Ask anyone who has been in the shooting industry for more than six months what the best starter rimfire is and they’ll answer identically, like an overly-rehearsed infomercial: Ruger 10/22. This answer hasn’t changed in the last 20 years because the Ruger has a disproportionately low price point when compared to its quality.

When the same question is asked concerning centerfire instead of rimfire, you’ll get numerous different responses with prices ranging from $150 to over $1,000. The problem with nailing down an inexpensive, quality centerfire weapon lies with ammunition. The fact that ammo prices increase as surplus dries up, consequently affects the price of the weapons. Back when Simonov rifles (SKS) were $70, it was impossible to argue that anything else, at that price point, was anywhere near as nice or durable. The closest rifle was the Mosin Nagant, but it isn’t semi-automatic and has much greater recoil.

Today’s prices are vastly different, but there are still some amazing bargains out there for centerfire plinkers.

1. Type 56 Chinese SKS 7.62x39mm – $300

These handy carbines hold ten rounds of 7.62×39 ammo inside their internal magazines, which can be charged by a stripper clip. The receiver is milledand the stocks are hardwood. They are combat accurate, but the sights are frustratingly miniscule. The factory magazine is fixed, but TAPCO makes a removable magazines and synthetic furniture for the SKS. Mounting optics on an SKS is difficult and is relegated to a scout-mount that replaces the gas tube. Other variants equipped with optics rails exist, but are rare and vastly more expensive. Even though $65 SKSs are the stuff of legends, they’re still a solid bargain at $300.

2. Kel-Tec Sub-2000 9mm – $325

Kel Tec’s Sub-2000 carbine is an ideal companion to a Glock 17/19 or SIG 226 9mm because they share ammunition and depending on the model of Sub-2000, they can share magazines too. This is perfect for budget-minded shooters looking to add a second weapon to their collection without having to invest in new magazines and ammo. The only downside with the Sub-2000, like all Kel-Tec products, is availability. If you spot one for a good price, jump on it!

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The Best of Jim Grant

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