Which is better: a bolt action or semi automatic rifle?

[straightmax12]

[MysticDevice]

Depends on the activity.

I will say a bolt action will always by slightly more accurate due to not having a gas system.

Overall though I'd say a semi-auto is a more refined and better engineered platform.

It depends on the manufacturer too. I have a Russian made bolt action from 1935 and that thing jams all the time. (Yes, its possible to jam a bolt action).

I have 2 ruger ARs one in 5.56 the other in.308. The 5.56 has never once malfunctioned in the 3,000 or so rounds put through it. The.308 however has had cycling issues. Fairly often. I suspect those will go away when the buffer spring is broken in more cause that thing is tight.

So if you're making a very long distance shot, I'd take a bolt action. If you're invading a country, in a dangerous city, in the wild with apex predators, etc. I'd take a semi auto.

[Boromir]

As the others said, if you’re aiming for real precision (pun intended) you go for a bolt action, if you want to have fun, comfort and reasonable precision you go for a semi automatic in any caliber. Full auto is just a waste of money if you’re not in a war zone.

[joehypo1]

Depends on your preference but i like semi auto but have both and the bolt action rifles i have i would not want in semi auto how about a BAR one of my faves

[PositiveFlight]

Bolt action is more accurate for sharp shooting. Semi auto more practical for defensive situations. Fully automatic to put a smile on your face 😊

[ShiftingMonke]

It depends entirely what your intent is for their usage.

They each have their own strengths and weaknesses.

[straightmax12]

What weaknesses does a semi automatic rifle have?

[ShiftingMonke]

It won't be as accurate (comparatively speaking) as a bolt action, as well as the ability to jam. You're also looking at a potentially decreased range, obviously varied by caliber. Putting a suppressor on a semi auto rifle may cause the gas system to malfunction as well.

[Bricealan]

Well, I like the semi-automatic, that way I can get off more shots before the SWAT can shoot me!

[Anonymous]

It depends on what are you using that gun for and how good a shooter the person pulling the trigger.

Generally semi autos aren't that accurate.

[summiter]

I do not like guns so I really do not care