Complete Rifle Guide: Hunting, Accuracy & Scope Selection Basics
- Hootey Cline
- Feb 19, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: Jul 28
From the Bench: A gunsmith's journey in rifle knowledge
By Hootey Cline, Blue Coat Arms Company
Originally published June 17, 2019 | Updated July 1, 2025
After nearly a decade working with rifles of every type and vintage, I'm still learning something new about these remarkable tools. Whether you're considering your first rifle purchase or looking to expand your knowledge, let me share what I've discovered about rifles – their capabilities, limitations, and the responsibilities that come with them.
Rifle Fundamentals: How Rifiling Improves Accuracy
The Basic Definition
A rifle shoots one projectile at a time through a rifled (spiral-grooved) barrel. Those spiral grooves spin the bullet, giving it gyroscopic stability that dramatically improves accuracy and effective range compared to smooth-bore firearms.
What this means in practice: Rifles offer much greater power and range than shotguns or handguns, making them incredibly versatile tools for hunting, target shooting, and other applications.
The Cartridge Spectrum
My observation: The .22LR remains the king of small game hunting – affordable, accurate, and effective for squirrels, rabbits, and pest control. It's also the perfect starting point for new rifle shooters.
Illinois Rifle Regulations: What You Need to Know
Current Restrictions
Illinois will NOT allow rifles in state parks or for most hunting applications. This creates unique challenges for Illinois rifle owners.
The main exception: Coyote hunting on private land – one of the few opportunities Illinois offers for rifle hunting.
What I've learned: These restrictions mean Illinois rifle owners need to be more creative about finding practice opportunities and understanding their equipment's capabilities.
Safety Responsibility
You MUST ALWAYS be aware of where the projectile is going. This fundamental responsibility becomes even more critical with rifles due to their extended range capabilities.
Key considerations:
Rifle bullets can travel several miles
Backstops and safe shooting directions are essential
Understanding your ammunition's ballistic characteristics
Local ordinances may have additional restrictions
Best Rifle Types for Hunting: AR vs Bolt-Action vs Lever-Action
AR-Style Platforms
Dependable and highly adaptable, the AR platform has proven itself over decades of use.
Why they're popular:
Modular design allows customization for specific purposes
Reliable function with proper maintenance
Extremely useful for hunting where legal (primarily coyote hunting in Illinois)
Wide variety of calibers available on the same basic platform
My experience: The AR platform's modularity makes it excellent for shooters who want one rifle that can fill multiple roles.
Bolt-Action Rifles
Bolt-action is the most accurate platform available. Period.
Why bolt-actions excel:
Rigid action provides consistent lockup
Simple mechanism with fewer variables affecting accuracy
Easy to maintain and diagnose problems
Wide range of calibers and configurations available
What I've observed: For precision shooting and hunting applications where accuracy is paramount, bolt-actions remain the gold standard.
Semi-Automatic Rifles
Semi-auto/full-auto/box magazine systems are best for volume shooting applications.
Their strengths:
Rapid follow-up shots for multiple targets
High capacity magazines available
Good for training and competition shooting
Effective for pest control situations
Single-Shot Rifles
Single-shot rifles have significant historical importance and continue to serve specific purposes.
Why they matter:
Simple, reliable mechanism with minimal maintenance needs
Often very accurate due to rigid action design
Excellent for teaching fundamental shooting skills
Historical significance in American shooting sports
Lever-Action Rifles
Lever-action is good for most game and carries deep historical significance.
Their appeal:
Fast cycling for quick follow-up shots
Compact design ideal for brush hunting
Reliable function in adverse conditions
Rich heritage in American hunting and shooting
Carbine Rifles: A Special Category
Definition and Purpose
A carbine rifle shoots a pistol cartridge – essentially bridging the gap between handguns and full-power rifles.
The Illinois Hunting Argument
Carbines should be allowed for Illinois hunting, and here's why:
Would not add any "distance" of travel beyond what handgun hunting already allows
Would result in fewer crippled deer as hunters could take more accurate shots
Illinois already allows handgun hunting with the same ammunition
My perspective: This seems like a logical policy change that would benefit both hunters and wildlife management.
Practical Considerations
If you're going to shoot a rifle, you should generally use a rifle cartridge for maximum effectiveness.
However, carbines have merit:
Much better accuracy than pistols using the same ammunition
Excellent flexibility for various applications
Great training tools for developing rifle skills
Historical Context
Carbines have been around since the "old west" – they're not a new concept, just experiencing renewed popularity.
Legal Considerations
Building a carbine from a pistol frame enters NFA territory – always contact the ATF before starting such projects.
What matters: The intended purpose and final configuration determine legal requirements.
Accuracy Through Proper Maintenance
The Fundamental Truth
Accuracy equals maintenance – this relationship is absolute with rifles.
Critical Cleaning Practices
ALWAYS use muzzle guards and alignment tools when cleaning. The muzzle crown is critical to accuracy, and damage here ruins precision.
NEVER let the cleaning rod touch the rifling – this can cause wear that degrades accuracy over time.
If you must use a rod: Use a solid rod with a ball bearing that spins freely, allowing it to follow the rifling rather than fighting it.
What I've learned: More guns are ruined by improper maintenance than anything else. Take time to learn proper cleaning techniques.
Stock Considerations
Synthetic stocks are more durable and functional than wood in most practical applications.
But wood looks better – and there's nothing wrong with choosing aesthetics if you understand the trade-offs.
My recommendation: Choose based on your primary use. Synthetic for hard use, wood for traditional appeal.
Ammunition Considerations
Armor-Piercing Rounds
Armor-piercing rounds are VERY hard on barrels – they'll accelerate wear significantly.
Military Surplus Ammunition
Most military surplus ammunition is highly corrosive – requiring immediate, thorough cleaning after use to prevent damage.
What this means: Budget for extra cleaning time and supplies when using surplus ammunition.
Coyote Hunting Specifics
Cartridge Recommendations
The .243 Winchester with 90-grain bullets is excellent for dealing with wind – very aerodynamic and can buck wind fairly well.
The .22-250 Remington is also a good choice for coyote hunting applications.
Wind Effects
At 300 yards in 15mph wind, you can be off by 7-8 inches – understanding ballistics becomes crucial for success.
What I've observed: Many hunters underestimate wind effects and miss opportunities due to poor ballistic knowledge.
Optics: Unlocking Your Rifle's Potential
The Necessity of Scopes
You MUST utilize a scope if you want to unlock the full potential of a rifle – iron sights have their place, but scopes dramatically extend effective range and precision.
You must also choose the correct scope for your specific application and rifle.
Understanding Scope Specifications
Most quality scopes feature:
50mm objective lens (approximately)
30-34mm main tube diameter
The Exit Pupil Reality
Objective lens size DOES NOT MATTER as much as people think. What matters is the amount of light that can be gathered, which relates to the exit pupil.
You want the largest exit pupil possible for your shooting conditions.
How to measure exit pupil: Shine a light into the scope over paper and mark the size of the beam that comes out the eyepiece end.
What I've learned: Many shooters get caught up in objective lens diameter without understanding the real factors that affect low-light performance.
Modern Developments Since 2019
Technology Improvements
Scope technology has advanced significantly:
Better glass quality at lower price points
Improved reticle designs for various applications
More reliable tracking in mid-range scopes
Better low-light performance across all price ranges
Ammunition Developments
New cartridge introductions:
6.5 Creedmoor has gained significant popularity
6.5 PRC for longer-range applications
Improved bullet designs for better ballistic performance
More consistent factory ammunition across all price ranges
Platform Evolution
AR platform improvements:
Better manufacturing quality in entry-level rifles
More caliber options available
Improved ergonomics and user interfaces
Better barrel technology for enhanced accuracy
Choosing Your First Rifle
Consider Your Purpose
Target shooting: Bolt-action in .308 Winchester or 6.5 Creedmoor Small game hunting: .22LR or .17 HMR Coyote hunting: .243 Winchester or .22-250 Remington General purpose: AR-15 platform in .223/5.56 Historical interest: Lever-action in .30-30 Winchester
Budget Considerations
Don't forget the total cost:
Rifle purchase price
Quality scope and mounting system
Ammunition for practice and use
Cleaning supplies and maintenance tools
Safe storage solutions
Try Before You Buy
If possible, shoot different rifles before making a purchase decision. What works for others might not work for you.
Maintenance Best Practices
Regular Cleaning Schedule
After every use: Basic cleaning to remove fouling Monthly: Detailed inspection and maintenance Annually: Professional inspection if heavily used
Proper Storage
Climate-controlled environment prevents rust and corrosion Secure storage protects from theft and unauthorized access Proper positioning prevents stock warping and scope damage
When to Seek Professional Help
Complex problems: Don't attempt repairs beyond your skill level
Accuracy issues: Professional diagnosis can identify problems
Scope mounting: Proper installation ensures reliability and accuracy
At Blue Coat Arms Company: We regularly help customers with rifle maintenance, scope installation, and accuracy troubleshooting.
Safety Considerations
Range Safety
Follow all fundamental safety rules:
Treat every firearm as loaded
Never point the muzzle at anything you don't want to destroy
Keep finger off trigger until ready to shoot
Be sure of your target and what's beyond it
Storage Safety
Secure storage is essential – rifles require proper safes or locking systems to prevent unauthorized access.
Transportation
Know your local laws regarding rifle transportation – requirements vary by jurisdiction.
Final Thoughts
Six years after writing the original version of this article, I'm more convinced than ever that rifles are remarkable tools that deserve our respect and understanding. Whether you're interested in target shooting, hunting, or collecting, taking time to understand your rifle's capabilities and limitations will make you a better, safer shooter.
What I hope you take away: Rifles are precision instruments that reward proper care, quality optics, and consistent practice. Don't rush into complex platforms – master the fundamentals first, then expand your knowledge and capabilities.
The Illinois challenges with limited hunting opportunities shouldn't discourage rifle ownership – there are still plenty of ways to enjoy and benefit from these versatile firearms.
No matter your era, we got your six – whether you're working with a classic bolt-action or a modern precision rifle, the fundamentals of accuracy, safety, and proper maintenance remain constant.
Questions about rifle selection, maintenance, or scope installation? Blue Coat Arms Company provides comprehensive rifle services including maintenance, accuracy work, and custom modifications. Contact us at 217-416-5962 or BlueCoatArms@gmail.com.
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