Looking to buy an AR Platform rifle for hog hunting. What are your suggestions. I have a limited budget and wouldn't mind purchasinf something that needs work. Newer models would be nice too.

jerback:

A couple different ways you can go. Either the AR15 or AR10 platform. The AR15 lower will mate with uppers in several calibers such as 223, 30 AR, 6.8SPC. The AR10 lower will mate with such calibers as 243, 260, 338 and 308. I have a 223 upper and 6.8 SPC upper that covers varmints to deer. I am really liking the 6.8 SPC, it has very similar ballistics to a 308. I use the 223 for coyotes, coons, bob cat and hogs. When shooting hogs with the 223, I aim behind the ear do to the ballistics of a 223. A 308 certainly would not have problems with hogs and makes a great deer gun as well. Just depend on what kind of versatility your looking for. I am learning that there really not much difference in barrel length in the AR platform that will affect reasonable range. I have a 22 inch on my R15 223 and its a bit long for walking and climbing around. My 6.8 SPC is a 16 inch and it is good for way beyond the distance I can shoot. I would not hesitate on a 400 yard shot providing you have good optics. The 16 is much easier to carry in the field. Be careful purchasing something that needs work. Buy a good used or new gun or build one. Stay away from someone else's problems. Repairs and parts replacement can be costly and time consuming.