Choosing the right hunting rifle is essential for outdoor enthusiasts and seasoned hunters alike. It's a choice that can make the difference between a successful hunt and a missed opportunity. Hence, the reason we have compiled this list.
We'll explore the essential features, calibers, and designs that cater to different hunting needs, helping you find the perfect match for your skills and preferences. From long-range precision shooters to compact and versatile options for stalking games, this comprehensive post will equip you with the knowledge necessary to make an informed decision.
Our Top 9 Hunting Rifles of 2024
CVA Cascade
The CVA Cascade is a versatile hunting rifle that is ideal for both beginners and experienced hunters. It is accurate, reliable, and affordable, available in a variety of calibers to suit your hunting needs.
Manufacturer: CVA
Type: Bolt-action
Caliber: .243 Winchester, .308 Winchester, .300 Winchester Magnum, 6.5 Creedmoor
Barrel length: 22 inches
Weight: 6.5 pounds
Average Price: $701
Pros
- Accurate
- Reliable
- Affordable
- Available in a variety of calibers
Cons
- Can be heavy for some users.
- Not as customizable as some other rifles.
Ruger American
The Ruger American is a budget-friendly, accurate, reliable, and easy-to-use bolt-action rifle available in a wide range of calibers and configurations to suit any hunting need.
Manufacturer: Ruger
Type: Bolt-action
Caliber: .223 Remington, .308 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor
Barrel length: 20 inches
Weight: 6 pounds
Average Price: $1019.00
Pros
- Accurate
- Reliable
- Easy to use
- Available in a wide range of calibers and configurations.
- Affordable
Cons
- Not as customizable as some other rifles.
Tikka T3X Lite
The Tikka T3X Lite is a lightweight, accurate, and reliable hunting rifle that is perfect for long hikes and backcountry hunts. It is available in a variety of calibers, so you can find the perfect one for your hunting needs.
Manufacturer: Tikka
Type: Bolt-action
Caliber: .243 Winchester, .308 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor
Barrel length: 20 inches
Weight: 6 pounds
Average Price: $749
Pros
- Lightweight
- Accurate
- Reliable
- Easy to use
- Available in a variety of calibers.
Cons
- Can be expensive for some users.
- Not as customizable as some other rifles.
Bergara B-14 Ridge
The Bergara B-14 Ridge is a popular hunting rifle due to its accuracy, reliability, affordability, lightweight, and portability.
Manufacturer: Bergara
Type: Bolt-action
Caliber: Available in a variety of calibers, including 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Winchester, and .300 Winchester Magnum
Barrel length: 20 inches
Weight: 7.4 pounds
Average Price: $829.99
Pros
- Accurate
- Reliable
- Affordable
- Lightweight
- Available in a variety of calibers.
Cons
- Slightly higher felt recoil.
Weatherby Vanguard in Badlands Camo
The Weatherby Vanguard in Badlands Camo is a good all-around hunting rifle that is perfect for whitetail deer, elk, and other big game animals. It is accurate, reliable, and durable.
Manufacturer: Weatherby
Type: Bolt-action
Caliber: Available in a variety of calibers, including 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Winchester, and .300 Winchester Magnum
Barrel length: 24 inches
Weight: 7.8 pounds
Average Price: $899.00
Pros
- Accurate
- Reliable
- Durable
- Available in a variety of calibers
- Affordable
Cons
- Slightly heavier than the Bergara B-14 Ridge.
Sig Cross
The Sig Cross is a popular choice for hunters who are looking for a semi-automatic rifle. It is accurate, reliable, and easy to use. The Cross is also lightweight and easy to carry, making it a good option for backcountry hunts.
Manufacturer: Sig Sauer
Type: Semi-automatic
Caliber: Available in 6.5 Creedmoor and .308 Winchester
Barrel length: 20 inches
Weight: 7.6 pounds
Average Price: $1,799.99
Pros
- Accurate
- Reliable
- Easy to use
- Lightweight
- Available in 6.5 Creedmoor and .308 Winchester.
Cons
- More expensive than the Bergara B-14 Ridge and Weatherby Vanguard in Badlands Camo.
Springfield 2020 Waypoint
The Springfield 2020 Waypoint is a lightweight and accurate hunting rifle perfect for backcountry hunts. It is also very reliable and easy to use. The Waypoint is available in a variety of calibers, so you can find the perfect one for your hunting needs.
Manufacturer: Springfield Armory
Type: Bolt-action
Caliber: .308 Win., 6.5 Creedmoor, 7mm-08 Rem., .280 Ackley Improved, 6.5 PRC
Barrel length: 20 inches
Weight: 6 pounds, 12 ounces
Average Price: $2,109.99
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to carry.
- Accurate and reliable.
- Available in a variety of calibers.
Cons
- Can be expensive.
- Not as many aftermarket accessories. Available as some other rifles.
Fierce Rogue
The Fierce Rogue is a premium hunting rifle that is known for its accuracy and reliability. It is also very lightweight and easy to carry. The Rogue is available in a variety of calibers, so you can find the perfect one for your hunting needs.
Manufacturer: Fierce Firearms
Type: Bolt-action
Caliber: .223 Rem., 6mm ARC, 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC, 7mm Rem. Mag., .300 Win. Mag.
Barrel length: 20 inches
Weight: 6 pounds, 10 ounces
Average Price: $2,199.00
Pros
- Extremely accurate and reliable.
- Lightweight and easy to carry.
- Available in a variety of calibers.
Cons
- Can be very expensive.
- Limited aftermarket support.
- Higher felt recoil.
Nosler Long-Range Precision
The Nosler Long Range Precision is a custom hunting rifle that is perfect for long-range hunting. It is accurate and reliable. The Long Range Precision is available in a variety of calibers, so you can find the perfect one for your hunting needs.
Manufacturer: Nosler Rifles
Type: Custom bolt-action
Caliber: .223 Rem., 6mm ARC, 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC, 7mm Rem. Mag., .300 Win. Mag., .338 Lapua Mag.
Barrel length: 22 inches
Weight: 7 pounds, 6 ounces
Average Price: $3302.25
Pros
- Extremely accurate and reliable.
- Available in a variety of calibers.
- Built to withstand the harshest hunting conditions.
Cons
- Very expensive.
- Limited aftermarket support.
The Bottom Line
The world of hunting rifles offers a diverse range of options, each with its own unique strengths. Whether you seek precision, durability, or adaptability, there's a rifle out there to meet your needs. But with so many options to choose from, how do you know which rifle is right for you?
The best hunting rifle for you will depend on your specific needs and preferences. Consider the type of game you'll be hunting, the terrain you'll be hunting in, and your budget when making your decision.