I have a buddy here at my work that wants a rifle suitable for coyotes. Only thing is he doesn't want to spend alot at all. I cannot talk him into an AR, a Rem 700, or even really a Howa. He was just going to get another slug gun.

He would like to be able to scope it if possible, and of course would like to be easily obtainable and affordable ammo. I told him there are several choices of old military rifles available for not to much and he is interested.

So any reccomendations?

Thanks

IAJack

Mauser, $40, Shotgun News.

Mauser  

Brit Enfield (.303 AND .308)

Mosin Nagant


Chinese SKS (semi-auto, and also gives another "evil assualt rifle" owner out there (ulterior motives [:D] ))

New England Firearms or H&R's Handi Rifle. They come in just about every caliber and are a excellent rifle. Should be able to pick up one with a scope for around $200. I have one in .223 and 22-250 and are great for coyotes.

-Cruizer

Swedish Mauser.

All the above are good rifles, BUT don't spend to much time or energy on this. He probably will not buy one anyway.
I have found with many people it is just talk.
Oh yes, next he will want a cheap scope, it never ends.

Anyway good luck and I really hope he does get a new weapon. Then you could have another shooting buddy.

Savage 10fp in 223. It's got a 1-9 twist barrel and is super accurate with the Black hills 69 gr. ammo. IMHO better and much cheaper than a remington out of the box.

He isn’t very picky - I can’t think of any military rifle that wouldn’t do what he wants (maybe an M-1 Carbine at distance).  

I agree with Kurt, a Swedish Mauser would be about the best (I assume Kurt selected it because of the 6.5 X 55 cartridge).

Any Mauser would be fine, though mounting a scope could be a problem depending on the bolt handle.  I’ve got to think a 8 X 57 would really blow a hole in a coyote!

Lee-Enfield would also do nicely.

If it was me, and assuming moderate distances, I’d probably go for a 30-30 lever action like a Marlin.  They are cheap used and ammo is certainly plentiful.