The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best AR15 or AR10 for Varmint Hunting - and Why APF Armory Stands Out
Posted by Team APF on 22nd Jul 2025
The Ultimate Guide to Choosing the Best AR-15 or AR-10 for Varmint Hunting: Why APF Armory Stands Out.
Varmint hunting is a thrilling pursuit that demands precision, speed, and reliability from your rifle. Whether you’re targeting coyotes, prairie dogs, or groundhogs, the AR platform—specifically the AR-15 and AR-10—has become a favorite among hunters for its versatility, modularity, and rapid follow-up shot capability. In this post, we’ll dive into what makes the best varmint hunting AR-15 or AR-10, highlight the standout calibers from APF Armory, and provide actionable advice to help you choose the perfect rifle for your next hunt. Spoiler alert: APF Armory’s Varmint 2.0 is a game-changer you’ll want to know about.Why Choose an AR-15 or AR-10 for Varmint Hunting?The AR platform shines for varmint hunting due to its adaptability and performance. Here’s why:
- Accuracy: ARs can be fine-tuned for sub-MOA precision, critical for hitting small, fast-moving targets like prairie dogs at 300+ yards.
- Speed: Semi-automatic action allows quick follow-up shots, ideal for scenarios with multiple varmints.
- Modularity: Swap uppers, barrels, or accessories to tailor your rifle for specific conditions or calibers.
- Magazine Capacity: High-capacity magazines (20-30 rounds) are perfect for high-volume pest control.
The choice between an AR-15 and an AR-10 depends on your hunting needs. The AR-15 is lighter and better suited for smaller calibers, making it ideal for close-to-mid-range varmint hunting. The AR-10, with its larger frame, supports heavier calibers for larger varmints or longer ranges but comes with added weight. Let’s explore how to pick the right one and why APF Armory’s offerings are top-tier.Key Factors for Choosing a Varmint Hunting ARWhen selecting an AR-15 or AR-10 for varmint hunting, consider these critical factors:
- Caliber: Varmints are small, quick, and often distant, so you need a cartridge with a flat trajectory, high velocity, and minimal recoil. Accuracy is paramount over raw power.
- Barrel Length and Twist Rate: Longer barrels (18-20 inches) enhance velocity and accuracy for long-range shots. The twist rate must stabilize the bullet weight you’re using.
- Trigger: A crisp, lightweight trigger (around 3-4 lbs) improves precision for small targets.
- Optics and Accessories: A quality scope with 4-12x or 6-18x magnification is essential for distant shots, and a bipod can stabilize your setup.
- Weight and Portability: If you’re stalking or hunting in varied terrain, a lighter AR-15 might be preferable. For stationary shooting, an AR-10’s weight can aid stability.
- 22-250 Rem (AR-10): Blazing Speed. Flat Trajectory. Low Recoil. Versatility.
The .22-250 Remington in the Varmint 2.0 is a match made in heaven for hunters who demand speed, accuracy, and versatility. Whether you’re clearing a field of prairie dogs or stalking a wary coyote, this rifle delivers the edge you need. A laser-beam round with light-sout precision, the 22-250 will take your hunt to the next level.
- .22 ARC (Advanced Rifle Cartridge): This cutting-edge caliber is a varmint hunter’s dream. Designed for the AR-15 platform, the .22 ARC delivers high velocity (up to 3,300 fps with 55-grain bullets) and a flat trajectory, rivaling the .22-250 Remington. Its efficient design minimizes recoil, making it perfect for rapid, accurate shots on prairie dogs or coyotes out to 400 yards. APF Armory’s Varmint 2.0 in .22 ARC features a 20-inch barrel with a 1:7 twist rate, ensuring excellent stabilization for lightweight varmint bullets.
- .223 Remington/5.56 NATO: A classic choice for varmint hunting, the .223 Remington is widely available, affordable, and versatile. It pushes a 55-grain bullet at 3,250 fps, offering a flat trajectory and low recoil. APF Armory’s AR-15 Varmint 2.0 in .223 Rem is built with a heavy barrel for enhanced accuracy and a 1:8 twist rate to stabilize a range of bullet weights (55-80 grains). It’s ideal for coyotes, groundhogs, and smaller pests at ranges up to 300 yards.
- .204 Ruger: Known for its blistering speed (up to 4,000 fps with 32-grain bullets), the .204 Ruger is a favorite for long-range varmint hunting. It’s highly accurate with minimal recoil, making it perfect for precision shooters targeting small critters like prairie dogs at 300-500 yards. APF Armory’s .204 Ruger configuration in the Varmint 2.0 AR-15 includes a match-grade barrel, ensuring sub-MOA groups.
- .243 Winchester (AR-10): For hunters tackling larger varmints like coyotes or even small deer, the .243 Winchester is a powerhouse. It can push a 58-grain bullet at over 3,400 fps, offering excellent range and stopping power. APF Armory’s AR-10 Varmint 2.0 in .243 Win is built for precision, with a 20-inch barrel and a 1:8 twist rate, making it a versatile choice for mixed varmint and game hunting.
- (Psssst.....Oh, and more calibers are coming, so stay tuned!) :)
- Precision Craftsmanship: APF Armory builds their rifles with match-grade barrels and high-quality components, ensuring sub-MOA accuracy right out of the box. Their attention to detail makes the Varmint 2.0 a favorite among precision shooters.
- Customization Options: Whether you choose an AR-15 or AR-10, APF offers configurations like adjustable gas blocks, M-LOK handguards, and various stock options to tailor the rifle to your hunting style.
- Innovative Calibers: The inclusion of the .22 ARC alongside proven options like .223 Rem and .204 Ruger shows APF’s commitment to cutting-edge performance. The .22 ARC, in particular, is a game-changer for AR-15 varmint hunters looking for bolt-action-like ballistics in a semi-auto platform.
- Affordability Without Compromise: APF Armory delivers premium performance at a price that competes with budget brands like Palmetto State Armory, but with superior quality control and craftsmanship. You’re getting a rifle that’s ready for the field without breaking the bank.
- Proven Reliability: Hunters on forums like Sniper’s Hide praise APF’s builds for their reliability and accuracy, with many reporting consistent performance in demanding conditions.
To give you a balanced perspective, let’s compare APF Armory’s Varmint 2.0 to other top contenders:
Ready to elevate your varmint hunting game? START HERE to explore the Varmint 2.0 in both the AR15 and AR10 platforms. Pick your rifle, pair it with a quality optic, and hit the field with confidence. Your next trophy varmint is waiting!
-Team APF Armory
- Daniel Defense DDM4 V7: Known for its integrated design and flash hider, this AR-15 is excellent for night hunting coyotes. However, it’s pricier than APF’s offerings and lacks our caliber options.
- Springfield Armory Saint: A solid, budget-friendly AR-15 with great modularity, but its standard configurations don’t match the Varmint 2.0’s precision-focused features like precision barrels or specialized varmint calibers.
- Rock River Arms Varmint A4: A well-regarded varmint rifle with a 20-inch barrel, it’s a strong competitor but doesn’t offer the .22 ARC, the 22-250, or the same level of customization as APF Armory.
While these rifles are excellent, APF Armory’s Varmint 2.0 edges them out with its innovative caliber options, precision engineering, world-class customer service, and lifetime warranty.
- Choose the Right Optic: A scope with 4-12x magnification is ideal for most varmint hunting scenarios. For longer ranges (400+ yards), consider a 6-18x scope. Look into thermal optics if you haven't. Technology has advanced so much with the new thermal equipment making it much more affordable and available to all night hunters (check your local laws!).
- Match Ammo to Your Caliber: Use lightweight, high-velocity bullets for small varmints (e.g., Hornady's 55-grain for the .22-250) and heavier bullets for larger ones (e.g., 90-grain for .243 Win).
- Practice Trigger Control: A smooth, consistent trigger pull is critical for hitting small targets. APF’s customizable triggers make this easier, but practice at the range to build muscle memory.
- Use a tripod: For stationary shooting, a tripod stabilizes your rifle, improving accuracy on distant targets. There are a myriad of options out there. Pick one based on weight and stability for your chosen environment.
- Check Local Regulations: Ensure your chosen caliber and rifle configuration comply with local hunting laws, as some states restrict .223 for certain game.
Ready to elevate your varmint hunting game? START HERE to explore the Varmint 2.0 in both the AR15 and AR10 platforms. Pick your rifle, pair it with a quality optic, and hit the field with confidence. Your next trophy varmint is waiting!
-Team APF Armory