8 Best 30-06 Rifles: American As Apple Pie
As a former Marine and avid shooter, I’ve developed a deep appreciation for the reliability and versatility of .30-06 rifles. In this best 30-06 rifles article, I’ll talk about some great options that really show what makes this type of rifle special. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just getting started, there’s a .30-06 rifle that’s right for you. Let’s take a closer look and see why these rifles have stood the test of time.

A Little History of the 30-06
The name .30-06 tells you a lot without you knowing. The .30 indicates the cartridge is a .30 caliber or 7.62mm. The 06 part comes from the fact it was first produced in 1906. Springfield was the American armory that created the cartridge for the United States. It was part of a move to smokeless powders and lighter, faster rounds with military firearms.
The .30-06 Springfield used a modern Spitzer projectile and became the service cartridge for the new Springfield M1903 service rifle. It stuck around til just after the Korean War. It’s put a lot of the enemies of democracy into the ground. The round quickly caught on with hunters and law enforcement who wanted to modernize and adopt harder-hitting cartridges in modern rifle calibers.
It achieved international success, and ever since then, it has remained fairly popular. While short-action cartridges like the .308 and 6.5 Creedmoor have become the cartridges of choice, the ole Springfield cartridge keeps ticking.
I know a bit about the cartridge, but what about the rifles? Well, that’s why you’ve come here. Let’s look at the best .30-06 rifles currently on the market. Mostly still on the market.
How I Chose the Best 30–06 Rifles
As a former marine infantryman with over a decade of experience in shooting, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of a reliable 30-06 rifle. It’s a must-have for anyone serious about their shooting, whether it’s for hunting or defense. With my knowledge and experience, I can confidently guide you to pick the right 30-06 rifle for any situation.
But I wanted this guide to be more than just my opinion. So, I reached out to my friends who are not just enthusiasts but professionals in the field of shooting. They have extensive knowledge when it comes to guns, shooting techniques, and equipment. Their collective insights, combined with my expertise, helped me to put together this comprehensive list of the best 30-06 rifles.
When compiling this list, I also considered key factors such as shootability, reliability, ergonomics, accuracy, and value, all of which can greatly influence your shooting experience and performance.
Now, I understand that choosing the right 30-06 rifle is personal and it depends on what you’re using it for. Keeping that in mind, I’ve made this list ranking the best 30-06 rifles to help you find what works best for you. In addition to this list, I’ve also included a buyer’s guide so that you know what to look for when buying a 30-06 rifle.
Gun University’s Best 30-06 Rifles
Best 30-06 Rifles
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Best 30-06 Rifles Specifications
Below is a table of the specifications for each 30-06 rifle on my list. Click the name of the rifle to jump to that review.
| Rifle | Barrel Length (in) | Overall Length (in) | Weight (lbs) | Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 24 | 43.5 | 9.5 | Semi-Auto | |
| 20 | 41.5 | 8.2 | Bolt-Action | |
| 24 | 45.5 | 9.25 | Semi-Auto | |
| 20 | 41.75 | 6.4 | Bolt-Action | |
| 22 | 43 | 7 | Lever Action | |
| 22.44 | 43.11 | 7.3 | Bolt-Action (Straight Pull) | |
| 24.3 | 44.5 | 6.3 | Bolt-Action | |
| 24 | 46 | 7.3 | Bolt-Action |
Best 30-06 Rifles
Here is our list for the best 30-06 rifles:
- M1 Garand
- CZ 600 Lux
- Great Lakes Firearms G10 LA
- Ruger American Gen 2
- Browning BLR
- Beretta BRX1
- Tikka T3x Lite
- Christensen Arms Traverse
Best 30-06 Rifles – Reviews
1 M1 Garand
M1 Garand
The iconic semi auto battle rifle of the US troops in WWII chambered in 30-06 and loaded with en bloc clips.
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M1 Garand Specs
- Barrel Length (in) 24
- Overall Length (in) 43.58
- Weight (lbs) 9.5
- Action Semi-Auto
M1 Garand Review
I’m going to start it off with what General Patton once called “the greatest battle implement ever devised.” The M1 Garand. This was the first widely successful semi-auto infantry rifle introduced into modern military forces. It served our boys through two wars and inspired worldwide change for infantry rifles. The M1 Garand series are absolutely fantastic firearms, and they are the only gun I’ll have on the list that is out of production. Bear with me; I couldn’t make this list about the best .30-06 rifles and leave it out.
The M1 Garand is a semi-automatic, gas-operated gun that feeds from an eight-round internal magazine that’s fed with En-Bloc clips. It’s simple but quite robust and durable, with surprising accuracy from an early semi-auto rifle. The M1 Garand certainly has its quirks but it’s still a very nice rifle, and one everyone should experience at least one time.
The M1 Garand offers you an outstanding option with a crazy historical value to it. They are still available from the CMP, if you don’t mind the hassle of joining. The M1 Garand is a fighting rifle, and you feel it by just picking one up. It’s heavy, it’s large, and it packs a bayonet lug, a 24-inch barrel, and weighs a hefty 9.5 pounds. This makes it a little impractical, but still, it deserves the top spot on my list.
M1 Garand Deals
2 CZ 600 Lux
CZ 600 Lux
A Safari style bolt action rifle with iron sights, threaded barrel and a detachable magazine that can be locked into place.
- Shootability A
- Reliability A
- Ergonomics A
- Accuracy A+
- Value B
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A
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A+
Based on 4 Reviews
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CZ 600 Lux Specs
- Barrel Length (in) 20
- Overall Length (in) 41.5
- Weight (lbs) 8.2
- Action Bolt-Action
CZ 600 Lux Review
I have no idea who said it first, but the phrase, “CZ, come for the handguns, but stay for the rifles.” is very true. The new CZ 600 series has taken over their bolt-action rifle series, and it’s produced in seemingly endless configurations and calibers, including the .30-06. The Lux model, in particular, is a beautiful rifle and an outstanding option, and maybe my personal favorite of all time.
The Lux takes the classic safari-style rifle and makes it in no safari cartridges. As a safari-style rifle, it does come with a set of open iron sights to back up its scope mount. Mount the optic high enough and with the right rings, and you can still use the irons for close-range shots. To make it more than just a solid gun, the beautiful wood with its rich stain is wonderful to see. It’s also heavily textured in the areas that matter for a good grip.
The CZ 600 Lux series features a beautiful trigger and an ultra-smooth bolt. It pushes those big .30-06 pills into the chamber without minimal resistance, and it’s nearly effortless. It also has a sub-MOA guarantee, which is an impressive promise. For all this wood, good looks, and accuracy, you’ll have to deal with an 8.2-pound rifle.
Despite its slightly heavier weight, the overall package presented by the CZ 600 Lux makes it a compelling option, securing the second spot on my list.
CZ 600 Lux Deals
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$801.54
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$928.99
3 Great Lakes Firearms G10 LA
Great Lakes Firearms G10 LA
An AR-10 style rifle chambered in 30-06 Springfield
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Great Lakes Firearms G10 LA Specs
- Barrel Length (in) 24
- Overall Length (in) 45.50
- Weight (lbs) 9.25
- Action Semi-Auto
Great Lakes Firearms G10 LA Review
Great Lakes Firearms is a semi-custom house willing to get a little weird with AR design. Their take on the AR-10 involves the most American cartridge, the .30-06. These semi-custom rifles use what Great Lakes describes as a long action in an AR-10. These rifles give you the AR ergonomics, accuracy, modularity, and ease of use, but now in .30-06.
What captured my attention was that these .30-06 AR-10s aren’t massive, heavy rifles. They weigh 9.25 pounds, but that’s not nearly as heavy as I expected. The AR platform does lend itself to a lightweight, balanced design, and that’s the case here. Depending on your optic, the weight can get up there, but it’s still not terrible.
The gun uses a 24-inch stainless steel barrel to maximize that big .30 caliber round’s velocity. A short-barrel .30-06 isn’t going to give you .30-06 performance. The 20-inch handguard gives you plenty of space to grip, and it’s easy to add a bipod, which is nearly necessary to take advantage of the .30-06’s long-range capability.
While other .30-06 AR-10s exist, this is the first I’ve seen that sticks to the AR-10 design. It’s not a side charger; it uses a D.I. system and standard controls. The BCG is custom, and so is the magazine, but at its heart, it’s all AR. The Great Lakes Firearm AR-10 does use AR-10-compatible lower parts, so swapping out the safety and trigger isn’t a big deal.
Typically, you’d expect a killer price, but at about a thousand bucks, this .30-06 AR isn’t breaking the bank too bad. A proprietary magazine is necessary, and with that comes problems with proprietary magazines. It’s topped out at five rounds, and extra mags are 90 dollars and aren’t always available. That’s the big downside to this gun.
Great Lakes Firearms G10 LA Deals
4 Ruger American Rifle Gen 2
Ruger American Rifle Gen 2
The Second Generation of the Ruger American rifle takes it’s spot as one of the best budget bolt guns out there.
- Shootability A
- Ergonomics A
- Accuracy A+
- Value A+
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A+
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Based on 7 Reviews
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Ruger American Gen 2 Specs
- Barrel Length (in) 20
- Overall Length (in) 41.75
- Weight (lbs) 6.4
- Action Bolt-Action
Ruger American Gen 2 Review
The Ruger American series hit the market with an affordable bolt-action rifle that offered a no-fuss, simpel rifle well suited for North American hunting. A few years back, Ruger decided the American series could use a facelift and introduced the Gen 2, which somehow packed more features into a budget-priced rifle. The Gen 2 also embraced the .30-06, and the American Gen 2 Standard is where you’ll find this American warhorse.
The Gen 2 series offers many excellent features. One of my favorites is the ability to easily change the length of pull from 12 to 13.75 inches. This makes the rifle well-suited for shooters of nearly every size. The rifle also comes with a removable and replaceable comb so you can adjust your cheekrest to match your scope height.
As we move up to the barrel, we see a cold-hammer-forged barrel with a medium contour and several spiral flutes. The flutes reduce weight and keep the rifle well-balanced and easy to carry all day long. The end of the barrel is threaded, and it comes with a radial port muzzle break, but it begs for a suppressor.
The Ruger Marksman adjustable trigger tops things off for digging into that precision we expect from bolt guns. The two things that impressed me most about shooting the American Gen 2 in .30-06 were the awesome accuracy and the effectiveness of the recoil pad and brake. Ruger made a pure tack driver that somehow doesn’t beat the hell out of you when shooting.
I also loved the little things Ruger did to make this an attractive rifle. The 70-degree bolt throw, the cerakote finish, the built-in optic rail, and the sling-ready design are all little touches that make the American Gen 2 a fantastic rifle. My big complaint is that the bolt movement often seems stiff and creates this weird sound that’s a bit annoying..
Ruger American Gen 2 Deals
5 Browning BLR
- Shootability B+
- Reliability A+
- Ergonomics C+
- Accuracy A-
- Value A
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A-
Reader’s Grade
B-
Based on 3 Reviews
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Browning BLR 3 Specs
- Barrel Length (in) 22
- Overall Length (in) 43
- Weight (lbs) 7
- Action Lever Action
Browning BLR Review
Traditionally, lever-action rifles are stuck with round-nose projectiles, often larger in size but short in range. This is a limitation of the typical tube magazine used for these firearms. Browning saw what was typical and said it didn’t need to be. Thus, we got the BLR. The Browning Lever Action took some cues from the Winchester 1895 and designed a rifle that used box magazines, so spitzer-type rounds would work.
The BLR comes in both short and long actions, and when you make a long-action rifle, you have to make it in .30-06. The BLR in .30-06 provides a hard-hitting, long-range round with the benefits of a lever gun. The classic American .30-06 fits into the classic American lever gun rather nicely and provides both benefits.
Lever-action rifles tend to be faster to shoot than bolt-action rifles, but remain lighter and simpler than semi-automatic rifles. It’s well suited for close-range brush gun usage, and the .30-06 has that close-range stopping power required by a brush gun. If you break through the brush and find yourself in a clearing, the .30-06 can easily push a few hundred yards to drop a deer.
While both the .30-06 and the lever-action design are old-school Americana, the BLR features plenty of modern features. It’s easy to toss an optic on; there are take-down, lightweight, and more models. Optics aren’t necessary since the gun comes with iron sights, but the .30-06 does best with an optic.
The hammer-fired gun features an amazing trigger—smooth and light. Personally, I love the lever-action design. It’s also smooth, and while long due to the cartridge length, it’s never burdensome. The BLR has one big flaw: the price and availability. Browning seems to produce these rifles slowly, and they will always cost a bit more than a grand.
Browning BLR Deals
6 Beretta BRX1
Beretta BRX1
Beretta has entered the bolt-action rifle market with an innovative straight-pull bolt-action rifle with quick caliber conversions.
- Shootability A
- Ergonomics A+
- Accuracy A+
- Value B
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A
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B
Based on 1 Reviews
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Beretta BRX1 Specs
- Barrel Length (in) 22.44
- Overall Length (in) 43.11
- Weight (lbs) 7.3
- Action Bolt-Action (Straight Pull)
Beretta BRX1 Review
As the resident weird gun enthusiast, I have a certain fondness for straight-pull bolt guns. I’m a big fan of the Savage Impulse, but I’m a bigger fan of the Beretta BRX1. The Beretta BRX1 is an Italian take on the straight-pull bolt-action design. Beretta produces the BRX1 in numerous calibers, including the long-action, long-range, and hard-hitting .30-06.
A straight pull bolt is exactly what it sounds like. The bolt moves backward and then forward in a straight line. It doesn’t do the up, back, forward, down dance. Straight pull bolts are quicker than regular bolts and offer the advantages and accuracy of a bolt-action rifle. Why not get a semi-auto? The usual reasons are size, weight, and complication, especially with the long .30-06 cartridge.
That’s not a problem with the BRX1. It keeps things simple, reliable, and accurate. It does offer a fairly rapid follow-up shot if needed. The BRX1 features all the Italian refinement you could ever want. It features an integrated optics rail, a removable box magazine, a massive ambidextrous safety, and a huge bolt handle. One of my favorite features is that you can reverse the bolt handle for left-handed use without any tools or much effort.
Another neat feature is the ability to swap calibers. The BRX1 was built on the idea of easily changing the barrel and bolt to accommodate a half dozen different calibers. This includes rounds as light as the .243 Winchester and up to the .300 Win Mag. Conversion kits cost a pretty penny, but they’re likely to appeal to shooters in different countries or in states with strict firearm laws.
Accuracy is absolutely fantastic. It’s a 1 MOA gun with the right ammo. The recoil isn’t as stiff as I expected, and that’s likely due to the rifle’s weight. It’s hefty, and most straight-pull bolt guns are on the heavier side. Weight sucks for hunting but is valuable for shooting. That’s not a big problem, but the BRX-1 price point can suck. It’s an expensive gun.
Beretta BRX1 Deals
7 Tikka T3x Lite
Tikka T3x Lite
Made in Finland and imported by Beretta USA, the Tikka T3x Lite is one of the best imports you can buy.
- Shootability A-
- Reliability A+
- Ergonomics B-
- Accuracy A
- Value A
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A-
Reader’s Grade
A
Based on 7 Reviews
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Tikka T3x Lite Specs
- Barrel Length (in) 24.3
- Overall Length (in) 44.5
- Weight (lbs) 6.3
- Action Bolt-Action
Tikka T3x Lite Review
Leave it to the Finnish to create a stellar rifle company that comes sneaking into the United States, planting a flag, and taking one of our favorite cartridges for a spin. At this point, the Tikka T3 has become an, if you know, you know, type of rifle. They are well known for their quality, accuracy, reliability, and general overall excellence. The newer T3X Lite just makes what was already great a little better.
At a trim 6.6 pounds, the rifle is exceedingly light for a .30-06. The fluted barrel certainly helps with that weight, as does the lightweight synthetic stock. The barrel is 22.4 inches long, so it’s no carbine by any standard. Several of the models also feature muzzle devices to help contain recoil and reduce muzzle rise. The T3X series features a modular stock with variable pistol grips and forend sizes as well.
Of course, you’re also getting are also one of the most accurate rifles. The Tikka T3X will stack rounds on top of each other repeatedly. It only took me a few hundred rounds to realize how crazy accurate this rifle is, and the trigger was brilliant too. With Tikka’s two-lug bolt system, you get a 70-degree bolt lift which helps you cycle rounds faster. Now, this gives you an edge in situations requiring rapid follow-up shots. Also, the bolt is smooth and easy to manipulate rapidly, and the redesigned ejection port takes reliability to the next level. Just shy of the last place on my list, the Tikka T3X Lite offers impressive quality and design at a price that matches its value.
Tikka T3x Lite Deals
8 Christensen Arms Traverse
Christensen Arms Traverse
A lightweight bolt action rifle featuring a carbon fiber Monte-Carlo style stock and Christensen’s carbon fiber wrapped stainless steel barrel.
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Christensen Arms Traverse Specs
- Barrel Length (in) 24
- Overall Length (in) 46
- Weight (lbs) 7.3
- Action Bolt-Action
Christensen Arms Traverse Review
If price isn’t a big concern, but weight is, the Christensen Arms Traverse is for you. This long action .30-06 weighs only 7.3 pounds and chambers the mighty .30-06. The Traverse cuts weight by utilizing a .416R stainless steel barrel that’s wrapped with carbon fiber. The first time I grabbed one, I was absolutely thrown off. The rifle is balanced toward the rear, which is the opposite of what you expect from a rifle with a 24-inch long barrel.
The rifle is impressively lightweight and balanced. A lightweight bolt action typically results in a high degree of recoil. The .30-06 is a stout cartridge too. To help, Christensen Arms uses a muzzle brake, a very aggressive one, to take that bite out of recoil. The brake is all steel and drastically reduces recoil. Make no mistake, I still got a kiss from the rifle, but it was nowhere near as bad as I was expecting. The brake is removable if you prefer a suppressor.
The Traverse rifle comes optics-ready with a machined optics rail. It has a baffling light trigger that measured in at about three pounds. The bolt action glides rearward when pulled and is quite enjoyable to manipulate. The rifle has a ½ MOA guarantee as well, so accuracy is on you, not the rifle. Ranked last on my list, this outstanding .30-06 rifle comes with a price tag that reflects its exceptional quality.
Christensen Arms Traverse Deals
Best 30-06 Rifles – Buyer’s Guide
When choosing the best .30-06 rifle, it’s important to consider various factors like your intended use, the type of action you prefer, the rifle’s build quality, its accuracy, and more. Whether you’re a seasoned shooter or new to firearms, keeping these factors in mind will help you find the perfect .30-06 rifle that suits your needs and preferences. Simply follow this buyer’s guide and consider these factors to select the right rifle for you.
Factors To Consider When Choosing a 30-06 Rifle
These are some of the factors you should look at when figuring out what you need from a 30-06 rifle.
Purpose: Before getting into specific rifles, consider how you’ll be using your .30-06 rifle. Are you primarily hunting big game, target shooting at the range, or looking for a versatile firearm that can handle various tasks? Your intended use will influence the features and specifications you should prioritize.
Action Type: .30-06 rifles come in various action types, including bolt-action, semi-automatic, and even straight pull bolt designs. Each type has its advantages and limitations. Bolt-action rifles typically offer excellent accuracy and reliability, while semi-automatic rifles provide faster follow-up shots. Choose the action type that best suits your shooting style and preferences.
Build Quality and Materials: Pay attention to the build quality and materials used in the construction of the rifle. High-quality materials like stainless steel, carbon fiber, and premium-grade wood contribute to durability, accuracy, and overall performance. Look for rifles with solid construction and robust components that can withstand the rigors of shooting.
Accuracy and Precision: Accuracy is really important in any rifle, especially if you plan to use it for hunting or long-range shooting. Look for rifles with a reputation for exceptional accuracy and precision. Features like a quality barrel, precise trigger, and stable stock can significantly influence accuracy.
Recoil Management: The .30-06 cartridge produces a lot of recoil, so it’s important that you consider how well a rifle manages recoil. Features like muzzle brakes, recoil pads, and ergonomic designs can help reduce recoil and make shooting more comfortable. So, choose a rifle that balances recoil management with other factors like weight and portability.
Optics Compatibility: If you plan to use optics like scopes or red dot sights, ensure that the rifle is compatible with your preferred optic mounting system. Look for rifles with integrated Picatinny rails or other mounting options for easy attachment of optics. Additionally, consider the rifle’s barrel length and overall design to ensure optimal sight alignment and eye relief.
Price: Set a realistic budget based on your needs and preferences. The .30-06 rifles range in price from budget-friendly options to premium models with advanced features. Determine how much you’re willing to spend and prioritize features accordingly. Remember that investing in a high-quality rifle can pay off in terms of performance and longevity.
Handle and Test Before Buying: Whenever possible, handle and test-fire different .30-06 rifles to get a feel for their ergonomics, balance, and shooting characteristics. Visit local gun shops or shooting ranges to try out various models and see which one feels most comfortable and intuitive to shoot.
American as Apple Pie
The old .30-06 refuses to go away. It continues to hold its ground and stays relevant in conversations among hunters and sportsmen. As we can see, the market still produces the rifles and does so with gusto. The .30-06 remains an American favorite that flies fast, hits hard, and keeps things straight. Who wouldn’t want one?
Best 30-06 Rifles – FAQs
Are .30-06 rifles suitable for both beginners and experienced shooters?
Absolutely! .30-06 rifles cater to shooters of all skill levels, from beginners to seasoned marksmen. Their versatility, ease of use, and manageable recoil make them accessible to new shooters, while their performance and capabilities continue to impress experienced enthusiasts. Whether you’re just starting out or have years of shooting experience under your belt, a .30-06 rifle is a solid choice for various shooting applications.
Are .30-06 great hunting rifles?
Yes, .30-06 rifles are widely regarded as great hunting rifles due to their versatility and effectiveness in taking down various game species. Whether you’re hunting deer, elk, moose, or bear, a .30-06 rifle provides the power and accuracy that you need for a successful hunt.
What makes modern .30-06 rifles different from the older ones?
Modern .30-06 rifles have seen significant advancements in technology and materials. These modern rifles often come with features like lightweight carbon fiber barrels, adjustable stocks for a personalized fit, improved recoil management systems for better shooting comfort, and are compatible with modern optics and accessories for enhanced precision and versatility. These features can greatly improve the performance and durability compared to traditional models.
Can beginners use bolt guns chambered in .30-06?
Yes, beginners can effectively use bolt guns chambered in .30-06 with proper training and familiarization. These rifles are known for their user-friendly operation and intuitive controls, making them suitable for shooters of all skill levels.
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