To Bolt or not to Bolt

Generally when people think of long range accuracy they think of a bolt action rifle, and with good reason.  They have been and still are the most accurate rifles out there.  But here's a thought that was discussed quite thoroughly between myself and a friend:  He doesn't need a bolt gun yet for accuracy shooting.

I can see the confusion on your face, and yes, I understand the scope of blaspheme of which I have just committed.  Please, before the burning at the stake, let me explain myself.  He has an AR rifle in standard .223 Remington from Rock River.  He told me it is dead accurate at 500 yards, to which I replied that I knew because I was the one doing the shooting that day.  He is also a beginner to precision shooting, as most of his experience has been of the shoot the target until it falls down type.(Nothing against that, just a different type than what is usually discussed here.)  The rifle he has still shoots better than he does, (and probably me at this point) so here is my conclusion on the matter:

It seems that the practical decision here would be to practice with the semi auto rifle until longer range or more accuracy is needed.  No new gun to buy, relatively cheap ammo compared to .308 or 30-06, and as long as he can not pull the trigger too fast, good practice.

Now don't misunderstand me.  For him it might work a while until he finds something he wants or needs something more suited to the task.  Personally, I'm going to be shooting my long heavy slow bolt of a .308.  For some, there is no substitute.

-Steven Kipp