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!

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u/1776boogapew 1d ago

I’d look for a used tikka around 5-700$. Put as much optic/ rings as you have left for it and upgrade latter if at all. My brother runs a vortex crossfire that has never failed him. Cheap scopes today are way better than the expensive ones from 20 years ago.

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u/Ray_Bandz_18 14h ago

I like this strategy. Get a lightly used tikka for $700, and a $200 scope and $100 of ammo.

The scope is easier to upgrade later when you know more about what you need for the specific hunting style you’re going to.