Best Hunting Rifles by Game Type: Deer, Elk, Bear and More
Choosing the right rifle for hunting can make all the difference between a clean, ethical shot and a missed opportunity. Over the years, I’ve hunted everything from whitetail deer in the Midwest to black bears in the Rockies, and if there's one thing I've learned it’s that not all rifles are created equal. Each game animal demands specific power, precision, and features, and through trial, error, and a lot of field experience, I’ve built a personal list of the best rifles for each game type.
Here’s a breakdown of the rifles I’ve relied on for different game based on what’s actually worked for me in the field, not just what looks good in a catalog.
Best Rifles for Deer Hunting
When I first started deer hunting, I wanted something light, accurate, and dependable. Deer aren't particularly tough animals compared to elk or bear, but they’re quick and elusive. That means your rifle has to be precise, ideally lightweight, and chambered in a caliber that doesn’t punish your shoulder.
My Go-To Picks:
Tikka T3x Lite – Light enough to carry all day through thick woods, and accurate enough to thread the needle through brush or across a field. It shoulders naturally and has one of the smoothest bolt actions I’ve used at this price point.
Sako 90S Adventure – A premium option I reserve for longer-range hunts. It’s balanced, crisp, and feels custom-made for mountain or field stalks.
Ruger American Gen II – When I’m mentoring new hunters or need a backup rifle, this one never disappoints. Affordable, dependable, and it shoots tighter groups than you’d expect.
For deer, I typically stick to calibers like .243 Win, .270 Win, or 6.5 Creedmoor plenty of power without overkill.
Best Rifles for Elk Hunting
Elk are a whole different story. These animals are massive, tough, and can cover terrain like no other. When I hunt elk, I prepare for longer shots, unpredictable weather, and the need for hard-hitting calibers.
What Works Best:
Browning X-Bolt Speed (6.8 Western) – The lightweight build and flat-shooting round make it a beast in high-elevation hunts. When you’re hiking steep ridges, every ounce matters.
Tikka T3x Drover – Tough as nails and dead-on reliable. I trust it in freezing conditions and dense timber alike.
CZ 557 American – A classic walnut stock and solid bolt-action platform, great for those who appreciate traditional craftsmanship and dependable performance.
For elk, I never go below .30-06. Personally, I prefer the 6.5 PRC or .300 Win Mag for their flatter trajectory and knockdown power.
Best Rifles for Bear Hunting
Hunting bears gets your blood pumping there’s an intensity and danger to it that demands a serious rifle. Whether I’m pursuing black bears over bait or hiking into grizzly country, I want something that can stop a charge if it comes to that.
Trustworthy Bear Stoppers:
Marlin 1895 Trapper (.45-70 Govt) – This lever-action is short, fast-handling, and packs a punch. In tight quarters, it’s my first choice.
Ruger Hawkeye Alaskan (.375 Ruger) – Built like a tank and chambered for one of the hardest-hitting rounds around. It’s a bit heavy, but that’s a fair trade for peace of mind in bear country.
Henry All-Weather Side Gate – I love the weatherproof finish on this one, especially for rainy coastal hunts. Smooth lever-action and serious power.
With bears, especially the big ones, there’s no such thing as too much gun. I stick to .45-70, .375 Ruger, or .338 Win Mag depending on the terrain and type of bear.
Best Rifles for Moose Hunting
Moose are gentle giants until you shoot one. Then the work begins. These animals soak up punishment and often require big calibers and solid shot placement. I’ve had success with a few classic rifles.
My Top Moose Choices:
Remington Model 700 – It’s a timeless bolt-action with unmatched reliability. Chambered in .30-06 or .300 Win Mag, it’s more than capable.
Winchester Model 70 – The "Rifleman's Rifle" as they call it. Feeds smooth, shoots straight, and hits like a freight train.
Weatherby Vanguard – A bit modern-looking, but incredibly accurate and consistent. I’ve made long shots on moose with confidence thanks to its performance.
The best moose calibers? I lean toward .300 Win Mag or .338 Win Mag. Shot placement still matters, but those rounds carry serious authority.
Best Rifles for Wild Boar Hunting
Wild boars are stubborn, fast, and sometimes aggressive. Whether I’m spot-and-stalking in thick brush or using night optics in Texas, I want a rifle that’s fast, powerful, and easy to maneuver.
Boar-Hunting Favorites:
Smith & Wesson M&P 10 (.308 Win) – Semi-auto action makes it great for quick follow-up shots. Plus, the .308 is a proven hog round.
Marlin 1895 SBL – Lever-action rifles shine here too. When I’m in heavy brush, this gun shoulders quickly and delivers hammer-like energy.
Ruger American Ranch Rifle – Short, handy, and surprisingly accurate. It’s budget-friendly, and the newer Gen II version improves on every weak point of the original.
Wild boar hunting demands agility. I keep my setups lightweight and favor optics with fast acquisition like red dots or low-magnification scopes.
Final Thoughts
If there’s one thing I’ve learned after years of hunting, it’s this: the right rifle doesn’t just make the job easier it makes it safer, more ethical, and far more enjoyable. Matching your rifle to your game and your terrain is part of the craft. Whether you’re hiking after elk in the high country or sitting quietly in a treestand for whitetail, there’s a rifle out there that will feel like it was made just for you.
Happy hunting and may your shots fly true. Got a favorite hunting rifle of your own? I’d love to hear what you trust out in the field drop it in the comments!