By Pete Rogers
If there ever was a platform designed for predator hunting, it is the AR rifle.
Known by many names, whether the AR, modern sporting rifle, black rifle, or whatever you choose to call it, is a predator killing machine.
The design and rapid fire makes it the perfect predator hunting rifle.
As most predator hunters know, fast follow up shots are the norm, especially when more than one animal responds to your calling.
Having a rifle that is designed to send bullets fast, accurately, and over great distance is a definite advantage over other designs.
Most of the AR rifles suitable for hunting predators will be the AR-15 version. This version comes in the ever popular .223 Remington and the 5.56 NATO rounds, collectively.
In most rifles, these calibers are interchangeable, however, be careful to check your specific gun to make sure it will handle the higher pressures of the 5.56 NATO.
The .223 Remington is arguably one of the best calibers for predators of all sizes, to include the diminutive fox, to the biggest wolfs. The .223 Remington is more than enough gun to anchor these animals with excellent shot placement.
Available in a wide array of bullet sizes and styles, the .223 Remington offers readily available ammunition.
When hunting predators, some excellent options are the Hornady Varmint Express 55-grain ballistic tip. The Hornady V-Max in a 40-grain bullet is also an excellent choice.
Dropping bullet weight below the 40 grain is pushing the limits too much. And the 75 grain bullets are not necessary.
Topped with a quality optic, the AR platform rests steady against the shoulder and the minimal recoil allows for fast target acquisition for the follow up shots. Few rifles have this option. They are fast shooting and extremely accurate.
One of the best AR rifles for predators at an excellent price point is the Rock River Arms, RRAGE. This rifle has become a personal favorite for many reasons. Most of all, it kills predators at all ranges and in all circumstances.
Most AR rifles come with a standard 30 round magazine. I find this to be too much and really gets in the way. Switching to a 10 or fifteen round is more than enough and offers less obtrusiveness of the magazine when setting up on a bipod.
AR style rifles are fully customizable too, which is one of their great attributes. An AR owner can switch out the stock, add sling attachments, and add an accessory rail if it does not already come with one—and then the door blows wide open on lights and other accessories that can be put on these rifles.
One accessory that some predator hunters who hunt at night use is a thermal imaging scope. These scopes can be very pricy, but if night hunting is your passion, spend the money and get a good one that is well-matched for your AR rifle.
Whether you are chasing fox in the Midwest, cats in Texas, or coyotes along the plains, the AR rifle is the best predator rifle made for all occasions.