Bolt action rifles

[Cole]

I am trying to buy my first bolt action hunting rifle and apparently there are like a million options...and every forum says something different is "the best." My head's spinning from all the caliber debates and brand loyalties. Can someone just tell me what actually works without starting World War III in the comments?

 

[Chuck]

I spent a week trying to pick a deer rifle once, and my wife thought I was having an existential crisis. Forget what folks say, they'll tell ya a $5,000 custom job is entry-level. My advice is to go to your local big box store and shoulder a Remington 700 or a Ruger American in a boring-but-effective caliber like .308 or 6.5 Creedmoor. They just work. Pick the one that feels right, put a decent scope on it, and buy enough ammo to practice...so don't overthink it, or you'll still be reading comments next season. I hope this helps

 

[Alibiiv]

I am trying to buy my first bolt action hunting rifle and apparently there are like a million options...and every forum says something different is "the best." My head's spinning from all the caliber debates and brand loyalties. Can someone just tell me what actually works without starting World War III in the comments?

First and foremost, what is your budget? Remember you still will probably need a decent scope as well. The scope and mount can sometimes cost more than the rifle itself. Next…decide what the rifle is going to be used for. Also distance/s you intend to use/hunt with the rifle at. I have several deer rifles, depending upon the terrain that I’m hunting in and the shot distance I will select one rifle over the other. Fields and long distances the .270AI or the “06”. Close heavy cover the .308 lever action with a lower powered scope. What I have written in this reply is essential information to have prior to anyone being able to provide you with any accurate information or advice. Intended use is an extremely important variable in this equation. From here are you a big statured person or recoil sensitive person. .308 Winchester is a good starting cartridge for all around hunting, but again before being able to advise any further is simply speculation and conjecture without all the data that I have written in this reply.

 

[MajorBiggs]

I am trying to buy my first bolt action hunting rifle and apparently there are like a million options...and every forum says something different is "the best." My head's spinning from all the caliber debates and brand loyalties. Can someone just tell me what actually works without starting World War III in the comments?

Keep it simple, pick your budget and primary use then buy a rifle that fits you. For most hunters a .308 or 6.5 Creedmoor with a decent scope and trigger is a great starting point, you can also try a few at the range first