Reload.
Seriously.
I'm procrastinating so I'll just do the math for you right now:
As of April 16, 2019, a Lee Anniversary single stage reloading kit is $130.71
A set of Lee .308 dies is ~$45.
Let's say you add a few more reloading starter items and you bring your equipment cost to $300 USD. This is on the higher end of what you'd need to start, but who knows.
To load .308 you need brass, powder, primer, and a projectile.
Powder: Ramshot Tac. $160/8 lbs. (These are ballpark prices but I'm searching them on ammoseek.com right now which is a search aggregator).
Primer: CCI #200 Large Rifle Primer. $30/1000.
Brass: Mixed once-fired brass. $13/100.
Projectile: Hornady 168 HPBT. $0.24 per projectile
Let's assume 45 grains of powder per charge (note: Fuck no this is high. Don't use this. It's an overestimate).
That brings your total cost per round to: $0.53 per round. And that's assuming you don't use the brass multiple times. If you reload the brass 3x, that brings the total cost per round to $0.44 per round.
At $0.56 of savings per round compared to $1/round match ammo, you'll break even at about 540 rounds. While that may seem a lot, that's <6 months of weekly range trips of 25 rounds. And let's not lie. You'll probably shoot more than that.
What do you consider a reasonable price?
I've had good luck with the Plano All-Weather Tactical cases, although all mine are the previous generation and these are a new, updated generation. They're probably 80% of the way to being a Pelican at about 20% of the price. The 42" version is $100 at Amazon right now, though the prices fluctuate a lot and I've seen sales on them over on r/gundeals recently so if you have some time you can probably do better. They're big, heavy, solid cases.
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B07B7SB486/
Range day!! Heres a 100 yard grouping while I fine tune the sights target Rifle does not like federal white box 149gr ammo but seems pretty happy with federal 175gr HPBT ammo. Had good luck with the first box of white federal 149, thought I was gonna be lucky and have one of those rifles that likes cheap ammo but then the shot groups started getting to be about 3" on progressive boxes.
Got some more shots in then everything went to *$&&% and I realized I hadn't loctited the scope screws... :(
Might get some shit for this but... I bought one for the purpose of sighting in rifles. Its not a high quality name brand bipod but the thing works great and feels very solid. Also only 20.00
Again, Im not using it to kill terrorizers in Afghanistan, so I have not put it through hard use. Just hunting and sighting in my ARs but 0 complaints about it.
https://www.amazon.com/CVLIFE-Bipod-M-LOK-Adapter-Inches/dp/B07SL8VJRD
I got a tekton one for about $40 on Amazon, it doesn't have to be high dollar as the torque range is huge. I built my dad's without one and just went to the next gas tube spot past "tight" never had any issues and that thing shoots. That method wouldn't work so well for the aero Handguards that have 4 spots for the gas tube and a set of shims though so I got one for a friend's build.
TEKTON 24335 1/2-Inch Drive Click Torque Wrench (10-150 ft.-lb./13.6-203.5 Nm) https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00C5ZL0RU/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_LNTWAbP1FXQPT
I got the same diamondback Except FDE, perhaps the EMLBFDE i'd have to check
The Vortex Razor AMG UH1 with their 3x flip up for my close shooting stuff. Picked up that Pulsar n550 as well, bout 2 weeks ago when it was like 73%. Haven't shot with it yet tho
Also got the same optic as you but the 4-16 variant that vortex makes. I got the vortex precision extended 30mm mount with 20 MOA cant Man was i split between that and the 6-24x. I do have a 1000yd range with steel every hundred starting a 400, but for hunting i just dont see the need for it yet.
Caldwell Accumax, M-Lok/KeyMod direct attachment, 9-13inch carbon fiber bipod. (extremely satisfied, there's plenty of other great bipods more or less this price but amazon prime always gets me with the two day shipping) https://www.amazon.com/Caldwell-Quick-Deployment-Mounting-Tactical-Shooting/dp/B0778XW162?th=1
I got the Strike Industries link 3 piece hand stop kit. Its was 17$ when i bought it and its honestly great. Direct attach to KeyMod/M-Lok !! It could be a little better and softer on the hand, but the versatility is great. I prefer a very particular grip setup and finding one that could direct attach to KeyMod was near impossible. So i make it with this. https://www.opticsplanet.com/strike-industries-link-3-piece-hand-stop-kit.html
PMags is what i use and never had a problem. Brass shavings/particulate could gunk up eventually but if you take average care of your rifle i wanna say there's no issue. Never had a steel(?) AR10 Mag that does that so i cant say for sure..
Rangefinder is next on my List
edit: model ELMBFDE
These work. I have used them in 3 M4E1 builds and one M5 build. And like the other guy posted the place for the set screw is not the same as an ar15. https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0006O72M4/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o04_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
Currently I run the Vortex Crossfire II but I'll eventually switch to a Nightforce NXS 1-4. I would highly recommend the Nightforce and then get an Inforce weapon light. Both of which would be in your budget.
http://www.opticsplanet.com/nightforce-nxs-1-4x24mm-250-moa-ptl-riflescope.html#photos
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00JL58DX6/ref=cm_sw_r_awd_jKjKvb9HTNSDV
Vortex has a cantilever mount for that scope with a QD. Sorta pricey, but works very well. Here is an example, but you REALLY need to shop this one.
https://www.amazon.com/Vortex-Optics-Precision-Extended-Cantilever/dp/B01N9JNDCS
Try this wedge. It's a lot smaller than the Arisaka.
https://smile.amazon.com/gp/product/B07SG589K4/
I have a Delta Stryker HD 4.5-30x56, which is the Tenmile with a different name on it. It is mounted in an ADM Recon. That wedge I linked fits with room to spare. I have the Arisaka one too and it doesnt fit under jack shit. It's basically useless.
I found this on amazon for $15 for my AR15. Works great! would it last in a harsh environment? Maybe not, but great for the range!
I think the ADM would have the same effect as the instructions say to tighten the bottom screws first before tightening the top screws. The top screws clamp the top together, so I would assume it's about the same. Either way, the Recon is very good to go. Just make sure you buy a torque screwdriver in inch pounds and use Vibra-tite VC3 on the threads. The ADM mounts come with a packet of Vibra-tite.
https://smile.amazon.com/Wheeler-Accurizing-Measurement-Gunsmithing-Maintenance/dp/B0012AXR4S/
I just use this. I build more ar15's than ar10's and this has worked well for 3 build so far.
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B08NHYCC4T?psc=1&ref=ppx_yo2_dt_b_product_details
An electric carving knife will work but a wire cutter works best.
Buy a long nosed marker for getting a more accurate outline.
Mark the foam on the backside and reverse of how you want your layout, that way you don't have an ugly black marker outline when you are done.
ok first off get a fat wrench or some type of torque wrench. you only need 20 to 25-inch pounds on those set screws. and blue Loctite is melted with heat, warm them with a torch (lightly) or heat gun even and they will come out really easy. I use RockSett on anything that takes high heat and gas blocks get hot. it is water-soluble but use hot water, it is a ceramic-based Loctite you could say, and is made for this type of thing.
Here is a great deal. Event excellent scope. Athlon Optics , Argos BTR , Riflescope , 6-24 x 50 First Focal Plane (FFP) 30 mm Tube, Illuminated ATMR MOA Reticle ,Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01APT0E6U/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_KP2QPA7MQ313Z7S30WX6?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
As far as a vice block goes, this thing is best. Avoid any rod type tool.
Great starting point. Had features will above the price range. We have one on a AR556 and love it.
Athlon Optics , Argos BTR , Riflescope , 6-24 x 50 First Focal Plane (FFP) 30 mm Tube, Illuminated ATMR MOA Reticle ,Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01APT0E6U/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_0V1HDKJW4QB2F685B7F1
Top rifle has the scope mount on backwards. Flip it around and move it back so the mount doesn’t bridge the upper receiver/handguard. Your zero will shift due to handguard flex if your optic is bridged.
Mount your light on the 3 or 9 o’clock position on the bottom one (whichever side is opposite of the hand on the handguard). You can mount the HL-X pressure pad on the top rail for ambidextrous access when using a c-clamp grip, and moving the light to the side will avoid smacking your light if you end up shooting from a barrier. This mount will allow you to mount the light to m-lok instead of adding a rail and using the thumbscrew mount (it sits way too far off of the handguard, trust me I made that mistake).
Not trying to rip your builds, but it will help in the long run I promise. Happy shooting!
Aero Precision Ultralight 30mm Scope Mount, Standard, Anodized Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00IB1V65I/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glt_i_5N15B2TQ8504PPX09ZX2
I have used this mount in the past and it has worked well.
If running vortex stuff Vortex Optics Razor Red Dot Sight 45 Degree Offset Mount https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00BQWTBQK/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_777YZG8EN3Z6SY8FHAX1
I have this for like $35 and it’s been great. No available on Amazon atm but I’m sure elsewhere. TRUGLO Offset Universal Red-Dot Sight Mount https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07L74STM5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_NW3MZQY72P5A925MVH5M?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Athlon Optics , Argos BTR , Riflescope , 6-24 x 50 First Focal Plane (FFP) 30 mm Tube, Illuminated ATMR MOA Reticle ,Black https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01APT0E6U/ref=cm_sw_r_apan_glc_fabc_4J9C5QN9XEJJ17PM61M7
It's the real deal. I ordered one for one of our rifles. Excellent scope.
The suggestions made here are all great ways to go, but some of them have added issues.
If you want a simple solution to shooting anything with recoil issues, these work VERY well: https://www.amazon.com/Caldwell-Ambidextrous-Shooting-Shields-Construction/dp/B07RKY6FBY
Makes your heavy recoil rifles much easier to deal with.
Give it a shot, no pun intended. :)
I prefer these on scoped ar’s, but it kinda ruins that buis spot and forces offset buis or red dot.
https://www.midwayusa.com/product/1009247829
You have the scope mounted pretty close for a cant’d mount like yours. Usually you’d want that mounted as far forward on the upper receiver as possible. But moving it will get you doing nose to charging handle or darn close.
Would suggest buying this thing or something similiar / cheap. And try it till you know what’s perfect for ya. If nothing else, it’ll keep your dope sheet accurate and can be thrown away later.
Higoo Bubble Level for 20mm Picatinny Waver Rail Rifle Scope https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01F76QNVQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_W2YXXTNAE9813GNZJB0C
👍 10 bucks is like 3 rounds so if your unsure on what’s perfect for yourself… it’s a good thing to play with. Just make sure it’s level with the top turret cap of your scope 👍
I prefer these on scoped ar’s, but it kinda ruins that buis spot and forces offset buis or red dot.
https://www.midwayusa.com/product/1009247829
You have the scope mounted pretty close for a cant’d mount like yours. Usually you’d want that mounted as far forward on the upper receiver as possible. But moving it will get you doing nose to charging handle or darn close.
Would suggest buying this thing or something similiar / cheap. And try it till you know what’s perfect for ya. If nothing else, it’ll keep your dope sheet accurate and can be thrown away later.
Higoo Bubble Level for 20mm Picatinny Waver Rail Rifle Scope https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01F76QNVQ/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_W2YXXTNAE9813GNZJB0C
👍 10 bucks is like 3 rounds so if your unsure on what’s perfect for yourself… it’s a good thing to play with. Just make sure it’s level with the top turret cap of your scope 👍
Is that this scope? Looks decent for the price, though I know there can definitely be some glass . I can get a PRS Gen 3 for $174, which is a little bit easier of a price to swallow than $250 or whatever retail is.
Walker ultimate digital quad. I think I got them on sale from Midway? I can’t remember.
Youtube. Here's one I like.
Here's a great punch set with everything you'll need.
You'll also need a "castle nut wrench", which you can find on Amazon for like $7-$8, and a hammer. I'd also suggest getting some painter's tape to cover parts you don't want to ding or scratch, but it won't hurt it if you do.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004MF8X3U/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o02_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
These fit 20 and 25 round AR10 mags. Not double stack but have been working nicely for my 20 rounders.
ATN X-Sight 4K Pro Smart Day/Night Rifle Scope - Ultra HD 4K technology with Superb Optics, 120fps Video, 18+ hrs Battery, Ballistic Calculator, Rangefinder, WiFi, E-Compass, Barometer, IOS & Android Apps https://www.amazon.com/dp/B079JYL16W/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_E16XA4NJ6KQZ40AMRM1Q?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
Is it this one?
https://www.amazon.com/Aero-Precision-Ultralight-Scope-Mount/dp/B00JVTD4EK
I see they have an "Extended" version but unsure what the difference is. But $85 seems solid for this mount for sure.
Yeah, that's a good idea. My local range has net-curtains that prevent the next lane over from getting bonked by brass, but it still bounces all over the place once it hits the ground.
Is this what you have, OP: https://www.amazon.com/Caldwell-Brass-Resistant-Tripod-Collection/dp/B07T4MSXM2
Not a laser sight but I like my ATN. It has night and day vision. I was able to zero it so every shot was in the center bullseye at about 50 yards.
​
Another option from the Pod Loc is just buy an adjustable handle. Much cheaper, and pick up a spacer from your local hardware store.
IIRC it's 10-24 thread.
Look at the Vortex Diamondback. A little more then that but backed by the Vortex warranty. I have one and its a great, for the price optic.
Measurement would be prudent. This is where a pin gauge set
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00UCQO4HM
or at least a number drill index comes in handy.
Let me introduce you to the Rockwell JawHorse. I lived in a house with a converted garage, so nowhere to have a vice. I built both of my AR-15 uppers and my AR-10 upper using one of these. It worked fantastic, and it folds up to store in a closet. Just get a quality upper vice block (I used No-M.A.R) and a cheap torque wrench from somewhere like Harbor Freight and you're good to go. You can probably find the JawHorse cheaper than Amazon if you shop around a little.
https://smile.amazon.com/dp/B007XRFQKW/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_fabc_PX4ZE5CHQAXR6813PN0H
they make pads for the brass deflector if you wanna re-use that brass
https://www.amazon.com/Deflector-Brake-Rifle-Brakes-Charging/dp/B06XKYLB8J
Trust a good dimple. I do one on all of my barrels. None of my gas blocks ever full touch the shoulder of the barrel. Like a previous Anon said, it has the gap of a business card-ish. I also check my alignment with an endoscope on all of my barrels, but I do 5-10 builds a year, and work on all of my friends. Something to consider though.
Mine is carbine length, and the Tubb Precision Buffer Spring fits both Carbine and Standard length tubes. You should be GTG with that and the KVP. Also on the short stroke, the Gas block may not be lined up properly. It happens. I bought a KVP dimple jig, and use this Bore Scope to double check my alignment. They also have a WiFi version but it’s a little bit more.
Here’s my alignment on the M5 with it. Very handy little endoscope.
I have the VISM case for a collapsible AR15: Link But make sure it will fit a 308.
Found this on Amazon. Seen a bunch of ads on IG for the company and followed them. Seems like a lot of ppl like their stuff.
Savior Equipment American Classic Tactical Double Long Rifle Pistol Gun Bag Firearm Transportation Case w/Backpack - Lockable Compartment, Available Length in 36" 42" 46" 51" 55" https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07C2QPC6M/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_glt_fabc_NASYE8GTW3DHX3K1CPEN?_encoding=UTF8&psc=1
I mean absolutely no offense here, but I strongly suggest you read this before introducing variables like that into your routine or buying anything else. The Primary Arms scope I sent you will be a great scope that takes all of the work out of calculating drop, and the better field of view will help a ton. Read the handbook religiously, and work your way up to the Vortex I linked for your bolt action. I think it will help by putting the practical limitations of your optics into better perspective. Feel free to message me with any questions you may have in the future as well and I’ll be happy to help when I can.
No. At the time they were sold out, or I would have added it on. (They'll offer things like scope caps, shade tube, cantilever base, at a discounted price only while purchasing the scope. I bought the scope caps, and shade tube.)
I would liked to have bought the Aero cantilever but it was sold out at the time.
Instead I cheaped out and bought a couple Monstrum Chineseum ones. But hey, I shot over 50 rounds through my AR10 with no ill effect so far.
I love this scope!!! Its so awesome and clear. I got the scope and the throw lever on amazon. the throw lever is vortex brand and was like 60 bucks.
Harbor Freight many not have it. When I ran into this a couple weeks ago, mine didn't have the 1 3/8 inch (1/2 inch drive) in their sets.
This one from Amazon will work if you haven't found one yet.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B004Y7DW0U/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_asin_title_o01_s00?ie=UTF8&psc=1
if you need to buy QD attachments for the buttstock
That T-nut does not look right, it should look like an oval that fits through the slot.
Then you pull back as you rotate the fastener 90* , it should fall back a bit but the ovals will catch on the side.
https://www.amazon.com/TACFUN-Steel-M-LOK-Standard-Sections/dp/B07CZC4C46
look at the 3rd pic on that listing to see what it should look like.
Came here to post this...and looks like the Argos is showing up on gun.deals...for 249.99 on Amazon.
Athlon Optics Argos BTR 6-24x50mm Illuminated APMR MIL Reticle - $249.99
I have shot a Gen 1 PST and believe it to be clearer glass. Bang for buck on a vortex is legit, but shit man....$249 for the Argos is hard to turn down.
I only have experience with the Magpul. So far it has served me well shooting my 6.5 CM. I’m happy and would buy another.
Magpul Rifle Bipod, M-LOK, Flat Dark Earth https://www.amazon.com/dp/B07DMBTFDC/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_7e7RDbRHENS22
>I second this. Looks nice, and it's made in china so my wallet will probably like it.
Caldwell rest. This is apparently what the new version of it is ( https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B0007Y8SBW/ref=ppx_yo_dt_b_search_asin_title?ie=UTF8&psc=1 )
Just purely curious why you went with MRAD.
I know I want a 30x50 ffp scope, I think I want a Christmas tree style reticle. Not sure on the magnification.
I've only really shot a 308 ar10 athlon 6-24 FFP at 100 yards. It was zeroed to 100 so there wasn't any hold over or adjustments needed.
And that seems like a good starter optic especially for the price.
But like I said I still really haven't figured the optic out.
/u/tnarmsco Do you know if this bolt catch install kit works on your your polymer AR308 lowers? Thank you.
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01B3NU46C/ref=ox_sc_act_title_1?smid=ATVPDKIKX0DER&psc=1
I'm a big fan of the Shepherd Rogue Series CSO SFP 6-24X50. I don't see it get much coverage, but I love the reticle, has a 50mm objective to let more light in, and goes up to 24x (if you want that much power). It goes for around $350, but DVOR occasionally has it for $300. r/https://www.amazon.com/Shepherd-Scopes-6-24X50-Reticle-Riflescope/dp/B06ZZ27DK9
Thanks for the link! I was looking at a couple vortex scopes already.
Based on your suggestion, this is one that caught my attention https://www.amazon.com/dp/B00HYRGSTO/?coliid=IJVOWKEU5LY32&colid=2PXXRCOW54WY9&psc=0&ref_=lv_ov_lig_dp_it
I couldn't get my VG6 timed/indexed correctly - tried like 40x to get it lined up like I needed.
I've ordered some of these shims. Should to the trick when I get around to it...
I have this bag and love it. Lancer Tactical CA-343 MOLLE 42" in. Double Carbine Rifle Soft Case Gun Bag QD Buckle Adjustable Straps Utility Pouches Carrying Handle Zipper Travel Hunting Airsoft - DISRUPTIVE GRAY https://www.amazon.com/dp/B06XP34DGG/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_apa_9EByzbQFG9VW3
Just stick up some splatter targets, makes it easier to see. The 2" splatter targets are cheap, and if you don't see a hit in the 2" splatter at 250yds, or 3/4 MOA, you missed. LOL!
They also have other sizes like 4", 8", 12", etc.
I've never looked through the PA 4-14, but on my Vortex Razor Gen2 4.5-27 and S&B 5-25, I can see at 14x-ish, 308 and 6.5 holes. 223 holes not so much.
Just don't get the targets with black/dark paper, those are impossible to see from distance.
I had terrible luck boresighting too until I just sucked it up and dropped major coin on a quality laser boresighter
$100 isn't cheap, but it's been a great tool considering I was wasting ammo like crazy because for some reason, I sucked getting on paper at the range.
I have a 22lr with a 28" barrel and that thing is impossible to bore sight...I see nothing when looking through it, perhaps the combination of long barrel and tight bore. This was a big help for me.
I like this because it also helps you level your reticle, but I find hanging a string with a weight and lining it up that way is just as easy.
Edit: a word
Turns out there is a mildot version too, might be better
Not my favorite mount, I will not be buying another. Primary Arms 30mm Deluxe
I just bought that same exact scope for my AR10 (is yours the SFP scope?).
I havent gotten a chance to take it to a longer range yet. Have you? How do you like it? It's my first real "tactical" long range scope. ALl my others are 1-x CQB scopes, red dots, and a cheapo 3-9 for my 10/22.
edit: I'm also mad I couldnt find 308 carbine buffer sets anywhere or I would have gotten that stock as well. The MBA-1 doesnt have the rail for the monopod :(
edit 2: Apparently I can add a rail. Yay me!
If you don't mind giving up QD capabilities, might I suggest some steel rings from Leupold? I grabbed the ones that would give me the lowest mounting, so far my 50mm holds up well on my AR-308.
You save a bunch on cost, but these aren't that light. If you don't need to cantilever (you shouldn't), then this is a cheap option.
Based on everything you said here, this covers most of it. An easy reticle for ranging and calculating drop. low enough power for close shooting and you can still mount a RMR on top. I had one on my SBR and just got rid of it for a no magnification because the eye relief isn't enough on my SBR.
I will be getting one for my AR10.
http://www.amazon.com/Vortex-Optics-SPR-1303-Spitfire-EBR-556B/dp/B00HYRGNLM
Really? I have this mount. Its an AD mount, but it doesn't have the forward cantilever. I have a Nikon M223 in it and its mounted on my AR10. It's not too bad and I feel like it could be put forward a little more.
I just don't know how the eye relief compares between the Nikon and Vortex. The difference in price between the cantilever/non cantilever is around $50. Not a crazy amount of money, but I don't to spend it if I don't have to.
most of the time when i see a "drop in handguard" its with a front sight block http://www.brownells.com/rifle-parts/sights/sight-parts/front-sight-towers/ar-15-front-sight-housing-prod22919.aspx this is assuming it has a normal delta ring http://www.amazon.com/ATI-AR-15-Delta-Ring-Package/dp/B0038Y42VI at the reciever end. i had to pull back the delta ring on my gun really freaking hard to get it to fit.... so i'd like to have a better idea of what youre doing before i tell you something WILL work.