Hunting rifles have come a long way, with each one offering something special. Some have earned their reputation through decades of reliability, while others have pushed the limits of accuracy and performance. Whether it’s a timeless classic or a cutting-edge design, these rifles have made their mark in the hunting world.
Ruger Mini-14
The Ruger Mini-14 has been around since the early ‘70s, and it’s still a favorite among ranchers, hunters, and security forces worldwide. Built with an action inspired by the M1 Garand, this rifle is compact, lightweight, and dead simple to use. Whether it’s bouncing around in a truck or slung over your shoulder in the backcountry, it’s a gun you can count on.
Recent models have improved accuracy, and built-in scope mounts make customization easy. Chambered in .223, it’s great for varmints, predators, and even home defense. The Mini-14 is one of those rifles that just works—no fuss, no drama.
CZ 550 Safari Magnum
If you’re after something that can stop a charging buffalo or elephant, the CZ 550 Safari Magnum is the rifle for the job. It’s built on a true magnum-length Mauser ‘98 action, meaning it’s as tough as they come. Chambered in beastly calibers like .375 H&H and .505 Gibbs, it’s made for the most dangerous hunts.
Despite its heavy-hitting capabilities, it’s surprisingly affordable compared to other dangerous game rifles. That’s why professional guides and serious hunters have trusted it for years. If Africa is on your bucket list, this rifle should be, too.
Traditions NitroFire
Traditions shook up the muzzleloading world with the NitroFire. Instead of measuring out loose powder or fumbling with pellets, it uses Federal’s Firestick—a pre-loaded, sealed charge that loads through the breech. That means faster, cleaner, and safer reloads while still keeping things legal for muzzleloader season.
Another huge plus? At the end of the day, unloading is a breeze—just pop out the Firestick. No more wasted powder or messy discharges. For hunters who like the challenge of black powder but want modern convenience, this is the way to go.
Ruger American Rifle
Hunting rifles don’t have to be expensive to be good. The Ruger American Rifle proves that with its solid accuracy, smooth three-lug bolt, and lightweight synthetic stock. It’s budget-friendly, but that doesn’t mean it feels cheap—it’s built to handle real-world hunting conditions.
Available in just about every caliber you could want, from .223 to .30-06, there’s a version for whatever game you’re after. It might not have the flash of high-end rifles, but when it comes to putting meat in the freezer, this one gets the job done.
Springfield Waypoint
Springfield Armory isn’t exactly known for bolt guns, but they knocked it out of the park with the Waypoint. This rifle is built with serious hunters in mind, featuring a carbon-fiber stock and a carbon-sleeved steel barrel for lightweight durability. It’s accurate, too—Springfield guarantees .75 MOA, but many shooters report groups closer to .25 MOA.
It’s based on a Remington 700 footprint, so finding accessories and upgrades is easy. Whether you’re taking long-range shots in open country or trekking through tough terrain, the Waypoint is a rifle that delivers.
CVA Paramount Pro
Muzzleloaders aren’t what they used to be, and the CVA Paramount Pro proves it. This rifle pushes blackpowder hunting into the long-range game, hitting speeds over 2200 FPS with specially designed PowerBelt ELR bullets. It’s built around a Bergara stainless steel barrel with a Nitride finish, meaning it’s as durable as it is accurate.
The VariFlame Breech Plug uses large rifle primers for hotter, more consistent ignition, which is a game-changer for “super-magnum” powder loads. If you’re looking to extend your effective range during muzzleloader season, this rifle will get you there.
Sako 75
Sako has always built high-quality rifles, and the Sako 75 is one of their finest. Designed to celebrate the company’s 75th anniversary, it features a smooth three-lug bolt, a detachable magazine, and rock-solid accuracy. This rifle set the standard for modern Sako hunting rifles.
Available in calibers from .222 to .416, it’s got something for everyone, whether you’re after whitetail or dangerous game. The stock is pure old-school beauty—no synthetics here, just high-quality wood and a level of finish that makes it a favorite among serious hunters.
Rigby Highland Stalker
Rigby’s Highland Stalker is pure hunting tradition. Built to resemble early 20th-century British rifles, it’s got a slim, elegant Grade 5 walnut stock with a rounded pistol grip. It runs a Mauser 98 action, modernized just enough to accommodate optics without losing that classic look.
Chambered in various calibers, the .275 Rigby is the standout option, staying true to the rifle’s roots. Its hammer-forged barrel comes with traditional iron sights set for 65, 150, and 250 yards—because sometimes, simple is best. If you want a rifle that looks as good as it shoots, this one delivers.
Dakota Model 76
The Dakota Model 76 is what happens when a perfectionist builds a hunting rifle. Don Allen, an airline pilot obsessed with guns, took the legendary Pre-64 Winchester Model 70 and improved it. Instead of cast or forged parts, the action is machined from bar stock, making it incredibly strong and precise.
With stunning walnut stocks and near-perfect fit and finish, this rifle competes with high-end custom builds. It’s not cheap, but for hunters who want a rifle that looks, feels, and shoots like a masterpiece, the Dakota 76 is hard to beat.
Weatherby Mark V Backcountry Ti
If you need a rifle that won’t weigh you down on long hunts, the Weatherby Mark V Backcountry Ti is tough to beat. Built with titanium, carbon fiber, and stainless steel, it stays under 5 pounds—perfect for mountain hunts where every ounce matters. Chambered for hard-hitting rounds like the 6.5 Wby RPM and .280 Ackley Improved, it delivers serious performance without unnecessary bulk.
It’s not just light—it’s precise. Weatherby guarantees sub-MOA accuracy, and the rifle comes with a smooth 54-degree bolt lift and a crisp TriggerTech trigger. The Cerakote finish keeps it protected in nasty weather, so you can focus on the hunt, not your gear.
Ruger Precision Rifle
When Ruger released the Precision Rifle in 2015, it changed the game for long-range shooters. With an adjustable chassis, vertical grip, and free-floated handguard, it feels more like an AR than a traditional bolt gun. The pre-fit barrel system makes caliber swaps easy, so you can fine-tune your setup without needing a gunsmith.
Available in everything from 5.56×45 to .338 Lapua Magnum, this rifle works for both precision target shooting and big-game hunting. The Gen 2 upgrades made it even better, proving that Ruger wasn’t just jumping on a trend—they were building something that lasts.
Blaser R93
The Blaser R93 isn’t your average hunting rifle. With its straight-pull bolt action, you can cycle rounds faster than a traditional turn-bolt, making it a great choice for moving targets. But what really sets it apart is its modularity—you can swap barrels and calibers in minutes, going from .22 LR to .500 Jeffrey with ease.
For hunters who travel, the R93 is a dream. It breaks down into a compact case, making it easy to transport without sacrificing accuracy. Though Blaser’s newer R8 has taken the spotlight, the R93 still has a loyal following—and for good reason.
Remington Model Seven
If you’re hunting in thick brush or from a tree stand, you don’t want a rifle that feels like a boat oar. That’s where the Remington Model Seven shines. It’s a scaled-down version of the legendary Model 700, but with a shorter barrel and a more compact action, making it easier to carry and quicker to shoulder.
Calibers like .260 Rem, 6.5 Creedmoor, and 7mm-08 make it an ideal deer rifle, offering excellent performance without punishing recoil. It’s light, reliable, and easy to maneuver—exactly what you want when the perfect shot appears out of nowhere.
Henry Rimfire Lever Action
Few rifles are as fun, reliable, and downright timeless as the Henry Rimfire Lever Action. Made in the USA with high-quality craftsmanship, this rifle is a staple for both new shooters and seasoned hunters. Whether you’re teaching a kid how to shoot or knocking down small game, it handles smoothly and feels just right in your hands.
With over a million sold, there’s a reason it’s so popular. The walnut stock, blued steel, and slick lever action make it as enjoyable to shoot as it is to look at. If you don’t have one yet, you’re missing out.
Bergara B-14
The Bergara B-14 may remind you of the Remington 700, but it’s got some serious upgrades. Built in Spain with top-tier barrels, it’s one of the most accurate hunting rifles in its class. The extractor and bolt release are smoother than the old M700, and Bergara guarantees sub-MOA accuracy right out of the box.
With options from lightweight hunting models to competition-ready builds, there’s a B-14 for just about any shooter. The Ridge model, with its threaded muzzle and solid composite stock, is a favorite for hunters who want performance without breaking the bank.
Browning X-Bolt
If you want a rifle that’s ready to hunt the second you pull it out of the case, the Browning X-Bolt is a top choice. The ergonomics are excellent, the weight is well-balanced, and the accuracy rivals some custom builds. No gimmicks—just a reliable rifle that delivers.
With models ranging from ultralight carbon-stocked versions to heavy-barreled long-range setups, there’s an X-Bolt for every hunting style. The adjustable trigger is crisp, the action is smooth, and it’s built to withstand harsh conditions. If you take your hunting seriously, this rifle won’t let you down.
Tikka T3x
Tikka rifles have always been underrated, but those who own a T3x know just how good they are. The action is buttery smooth, the accuracy is outstanding, and it doesn’t cost nearly as much as some of the rifles it competes with. Finland’s biathlon team chose it for a reason—it’s lightweight, tough, and incredibly consistent.
Hunters love the T3x for its reliability in the field, and competitive shooters appreciate its precision. Whether you’re hiking up a mountain or dialing in shots at the range, this rifle gets the job done. No frills, no nonsense—just pure performance.
CZ Model 527
Some rifles just feel right the moment you shoulder them, and the CZ Model 527 is one of those. Its micro-Mauser action is smooth and reliable, and the compact, lightweight design makes it easy to carry all day. Whether you’re stalking small game or setting up for a precise shot, this rifle is built to perform.
One of its biggest draws is caliber variety. You don’t see many bolt guns chambered in .17 Hornet or 7.62×39, but the 527 pulls it off beautifully. If you want something classic yet versatile, this rifle is a solid pick.
Mossberg 464
Mossberg took a tried-and-true lever-action design and gave it some smart updates with the 464. It’s got the familiar feel of a Winchester 1894 but adds a tang safety and side ejection, making it more adaptable to modern hunters. The option for either a straight or pistol-grip stock is a nice touch, too.
For those who like a tactical edge, the SPX version takes things up a notch with a six-position stock, Picatinny rail, and threaded barrel. Whether you prefer a traditional wood-and-steel look or something more modern, this rifle has you covered.
Kimber 84L
Hunting in the mountains? You need a rifle that won’t wear you out. At just over 5 pounds, the Kimber 84L is one of the lightest full-size bolt guns around, but don’t let its weight fool you—it’s a serious hunting rifle. The controlled-feed action, inspired by the legendary Mauser 98, keeps everything running smoothly, even in rough conditions.
Available in .270 Win., .30-06, and .280 Ackley Improved, it’s chambered for rounds that get the job done on big game. The stainless steel and carbon fiber build mean it’ll hold up in tough environments, whether you’re deep in grizzly country or climbing high-altitude ridges.
Winchester Model 70 Classic
Some rifles come and go, but the Winchester Model 70 has stood the test of time. It’s been through a few changes over the years, but since 1992, it’s back to its roots with controlled-round feed and that smooth Mauser-style extractor that serious hunters love.
Made by F.N. Herstal since 2007, today’s Model 70 is arguably the best it’s ever been. Whether you go for the Featherweight, a stainless steel version, or a left-handed model, you’re getting a rifle that’s built to last. If you appreciate quality and history, this one belongs in your safe.
*This article was created with the assistance of AI.
