You don’t need to drop two grand to get a rifle that’ll put rounds through the same hole. Some affordable rifles have factory barrels, actions, and triggers that punch well above their price tag. If you feed them decent ammo and put in the range time, they’ll hold tight groups all day long. The key is knowing which models have a proven track record for accuracy without requiring aftermarket upgrades right out of the box. Here are the rifles that can pull it off without draining your wallet.
Savage Axis II
The Axis II is a budget rifle with a reputation for surprising accuracy. Its factory barrel and adjustable AccuTrigger make it easy to dial in precision without spending extra on upgrades. Many shooters report sub-MOA performance with factory ammo.
It’s lightweight, cycles smoothly, and comes in a range of calibers. As long as you’re not expecting premium stock materials, it’s a reliable, affordable option that can print tight groups if you do your part behind the trigger.
Ruger American Rifle
The Ruger American is one of the most talked-about budget rifles for accuracy. The cold hammer-forged barrel and bedding system help keep shots consistent even as the barrel heats up.
It handles well, has a crisp trigger, and works in a variety of hunting and target situations. For the price, it’s tough to find another rifle that groups this well out of the box without any extra tinkering.
Thompson/Center Compass II
The Compass II offers MOA accuracy at a bargain price, helped by its factory-installed trigger that breaks clean. It’s known to perform well with a wide range of loads, making it versatile for different shooting needs.
The three-lug bolt design cycles smoothly, and the stock fits most shooters comfortably. For an entry-level rifle, the accuracy it delivers often surprises people used to spending much more.
Mossberg Patriot
The Mossberg Patriot combines a fluted barrel with a decent trigger, giving it better accuracy than most rifles in its price range. It’s offered in a variety of calibers, so you can pick one to match your purpose.
Even with its budget-friendly build, it’s capable of sub-MOA groups with the right ammo. It’s a straightforward, accurate rifle that doesn’t demand expensive upgrades to perform.
Howa 1500 Hogue
The Howa 1500 action is smooth, and paired with a free-floated barrel, it’s accurate enough to compete with rifles costing far more. The Hogue overmolded stock gives a solid grip in all weather.
It’s built to last, and shooters often report repeatable accuracy over long shooting sessions. Even at its lower price point, it’s a rifle that feels and shoots like it should cost more.
CVA Cascade
The CVA Cascade borrows design elements from proven bolt-actions but keeps the cost down. It’s threaded for a suppressor or muzzle brake and comes with a stock that’s comfortable and stable.
Accuracy is where it stands out—tight groups are common even with off-the-shelf hunting ammo. For an affordable rifle, it delivers performance that makes it worth a serious look.
Savage 110 Hunter
While it’s slightly above entry-level pricing, the Savage 110 Hunter still falls into the budget-friendly category compared to premium rifles. The AccuTrigger and AccuFit stock system help make it easy to shoot accurately.
The floating bolt head design improves consistency between shots. Many hunters pick it up for its comfort and wind up impressed by how well it groups right out of the gate.
Marlin X7
Though discontinued, the Marlin X7 is still found used at affordable prices, and it’s worth grabbing if you see one in good shape. It’s lightweight, has a smooth bolt, and delivers accuracy far above what most expect.
The Pro-Fire adjustable trigger and solid barrel design make it a reliable shooter for both hunting and range work. It’s one of those “sleeper” rifles that’s better than its price tag suggests.
Remington 783
The 783 was Remington’s answer to budget-friendly precision, and it holds its own. The button-rifled barrel and adjustable CrossFire trigger help make it accurate with factory ammo.
While the stock is basic, it’s functional, and the rifle delivers consistent shot placement without much fuss. It’s a solid choice for someone who wants accuracy without paying for higher-end Remington models.
Winchester XPR
The XPR is Winchester’s budget rifle that still manages to carry over some of the accuracy you’d expect from their pricier models. The barrel is free-floated, and the trigger is clean and predictable.
Shooters often report tight, repeatable groups without needing to swap parts. It’s an affordable way to get Winchester performance without paying Model 70 prices.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
