To anyone serious about long-range shooting–whether a competitive shooter, a hunter, or a precision shooter–the rifle you use can be the difference between making it or missing it. Precision, cartridge choice, and a firm understanding of ballistics all come together to make a good shot a perfect one. Here’s an overview of nine rifles that stand out for precision and dependability, based on real-world performance and expert evaluation.
9. Gunwerks Magnus Rifle System
If budget is irrelevant and you require top performance, the Gunwerks Magnus is difficult to surpass. Its ergonomic stock design and compatibility with the 7mm PRC cartridge demonstrate that the firm cares about shooter comfort and ballistic effectiveness. Although with a high price, the Magnus brings unprecedented accuracy for those who require the very best at extended ranges.
8. Christensen Arms MPR
The Modern Precision Rifle from Christensen Arms provides modularity, adjustability, and a contemporary chassis design. It’s a rifle that will excel in the hands of an expert, though quality can differ from unit to unit. If you can find a solidly crafted one, it’s incredibly accurate and versatile, but occasional inconsistency means you might want to shop carefully before buying.
7. Remington 700 Long Range
The Remington 700 is an old friend, and the Long Range model in 7mm PRC carries that tradition forward. Although the brand reputation took a hit in the past, newer improvements have enhanced consistency and performance. For those who value tried and tested design and cost effectiveness, the Remington 700 is a good option if loaded with contemporary optics and ammunition.
6. Custom 7mm PRC Barrel on an Existing Rifle
Updating a proven rifle is a quick path to accuracy. Installing a 7mm PRC prefit barrel onto rifles such as the Tikka T3x, Bergara B14, Remington 700, or Ruger American can turn a known rifle into a long-range player. It depends on bolt face and action length matching, and having a reputable barrel supplier. With proper installation, you achieve high-level accuracy without having to begin anew.
5. Fierce Mountain Reaper
Fierce Firearms has concentrated on light, high-performance rifles, and the Mountain Reaper is a good example of that strategy. Its magnesium chassis and titanium action minimize weight while absorbing recoil. The 20-inch barrel strikes a balance between velocity and handling, and topping it with a muzzle brake or suppressor assists in containing the punch of 7mm PRC cartridges. For hunters traversing rugged terrain, it’s a trusted companion.
4. Fierce Carbon Rogue
The Carbon Rogue takes Fierce Firearms’ reputation for originality and combines it with a lightweight stock and carbon-wrapped barrel. It’s stiff, accurate, and feeds well, and it’s perfect for precision shooters who want portability without compromise. Contemporary flourishes, such as a picatinny rail and flush cups that detach quickly, make it useful in a variety of configurations without going all the way to custom.
3. Browning X-Bolt
The Browning X-Bolt line combines form and function. The “SR” (Suppressor Ready) versions are especially attractive to 7mm PRC shooters, with threaded barrels and a shorter profile that complements contemporary muzzle devices. Some players replace the heavy Feather Trigger with an aftermarket version, but otherwise, the X-Bolt provides solid accuracy and a well-built platform.
2. Savage 110 Ultralite
Savage adopted the 7mm PRC early on, and the 110 Ultralite excels with a carbon fiber barrel that saves weight without compromising accuracy. The stock is minimalist, and the magazine system can be smoother, but the performance of the rifle speaks for itself. Light, accurate, and reliable, it’s perfect for long-range hunters or anyone who wants precision over added frills.
1. Ruger American Go Wild!
At the lower price point, the Ruger American Go Wild! Shiness for consistency and affordability. Better magazines and widespread aftermarket availability make it a snap to upgrade. While it can’t keep pace with premium rifles in all aspects, it is surprisingly accurate in return for the investment, making it a great gateway for someone getting into 7mm PRC long-range shooting.
Mastering Accuracy Beyond the Rifle
A rifle by itself does not ensure hits. Barrel length, zeroing, and ballistic knowledge are important factors. Most precision shooters zero at 100 yards to make adjustments for longer ranges easier. For smaller calibers such as .22LR, a 35-yard zero might coincide with the top of the ballistic arc, minimizing calculations for holdover. Wind, ammunition quality, and shooter proficiency are all equally important.
Even the most accurate rifle can be defeated by substandard ammo or incorrect reading conditions. Success at long range is often a result of practice, getting to know your rifle, and having respect for the variables that affect each shot. From affordable budget rifles to the latest custom rifles, shooters today have more choices than ever before. With the proper combination of rifle, cartridge, and technique, shooting targets at extreme ranges is no longer a matter of chance–it’s the result of planning, training, and proper equipment.