Bolt-action rifles have evolved from those classic old hunting guns. Modern designs marry military-strength ruggedness with precision for long-range shots in the field. Whether you’re stretching steel at 1,000 yards or taking down a big bull elk, current rifles offer capabilities that your grandfather could only have imagined. Here’s a countdown of the 10 top bolt-actions available today—tested, reviewed, and tried in actual use.
10. Mossberg Patriot LR Tactical
For those who desire long-range accuracy on a non-four-figure budget, the Patriot LR Tactical is tough to top. Equipped with an MDT chassis, adjustable stock, and heavy-contour barrel threaded for brakes or suppressors, this rifle delivers serious performance at a reasonable price. Testing has seen it shoot sub-half-inch groups, which is impressive at its price. It also holds AICS-pattern magazines and has an adjustable cheek riser for comfort. Not feather-weight, the rifle’s stability in a chassis system provides you with repeatable accuracy—something you’ll be grateful for when pressure is on.
9. Mauser M18
Mauser is a name that comes with a lot of heritage, and the M18 continues that tradition with straightforward, uncomplicated reliability. Its three-lug bolt runs smooth, the safety is intuitive, and the accuracy is better than you’d expect for the money. Field tests regularly show sub-MOA groups, making it a no-nonsense hunting rifle that thrives in tough conditions. The stock isn’t fancy, but the rifle feeds reliably and performs every time. It’s a solid option for hunters who just want a dependable tool that works when it matters.
8. Weatherby Vanguard
Based on the same design as the Howa 1500, the Vanguard goes a step further with a rugged stock and weather-resistant coating. It’s a gun designed for hunters in rain, snow, and dust who still want accuracy to deliver on target. In head-to-head tests, the Vanguard usually wins out over its competitors with groups so tight the variations are almost negligible. Available in many different calibers, this rifle is a tried-and-true performer that will not fail you in the backcountry.
7. Bergara B-14 Ridge
Bergara rifles have earned a reputation for out-of-the-box accuracy, and the B-14 Ridge carries that legacy forward. The action cycles effortlessly, the trigger breaks crisply, and its barrel prints tight groups reliably. It lacks flashy features such as carbon fiber or heavy fluting, but it provides you with reliability on which you can bet a hunt. For less than a thousand bucks, it’s a rifle that works—and keeps working year after year.
6. Browning X-Bolt 2 Pro McMillan SPR Carbon Fiber
This rifle is made for hunters who hike in rugged terrain and don’t need to carry a lot of weight. With a carbon fiber barrel and McMillan stock, it cuts ounces without sacrificing precision. The three-lug bolt, adjustable trigger, and ergonomic comfort are easy to operate with or without a suppressor. With repeatable sub-MOA accuracy, this rifle is designed for long hikes, large climbs, and shots that count.
5. Seekins Havak Pro Hunter 2
The Havak Pro Hunter 2 introduces competition DNA to a hunting rifle. Spiral fluting, near-vertical grip, and wide fore-end all suggest match-rifle heritage. But it still manages to save weight for mountain hunts. Half-inch groups with factory ammunition in real-world tests, and the action cycles smoothly. This is the rifle you carry when you desire match-grade accuracy in a frame rugged enough for tough backcountry hunts.
4. Sig Cross
The Sig Cross is a newer player in the bolt-action realm but has gained devoted followers quickly. Light, accurate, and modular, it has a folding stock that makes it simple to carry into the field. Adjustable fit and silky cycling make it suitable for a broad variety of shooters. Hunters adore it for portability, but long-distance shooters appreciate its accuracy. It’s the type of rifle that’s comfortable in the mountains and on the range.
3. Sako TRG 22 A1
If all you’re looking for is pinpoint accuracy, the TRG 22 A1 is as factory rifles come. It shoots groups so tight they look like a joke, and its fully adjustable chassis stock allows you to dial in everything from pull weight to cheek height. The action cycles sweetly, the barrel is hammer-forged for reliability, and the general build is battle-hardened rugged. This rifle isn’t for hunters alone—it’s used by pros who require perfection under stress.
2. Tikka T3x Lite
Ask nearly any hunter what they think of the Tikka T3x Lite, and they’ll likely sing its praises. Renowned for its butter-smooth trigger, lightweight design, and guaranteed sub-MOA accuracy, this rifle has become a best-of-class all-around hunting rifle. The stock is modular, the recoil pad is gentle, and aftermarket components are plentiful. It’s cheap, lightweight enough to tote around, and durable enough to last a lifetime—a real hunter’s rifle.
1. Ruger American Gen 2
At the top of the list is the Ruger American Gen 2, a rifle that has revolutionized the budget market. From its fluted barrel and Cerakote finish to its stiff stock and three-position safety, it all feels like it should cost a whole lot more than it does. Sub-MOA groups are the new norm, and the rifle feeds well and is optics-ready. For hunters and shooters looking for top performance at a cost that won’t hurt, the American Gen 2 is the way to go.
What’s great about this list is the amount of performance that’s now condensed into rifles of all price points. There’s something here for every long-range shooter and hunter, whether you’re driving tacks on a budget or cutting paper at distance on the high end. Whether you’re climbing mountains, glassing elk, or punching paper at range, bolt-actions today offer more accuracy, dependability, and versatility than at any time in history.
