class rifle, then this one is definitely for you.

Specifications:

  • Type: Bolt action rifle
  • Caliber: .308 win
  • Twist: 1:12″
  • Magazine: 10
  • Barrel: 24″
  • Length: 45.4″
  • Weight: 13.7 lb

Overview

This is a bolt action rifle capable of carrying a 10-round 308 Winchester magazine which is more than the usual. Of course, the more, the better.

You can actually try out other ammunition since it’s multi-caliber. You can do that just by simply changing the barrel, bolt, and magazine.

AX308 is also considered as one of the battle rifles; it’s more of a sniper rifle specifically because of its capability to shoot in a long-range distance with reliable precision.

And it has a 2-stage trigger too like M1A, and with a 3-position safety, you’re free to unload this 308 rifle while the fire is off.

AX308 also offers you multiple color coatings depending on the series you choose.

Dark earth, green, and pale earth are available with H-series while on Elite-series, you have sand and midnight. They all look stylish either way so it will still look great no matter what you choose.

Features

Ready for a treat? Even though there are only a few features, that doesn’t always mean it’s bad.

Sometimes, LESS is better.

Here’s a rundown of its most prized features:

  • Its stock is foldable and you can adjust the cheekpiece as well as the buttpad.
  • Its muzzle brake is double chamber standard and features quick slings attachment too.
  • This 308 rifle also provides a user-adjustable grip so you can change them anytime.
  • Since this rifle is quite big and hassle to bring, they made it possible for the barrel to be removed and refit using a hex key stored in the cheekpiece, making your transportation easier.
Pros
  • Adjustable stock
  • Multi-caliber
  • Adjustable barrel
  • Adjustable grip
Cons
  • Very expensive

Is Accuracy International AX308 Rifle Right For Me?

This 308 rifle is right for you if you’re willing to spend a large amount of money on a high-quality and customizable sniper rifle.

10. FN FAL 50.63

BEST 308 BATTLE RIFLE

FN FAL 50.63

BUYING OPTIONS:
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Important note: While FN FAL battle rifles were widely used during WW2, the U.S. never really managed to adapt Belgium’s FAL model despite having an agreement between the two parties. The U.S. had withdrawn from the deal because apparently, they already made some plans for the new release, which was the M14 project.

Why is this lesson on rifles and their history important?

Because FAL has never really been in the U.S. market. However, they are still sold in some gun firms, but they’re sold as “part kits” because they’re illegal as they’re fully automatic rifles.

North American people specially banned those rifles. Since the early 90s, FAL has been on their prohibited list.

Specifications:

  • Type: Fully-automatic rifle
  • Caliber: 7.62×51mm NATO / .308 win
  • Magazine: 30-round detachable box magazine / 50-round drum magazines
  • Barrel: 17.2″
  • Overall Length: 39.3″
  • Overall Weight: 8.3 lb

Overview

Considered as one of the most dangerous battle rifles before, this service rifle is a killer because it’s fully automatic. It can shoot 650-700 rounds per minute.

It’s also equipped with rear and front sights. You won’t get away with this battle rifle.

This rifle used 308 Winchester before but apparently, it has been reported that it had caused FAL to malfunction as it’s originally made for 7.62×51mm NATO.

Although it worked just fine with 308 Winchester at first, it still caused some issues so eventually, they stopped using Winchester cartridges for FAL.

Why Do I Need 308 Rifles?

Man shooting

Generally, 308 Winchester rifles are used for hunting.

But nowadays, a lot of manufacturers are trying to explore more fields aside from building hunting rifles.

The lesson to be learned?

They realized they want more flexible rifles. So, as a result, many modern 308 rifles have been born: modified hunting rifle, battle rifle, scout rifle, target rifle, tactical rifles, and many more.

So technically, with 308 Winchester rifles, you can do a lot of things. A LOT.

It’s not only for short-range, but it also performs well when it comes to long-range shooting, especially if you have the best .308 scopes in your arsenal.

Do you want to go with 700 yards and beyond? That’s not a problem. With the right optics, you’ll be able to hit ANYTHING with your .308 bullet.

Also, with 308 Winchester rifles, you can save more money as they are much cheaper than other rounds. They’re also easier to obtain because they’re popular among shooters and hunters.

Now, with these, we don’t think you have any more reason to back out from getting a 308 rifle.

What’s the Best 308 Rifle for Me?

The rifles listed here have different uses. There are some that are great to use as target rifles, battle rifles, hunting rifles, and many more.

So if you want to know what’s best for you, figure out what you’re trying to look for first.

Then, try to consider what’s most important to you. Does the barrel size matter to you? Do you prefer lightweight? Or do you want something that’s fully customizable?

By knowing all these, you’ll get to choose your best 308 rifle.

Final Verdict

Best rifles

Since we’re at the end now, it’s time to pick our Top 3 best 308 rifles.

FN SCAR 17S: Best Overall

Our main reason for this is because it’s a successor of one of the best rifles used during wars — the FN FAL.

This means it has great capabilities to shoot perfectly even in long-range. Accuracy always matters in any situation and this rifle hits every criterion for the best overall compared to other rifles on this list.

Savage Arms Impulse MSR 10: Best Value

Sure, it’s pricey compared to other rifles. But with everything you get for the price, it would be a regrettable decision not to consider it especially if you have the budget!

Ruger American Predator: Best Budget Pick

The reason why? It’s incredibly affordable. It just seems perfect for anyone looking for a cheap but quality rifle.

FINAL TIP: If you’re looking for more rifle options, we have a buying guide on the best 300 win mag bolt action rifles.

 

CHANGELOG:

April 6, 2022 - Added 1 new article link
March 25, 2022 - Made minor updates to content
March 11, 2022 - Added new product links

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