Tweet
I have an ar in 556/223. Is there any way i can convert this to a deer sized cartridge? If so what caliber is best and how do i go about converting?
-
-
Mebbe ye can git a custom barrel for the 7mm TCU.
The ballistics exceed the .44 Mag at all ranges.
It izza blowed out and necked-up .223. -
The AR itself can be converted to a more appropriate "deer" cartridge.
On the other hand, though quite capable of taking deer, the 5.56/.223 is not considered an "appropriate" deer cartridge.
I know AR uppers are available in cartridges such as 6.5mm Grendel and 6.8mm SPC, which either of would be a much better choice.
Even that 7mm thingie woofie mentioned would be a better choice, though I'd like to see more "case capacity".Comment
-
Purchase a new upper receiver/barrel group chambered in any number of deer appropriate/legal calibers. Your new upper will then be a drop in fit to your existing lower receiver group. Those AR chamberings appropriate for deer would range from the 6.8 Spec to 450 Socom. Give MidwayUSA a look online for some ideas.
Comment
-
You could install a new barrel on your rifle that is chambered in a cartridge more suitable for deer hunting. Those mentioned above are available and generally have effective range comparable to a 30-30 as long as you don't have to cut through brush. They are severely impacted by brush because of their speed and small diameter. If you are hunting in heavy brush, larger caliber chamberings like the 450 Bushmaster will be a better choice. Your choice will depend on your hunting conditions.
You can install the barrel yourself pretty easily.
In open country, I consider the .223 to be superior to the 30-30 in accuracy, range and knock down power. My favorite .223 deer bullet is the Combined Technology 55g out to about 200 yards. I've seen about 40 or 50 antelope shot with these and a few deer. They leave a serious wound channel and normally achieve full penetration, at least three feet or more even through the heavy bones of a big buck.
If it were me, I'd probably spend the money on a decent deer rifle rather than upgrading an existing AR though. It will cost you slightly more but you will have a much better deer rifle.
If you are certain you can keep the bullet free of brush on the way to the deer, give the Combined Tech bullet a try in your .223. After a few deer, you will probably be quite happy with that.Comment
-
Gotta agree with DakotaMan.Comment
-
For the past Two 6 day Doe week Seasons in Fl, I have tested my Ruger MK-II 223 Compack W/18" Bbl
using Hornady 223 Rem 60Gr TAP Ammo on Doe White Tails out to 175Yr+/- with one shot drop in their tracks success, the Does are in the 140 to 160# range(Neck or Hi-Lung Shots)just saying.Comment
-
Thanks everybody! I think im gonna give those 223 rounds a try. N i guess who says you HAVE to shoot em in the lungs? Neck shots are sounding like somethig i will be attempting this season.Comment
-
Check your state laws!
The smallest caliber allowed here is .243.
It is not large enough for the predators that are on your back trail!Comment
-
Your A/R is a good varmint gun, you will spend a small fortune converting it into a deer rifle, keep it as it is(or modify for fun) and buy a bolt action deer rifle... .25-06, .270, .30-06, etc.....Comment
-
I dont know much about converting but caliber wise i would recomend the .308
-The KidComment
-
huntr,
If you choose to try your .223, don't feel obligated to do a neck shot. You have to be quite a marksman to make that shot consistently. It is sure quite deadly if you can make it but the bullet I mentioned will kill any deer that you hit in the kill zone you would use with a 30-06. Most of us here use the high shoulder shot to avoid meat damage. That clips the tops of both lungs and imparts maximum shock. If you feel you need to aim for the center of the chest, the 55g Combined Tech will penetrate plenty well enough within 200 yards.Comment
Comment