help deciding on a 308/7.62x51

Vision Remodeling · Dec 16, 2012

If Smith and Wesson made one this would be an easy decision. I have decided I want a semi auto chambered in 308/7.62x51. I have searched the threads and have found nothing here on this subject. My well runs dry at 1500 including tax. I am between a DPMS Panther 308 classic 20" barell with A2 stock, carry handle, iron sights and an Armalite AR-10A4 adjustable stock, no sights 16" barrel. The DPMS is 320$ cheaper, that could go towards mags and ammo. I like the A2 stock better and that it comes with the iron sights. I have no experience with DPMS/Bushmaster or Armalite. My main concern is reliablity. I have seen a few threads listing the DPMS/Bushmaster in the AR-15 platform as hit or miss on reliablity, some say their 308 is a whole different monster and the opinions I find are maddening. Half love it, half hate it. I had to post this question here, I trust The opinions of my fellow Smith fans more than old posts on other forums. Anyone have any experience with either of these two rifles? My only concern at this point is reliability. I don't mind spending the extra on the Armalite and buying the stock and sights I want later, but if the DPMS is just as good why not spend the extra 320$ on ammo. Please don't suggest to me a 2000-3000$ rifle I know they are out there I would love to have one, but right now my wallet turns to dust at 1500$ and I want to put a rifle in the safe before Mr. O waves his magic pen. Thank you to anyone who answers this post and I apologize if I have posted this in the wrong spot.

308 Classic

Armalite AR-10 A4 308 Winchester Carbine w/Black Barrel/Black Sy $1,311.00 SHIPS FREE

The AR-10 is like this only black without the scope

BlueOvalBandit · Dec 16, 2012

Armalite makes good stuff, but they use their own proprietary parts since there is no mil spec standardization of 308 ARs which is why there are AR10s and AR308s and they are a little different. IE bolts, barrels, and a few other things. Also depending on the lower receiver variant(I can't remember which is which) you may be bound to only using Armalite/m14 waffle magazines, Pmags and DPMS mags will not work unless you have the right variant. DPMS pattern rifles have a much larger aftermarket support, since more makers use that pattern. I think other than Noveske, all other manufacturer uses DPMS pattern ar308 and will interchange parts.

Have you ever thought about building a rifle? I had a Mega Maten on order for a while now, if it ever shows up. Neat thing about the Maten is it accepts Armalite and DPMS parts.

oneyeopn · Dec 16, 2012

I thought Olympic was making a .308 and the people I have talked to say that there stuff was a lot better than it used to be.

Cdog · Dec 16, 2012

DPMS/SR25 platform is the way I went a number of years ago. I still own two.

The DPMS type use standard AR15 fire control components, inexpensive easy to find reliable magazines, and as posted above have a much larger aftermarket following.

The new Bushmaster's are DPMS patterned, and unlike most DPMS come with very usable single stage triggers.

The BM isn't a rebadged DPMS, but they are compatible. CMMG make a nice DPMS pattern rifle too.

One of my two is a Bushmaster 16" ORC. I'm very satisfied with it.

Matthew1.21 · Dec 16, 2012

My favorite .308/7.62X51 is the Springfield M1A. You can find them in your price range if you look and are patient. They can be found with all USGI parts. Springfield has an excellent reputation for customer service and the M1A comes with a lifetime guarantee. Might want to visit M14forum.com if you're not familiar with them.

Cdog · Dec 16, 2012

Yea, I like the M1A, but the new Springers are basically Taiwan and Korean manufactured now. It's a sad day for us all.

oneyeopn · Dec 16, 2012

I have my Winchester Model 100 in .308 it is a piston operated system, I have found some larger cap mags but they are pricey and out of production but she is a great shooting rifle with a 24" barrel.

gunfighter48 · Dec 17, 2012

I have a DPMS LR308 Oracle that I got from Cabelas for $1099.00. I have 360 rounds thru it with NO malfunctions of any type. It will shoot .625" to .65" 4 shot groups all day with factory AMAX and TAP ammo if I do my part, which isn't that often.

I put a Timney 4lb trigger in it, a Enedine Hydraulic Buffer, and a JP Bennie Cooley muzzle brake on it. Other that these items it's a stock receiver and 16" barrel. I really like mine and it's a blast to shoot!!!!!!

crofoot629 · Dec 17, 2012

I assume you want to put glass on this new rifle?

If not I'd buy a FAL.

Emory

help deciding on a 308/7.62x51

Vision Remodeling

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BlueOvalBandit

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oneyeopn

US Veteran

Cdog

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Matthew1.21

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Cdog

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oneyeopn

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gunfighter48

US Veteran

crofoot629

Absent Comrade

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