Heavy .30 caliber bullets in an AR-15 are a good match for short-range hog and deer work. The Diamondback Carbon DB15 in .300 AAC Blackout has a 16 inch barrel, a 30-round magazine, a Keymod handguard and an FDE and black finish.

The .300 Blackout gives you more energy at short distance than 5.56, with the same lower and magazine well. A 16 inch barrel is a classic carbine length that balances well. In the thick brush of the coastal plain and the mountain hollows, shots tend to be close, and a rifle like this is quick to point. Wipe it down after wet weather and store it dry, because North Carolina humidity is hard on steel.

Keymod slots let you mount lights and grips, and the carbon-style handguard keeps weight down. Diamondback builds ARs for people who want a solid rifle without paying top dollar. FDE helps it stand out in the field.

Mark your magazines clearly. 5.56 and .300 Blackout magazines look alike, and mixing ammunition can cause problems. Check county rules on rifle deer hunting. It ships to a North Carolina FFL dealer, where the background check is completed.