So this year will be the first year I actually rifle hunt out of a tree stand (X-Stand Duke, ladder stand), in probably over 10 years. For the last few year I have used my 300 blackout (10.5" SBR) because being on the ground the stars had to line up perfectly for a 75 yard shot, so well within the max range. BUT this summer a major storm went through, and to say it opened up my range is an understatement, I can see the better part of the 40 acres with the potential for a lot of 2-300 yard shots. I would probably self limit option 1 to a max of 350 yards (perfect broadside stopped, ect) and I would probably limit 2 & 3 to ~200 yard max (assuming stopped deer and good shot).
In addition to my Smith 44 mag (loaded with NOE 262 HTC WFN) I am torn what to take, options are:
1. Remington 700 (3.5-10x scope) in .308 Winchester (150 grain psp), mag fed
Pros:
Very accurate and capable of taking a clean shot anywhere I could see
Cons:
HEAVY (10#+), long 24" barrel +~8" suppressor, light target trigger (~14 ounces)
2. Remington 700 (2-8x scope) in 300 Blackout (110 Barnes Vor-TX) factory ammo (I know I know...no lead...that's what the 44 is for).
Pros:
Accurate, 3.5# trigger, ~200FPS faster then the SBR, better scope reticle then the SBR, lighter and more maneuverable then the 308.
Cons: less "handy" then the SBR, hinged floor plate magazine, less ethical range then the .308
3. Frankenstein AR 10.5" SBR (2-7x scope) in 300 Blackout (110 Barnes Vor-TX) factory ammo
Pros: Lightest of the 3, most compact, set up for a multi point sling, plenty accurate
Cons: ~200 FPS slower then then option 2 (~2100fps estimate), least "ethical" range
I have ranges somewhat mapped out along required drop/wind changes. Any advice is appreciated, all three rifles will probably come up to camp and it may be a last minute decision before I hit the hey before opening day.