What makes a predator rifle? I'm often asked. Well, I say it depends. Do you do mostly calling or are you more of a stationary type hunter. If your calling you would do well by yourself to keep the weight down and have some type of repeater. Either sem-automatic or bolt action. Leave the single shots to the guys who sit and wait or hunt over bait piles. Predator rifles are usually in the .17-.22 caliber range but many people have good success with .24 caliber and up. While I admit they're some fine choices in the bigger calibers for out intents and purposes we need to focus on the small calibers listed first. They produce less pelt damage and usually are flatter shooting. We are talking about a specialized rifle here and not an all around tool.
Popular calibers that have performed well in the predator hunting world for some time are the .220 swift, .222 remingtion, .222 rem mag, .223, .204 ruger, .17 rem, .17 rem fireball, .22 hornet, and .218 bee. My opinion is that the .243 is overgunning most predators, but it can be loaded down with the correct bullets and be effective.
There are many fine choices in bolt guns and they are all extremely accurate. Don't get too caught up with brand, pick one that fits you well and that is in your budget. And budget is from a couple hundred dollars on the used market all the way up in the thousands for a custom rig that has spent a little time with a gunsmith. Don't forget about the wildcat cartridges like the .17 predator either. There are many options for custom ammunition and with a minor outlay of cash you could save yourself a bundle to load your own.
Semi-automatics fall in pretty much one category. The infamous AR15. These black rifles have seen a huge surge in popularity in the last several years. They are extremely accurate and though as nails. Being modular only helps matters. Although there are custom uppers in .204 and other great predator cartridges the long time standby has always been the 5.56 or .223. Another plus to the AR platform is that you can have an upper in .223 for predators, .6.5 grendel, .458 socom or .50 beowolf for big game duties or home defense. The options are limitless.
Outfitting your rifle. A good comfortable sling is a prerequisite. Dont' skimp on optics most predator calling is a long range endeavor. Although I believe more in using terrain, shadows and natural features to break your outline, camouflage guns are wildly popular and rightly so. They cut down on the big black or brown blob in front of you and reduce or eliminate glare.
Like I always say, pick up a rifle and get out there and start calling. You'll be glad you did.
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