Originally Posted by
Bigghoss
OP, in case you're still wondering, the only caveat about Colorado is the 15-round magazine limit. So if it's legal in CA it's legal here.
My ideal CA semi-auto would be an unconverted SAIGA. They run about what a Mini-14/30 would cost, maybe a bit less (especially the 5.56), the SGM mags work and are available in 5-30 rounds, there are enhanced safeties that should work well with the Saiga import stocks, and the Magpul Zhukov forends are perfect for them. I'm keeping my eyes out for a 5.56 to set up like this for visiting family near LA metro.
My second choice would probably be an SCR (in .300 for your use) but good luck getting an unthreaded muzzle. A close 3rd would be a Mini-30, M1A, or M1 Garand but I'm not crazy about the safeties on them.
I had some SKS', the safety makes me nervous and there's no good way to attach anything. I sold them off.
Honestly I'd just get a .30-30 or .357 lever action and call it good enough.