What is the best hunting rifle
Jon Bean Sep 01, 2025
The "best" hunting rifle can vary depending on your specific needs, such as the type of game you're hunting, your experience level, and personal preferences. However, I can give you a rundown of some top options based on factors like reliability, accuracy, and versatility.
1. Remington Model 700
Type: Bolt-action
Caliber options: .308 Win, .30-06 Springfield, .270 Winchester, and many others
Why it's great: The Remington 700 is one of the most popular bolt-action rifles for hunting, renowned for its accuracy, customizability, and availability of parts. It has a solid reputation for precision, making it a top choice for hunters who need a reliable rifle for everything from deer to elk.
2. Tikka T3x
Type: Bolt-action
Caliber options: .308 Win, .270 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor, etc.
Why it's great: The Tikka T3x offers outstanding out-of-the-box accuracy and a smooth, easy-to-use action. It's a bit more modern and comes with a great reputation for reliability in various conditions. Many hunters love the fit and finish as well.
3. Savage 110
Type: Bolt-action
Caliber options: .308 Win, .30-06 Springfield, 6.5 Creedmoor, and others
Why it's great: Savage rifles are known for their accuracy at an affordable price. The AccuTrigger system is a standout feature, allowing hunters to adjust the trigger pull to their preference. This rifle is known for its solid construction and affordable pricing.
4. Browning X-Bolt
Type: Bolt-action
Caliber options: .30-06, .270 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, etc.
Why it's great: The X-Bolt is known for its accuracy, smooth action, and durability. It also has a well-designed ergonomic stock and a superior trigger. It's often favored by hunters who want a high-quality rifle with minimal recoil.
5. Weatherby Vanguard
Type: Bolt-action
Caliber options: .243 Winchester, .308 Win, .30-06 Springfield, 7mm Rem Mag
Why it's great: Known for its excellent accuracy and smooth action, the Vanguard is another solid choice for hunters. It also comes with a sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) guarantee, which is pretty impressive for its price range.
6. Ruger American
Type: Bolt-action
Caliber options: .308 Win, .30-06 Springfield, .223 Rem, and more
Why it's great: This is one of the more affordable options without sacrificing performance. It's a great entry-level rifle, known for being lightweight and easy to handle, but still offering solid accuracy.
7. Winchester Model 70
Type: Bolt-action
Caliber options: .270 Win, .30-06 Springfield, 7mm Rem Mag, etc.
Why it's great: Known as the "Rifleman's Rifle," the Model 70 has been a favorite for decades. Its controlled round feed design ensures reliability, especially in challenging conditions. It's ideal for those who hunt big game like elk and moose.