Sometimes the rifles with the lowest price tags end up shooting way better than expected. You grab one thinking it’ll be a simple beater gun, and it ends up grouping tighter than rifles twice the cost. I’ve been burned by expensive rifles before, but these affordable options stood out for all the right reasons. Whether it’s accuracy, reliability, or just solid value, these rifles proved you don’t always have to spend big to get something that works. Here are ten cheap rifles that genuinely surprised me.
Ruger American Rifle
I didn’t expect much from the Ruger American, but it punches above its price point. Accuracy out of the box was way better than I figured, even with factory loads. The adjustable trigger feels decent, and it cycles smoothly for a budget bolt gun. Hard to beat for the money.
Savage Axis II
The Savage Axis II surprised me with how accurate it was for such a plain-looking rifle. The AccuTrigger helps a ton, and I found it easy to get tight groups. It’s not flashy, but it shoots straight and cycles reliably. Perfect for someone who wants performance without spending big.
Mossberg Patriot
The Mossberg Patriot felt light in the hands but steady on the bench. It handled recoil well, and accuracy was plenty good enough for deer hunting. The stock isn’t fancy, but it’s comfortable enough. For the price, it’s a capable hunting rifle that doesn’t need much tweaking.
CVA Cascade
CVA’s Cascade rifle surprised me the first time I shot it. The bolt was smoother than expected, and the accuracy was consistent. It comes threaded for a suppressor, which you don’t always see on a cheaper rifle. It’s become a quiet favorite for budget-friendly big game hunting.
Thompson/Center Compass II
The Compass II is one of those rifles that people overlook, but it shoots way better than expected. The trigger is light and crisp, and the factory barrel holds groups tighter than I thought it would. For the price, it’s a very capable do-it-all bolt gun.
Rossi RS22
The RS22 is about as affordable as it gets, but it’s shockingly fun to shoot. It cycled bulk .22 LR without a hitch and stayed surprisingly accurate out to 50 yards. It’s lightweight, easy to carry, and a great little plinker for anyone on a budget.
Winchester XPR
The Winchester XPR didn’t get much hype, but it’s a solid rifle for the price. The action is smooth, the trigger is decent, and it’s got enough accuracy to be a reliable hunting rifle. I wasn’t expecting much, but it definitely earns its spot in the budget rifle crowd.
Howa 1500 Hogue
The Howa 1500 with a Hogue stock felt way more refined than its price tag suggested. It’s smooth, built tough, and shot really well right out of the box. The Hogue stock makes it comfortable to shoot in the field, and the accuracy holds up across calibers.
Remington 783
The Remington 783 had low expectations going in, but it quickly proved itself at the range. The barrel is surprisingly accurate, and the adjustable trigger isn’t bad. It’s not fancy, but it does exactly what you need a budget hunting rifle to do without any complaints.
Marlin Model 60
The old-school Marlin 60 still delivers for a bargain rimfire. It cycles great, feels smooth, and stays accurate shot after shot. For anyone looking for a cheap .22 that can hold its own, the Model 60 is hard to beat and remains a solid little rifle.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
