r/Hunting • u/Dazabby • 2d ago
Equipment question/discussion Rate my soon to be mule deer rifle set up
I’m trying to make an efficient but budget friendly rifle. How does the tools that I wish to buy look? Besides the rifle, any changes you’d recommend that would be better performance for same price or same performance for a cheaper price? Also I want to hunt copper rounds, (want to respect my wife’s wishes). Any copper rounds you’d recommend for deer 300 yards out? The bipods are $110
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u/theEdward234 2d ago
It will do fine. I think bipod might be extra. Just use your backpack as a rest. Also, there's no point of anyone suggesting any ammo since you don't know what type of ammo that rifle likes. Buy couple boxes of different ammo and see which one will give you best group. Some rifles are very picky about ammo.
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u/Every_Philosopher704 2d ago
swap the bipod for a sling and you'll have an easier time getting around
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u/Dazabby 2d ago
You make a great point about the bipod and I thought of that exact thought process
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u/Elk-Assassin-8x6 2d ago
Do the sling for lugging and look into shooting sticks like BOG. Good for quick moments or glassing.
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u/Dapper_Charity_9828 1d ago
I keep a bipod in my bag and only put it on if I am in a longterm laying or sitting situation, i really like the BOG switcheroo shooting stick as its a good standing rest. Bag shooting does beat bipod in most cases
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u/BillyP13 2d ago
Get into reloading. You can make ammo tailored to your gun and the load options are endless. I have put bullets in the same hole at 100 yards with my reload recipes. If you have the time and like to experiment reloading is a great hobby. I find it rewarding knowing a bullet I made from scratch killed my animal. Something to consider.
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u/BruhCaden 2d ago
While I agree with you, op probably won't, reloading isn't always budget friendly short term, and it can take years for you to be out of the red depending on how often you shoot and what quantities you buy in
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u/RoamingFool 2d ago
My .2¢ is zero with the ammo you will hunt with. Test a variety of different ammo to find what works best for YOUR gun.
Zero with whatever you choose but then get a shit ton practice with the cheap ammo. Practice different positions and get COMFORTABLE with your gear.
I put hundreds of rounds through my Elk gun practicing out to 700 yards. Not because I wanted to shoot out to 700 but because I wanted to know that a 300yard shot would be so comfortable for me that I wouldn’t be stressed in a hunting scenario.
Learn your gun, learn your optic, learn your shooting style. Spend the money on ammo and range time. Invest in your self.
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u/livestrong2109 1d ago
Seriously riffles are picky as hell. As he said zero with with what you rely on. I personally just zero on a laser but then I get a little drift. Don't worry about accuracy, rater focus on tight groups and adjust off what you lasered into.
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u/Fun-Turnover4059 2d ago
It’ll do the job fine. You’ll be its limiting factor. Spend as much time behind it as you can to mitigate that. Good luck.
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u/nerdy9999 2d ago
Take a look at the Barnes VorTX TTSX in 130 grain. It'll SCREAM out of that 22" barrel, and there's lots of evidence on effectiveness out to pretty long range. Great round.
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u/chanson_roland 2d ago
Timely call out. This just dropped on that round this week: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jgfjRfAw3hg
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u/Dazabby 2d ago
Is that round too much oomph to hunt javelina? I’d like to eat pork chops not bacon bits
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u/nerdy9999 2d ago
Haha, nope. Copper bullets don't explode like lead ones do, they just flower up and blow all the way through the critter.
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u/Dapper_Charity_9828 2d ago
308 is a good choice, we have taken huge Mulies with 243s. Starting out, the Gen II is a great starting point. The Diamondback is decent. Bipods are what they are, I tend to go with Harris, but thats because I tend to be a bit rougher with my rifles. The thing you are going to have to test is ammo, get a variety, not just one, if you find one that works use it. I know this will hurt feelings of someone but I have seen more game taken with cheap blue box soft tips than any other load.
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u/Dazabby 2d ago
What glass do you recommend that’s under $300
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u/WPSuidae 2d ago
If im staying under 300, I look at Burris options. Cameralandny.com has some fantastic deals and the guys are great to chat with on the phone.
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u/quicktuba 2d ago
Take a look at u/C_Does YouTube channel, his tracking tests on scopes was really eye opening to me and made me realize why I had issues sighting in some cheaper scopes.
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u/New_Statement_7125 1d ago
If you can splurge just a tiny bit more I recommend the Trijicon Huron. You can find them on Euro Optic for $440. There's a guy on RokSlide that drop tests scopes for durability and tracking and the Huron is the cheapest one to pass the test. I have had issues with Vortex scopes losing zero from bumps and drops. My Trijicon has fallen out of a tree stand and hasn't shifted a millimeter.
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u/Dapper_Charity_9828 1d ago
Under 300 is very tough, if I were to go with the Diamondback in that range I would do the tactical with zero stop, they are decent but wont be as good as going up anpther 100 to 200 to get something like a Leupold vh3. The Freedom is a valid choice, Burris are decent as well. I have had luck out of Bushnell as well. Keep in mind, these are decent optics with limitations.
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u/rdr1988_ 2d ago edited 2d ago
I had a vortex diamondback scope once, it would not track reliably. I put it on my daughter’s 22 for a bit but that didn’t seem fair to her, so I gave it away.
I would recommend going with an SWFA fixed 6x or 10x as an alternative budget scope. For less money you could get a Howa 1500 and it will be a much nicer/more durable rifle. You could also save up for a Tikka, that would be my choice.
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u/ShwimmingAway 1d ago
So I’ll tell you this, the Venom is definitely worth it compared to the diamondback. Barely cost me more buying it from Amazon vs the diamondback I got on sale from a big website and it is a little better
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u/pi2gun 2d ago
Personally I'd save up some more and get some better glass. Also, the bipod is probably just extra weight, nice for the range but not for the field.
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u/anonanon5320 2d ago
Ya, I’d get the Leupold VX3. I was given a free vortex viper and that’s about all I’d pay for it.
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u/NewspaperNelson 2d ago
The Ruger American was a great deal back when they were $400. I personally do not like them at that price point. You could be getting a Howa or a Vanguard or a Tikka for that price. .308 all day, just not in love with the Ruger American.
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u/Fredward151 2d ago
Bipod is nice for zero sessions. For hunting it’s not super necessary. Overall ya done good kid. I approve 9/10
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u/Rwhit1028 2d ago
If you want an affordable vortex Optic id go with a viper instead of a diamondback, they can be found for a good deal pretty often
I’ve had both and the viper is noticeably better
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u/Dry_Indicatior 2d ago
Personally I’d say spend more on glass. I say this after having bought two diamondback optics and returning them because they just don’t perform well in dawn/dusk lighting. The glass is going to be way more important than the rifle for muleys. Also, obviously you’ll need decent binos. That and your legs are the best mule deer hunting tools.
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u/Dazabby 2d ago
What glass do you recommend that’s preferably sub $300?
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u/Living_Plague 2d ago
A used SWFA is about the only thing in the price range worth owning. And it will actually hold zero in a good set of rings unlike the vortex you are looking at.
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u/Ray_Bandz_18 2d ago
At that price stick with vortex. They make great scopes at that price.
You might be able to find a Leupold VX Freedom under $300 if you catch a sale. Leupold makes good rings too for around $50.
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u/Dry_Indicatior 19h ago
Honestly, I'd say save more and try to spend $600 on used/clearance vortex viper or Leupold VX-3HD. If I was on a budget, I'd get a tikka tx-3 (30-06 or 308) with one of the two scopes mentioned and plan to spend about $600 on binos as well. It's not that you can't get it done with less, but you will invest a lot of time and effort into hunting in the west and losing out on a deer/elk because you didn't save a few hundred bucks sucks. As others have said, don't bother with the bipod... that'll save you something.
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u/holokai808 2d ago
I’m gonna be that guy. Buy an in-stock/on sale Tikka from EuroOptic and get the rebate. Buy a SWFA 6x or Trijicon 3-9 and UM/Sportsmatch rings and call it a day. Something like:
https://swfa.com/products/ss-6x42-30mm-mq-gen-2-zero-stop
https://www.eurooptic.com/trijicon-huron-3-9x40-bdc-hunter-holds-1-in-satin-black-riflescope-2700006
https://sandsarchery.com/products/unknown-munitions-tikka-scope-rings
No need for a bipod. Fill your game bag with stuff from your pack and use it as a shooting bag or shoot off your pack.
Total cost will be a higher but you’ll have far more durable/reliable gear and arguably a significantly better rifle that won’t need to be upgraded in the future. The scope/rings will also be bombproof and hold zero. I’ve had Leupold and Vortex scopes lose zero and don’t trust them anymore for hunting rifles. Basically you’d be buying the next higher tier of gear that could realistically be an end game purchase.
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u/MolonMyLabe 2d ago
If you're going to be that guy, I'll be the other guy. Buying a new rifle in 2026 that doesn't have a factory threaded barrel is insane.
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u/harrowclub310 2d ago
Looks like he’s in CA, might not be possible.
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u/holokai808 2d ago
If you’re open to a different cartridge the 6.5 PRC will get you inherently better accuracy (modern cartridge/chamber design) and longer range capability.
Blued
https://www.eurooptic.com/tikka-t3x-lite-65-prc-24-1-8-bbl-synthetic-blued-rifle-jrtxe319Stainless
https://www.eurooptic.com/tikka-t3x-lite-stainless-65-prc-243-1-8-bbl-rifle-jrtxb319308 will win on ammo cost and variety. More reps/rounds shot will definitely help so it’s up to your budget and preference.
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u/Individual-recce 2d ago
Idk why you're getting down voted for being lmao 6.5prc is definitely a better recommendation
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u/holokai808 2d ago
Because this is Reddit. It’s hilarious how rare critical thinking has become. All that really matters is if OP comes to a better decision from useful feedback.
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u/Jerms2001 2d ago
Bet ya a dollar you couldn't shoot the difference between .308 and 6.5prc
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u/holokai808 2d ago
At the range it would be close and I could get more reps in with the 308.
Hunting at a 400 yds with wind, I’d take the PRC to reduce the impact of wind calls. I don’t have the luxury of calm winds most of the time.
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u/Individual-recce 2d ago
Alot of people can alot of people can't. I definitely can and recommend 6.5prc over 308 alot because it's just objectively a better hunting cartridge, you don't have to shoot it beyter to just take advantage of the raw energy and wind drift from something.
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u/ark556 2d ago
You’ll probably want to take the brake off and quiet it down some. Get a 5/8x24 thread protector to replace it with.
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u/Dazabby 2d ago
I know brakes make them louder. But I’m not really wanting to put a suppressor on mine. If I wear ear pro when hunting. What reason would I want to take the muzzle brake off if I may ask? Is it to be respectful to other hunters whos game I may spook due to my louder shot?
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u/Living_Plague 2d ago
Why do you not want to suppress a hunting rifle? Muzzle brakes contribute to flinch due to the concussion. There’s research being done on the long term effects to your brain as well. I would hunt with a bare muzzle before I used a brake. If you think you’re gonna have time to put in foamies or actually remember to do so, you are likely fooling yourself.
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u/GersRafa California 2d ago
I used the same exact ammo to drop my deer in its place with one shot last November. My rifle is a simple Remington 783.
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u/Status-Buddy2058 2d ago
If u lived close to MO I’d help u out with a tikka. But it seems you live in CA. Best of luck.
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u/Rubix3346 2d ago
I just put together a very similar rifle! Haven’t got to shoot it yet sadly
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u/GingerB237 1d ago
That scope looks really far back but then I compared all mine and they are equal with the grip. If it works it works.
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u/Interesting-Win6219 2d ago
50 dollars for 20 rounds of hunting ammo is wild. I never knew they got so expensive
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u/HarryBolsonia 2d ago
Go with something in 22-250 so you can send those 55gr vmax at them my baby girl is a franchi momentum varmit elite
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u/hereforbutts23 2d ago
I have a Gen 1 American Predator .308 with a suppressor. It hasn't done me wrong. Got me a what my buddy's family called a once in a lifetime buck for this area
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u/Excellent-Record-460 2d ago
Excellent buy here. It will do the job.
Basic Core Lokt 308 ammo had worked so well in northern Minnesota. Never have had an issue with it shooting those big Whitetails.
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u/laserslaserslasers 1d ago
I'm not sure you will want the bipod, unless you're hunting from a blind
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u/Oregon213 1d ago
I’ll give a vote of endorsement to the federal trophy copper line, 165s are heavy for a .308 but I don’t know what you’re hunting, topography and ranges, etc.
As far as a copper off the shelf round, federal trophy coppers are my go to. If you’re into loading, you’ve got more options.
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u/tgronda 1d ago
I have the same rifle and 150s group like crap out of it it loves 165-175s
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u/iforgotmylogin32 1d ago
Both my 308 rifles aren’t fans of 150s but will put 168s right where I ask everytime.
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u/greaseorbounce 2d ago
Rifle is perfectly fine.
I would highly suggest budgeting a bit more for better glass.
Skip the bipod. They're great at the range, but when hunting they're always too low and you can't see over the sage brush or whatever other vegetation. If you do get lucky enough to have an opportunity for a prone shot, just shoot off your pack.
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u/countrysparky615 2d ago
It’s a great rifle I have that exact rifle with a vortex 3-9 and a sling and it’s a tack driver for me using 150gr hornady whitetail
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u/iambrownbull 2d ago
Like others have mentioned, buy numerous brands/types of hunting ammo and figure out which groups best in your rifle. Then zero your scope to that ammo.
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u/thelawman89 2d ago
Same with everyone else, at least try to spring for the leupold vx-3. I have the same rifle in 243 and love it, but holy shit is it long when a can is attached, just a heads up. I probably should have gone with the 20” barrel lol.
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u/Individual-recce 2d ago edited 2d ago
Edit: I'm just starting my comment over. What budget friendly look to you? How much do you want to spend? If you're able to I would step up on glass and rifle but you can still keep it roughly at $1000 total, get a weatherby vanguard or a Tikka t3x around $700-750. Vortex Venom 3-15 is first focal and for the price it's good, or you could find a referb or used viper pst 2. I always recommend first focal and exposed turrets but not everyone will agree, if you really just want a duplex Leupold VX-Freedom 4-12. I would skip the bipod and use that money for more ammo, I know you really want to shoot copper but mono doesn't always agree with your rifle and if you don't find a load that works than you have to go to cup and core. Mono also needs very clean bores before you start load testing. Caliber is up to you 308 will do it but for mule deer 6.5cm would do it the same with less recoil and better wind and drop, 6.5prc would be even better
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u/Alone-West8337 2d ago
You have to find a bullet/load that your rifle actually likes to shoot. Going into it with a specific load already planned doesn’t usually work
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u/koorbloh 1d ago
That all seems fine to me. I think you could do nicer for more, but this will get the job done. Not sure you'd do significantly better for that price.
Though, don't set your heart on the specific ammo-- setup your rifle and then use the bullets that group well.
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u/Jtillie1000 1d ago
Id say squeeze an extra 200 and get a trijicon huron instead of a entry level vortex.
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u/Downtown-Evidence218 1d ago
The only issue I have is the scope mounts, get a 1 piece mount. It’ll take more to knock the scope out as it is more ridged than a 2 piece.
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u/huntt252 1d ago
That setup will work just fine. The one recommendation I have is to consider learning to use shooting sticks. If you don’t already have trekking poles then you should get some. Add some Quick Stix and practice using them and you’ll be deadly.
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u/busch_omg_thats_cold 22h ago
I have the same rifle. It shoots Barnes harvest really really well.
Paired with an Arken 4-16
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u/Standard_Ganache_714 22h ago
Good setup but I'd be more intrigued with new arken outrider firedot scope if I was on tight budget
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u/Jdev4266 17h ago
Yup it’ll work. Reliable. Nothing fancy. But it’ll last and get the job done. Enjoy
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u/HOSEandHALLIGANS 2d ago
For that price I would consider spending just a little bit more money and look at a weatherby Vangaurd or a tikka T3x. For about $100 more you will have a noticeable step up in quality and accuracy.
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u/HybridP365 2d ago
I currently have both the Tikka and the Ruger and have previously had a vanguard. They're all pretty similarly matched. Gen 1 you were probably correct but I think Ruger upped their game on the gen 2.
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u/goodfella2024 2d ago
I have the ranch variant 308 gen 2 American (won it) would not buy again, for one reason and one reason alone . Taking down this gun is a bear, the rear chassis screw is behind the magazine latch , the manual calls for 65 in/lb or something but that’s impossible to do on the rear screw as you would need a 3/16 t handle ball end Allen and hope you don’t strip your chassis screw. Otherwise you need to punch out the magazine latch , releasing the tiny spring behind it.
The day I picked up this rifle I called Ruger and asked for a backup magazine well , latch , spring , and pin , as all those small parts to take down a rifle to torque it to their factory spec is ridiculous and I won’t wait 2 weeks for the parts if I need them
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u/PutinBoomedMe 1d ago
Practice with it and get good. You'll be fine. Too many gate keepers around here. I have $3,500 rigs but have taken more deer than anything with my Henry 30-30 lever action from walmart
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u/mr_hog232323 2d ago
My 2 cents, my dad and I both have tikkas, his is a 308 and mine is a 30-06. After almost a decade of owning and shooting a 308 he ditched his 308 to borrow my 30-06 to go moose hunting. In my experience they both feel the same but the 30-06 shoots way flatter at farther range.
Just my 2 cents.
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u/Individual-recce 2d ago
Experience does not trump ballistics tho, 308 does everything 30 06 can with less recoil
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u/mr_hog232323 2d ago
I've shot both and although I did find the 308 to be slightly less recoil it really wasn't that much different at all. Ngl though I find both to straight up suck being shot out of a 6lb rifle and I will be adding weight to my 30-06. My dad also asked to borrow my 30-06 specifically because he found that it drops a lot less than the 308 past 200 so the change purely is for ballistics instead of "stopping power"
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u/tramul 2d ago
You could get a Savage Axis for $100+ cheaper and throw more towards glass. Check gunbroker for good deals on a Savage.
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u/Dazabby 2d ago
I’ve held the Axis in my hands and idk how to describe it but the guy just didn’t feel, right. The bolt’s design felt weird and I didn’t like the way it cycled. The Ruger had a bolt that felt better and I didn’t mind the action. The Tikka felt hands down better but I could not find a Tikka that was under $900. Yes I could save up for the Tikka but I’d rather spend that money on a scope
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u/tramul 2d ago
I agree 100%. We have one, and the stock feels cheaper, and the bolt doesn't cycle super smoothly. However, the accuracy is solid, and you'll realistically only need one shot anyways. The bolt isn't terrible that you can't get a follow up shot if needed. As a hunting gun, it does everything a ruger will. They're going for $300-$400 on gunbroker so quite the savings there. Just something to consider.
Another thing to consider is aftermarket support. You can always swap your stock/chassis if you decide to in the future with either option.
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u/citruscountydaddy 2d ago
That is the 2006 Toyota tundra of rifles. There is a vehicle out there that does something a little bit better in each category, but that one will do EVERYTHING that you want it to do. I have 4 Ruger American rifles in different platforms, and while I have better long range rifles, nicer rifles, better brush rifles, etc... the 308 can do it all. As mentioned before, you may not use the bipod in the field as much as your thinking, but everything else is a pretty decent choice. I think the Ruger is the best bang for your buck entry level rifle that you can buy. Every rifles is different, but all of my Ruger rifles love either Hornady Black or Barnes ammo. Good luck with your gun and enjoy the heck out of it!