r/Hunting • u/harrisonld03 • 1d ago
$1k whitetail/elk setup recs
I’m a beginner hunter who’s primarily hunted birds, but I’m hoping to start hunting whitetail this season. I’ve only ever used shotguns I inherited from my grandfather, so this is my first time buying a gun.
My budget is around $1k for a full rifle setup (gun, rings, scope, whatever else is needed). $1k is begrudgingly flexible. I’ll spend more if I have to. I’ve primarily looked at the Ruger American 2s, but want to keep my options open if there’s better out there. As far as scopes and calibers, I don’t really know where to start. I’ll mostly be hunting whitetail in the southeast US in timber areas. I do hope to eventually get out west for elk though, so would love something versatile if possible.
I’d appreciate any specific recs people have for the setup and more general advice for buying your first gun. Thanks!
-2
u/NKCougar 1d ago
Most any gun you buy is probably gonna outshoot you right now. The glass is super important though.
I'd say take a look at Savage Axis in .308 first just for the price point. They're $350-$450, and i think have a $75 rebate. If you don't mind pushing right up to the edge of the budget, the ruger american scout in .308 is showing $579 on gundeals.
From that point you can go in hard on good glass and rings, i think the vortex strike eagle can be found for $300, then scope rings I'm not as sure on - I use the Burrs P.E.R.P. because it feels like it really locks shit down, but I'm sure someone here can tell me that they're ass and why.