Best Hunting Rifles for All Budgets

The right hunting rifle is vital for a successful and enjoyable experience. A good rifle ensures accuracy, reliability, and ease of use. With so many rifles available, you need one that fits your budget without sacrificing quality. 

Hunting rifles come in various styles and price ranges. Budget-friendly models cost under $500. Meanwhile, high-end options can cost well over $1000. Each price range offers different features and benefits. 

This guide explores some of the best hunting rifles available across different budgets. We'll help you find the perfect rifle for your needs and preferences. We have affordable options to get you started. We also have premium rifles for serious hunting. No matter your budget, there's something here for everyone. 

Budget-Friendly Options (Under $500) 

Finding a reliable hunting rifle on a budget is possible. You can find good performance, durability, and accuracy even with a limited budget. These budget-friendly rifles are perfect for beginners. They're also great for hunters who want a dependable firearm without spending a lot of money.

Savage Arms Rascal 

• Caliber: .22 LR 

• Capacity: 1 round 

• Barrel Length: 16.125 inches 

• Overall Length: 31.5 inches 

• Weight: 2.66 pounds 

The Savage Arms Rascal .22 LR is great for young hunters or beginners. This small rifle has a short 16.1-inch barrel and a tough black plastic stock. It's light and easy to hold. The Rascal is made for practice and small animal hunting. It has a special trigger that can be adjusted, making it easier to shoot accurately and safely. The rifle only holds one bullet at a time, which helps teach careful shooting and gun safety. It comes with a simple sight to help new shooters aim better. The Rascal doesn't cost much, so it's a good way to start hunting without spending a lot of money. 

Ruger American Rifle 

• Caliber: 17 HMR 

• Capacity: 9+1 rounds 

• Barrel Length: 18 inches 

• Overall Length: 37 inches 

• Weight: 5.5 pounds 

The Ruger American Rifle is a budget-friendly option with impressive accuracy and reliability. This bolt-action rifle features interchangeable stock modules for comfort and ease of handling. The adjustable trigger lets you customize the trigger pull to your preferences. Known for its smooth action and consistent shooting, this rifle is a reliable choice. Its lightweight design makes it easy to carry during long hunting trips. 

Mossberg Patriot Synthetic 

• Caliber: 350 Legend 

• Capacity: 4+1 rounds 

• Barrel Length: 22 inches 

• Overall Length: 42.8 inches 

• Weight: 6.5 pounds 

The Mossberg Patriot Synthetic is an affordable, rugged, reliable rifle. This bolt-action rifle features a durable synthetic stock and an adjustable trigger. It allows for a personalized shooting experience. Known for its consistent performance, this rifle can easily handle harsh conditions.

Mid-Range Options ($500-$1000) 

For a bit more expense, mid-range rifles offer a great balance between cost and performance. These rifles provide enhanced features and improved accuracy. They frequently feature a higher-quality build. This makes them suitable for more serious hunting endeavors. Here are a few recommended mid-range hunting rifles to get you started. 

Tikka T3x Superlite 

• Caliber: .308 Winchester 

• Capacity: 3+1 rounds 

• Barrel Length: 24 inches 

• Overall Length: 42.6 inches 

• Weight: 6.4 pounds 

The Tikka T3x Superlite is renowned for its accuracy and lightweight design. This bolt-action rifle features a lightweight stock, making it easy to carry on long hunts. The smooth trigger pull ensures consistent and precise shots, essential for hunting. This rifle is well-regarded for its exceptional accuracy. It's a top choice for hunters looking to balance cost and performance. 

Savage Arms 110 Apex Hunter XP 

• Caliber: .308 Win 

• Capacity: 4 rounds 

• Barrel Length: 22 inches 

• Overall Length: 44.5 inches 

• Weight: 9.9 pounds 

The Savage Arms 110 Apex Hunter XP is a great choice for hunters who want a good rifle without spending too much. This bolt-action rifle comes with a synthetic stock that can handle tough weather. It has an adjustable AccuTrigger, which lets you set how much force you need to pull the trigger. This helps you shoot more accurately. The rifle comes with a Vortex Crossfire II 3-9x40mm scope already attached, so it's ready to use right away. Hunters like this rifle's accuracy and reliability, making it easier to hit your target. 

Weatherby Vanguard 

• Caliber: .308 Winchester 

• Capacity: 5+1 rounds 

• Barrel Length: 24 inches 

• Overall Length: 44 inches 

• Weight: 7.5 pounds 

The Weatherby Vanguard is an excellent mid-range option offering great accuracy and reliability. This bolt-action rifle features a synthetic stock. The two-stage trigger provides a smooth, precise shooting experience. The cold hammer-forged barrel enhances durability and accuracy, suitable for various hunting scenarios. This rifle is an ideal mid-range rifle that performs well in various environments. 

Ruger American Predator 

• Caliber: 6.5 Creedmoor 

• Capacity: 4+1 rounds 

• Barrel Length: 22.625 inches 

• Overall Length: 42 inches 

• Weight: 7.6 pounds 

The Ruger American Predator is a versatile and accurate mid-range rifle. This bolt-action rifle features an adjustable trigger, ensuring excellent accuracy and reliability. It comes with a Vortex Crossfire II scope, enhancing value and readiness for hunting right out of the box. Hunters rely on this rifle for its precision and consistency. Its lightweight and user-friendly features make it dependable for various scenarios. 

High-End Options (Over $1000) 

For those looking to invest, high-end rifles offer superior performance, precision, and quality. These rifles are designed for serious hunters who require the best in terms of accuracy and reliability. Here are some of the finest high-end hunting rifles available. 

Remington Model 700 BDL 

• Caliber: .30-06 Springfield 

• Capacity: 4+1 rounds 

• Barrel Length: 22 inches 

• Overall Length: 42.5 inches 

• Weight: 7.625 pounds 

The Remington Model 700 BDL is known for its superior accuracy and classic design. This bolt-action rifle features a high-grade walnut stock. Its adjustable X-Mark Pro Trigger provides a crisp, clean pull for precise shooting. This rifle is ideal for experienced hunters willing to invest in a premium rifle. The Model 700 BDL is a reliable choice that performs exceptionally well in the field. Its traditional styling and proven performance make it a favorite among hunting enthusiasts. 

Christensen Arms Ridgeline 

• Caliber: 28 Nosler 

• Capacity: 3+1 rounds 

• Barrel Length: 22 inches 

• Overall Length: 43.5 inches 

• Weight: 5.3 pounds 

The Christensen Arms Ridgeline is a top-tier hunting rifle for when you want one of the best. It features a carbon fiber barrel and an adjustable match-grade trigger. This left-hand bolt-action rifle offers exceptional accuracy and a lightweight design. It's exceptionally easy to carry during long hunts. The Ridgeline's high-quality construction includes a synthetic stock with a burnt bronze barrel. It's known for durability and a sleek appearance. The Ridgeline is perfect for serious hunters seeking top-tier reliability and precision. 

Bergara B-14 HMR 

• Caliber: .300 Winchester Magnum 

• Capacity: 5+1 rounds 

• Barrel Length: 24 inches 

• Overall Length: 44.5 inches 

• Weight: 8.3 pounds 

The Bergara B-14 HMR is known for its exceptional accuracy and build quality. This bolt-action rifle features an adjustable stock and a stainless steel barrel. It's highly versatile and suitable for various hunting scenarios. The rifle's design includes a mini-chassis molded into the stock. This feature provides repeatable bedding and enhances accuracy. The B-14 HMR caters to those who demand the best from their equipment. 

Features to Consider When Choosing a Hunting Rifle 

Selecting the right hunting rifle involves understanding several key features. These features impact performance and comfort. Here are some factors to consider when choosing your hunting rifle. 

Caliber Selection 

Choosing the right caliber is crucial for your hunting needs. Different calibers are suited for different types of game and hunting conditions. 

• .308 Winchester is known for its versatility and moderate recoil. It's ideal for hunting medium to large game such as deer and elk. It offers good accuracy and range. 

• 6.5 Creedmoor is favored for its high ballistic coefficient and low recoil. This caliber is an excellent choice for long-range hunting. It’s suitable for various game and provides excellent accuracy. 

• .30-06 Springfield is a powerful and versatile caliber. This ammo is suitable for hunting a wide range of game from deer to moose. It offers a good balance of power and accuracy. 

Barrel Length and Material 

A hunting rifle's barrel length and material affect its accuracy and weight. 

• Barrel Length: 

• Longer barrels (over 24 inches) generally provide better accuracy and higher velocity. They're ideal for long-range shooting. 

• Shorter barrels (20-22 inches) are more maneuverable and better suited for dense forests. 

• Material: 

• Stainless Steel offers corrosion resistance and durability. It's ideal for hunting in harsh weather conditions. 

• Carbon Fiber is lightweight and strong. Carbon fiber barrels make the rifle lighter while maintaining accuracy. 

Stock and Ergonomics 

A good stock is essential for stability and comfort during shooting. 

• Stability: A well-designed stock helps absorb recoil. It keeps the rifle steady, improving shot accuracy. 

• Comfort: Adjustable stocks allow you to customize the fit to your body. This ability enhances comfort and control. Features like adjustable comb height and length of pull ensure a perfect fit. 

Accessories and Optics 

The right accessories and optics are crucial for maximizing your hunting rifle's performance. Here are some important considerations when selecting and setting up your scope. 

Selecting the Right Scope 

Scope features include magnification, objective lens size, and reticle type. 

• Higher magnification allows you to see targets more clearly at longer distances. A scope with variable magnification, such as 3-9x, is versatile for different scenarios. 

• A larger objective lens size (40mm+) gathers more light. This can provide a clearer image in low-light conditions. However, larger lenses add weight and bulk to the rifle. 

• Different reticle designs include duplex, mil-dot, or BDC (bullet drop compensator). Each type offers various benefits. A standard reticle is useful for many types of hunting. Advanced designs can provide greater precision for smaller game and longer distances. 

Select a scope that matches your hunting environment and shooting needs. The right scope can enhance your accuracy and overall success. 

Mounting and Zeroing Your Scope 

Properly mounting and zeroing your scope is essential for consistent accuracy. 

1. Mounting the Scope: 

• Ensure the rifle is unloaded. 

• Position the scope mounts on the rifle and secure them tightly. 

• Place the scope on the mounts, adjusting for proper eye relief. 

• Tighten the mounting screws evenly to avoid misalignment. 

2. Zeroing the Scope: 

• Start at a distance around 25 yards, to get the initial zero. 

• Fire a group of three shots. Adjust the elevation and windage knobs until you center the group on the bullseye. 

• Move back to a standard distance, typically 100 yards, and repeat the process to fine-tune the zero. 

Consistent accuracy is crucial for successful hunting. Properly mounting and zeroing your scope ensures that your shots will be precise. 

Choosing Your Ideal Hunting Rifle 

Choosing the right hunting rifle involves considering your budget, needs, and preferences. This guide has highlighted options for every budget, from affordable to premium. 

Budget-Friendly options are great for beginners and those on a tight budget. They offer reliability and performance without costing too much. 

Mid-Range options provide a good balance of cost and performance. These rifles are perfect for serious hunters looking for better features and accuracy. 

High-End options offer top-notch accuracy and build quality for those ready to invest. They are designed for experienced hunters who want the best performance. 

Consider factors like caliber, barrel length, and stock design when selecting your rifle. Good accessories and properly setting up your scope will also improve your accuracy. 

The best hunting rifle fits your budget, feels comfortable, and performs well in the field. Visit your local Rural King to evaluate your options and find the perfect rifle for your hunting needs. Happy hunting!