The concept of a scout rifle has always been about versatility. You want a rifle that’s compact enough to carry all day, quick to shoulder in thick brush, and accurate enough to reach across an open field when the shot presents itself. For predator control, speed and maneuverability matter most. For deer hunts, clean energy and reliability take priority. The rifles below manage to cover both roles well, offering a balance of portability, accuracy, and real-world practicality in the field.
Ruger Gunsite Scout
The Ruger Gunsite Scout is one of the most recognizable rifles in the scout category. Chambered in .308 Winchester and a few other options, it balances accuracy with rugged build quality. Its short barrel makes it maneuverable, while the controlled-round feed action ensures reliable cycling.
You’ll appreciate its detachable box magazine and forward-mounted optics rail, which keeps your sight picture fast and open. Whether you’re calling coyotes or slipping into a deer stand, the Gunsite Scout delivers quick handling and consistent performance.
Steyr Scout
The Steyr Scout is the original design that set the standard. Built with a lightweight synthetic stock and integrated bipod, it offers versatility that few rifles match. Chambered in .308, it has the right mix of power and control for predators and medium game.
Its forward optic rail supports long eye relief scopes, giving you faster target acquisition. Hunters who spend long days in varied terrain value its portability and accuracy. It’s expensive, but the performance and handling make it a trusted all-purpose hunting companion.
Savage 110 Scout
Savage’s 110 Scout offers hunters a budget-friendly option without cutting corners on performance. It comes with the AccuTrigger system, which allows you to fine-tune the pull for precision shots. Chambered in calibers like .308, it gives you versatility across different hunting needs.
The adjustable length of pull makes it adaptable to different shooters or conditions. Its shorter barrel makes it responsive in tight cover, while still carrying enough energy to ethically take deer. For predator calling sessions and deer hunts alike, it’s a reliable rifle.
Mossberg MVP Scout
The Mossberg MVP Scout stands out with its ability to accept AR-style magazines, giving you higher capacity options when dealing with multiple predators. Chambered in .308, it offers enough punch for deer hunting without being overkill.
The rifle also features a threaded barrel, making it suppressor-friendly. Its rail system supports both conventional and scout scopes, offering flexibility for different styles of hunting. If you want a rifle that transitions smoothly between predator work and deer stands, this one checks the boxes.
Springfield Armory M1A Scout Squad
The M1A Scout Squad takes a semi-auto approach to the scout rifle concept. Chambered in .308, it delivers rapid follow-up shots when predator hunting, while still offering the precision needed for deer hunting inside typical ranges.
Its 18-inch barrel keeps it compact without losing too much velocity. While heavier than bolt-action scouts, the M1A’s reliability and accuracy make it appealing to hunters who want one rifle that does it all. It’s especially useful when covering more open terrain.
Howa Scout
The Howa Scout rifle provides a solid middle ground for hunters who want affordability and dependability. It comes in practical chamberings like .308 Winchester and features a short barrel for maneuverability. Its synthetic stock keeps weight down, making it easy to carry all day.
With a detachable magazine and a forward rail for optics, it hits the key traits of a scout setup. Hunters value its smooth action and crisp trigger, which help when quick, accurate shots are needed in predator or deer hunting scenarios.
Ruger American Ranch
The Ruger American Ranch isn’t always labeled as a scout rifle, but its design fits the bill. Chambered in options like .223 and .450 Bushmaster, it covers everything from predator control to deer-sized game effectively. Its compact size and lightweight build make it easy to handle.
The threaded barrel allows for suppressor use, and its rotary magazine feeds reliably. Hunters appreciate its accuracy and affordability, making it an excellent choice for those who want a practical rifle that performs across multiple hunting applications.
CZ 527 Carbine
The CZ 527 Carbine, particularly in .223 or 7.62×39, is a lightweight, handy rifle ideal for predator hunts and close-range deer. Its compact action and smooth cycling make it quick to shoulder and fire when seconds count.
While not as powerful as some .308-based scouts, it excels in situations where mobility and fast handling matter most. The iron sights and ability to mount optics give it versatility. For hunters who want a rifle that feels light but delivers consistent results, the CZ 527 is a strong choice.
Browning BLR Lightweight Scout
The Browning BLR Scout offers something different with its lever-action design. Chambered in .308, it combines traditional handling with modern performance. Its detachable magazine allows you to use pointed bullets, improving ballistic efficiency.
The short barrel and light build make it well-suited for both tight timber hunts and predator stands. Hunters who prefer lever-actions appreciate the BLR for its blend of speed, accuracy, and cartridge options, making it a versatile scout-style rifle for multiple hunting roles.
Marlin 1895 Guide Gun
The Marlin 1895 Guide Gun might not fit the scout rifle mold perfectly, but in practice, it performs well in the role. Chambered in .45-70 Government, it hits hard on deer and can handle predators without issue.
Its short barrel and lever-action handling make it quick in close quarters, and the .45-70’s energy ensures ethical kills even in dense cover. While heavier recoiling than typical scouts, its reliability and power make it a solid crossover choice for hunters who want strength and versatility.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
