Best Hunting Rifles for Accuracy and Power
Let’s be honest choosing a hunting rifle isn’t just about what looks good on the rack. It’s about finding something that feels right in your hands and delivers when it matters most. Whether you're posted up in a deer blind at sunrise or hiking into the backcountry chasing elk, the right rifle gives you confidence with every shot.
If you're looking for something with pinpoint accuracy and enough muscle to drop game cleanly, you're in the right place. Here are five rifles that hunters (including myself and folks I trust) keep coming back to.
Ruger American Rifle Gen II
A rock-solid workhorse that won’t empty your wallet.
The Gen II takes everything folks liked about the original Ruger American and makes it better nicer stock, better trigger, more consistent groups. It’s light, easy to handle, and shoots straight. Honestly, it’s one of the best values out there.
Good for: Whitetails, hogs, mule deer
Feels like: A no-frills truck that just won’t quit
Browning X-Bolt Max Long Range
Dialed-in for folks who love precision.
If you’ve got some room to stretch your shots say, out west or on open fields this rifle is a dream. The adjustable stock makes it easy to find that perfect cheek weld, and the trigger breaks like glass. Pair it with a good scope and you’re good to go.
Good for: Elk, antelope, anything at 300+ yards
Feels like: A sniper’s rifle dressed in hunting camo
Tikka T3x Lite
Lightweight, slick, and stupid accurate.
This is the rifle I grab when I know I’ll be covering some ground. It’s featherlight on the shoulder but still dead-on accurate. The bolt is smooth like butter, and the stock fits like it was made for you.
Good for: Spot-and-stalk hunters, mountain hunts
Feels like: That one pair of boots you never want to take off
Bergara B-14 HMR
Half hunting rifle, half precision rig.
This one’s a bit more tactical-looking, but don’t let that fool you. It’s made for hunters who want custom-level accuracy without paying a gunsmith. The adjustable stock and heavy barrel make it a beast on the bench and in the field.
Good for: Long-range shots, crossover hunting/target shooting
Feels like: A custom rifle without the custom price tag
Savage 110 Storm
Tough as nails and ready for any weather.
You’re not always hunting in bluebird weather. If you’re headed into snow, rain, or anything in between, the 110 Storm is a great choice. Stainless steel, adjustable stock, and Savage’s AccuTrigger make this one reliable as heck.
Good for: Bad weather, big game
Feels like: A rifle you can beat up and still rely on every season
Pick What Feels Right
You don’t need the most expensive rifle or the fanciest trigger on the market. What matters most is that your rifle fits you your style, your terrain, your game. These rifles are all great options, but the best one is the one you feel confident carrying into the woods.
Try a few at your local shop if you can. Shoulder them. Work the bolts. Feel the triggers. The right rifle will speak to you.