AR accuracy versus hipowered long gun accuracy?

Question

I just got out of the Marines after 5 years of enlisment and now am interested big game hunting. I have never hunted,with the Marines I was shooting (like all Marines) very well 350 plus meters iron sights. Should I be capable of shooting the same on iron sights with say 30-06, or do I "have" to get a scope. I mean with a bolt action

Answer 1

Jon is correct in this case but I would like to add this note. If you are Deer or any big game hunting for that matter, there will be times that a broadside shot doesn't present itself, or the game is moving cross range from you (Diagonally right to left or left to right). Having a scope allows you to make whats called a quartering away or quartering towards you shot. With the Deer or big game animals this type of shot presents a much smaller "target" or aiming point than an open broadside shot. A scope increases you ability to make an accurate shot on the game at extended ranges under these situations. The scope will only compliment your marine training and obvious skilled shooting abilities. Good Luck! Semper Fi

NOTE **** The Springfield Armory M1A1 is a great 308 caliber rifle based on the M-14 design. Only drawback is you are going to need a cool
$1250-$1550 cash to get one.

Answer 2

I know a lot of guys who hunt iron sights. But more use scopes. I have done both, but truthfully, I prefer scopes because I can get a more accurate and therefore more human shot in with the scope vs iron sights. Also, as much as I hate to admit it, my 51 year old eyes don't work like they used too. So a scope enables me to see clearer and make shots I would have to pass on with open sights.

Answer 3

You don't need a scope to hunt or shoot well. But they will help you when light conditions are not there best, dusk and dawn. These are the times most game animals seem to be moving. In those conditions it may be to dark to see the iron sights especially when your aiming at a dark back ground like a brown hide of a deer.

Answer 4

You know the answer to that Marine!
Of Course you can!

The Corps taught you everything you need to know.
You've got a bit more bullet drop at distance, but a little range time and you'll be right on top of your game!

Semper Fi!

Answer 5

The AR is accurate but unless you are shooting an AR-10 (7.62x51) or an AR-30 (.338 Lapua) you aren't going to get as much range as the high powered, long range gun. BOTH are as accurate as the shooter.

Best.

H

Answer 6

i have a national Match M1A and i can easily take deer or elk at 500 yards with open sights so i don't think you would need a scope the only reason i bought one was for them pesky prairie dogs