When you’re miles deep in the backcountry, you don’t want to haul around a bulky firearm that slows you down. Compact guns shine in these situations, giving you the accuracy and power you need without weighing down your pack. Whether you’re chasing deer, bear, or smaller game, these rifles and pistols keep performance high while staying portable enough for rugged terrain. The best models balance size, reliability, and versatility — making them trusted tools for hunters who go where the roads end.
Ruger American Ranch (Compact)
The Ruger American Ranch in compact configurations delivers excellent accuracy without adding bulk. Chambered in practical calibers like .300 Blackout, 6.5 Grendel, and .350 Legend, it’s versatile enough for deer and hog hunting while staying easy to carry.
Its shorter barrel makes it maneuverable through thick brush and tight timber, while the adjustable trigger lets you dial in precision for longer shots. Ruger built it to handle rough use in the field, making it a dependable option for backcountry hunters who want performance in a smaller, lighter package.
Savage 110 Ultralite
If you’re covering steep country, the Savage 110 Ultralite is hard to beat. Built with a Proof Research carbon-fiber-wrapped barrel, it sheds weight without compromising accuracy or durability, making it a natural fit for deep-woods hunts.
Available in several backcountry-friendly calibers, including 6.5 Creedmoor and .280 Ackley Improved, it balances precision and packability better than most rifles in its class. Combined with Savage’s adjustable AccuFit stock and clean-breaking AccuTrigger, this setup lets you customize the fit while keeping your shots consistent no matter where the hunt takes you.
Tikka T3x Lite Compact
The Tikka T3x Lite Compact has earned a reputation for excellent accuracy and smooth cycling in a smaller package. With shorter barrel lengths, it’s easier to handle in tight cover while still performing at extended ranges when needed.
The rifle is offered in several popular hunting calibers, making it suitable for everything from mule deer to pronghorn. Its adjustable length of pull ensures a comfortable fit, and at under seven pounds, you’ll appreciate how easy it is to carry when long climbs and rough terrain demand lighter gear.
Browning X-Bolt Micro Midas
The Browning X-Bolt Micro Midas is a compact, lightweight rifle built for hunters who spend long days off-grid. Designed with a shorter length of pull and reduced barrel length, it offers excellent maneuverability without giving up accuracy.
Available in efficient calibers like 7mm-08, .308, and 6.5 Creedmoor, it’s versatile enough to handle different backcountry hunts. Browning’s adjustable Feather Trigger gives you a crisp, predictable pull, and the rifle’s balance makes it quick to shoulder when game steps out suddenly in tight country.
Christensen Arms Mesa FFT
The Christensen Arms Mesa FFT uses cutting-edge materials to deliver a lightweight rifle perfect for remote hunts. Its carbon-fiber stock and stainless steel barrel reduce weight without sacrificing the precision Christensen rifles are known for.
Offered in calibers like .308 Winchester and 6.5 PRC, the Mesa FFT handles anything from whitetail to elk while staying under six pounds. It’s a great option if you’re trekking into steep, rocky terrain where every ounce matters and you still need a rifle capable of consistent accuracy at longer distances.
Mossberg Patriot Predator Compact
The Mossberg Patriot Predator Compact is a solid option when you need a reliable, affordable rifle that won’t slow you down. With its shorter barrel and lighter build, it performs well in tight terrain while maintaining accuracy for mid-range shots.
Chambered in calibers like .243 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, and .350 Legend, it’s versatile enough to handle various backcountry game. The rifle’s adjustable trigger and soft recoil pad make it comfortable to shoot, while its practical design ensures you’re getting dependable performance without adding extra weight to your pack.
Bergara B-14 Ridge Wilderness Compact
The Bergara B-14 Ridge Wilderness Compact offers the precision Bergara is known for but trims down the weight and size for backcountry hunting. Its shorter barrel and reduced overall length make it easier to maneuver when you’re navigating dense timber or rugged trails.
Chambered in popular hunting calibers like 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Winchester, and .300 Win Mag, it gives you plenty of stopping power without sacrificing portability. Paired with Bergara’s crisp trigger and smooth action, this rifle delivers dependable accuracy when you need it most deep in the backcountry.
Henry Long Ranger Express
If you want lever-action versatility in a compact package, the Henry Long Ranger Express is worth considering. Chambered in calibers like .223 Remington and .243 Winchester, it provides fast follow-up shots and smooth handling for quick encounters in tight brush.
Its detachable magazine and solid accuracy make it an excellent crossover rifle for both small and medium game hunts. The lightweight design and compact profile make it easier to carry across long miles, giving you performance without adding unnecessary bulk to your backcountry loadout.
Springfield Armory Saint Victor Pistol
For hunters who prefer an AR-platform option in the backcountry, the Springfield Saint Victor Pistol delivers a compact setup without sacrificing capability. Chambered in .223/5.56 or .300 Blackout, it’s well-suited for predators, hogs, and small- to mid-sized game.
The shorter barrel makes it easy to maneuver through heavy cover, and its lightweight build helps reduce fatigue on long hikes. With the right optic, you get both fast target acquisition and reliable accuracy, making the Saint Victor Pistol a practical, packable option for backcountry pursuits.
Winchester XPR Compact
The Winchester XPR Compact is built for hunters who want a straightforward, accurate, and easy-to-carry rifle without breaking the bank. Its shorter overall length improves maneuverability in rugged country while keeping the rifle balanced and comfortable to shoot.
Available in calibers like .308 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, and .270 Winchester, it’s versatile enough for various game species. Combined with Winchester’s adjustable trigger and smooth bolt action, this rifle brings plenty of performance into a smaller, lighter package designed specifically for backcountry hunters.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
