Best high power rifle for least money?

[goose the rio]

You all were so helpful with a question on seeds the other day that I have another one for you. Preparing for the most basic needs of a SHTF scenario, I have a wonderful shotgun and .22. As far as adding a high power rifle goes, I know what I'd LIKE to have but that's another story. Is there a consensus on a quality-made, affordable rifle, and what should I expect to pay? Would it be a bad idea to buy from a pawn shop?

For those of you who seem to like to "notice" these things, yes, it's my second post ever on FR. Doesn't make me evil. Thanks.

[northislander]

Wait until the DOW hits 1,500 and you will be able to buy an entire arsenal for almost nothing.

[al baby]

7 millimeter magnum ?

[omega4179]

A Mosin-Nagant 1891/30 the ammo is less $

[Billthedrill]

Ammunition may be a critical issue. I’d suggest .30-06, .308, 7x57, or 7mm Remington Magnum as the most common cartridges available once supplies get really tight. (Other FReepers will no doubt add to that list). Consider a Winchester model 70, a Remington 700, or one of several Savage rifles. There are many others out there that are terrific buys but those three are very dependable as used-rifle purchases. Budget in some glass as well is my advice. YMMV.

[ATLDiver]

If you’re talking SHTF, I would suggest something in semi-auto trim. Look, there are no ‘least money’ options at the moment. Some popular choices are an AR variant, FAL variant, AK, Mini 14, etc. There are plenty of choices so stroll down to a good gun store and take a look. Budget about $1500.00 to get into a good rifle.

Ammo is the key now, just about all rifle calibers are in short-supply and expensive. I would suggest with staying something that is currently a military round, 5.56x45 or 7.62NATO

[razorback-bert]

.456 Rigby, it will stop an elephant.

[KrisKrinkle]

CZ550 in .600 Overkill

One day, an American scientist from Nevada decided to pack the biggest, most powerful cartridge possible into a Mauser action. The result was the .600 Overkill. This is not just an advertising name. This is a gun so insanely powerful it can put a solid bronze bullet SIX FEET into an oak log. The bullet going through the rifling can twist the barrel right out of the shooter's hand, and recoil is "manageable" in a 14 lb gun with three mercury recoil reducers. Sure, you could get a fancy double Eurorifle…if you sold your house. This is more affordable, more powerful, cruder, more atavistic…in short, more AMERICAN. And manlier.

[Ronaldus Magnus]

Mosin 91/30 Spec Russian Model 1891/30 7.62x54R Mosin Nagant. Surplus rifle packages refinished in excellent condition starting at $69.99.

[Billthedrill]

The rifles I recommended are hunting rifles primarily. If you want a military rifle the rules change. ;-)

[Drew68]

Preparing for the most basic needs of a SHTF scenario,

When the SHTF, rifles will be laying all over the place.

[Frantzie]

SKS but the triggers are kind of flaky about $299. Probably an AK but they are not that cheap anymore. About $599.

Beratta CX Storm .40 $595

Hi-Point Carbine just under $200
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hi-Point_995_Carbine
http://www.hi-pointfirearms.com/
http://www.hi-pointfirearms.com/carbines/9mm_carbine/9mm_carbine.html

[ConservaTexan]

The Marlin XL7 is an excellent rifle for the price-less than $300. It is available in 25-06 Rem, 270 Win., and 30-06 Spr. After reading several good reviews I just bought one. It has exceeded my expectations and I highly recommend it.

[Frantzie]

You can get a good rifle from DSA for about $1100 if you want good.

[autumnraine]

Bump for later opinion reading for same question I have.

[George Smiley]

If you’re worrying about TSHTF, get things in calibers used by the military: .223, 9mm, 12ga and 50BMG :-) [Serbu BFG-50 bolt action for around $2750 including decent scope and bipod]

[ATLDiver]

Yep, very good point.....

[frog in a pot]

M1 Garand,
.30cal,
$500-800+.
But then, I am sentimental.

See: http://www.odcmp.com/about_us.htm

[RushingWater]

Thought all this ammo shortage wasn’t really real but my Wal-Mart was all bare of ammo except for some 357.

[autumnraine]

Do you know if those are still good for shooting? Or just history?