These are the best bolt action rifles
Featured photo courtesy of GUNSweek.com
SUMMARY
After checking out a wide range of options, I found the Browning X-Bolt Pro Bolt-Action Rifle to be the best overall pick for the top bolt action rifle. Bolt action rifles offer more accuracy and power compared to lever action rifles, making them ideal for a wider range of situations. Whether you’re hunting or working on your extreme long-range shooting skills, it helps to have a good bolt-action rifle.
The Browning X-Bolt Pro features a carbon fiber stock with a compressed foam core to maintain a lightweight yet rugged design. The rifle has pinpoint accuracy at long ranges and exceptional strength for increased durability. Yet, the Browning X-Bolt may not be the perfect fit for every marksperson. Before choosing your next firearm, compare the features of some of the top bolt action rifles.
Here is our list of the best bolt action rifles currently available.
Browning X-Bolt Pro – Best Overall
The Browning X-Bolt Pro was built for increased accuracy and stealth. It weighs just over six pounds, making it one of the lightest options. Yet, it is also very strong. It features a stainless steel barrel with a threaded muzzle brake and Inflex Technology to minimize recoil.
The X-Bolt Pro also has a short 60-degree bolt lift for smooth, fast action. You can fire rapidly but are likely to run out of rounds quickly due to the capacity of just 4+1 rounds. This particular model is chambered for 6.5 Creedmoor rounds and has a barrel length of 22 inches. It is a top choice for long-range shooting thanks to its superior accuracy and comfort.
Pros
- Factory lapped bore for increased accuracy
- Lightweight design
- Smooth bolt action
Cons
- Expensive
Winchester XPR Hunter – Best Value for Your Money
The Winchester XPR Hunter Bolt-Action Rifle is a popular rifle based on the best-selling Winchester Model 70. The XPR features the latest manufacturing processes to give you a more reliable firearm. The Winchester XPR features a solid steel receiver and comes factory-mounted with a Vortex Crossfire II scope for greater accuracy.
The two-position thumb safety and the bolt release button provide increased safety. The detachable single-stack magazine also makes loading and unloading the rifle a breeze. It also includes the same Inflex Technology Recoil pads found in the Browning X-Bolt, which helps reduce recoil.
Pros
- Comes with a scope
- The recoil pads allow for more rapid firing
- Offers reliable performance
Cons
- The provided scope may not fit everyone’s needs
Ruger American Predator Bolt-Action Rifle – Best for Adjustable Trigger Pull
The Ruger American Predator is a trusted choice for those wanting a bolt-action rifle. It includes a texturized pistol grip combined with a heavier tapered barrel to aid accuracy with long-distance shooting. It also has a two-position tang safety that is operable by both left-handed and right-handed shooters.
The Predator features a composite stock and molded-in recoil pads. The pads help minimize recoil a bit, but not quite as well as the previous choices. It also features an adjustable trigger pull, which is a unique feature for adjusting the weight of the pull to match your comfort level.
Pros
- Includes an adjustable trigger pull
- One of the more affordable rifles
- Weighs just 6.6 pounds
Cons
- Not the most durable bolt-action rifle available
Remington Model 700 ADL Varmint – Best Budget Bolt-Action Rifle
The Remington Model 700 ADL Varmint is a reliable bolt-action rifle for those with a stricter budget. It costs less than the earlier options but offers greater reliability compared to less expensive rifles. The Remington Model 700 features a synthetic stock and contoured barrel with a non-reflective finish. The rifle is ready for use with a scope, as it comes pre-drilled. It also features two sling swivel studs for mounting a bi-pod. The Remington Model 700 and the Ruger American Predator are closely matched. However, the Model 700 does not include an adjustable trigger. It is best suited for those who want to save money without sacrificing too much accuracy.
Pros
- One of the most affordable bolt-action rifles worth getting
- Includes a non-reflective finish for increased stealth
Cons
- May not hold up as well in rough conditions
- Long barrel may be a little cumbersome
- Weighs more than the other options
Conclusion – Which is the Best?
The Browning X-Bolt Pro is one of the top bolt action rifles available due to its precisely manufactured components and innovative design features. It includes a stainless-steel barrel with a factory-lapped bore for increased accuracy and weighs just six pounds.
If the price of the X-Bolt Pro is beyond your budget, the Remington Model 700 ADL Varmint Bolt-Action Rifle is an affordable alternative. It fires 6.5 Creedmoor rounds but adds an extra 2.4 pounds and a much longer barrel.
The Ruger American Predator may cost a little more compared to the Remington but offers an adjustable trigger pull and the choice between 6.5 Creedmoor rounds and .22-250 Remington.
The Winchester XPR Hunter Bolt-Action Rifle is a close runner-up to the Browning. The Winchester is more affordable but does not quite match the accuracy and reliability of the Browning.
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