7 Best Bolt Action Rifle: Rugged & Reliable
For the longest time, semi-automatic rifles have been on top in the market.
But lately, bolt action rifles are gaining popularity.
Why?
Well, the market for semi-autos is pretty crowded, and bolt guns are getting better. Now, you’ve got lots of choices, like different barrels and chassis systems, to customize your bolt gun. But with so many options out there, picking one can feel overwhelming. This has left a lot of people asking what is the best bolt action rifle and which one should they choose.
So, in this article, I’ve not only listed my top seven rifle picks but also provided detailed insights about each one. By the end, you’ll feel confident in selecting a bolt action rifle that perfectly fits your needs.
Also, as a note: I originally wrote this back in 2021, and since then, there have been a couple of new bolt actions on the market, and my opinion on one of these changed, due in part to long term data on the rifle and its reliability.
So, be sure to check that out.
Why a Bolt Action Rifle?
The bolt action rifle still has plenty of benefits, even in the age of the semi-auto. First and foremost, it’s still the most accurate repeating platform in the world. If you want the smallest groups possible, then a bolt gun is the route you want to take. That’s not to say that every bolt action rifle is more accurate than every semi-auto.
In most cases, if you are comparing like with like, then bolt action rifles are more accurate. A 1,000-dollar bolt gun is likely more accurate than a thousand-dollar semi-auto rifle. Bolt actions provide the cheapest degree of accuracy. A 500-dollar bolt gun is likely capable of achieving 1 MOA accuracy, but that’ll be tough to achieve with a semi-auto rifle.
Bolt action rifles also tend to be extremely reliable. Manually operated firearms often fall into that realm of reliability. This makes it easy to use varying loads that might choke a semi-auto.
Bolt action rifles also get you into a wide variety of calibers, including the standard .223 of the Remington model and the .308 of the Winchester model. They also cater to less common cartridges like the 6mm PRC, and even larger ones like the .338 Lapua Magnum.
There is also a degree of suppressor supremacy with bolt action rifles in both sound and reliability. The sound of the action moving forward and rearward in a semi-auto can be loud. A bolt action doesn’t have that noise. This allows the weapon to be very quiet. It also is not impacted by the change in back pressure a suppressor can create. This can hinder a semi-auto’s performance and require different tuning whether suppressed or not.
Finally, it’s also a very common configuration around the world and likely the most common legal repeater on the market. That makes it tough to ban, and as far as I know, there isn’t a single state that bans bolt action rifles.
How I Chose the Best Bolt Action Rifle
As a former Marine, I honestly have no idea how many bolt action rifles I have shot and tested over the years. I have enjoyed using some sort of bolt action rifle for everything from backyard plinking with a 22LR, to hunting deer and hogs, to long range precision shooting. In my time I have shot worn-out surplus rifles to the high-end offerings using all the latest materials and technology. This list comes from all that experience.
I have reviewed these guns based on how well they shoot including accuracy and the ergonomics of the rifle along with the value they provide. This is more than just a spec sheet comparison.
I know not everybody has the same budget or shooting needs, so I have included several types of bolt actions and price points in this list.
Gun University’s Choices of the Best Bolt Action Rifle
Best Bolt Action Rifles
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Spec Comparison of the Best Bolt Action Rifles
Below is a table of the specifications for the best bolt action rifles.
| Rifle | Barrel Length (in) | Overall Length (in) | Weight (lbs) | Caliber |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20 | 41.25 | 6.2 | Various | |
| 22.44 | 43.11 | 7.27 | Various | |
| 16-20.1 | 33.7-37.8 | 5.7-6.2 | .22LR, 17 HMR | |
| 24-26 | 46.75 | 10.7-15.2 | .308, 6.5 CM, .338 Lapua, 300 Win Mag, 300 PRC | |
| 22.4 | 42.2 | 7.3 | Various | |
| 16-27 | 32 | 7.3-7.78 | 6.5 CM, 6.5 PRC, .308, .300 Win Mag, .338 Lapua, 300 Norma Mag, 300 PRC, 338 Norma Mag | |
| 16.1-18.7 | 38.5 | 7.1 | .308, 450 Bushmaster, 350 Legend |
Best Bolt Action Rifle
Here is our list for the best products:
- Ruger American Gen 2
- Beretta BRX1
- Tikka T1x MTR
- Ruger Precision Rifle
- Browning X-Bolt
- Christensen Arms TFM
- Ruger Scout Rifle
Best Bolt Action Rifle – Reviews
1 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+
Our Grade
A+
Reader’s Grade
A-
Based on 7 Reviews
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Ruger American Gen 2 Specs
- Barrel Length 20 in
- Overall Length 41.25 in
- Weight 6.2 lbs
- Calibers Various
Ruger American Gen 2 Review
If you want to punch paper or drop deer without dropping a grand, the Ruger American Gen 2 series has you covered. These are budget-friendly bolt actions, and the word ‘budget-friendly’ certainly has its connotations. The Ruger American Gen 1 rifles were fine, but they fell short of the budget rifle’s advantages. The Gen 2 steps it up and brings some much-needed improvements to the American series.
First, let’s discuss the stock. Gone is that flimsy, vaguely “Tupperware” feel of the original. We get a much more rigid, nicer-feeling stock. It’s not just a nicer feeling, but it’s a much more practical stock option. Ruger integrated a removable comb riser and length-of-pull spacer, meaning you can actually fit this rifle to you. Having a proper length of pull makes repeatable, consistent accuracy possible for shooters of any size.
The somewhat sticky and gritty feeling of the original Ruger American action is gone. Now, we get a butter-smooth, 70-degree throw powered by an oversized bolt that can be removed and replaced. The Ruger American Gen 2 features the same reliable three-lug design as the original American featured.
The barrel is a medium contour with spiral flutes to reduce weight. It’s a fairly light and handy rifle. The Ranch versions, in particular, are perfect working utility rifles. The integrated Picatinny rail makes adding optics easy.
Out of the box, these rifles are consistently sub-MOA with decent factory ammo. We’re talking 0.75 to 1-inch groups at 100 yards, which for a rifle in this price range ($600-$700 MSRP, depending on the model) is just phenomenal. They’ve also threaded the barrel and added a radial muzzle brake, which is a sweet bonus for recoil mitigation, but I’d be quick to swap it for a suppressor.
The American Gen 2 is no Tikka, but for the money, it’s my personal favorite budget option.
Ruger American Gen 2 Pros and Cons
- Affordable
- Tons of caliber options
- Modular Stock
- Magazines DIfficult to Insert
Ruger American Gen 2 Deals
-
$494.04
2 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
Our Grade
A
Reader’s Grade
B
Based on 1 Reviews
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Beretta BRX1 Specs
- Barrel Length 22.44 in
- Overall Length 43.11 in
- Weight 7.27 lbs
- Calibers Various
Beretta BRX1 Review
Beretta entered the bolt-action rifle world swinging. They didn’t just release a bolt-action hunting rifle; they wanted to do something a bit different. The BRX-1 is a straight-pull rifle designed for speed, modularity, and serious performance. I love straight-pull bolt actions. They are immensely fun to shoot and bring a new edge to the bolt-action rifle market.
The immediate benefit of a straight pull bolt action is its blazing-fast linear pull action. Unlike traditional bolt actions, where you lift, pull, push, and drop, the BRX1 is a simple back-and-forth motion. This means quicker follow-up shots. It’s great for taking accurate shots on multiple targets, and, honestly, it’s just a lot of fun.
Speed isn’t the only trick. The BRX1 might be one of the most modular commercially available rifles on the market. You can swap barrels and change calibers in a snap and even convert it from right-handed to left-handed operation in under 30 seconds, all without tools. This easy modularity is truly exceptional and sets the BRX1 apart from every other gun on the market.
Modularity and speed are one thing, but if the gun doesn’t shoot straight, then what’s the point? Beretta takes it to the next level. They used a cold-hammer-forged barrel and chamber formed from a single piece of steel. Beretta offers a sub-MOA guarantee, which is quite a boast. There is no room for humility with this rifle.
BRX1 is a serious contender, offering fast, accurate, safe, and highly adaptable solutions. It’s a rifle built for modern hunters and shooters. It has many benefits but a few downsides. The safety is a bit stiff and awkward, and the magnum calibers have a long bolt that can reach far enough to touch your nose. Minor problems, to be sure, but worth noting. Oh, and it’s expensive!
Beretta BRX1 Pros and Cons
- Fast cycling
- Very accurate
- Adjustable LOP
- Expensive
Beretta BRX1 Deals
-
$1,235.53
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$1,499.99
3 Tikka T1X MTR
Tikka T1X MTR
The Tikka T1X MTR (multi-task rimfire) comes in black only, but the T3X accessories will work with the T1X stock. What that means is that you could order grips or beavertail forend in OD green, olive green, orange, stone grey, or black to give your rifle that two-tone styling.
- Shootability A+
- Reliability B
- Ergonomics A+
- Accuracy A
- Value B
Our Grade
A-
Reader’s Grade
A+
Based on 1 Reviews
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Tikka T1x MTR Specs
- Barrel Length 16-20.1 in
- Overall Length 33.7-37.8 in
- Weight 5.7-6.2 lbs
- Calibers 22LR, 17 HMR
Tikka T1x MTR Review
I wanted to ensure I offered a rimfire option on this list. Rimfire guns, specifically 22LR, are famous for how easy they are to use and how capable they can be for target shooting, training, and small game hunting. There are tons of bolt action rimfires, but I can’t think of one better than the Tika T1X MTR. The T1X MTR is a .22LR, or you can go with the fast-flying, hard-hitting 17 HMR.
This rimfire bolt gun gives you a short, light, and accurate platform. At 5.5 pounds, any shooter, from novice and newb to journeyman and expert, can wield the gun with ease. It doesn’t discriminate by any means. Recoil is very light, and even a young shooter can easily use the rifle. There are even left-handed options, so they leave no one out. It’s the most accessible rifle on this list.
It’s a Tikka, so you get a fully bedded rifle. Even if it’s a rimfire, they don’t hold back. The barrel is free-floated from the stock, and this results in a very accurate weapon overall. It’s perfect for small game hunting, plinking, and training, but wouldn’t be out of the picture at a rimfire competition shoot with some Eley ammo.
I liked how Tikka’s bolt handle is designed with customization in mind. It’s great to be able to adjust it to fit exactly the way you want. Being able to rotate and clamp it in place means you can find the perfect position for the bolt knob, making the whole process of racking the bolt a fluid instead of a bulky movement.
Coming in at third place on my list, this incredibly smooth bolt action rifle might spoil new shooters. Going from a Tikka to something a little more standard might feel like a punishment! The T1x MTR could have just been a quick toss-it-out-and-forget-it rimfire, but they didn’t do that. They put that Tikka magic into rimfire. Of course, that means it’s a little pricier than most, but it’s understandable. Like all rimfire rifles, the reliability will really be determined by ammo more than the rifle, so shoot the good stuff for the best results.
Tikka T1x MTR Pros and Cons
- Lightweight
- Super accurate
- Accessible to everyone
- Expensive
Tikka T1x MTR Deals
-
$521.99
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$609.00
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$649.00
-
$649.00
4 Ruger Precision Rifle
Ruger Precision Rifle
Ruger’s factory made, competition ready, bolt action rifle.
- Shootability A
- Reliability A+
- Ergonomics B+
- Accuracy A
- Value A
Our Grade
A
Reader’s Grade
A+
Based on 11 Reviews
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Ruger Precision Rifle Specs
- Barrel Length 24-26 in
- Overall Length 46.75 in
- Weight 10.7-15.2 in
- Calibers .308, 6.5 CM, .338 Lapua Mag, 300 Win Mag, 300 PRC
Ruger Precision Rifle Review
There is a whole category of customized, high-dollar precision rifles that haven’t made it to this list. These rifles are rare, tough to find, and often built for specific purposes. If you want one of those rifles, you likely already know what you want and aren’t coming here. If you want to dive into the world of precision shooting and even the PRS series, then the Ruger Precision Rifle is the way to go. Ruger set out to create an accurate, precision rifle at a fair price point and did just that.
For under two thousand dollars, you can get into the world of precision shooting. That’s expensive, but for precision rifles, it’s quite affordable. Some models go for more than two thousand, but the .308s and 6.5 Creedmoor come in at around 1,700 dollars. The Ruger Precision rifle is no plain Jane budget option, but it’s adorned with some very modern features that make it a cut above the rest.
We have a fully adjustable stock that allows you to adjust for length of pull very precisely. You can also adjust the cheek rest to meet the needs of your optic. One thing that first surprised me about the Ruger Precision Rifle was the recoil. Most bolt action rifles give you the full dose of recoil, but the inline stock design of the RPR keeps the gun from wanting to rise and makes recoil more manageable. I imagine in calibers like .338 Lapua, this is quite valuable, as is the big recoil-reducing brake.
Opposite the stock is an M-LOK handguard that’s ready for a bipod. It’s basically screaming for one. Across the top is an integrated optics rail. The receiver hosts an AR-compatible grip and safety selector. Not to mention the cold hammer forged barrel that’s built for accuracy.
What’s the downside? Well, it’s big and heavy and only really useful for precision rifle matches. It’s tough to hunt with a rifle like this, and that’s why I ranked it 4th on my list.
Ruger Precision Rifle Pros and Cons
- Affordable precision
- Modern design
- Ultra accurate
- Big and heavy
Ruger Precision Rifle Deals
-
$1,314.56
-
$1,367.99
-
$1,420.80
-
$1,459.99
-
$1,499.99
5 Browning X-Bolt Hunter
Browning X-Bolt Hunter
A classic looking bolt action rifle with walnut stock in the Browning X series line of rifles..
- Shootability A
- Reliability A+
- Ergonomics A+
- Accuracy A+
- Value B
Our Grade
A
Reader’s Grade
A+
Based on 2 Reviews
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Browning X-Bolt Series Specs
- Barrel Length 22-26 in
- Overall Length 41.75-46.75 in
- Weight 6-7 lbs
- Calibers Many
Browning X-Bolt Series Review
Browning is a legendary name in the gun world, and while John Moses Browning passed away almost a century ago, his name lives on. These days, Browning is a company owned by FN that produces sporting arms aimed at the hunting world. The Browning X-Bolt is Browning’s premier bolt action rifle series. The X-Bolt offers a ton of small but nice features that appeal to many shooters.
The X-Bolt comes with the little things. Things like a detachable magazine, the very solid X-Lock scope mounting system, and the ability to open the bolt without disengaging the safety. That’s the little things. One big thing is the accuracy the weapon provides. It’s super accurate with a very nice trigger. They designed the rifle for placing precise shots on animals of nearly any size. Another is the bolt body of the Browning X-Bolt. It’s made of solid steel, so it’s strong and works smoothly.
We also get a free-floating barrel and glass bedded stock. The X-Lock scope mounting system has a reputation for being quite robust. When it comes to glass, the better secured it is, the better it will perform. The bolt movement is ultra smooth, like polished ball bearings gliding the bolt back and forth. It’s the best adult fidget toy I’ve ever handled.
When it comes to premier, precision-oriented hunting rifles, the Browning X-Bolt is tough to beat. It mixes a series of excellent qualities together to form a rifle that’s precise but also lightweight, ergonomic, and in enough variations that you can chase everything from whitetail deer to bear with one.
Browning makes tons of variations of the gun in tons of calibers. This includes simple camouflage finishes down to specific task configurations. Models like the Long Range allow you to reach out and touch targets and are accessorized appropriately. The Speed model features a shorter bolt throw that makes the weapon cycle quickly and efficiently. The X-Bolt has a little something for everyone, which makes it a compelling choice on my list.
Browning X-Bolt Series Pros and Cons
- Tons of variations and calibers
- Very accurate
- Very high quality
- Expensive
Browning X-Bolt Series Deals
-
$839.13
-
$949.99
-
$949.99
6 Christensen Arms TFM
Christensen Arms TFM
A long range tactical rifle with adjustable carbon fiber stock and carbon fiber wrapped barrel.
- Shootability A
- Reliability A+
- Ergonomics A+
- Accuracy A+
- Value C+
Our Grade
A
Reader’s Grade
TBD
Based on 0 Reviews
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Christensen Arms TFM Specs
- Barrel Length 16-27 in
- Overall Length 32 in
- Weight 7.3-7.78 lbs
- Calibers 6.5 CM, 6.5 PRC, .308, .300 Win Mag, .338 Lapua Mag, 300 Norma Mag, 300 PRC, 338 Norma Mag
Christensen Arms TFM Review
The bolt action rifle world was doing just fine until Christensen Arms popped in and shook everything up. Traditional companies like Remington were stuck and lagging behind. Christensen Arms swept in with stock features that other companies would consider to be custom. Guns like the TFM, for example, show why such a small company has become so dominant. TFM stands for Tactical Force Multiplier.
As you’d imagine, it’s aimed at the sniping role, but you’d be silly if you think you couldn’t take the TFM and apply it to other roles and duties, from precision comp rifle to the most tactical rifle out there. The TFM brings in the same features that made Christensen Arms so dominant. This includes the carbon fiber-wrapped barrel for unparalleled precision while still remaining lightweight and balanced. At 7.3 pounds, it’s not unmanageable.
The end of the barrel sports an aggressive brake to take some sting out of the lightweight rifle. The TFM comes with a half MOA guarantee. That’s a crazy degree of accuracy, and the free-floating barrel and glass-beaded stock are just expected at this tier of rifle. So is the overall excellent trigger. It provides a short pull and crisp break that’s entirely predictable and consistent.
We’ve talked a good bit about the rifle’s barrel, but let’s jump to the rear end. The Christensen Arms TFM comes with a fully adjustable stock that provides an adjustable cheek weld and length of pull. The stock allows you to tailor the rifle to your body, scope height, and more. Comfort isn’t required to shoot accurately, but it sure helps.
The TFM comes in calibers ranging from 6mm Creedmoor to .338 Lapua. It’s a hard-hitting, easy-shooting, and very capable rifle at long ranges. That half MOA guarantee means it’s absurdly accurate and very capable of putting precise shots where you want. The downside is, of course, price; it’s not a cheap rifle, and you really can’t get a rifle like this for less. For that reason, I ranked it second to last on my list.
Christensen Arms TFM Pros and Cons
- Absurdly accurate
- Lightweight and balanced
- Excellent ergonomics
- Expensive
Christensen Arms TFM Deals
-
$3,699.99
-
$4,809.99
7 Ruger Scout
- Shootability A
- Reliability A+
- Ergonomics A
- Accuracy A
- Value B
Our Grade
A
Reader’s Grade
A-
Based on 14 Reviews
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Ruger Scout Rifle Specs
- Barrel Length 16.1-18.7 in
- Overall Length 38.5 in
- Weight 7.1 lbs
- Calibers .308, 450 Bushmaster, 350 Legend
Ruger Scout Rifle Review
Jeff Cooper outlined the Scout Rifle concept decades ago. His idea was for a do-it-all rifle that incorporated many somewhat niche features. Those features are:
- A long eye relief scope mounted forward of the action.
- An action that can be charged with stripper clips and potentially removable magazines.
- The rifle would be fairly light at eight pounds and at least 2 MOA accurate.
Jeff Cooper designed the concept in 1983, but oddly enough, it recently made quite the comeback. The Scout Rifle concept has lived on, and Ruger’s Scout Rifle has certainly fit most of Cooper’s requirements. It might lack a magazine cut-off, but it certainly shoots better than two MOA. The gun features a rail forward of the action for a scope and comes with a set of ghost ring iron sights as auxiliary options. The rifle comes in a variety of calibers, including .308, but also .350 Legend and 450 Bushmaster.
Cooper outlined the need for a synthetic stock, and Ruger has those options, as well as several wood stock options for the more traditional shooters. The Ruger Scout Rifle comes with a detachable magazine for quick reloads and is set up for slings. One impressive feature is the ability to adjust the length of pull to make it shorter or longer to fit the shooter via a set of spacers.
The barrel is free-floating and cold hammer forged for maximum accuracy. You’ll exceed Cooper’s accuracy standards by a long shot. At the tip of the muzzle sits either a flash hider or brake, depending on the caliber. Plus, you get the vaunted Mauser-type controlled feed extractor.
The best part of any Scout rifle is just how fun it is to shoot. These guns are a blast at the range. Hitting targets quickly at moderate ranges is where they really excel, especially from unsupported positions. With the .308 models weighing a little over six pounds, it certainly won’t tire you out too bad. Considering all that this rifle has to offer, I have ranked it last on my list.
Ruger Scout Rifle Pros and Cons
- Lightweight
- Fulfills the Scout Rifle design
- Fun to shoot
- Easy handling
- Not great for longer ranges
- Tough to find good long eye relief optics
Ruger Scout Rifle Deals
-
$1,039.00
-
$1,079.00
-
$1,212.99
Best Bolt Action Rifle – Buyer’s Guide
Bolt action rifles stand out for their reliability, precision, and versatility, making them a favorite among hunters, precision shooters, and enthusiasts alike. But with so many options out there, it’s important to make the right choices when selecting your rifle. Follow this buyer’s guide to help you pick the perfect bolt action rifle for your needs.
Factors To Consider When Buying a Bolt Action Rifle
Purpose: Start by figuring out what you’ll primarily use the rifle for. Are you hitting the hunting trails, aiming for precision at the range, or maybe diving into competitive shooting? Understanding your intended use will steer you toward the right caliber, barrel length, and stock setup.
Caliber: Choosing the right caliber is key and depends on what you’re planning to do with the rifle. Common choices include .308 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, .30-06 Springfield, .300 Winchester Magnum, and .223 Remington. Consider factors like recoil, ballistics, and ammo availability to find your perfect match.
Accuracy: Bolt actions are famous for their accuracy, but not every rifle hits the mark equally. Look for features like free-floating barrels, precise triggers, and solid bedding systems to ensure good accuracy. Also, don’t forget to check out reviews or reputation for accuracy from real shooters.
Build Quality and Materials: Take a good look at the rifle’s construction and materials. High-quality materials like stainless steel and carbon fiber mean durability and longevity. Make sure important components such as the bolt, action, and barrel are sturdy enough to handle the rigors of regular use.
Stock Design and Ergonomics: Comfort matters, especially when you’re spending long hours behind the trigger. Consider things like the length of pull, cheek weld, and grip texture when evaluating rifle stocks. Adjustable stocks are a plus, allowing you to customize the fit for maximum comfort and control.
Optics Compatibility: Check if the rifle plays nice with the optics you have in mind. Look for features like picatinny rails or built-in scope mounts for easy optic installation. Whether you prefer a traditional scope, red dot sight, or scout rifle setup, make sure your rifle can accommodate your optic of choice.
Weight and Balance: Think about how the rifle feels in your hands, especially if you’ll be carrying it around for extended periods. Lightweight rifles are easier to tote but may pack a punch in recoil, while heavier options offer stability at the expense of portability. Find the balance that works for you.
Budget: Make sure to set a budget that fits your finances, and then decide which features are most important to you. Bolt action rifles come in all price ranges, from affordable choices to high-end precision models. Also, don’t forget to factor in costs for optics, ammo, and accessories when budgeting.
The Bolt Gun World
The bolt gun world is absolutely massive. You can find something for everyone in nearly any caliber. I’m betting if I looked hard enough, I could find a bolt action rifle in .32 ACP. You have lots and lots and lots of options, and there is something for everyone.
With a bolt action rifle, you can get into Precision Rifle Competitions, hunt, or just enjoy having affordable precision. Bolt guns still rule, and their resurgence is a welcome one! I, for one, welcome back bolt gun supremacy. What say you?
Best Bolt Action Rifle – FAQs
Bolt action rifles offer several advantages, including superior accuracy, reliability, and a wide range of caliber options. They are often more affordable for achieving high accuracy levels compared to semi-auto rifles in the same price range.
In most cases, when comparing rifles of similar price ranges, bolt action rifles tend to be more accurate. The manual operation of a bolt action allows for precise and consistent shot placement, making them the preferred choice for those seeking the smallest possible groupings.
Bolt action rifles are known for their reliability due to their manually operated design. The simplicity of the bolt action mechanism makes these rifles less prone to malfunctions, especially when using different types of ammunition, making them versatile and dependable.
As of the information available, there is no state that outright bans bolt action rifles. They are a common and widely accepted firearm configuration around the world, making them a legal option in all states within the United States.
Popular bolt action rifles are usually offered in a range of common calibers suitable for hunting, target shooting, and tactical applications. Common calibers include .308 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, .30-06 Springfield, .300 Winchester Magnum, and .223 Remington, among others.
About Travis Pike
Travis Pike is a former Marine Machine Gunner and a lifelong firearms enthusiast. Now that his days of working a 240B like Charlie Parker on the sax are over, he's a regular guy who likes to shoot, write, and find ways to combine the two. He is a "simplicisist" when it comes to talking about himself in the 3rd person and a self-professed tactical hipster. Hit him up on Instagram with story ideas.
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Why is Sako never mentioned in any “best of” evaluations?
From numerous years of being a hunter I usually purchased the best advertised rifle and called it good. Now in my later years where I can no longer haul game out of the woods I have switched to long range target shooting—and still need more instruction and range time. However, the article did leave out one of my favorite guns, the Begara B14. Have found it to be very accurate and comfy to shoot.
Believe it should have gotten a word or two.
I have four Weatherby Vanguards in different calibers. They all give 1/2 MOA accuracy and, due to their glass bedded actions and free floated barrels, have not changed their points of impact in, in one case, 40 years. With their wood stocks they look like classic sporters, (not scary black guns) even though they perform like sniper rifles. Reliable, smooth operating and amazingly accurate, they don’t cost too much either.
If you are not shooting this = you will be beat by one !!!!!!!
So… for YOUR personal preferences you only tested 7 models from 5 brands? Is that right? Shame that Ruger doesn’t make more models so that you could choose them all as your personal favorites as well! Very, VERY SKEWED IMO.
My Ruger American in 204 was punching primers in factory loaded ammo. The first time I had it sent back to Rugar it came back “repaired” but the first shot punctured the primer. Sent it back to the factory and that time it was repaired and has shot well since. So that is why I only gave 4 stars.
Where is the Remington 700?
State compliance forced me to begrudgingly buy this in 300 Blackout, but it quickly became one of my favorites.
I docked it one star for the gritty trigger, which seems to be less so after ~ 300 rounds.