When it comes to deer hunting, having the right equipment is crucial for a successful hunt. One of the most important pieces of equipment is the hunting rifle. 

The choice of rifle can significantly impact the outcome of your hunting expedition. 

In this post, we will explain how you can choose the best deer hunting rifle, what makes a good rifle good for hunting deer, along with some professional recommendations. So, let’s start.

How to Choose The Best Deer Hunting Rifle?

Below are a few factors that can help you choose the best deer hunting rifle:

Budget

Determine how much you are willing to spend and find the best options within your budget. 

A good hunting rifle is an investment, and setting a budget helps narrow down the options, making the selection process easier.

Weight

Consider the weight of the rifle, especially if you will be trekking long distances. 

A lighter rifle is more comfortable to carry, but ensures it does not compromise on performance and durability.

Caliber

Choose a caliber that is suitable for deer hunting to ensure it has enough power to ethically take down a deer. 

The caliber you choose should offer a balance between recoil and stopping power.

Action

Decide between bolt-action, semi-automatic, or other types of actions based on your preference. 

Each action type has its own advantages and is suitable for different hunting scenarios.

Barrel Length

Consider the barrel length which can affect the rifle’s accuracy and maneuverability. A longer barrel generally provides better accuracy, while a shorter barrel is easier to handle.

What Makes a Rifle Good for Hunting Deer?

Here are a few factors that make a rifle ideal for hunting deer:

Accuracy

Accuracy is paramount when it comes to hunting rifles. A highly accurate rifle ensures that you can hit your target with precision, leading to a successful hunt. 

It minimizes the chances of wounding the animal and allows for a quick and ethical kill. 

Look for rifles known for their accuracy and consistency.

Recoil

Recoil is another important factor to consider. A rifle with excessive recoil can be uncomfortable to shoot and can affect your accuracy. 

It’s essential to choose a rifle with manageable recoil, especially for those who are new to hunting or have a smaller frame. 

Trying out different rifles and calibers can help you find one with a recoil you are comfortable with.

Chamberings

Chamberings refer to the specific cartridge for which a firearm is designed. The right chambering is crucial for effective deer hunting. Popular choices for deer hunting include the .30-06 Springfield, .308 Winchester, and .270 Winchester. 

Each has its own advantages and is suitable for different hunting scenarios. 

Consider the terrain and the size of the deer population in your hunting area to choose the appropriate chambering.

The Best Deer Hunting Rifles: Reviews & Recommendations

Here is a detailed review for the best deer hunting rifles:

Northwoods: Henry Lever Action X Model

The Henry Lever Action X Model is a modern, lever-action rifle that is gaining popularity among hunters and shooting enthusiasts. 

It combines traditional design with modern enhancements to deliver a reliable and efficient firearm for various hunting expeditions.

Remarkable Accuracy

The Henry Lever Action X Model is lauded for its remarkable accuracy, making it one of the most precise .30-30 lever-action rifles available in the market.

This feature is crucial for hunters as it ensures that shots are on target, increasing the chances of a successful hunt and minimizing the possibility of wounding animals.

Smooth and Reliable Action

One of the standout features of the Henry X Model is its smooth and utterly reliable action. This quality ensures that the rifle works seamlessly with various ammunition types, offering consistent performance in different hunting scenarios. 

The reliable action contributes to the overall shooting experience, ensuring that hunters can focus on their targets without worrying about firearm malfunctions.

Quality Fit and Finish

Attention to detail is evident in the Henry Lever Action X Model’s fit and finish. The rifle boasts a matte receiver finish and a semi-gloss barrel and magazine tube, reflecting the quality craftsmanship that goes into its production. 

The excellent fit and finish not only enhance the rifle’s aesthetic appeal but also contribute to its durability and longevity.

Enhanced Functionality

The Henry X Model stands out in its stock configuration, offering the flexibility for additional attachments like optics, lights, and suppressors. 

This feature enhances the rifle’s functionality for hunting expeditions, allowing hunters to customize their firearms to suit their hunting style and the specific requirements of their hunting environment.

Alaska: Ruger Hawkeye Alaskan

The Ruger Hawkeye Alaskan is a robust and reliable rifle designed to withstand the harsh conditions of the Alaskan wilderness. 

It is built for hunters who require a sturdy and dependable firearm that can handle large game and extreme environments.

Extreme Durability and Reliability

Celebrated for its extreme durability and total reliability, the Ruger Hawkeye Alaskan is a rifle that hunters can depend on in the most challenging conditions. 

Its robust construction ensures that it can withstand the elements and the rigors of hunting in rugged terrains, offering consistent performance when it matters the most.

Sufficient Accuracy for Successful Hunts

Chambered for powerful cartridges, the Ruger Hawkeye Alaskan guarantees sufficient accuracy to ensure a successful hunt. This feature is crucial for hunting large game like moose, caribou, and bears, where precision is paramount to ensure a humane and effective hunt. 

Users have reported excellent accuracy and performance, affirming the rifle’s capability to handle various game efficiently.

Enhanced Hunting Capabilities

The rifle’s iron sights are designed to perform well at 50 yards, offering reliable targeting for close-range hunting. 

For hunters seeking enhanced capabilities, pairing the Ruger Hawkeye Alaskan with a Leupold VX3, 1.5-5 scope significantly improves its hunting performance, ensuring better targeting and accuracy for various hunting scenarios.

Overwhelmingly Positive Feedback

Despite some reported issues with feeding a single round, the overall feedback for the Ruger Hawkeye Alaskan is overwhelmingly positive. 

Users have expressed satisfaction with the rifle’s performance, durability, and reliability, making it a valuable choice for hunting in the Alaskan wilderness.

Beanfield Sniper: Christensen MPR

The Christensen MPR is a modern precision rifle that is gaining attention for its unique features and performance. 

It is designed for hunters and shooters who prioritize comfort, lightweight design, and accuracy in their firearms, ensuring an efficient and enjoyable hunting experience.

Comfort and Lightweight Design

One of the standout features of the Christensen MPR is its comfort and lightweight design compared to other similar rifles. 

This feature ensures that hunters can carry and use the rifle for extended periods without discomfort, enhancing their hunting experience and increasing their chances of a successful hunt.

Excellent and Consistent Accuracy

Users of the Christensen MPR have noted its excellent and consistent accuracy, a crucial feature for any hunting rifle. 

Reports indicate that the best groups hover right around half MOA for five shots at 100 yards, reflecting the rifle’s precision and reliability in targeting.

Commendable Balance and Weight Distribution

The rifle’s balance and weight distribution are commendable, contributing significantly to its ease of use during hunting. 

A well-balanced and evenly distributed weight ensures that hunters can handle the rifle effectively, allowing for accurate and precise shots during hunting expeditions.

Commitment to Optimal Performance

The MPR’s muzzle brake is set to be tested and compared, indicating the manufacturer’s commitment to ensuring optimal performance. 

This attention to detail and focus on performance enhancement reflects the brand’s dedication to delivering a high-quality product to its users.

Reliable and Efficient Rifle for Hunting

Despite some diverse opinions, many shooters find the Christensen MPR to be a reliable and efficient rifle for hunting. 

The combination of its features, design, and performance affirms its position as a preferred choice for many hunters and shooters, ensuring satisfaction and reliability in various hunting scenarios.

Western Mountains: Sako 85 Finnlight

The Sako 85 Finnlight is a distinguished hunting rifle known for its superior craftsmanship, lightweight design, and remarkable accuracy. It is tailored for hunters who require a reliable and efficient firearm for diverse hunting scenarios, particularly in the western mountains.

Light, Accurate, and Powerful

The Sako 85 Finnlight is celebrated for being a well-crafted, light, and accurate hunting rifle. Users consistently express satisfaction with its performance, underscoring its impressive accuracy and power. 

These features make it an ideal choice for handling the diverse and challenging hunting situations found out west, ensuring hunters are well-equipped for success.

Continued Impressions with Finnlight II

The Finnlight II model, an upgrade of the Sako 85 Finnlight, continues to impress users with its robust construction and unwavering reliability. 

These attributes affirm the rifle as a worthwhile investment for serious hunters seeking a firearm that will consistently deliver exceptional performance.

Managed Recoil for Comfort and Control

Despite being considered potentially excessive for certain hunting scenarios, the Sako 85 Finnlight stands out for its managed recoil. 

This feature ensures enhanced comfort and control for the shooter, allowing for precise and accurate shots without the discomfort of significant recoil. 

This managed recoil contributes to a more enjoyable and successful hunting experience, ensuring hunters can focus on their targets effectively.

Superb Craftsmanship and Dependability

The Sako 85 Finnlight is not just about performance; it is also about quality and reliability. 

The rifle’s superb craftsmanship is evident in its construction, design, and features, reflecting the high standards maintained by Sako. The latest 85 action enhances the rifle’s dependability, ensuring consistent and reliable performance in various hunting conditions.

Great Value In a Deer Hunting Rifle: Savage 110 Hunter

The Savage 110 Hunter is a rifle that embodies affordability, quality, and performance, making it an excellent choice for hunters seeking great value in a deer hunting rifle. 

It is designed to offer reliable and efficient performance for hunting large game, ensuring hunters have a dependable firearm for their expeditions.

Affordability Without Compromise

One of the standout features of the Savage 110 Hunter is its affordability without compromising on quality. 

This aspect makes it accessible to a wide range of hunters, ensuring that budget constraints do not hinder the acquisition of a reliable and efficient hunting rifle. 

The Savage 110 Hunter proves that quality and affordability can coexist, offering hunters a valuable firearm that meets their hunting needs effectively.

Ease of Grip and Enhanced Functionality

The Savage 110 Hunter is designed for practicality and ease of use. It offers an ease of grip in all weather conditions, ensuring that hunters have optimal control and handling of the rifle during their hunting expeditions. 

The stock of the Savage 110 Hunter enhances its functionality, contributing to its overall performance and reliability in various hunting scenarios.

Competent Hunting Rifle

Despite not being a target rifle, the Savage 110 Hunter stands out as a competent hunting rifle. It boasts a strong stock and forend, ensuring durability and stability during use. 

These features contribute to the rifle’s performance, ensuring that it can handle the demands of hunting large game effectively.

Commended Accuracy and Quality Finish

Users of the Savage 110 Hunter commend its accuracy, noting that the 1/10 twist easily handles various ammunition types. This feature ensures that hunters can use their preferred ammunition for hunting, enhancing the rifle’s versatility and performance. 

Additionally, the rifle’s finish is smooth and of high quality, reflecting standards equivalent to higher-end button-rifled barrels, further affirming its value.

Southern Piney Woods: Bergara B14 Ridge

The Bergara B14 Ridge is a robust and dependable rifle designed for the challenging hunting conditions of the Southern Piney Woods. 

Known for its precision and durability, this rifle guarantees sub-MOA accuracy, a standard it comfortably exceeds according to tests, making it a top choice for hunters in this region.

Sub-MOA Accuracy

The Bergara B14 Ridge is celebrated for its sub-MOA accuracy, ensuring that hunters can consistently make precise shots. 

This level of accuracy is crucial for hunting in the Southern Piney Woods, where shots may be taken at varying distances and through dense vegetation. 

The rifle’s performance in this regard instills confidence in hunters, increasing their chances of a successful hunt.

Built to Last

This solid performer is built to last, designed to withstand the rigors of hunting in challenging terrain. Its construction ensures durability and reliability in various hunting conditions, allowing hunters to depend on their firearm even in adverse weather or rough terrains. 

The Bergara B14 Ridge’s reliability is a crucial factor for hunters who need a rifle they can trust.

Consistent and Impressive Performance

While it may not be the most flashy rifle, the Bergara B14 Ridge consistently delivers impressive performance in the field. Users have expressed their satisfaction with the rifle’s outstanding build quality and its ability to perform reliably in real-world hunting scenarios. 

Its consistent accuracy and reliability make it a preferred choice for hunters who value efficiency and dependability in a deer hunting rifle.

Impressive Components and Feel

The rifle’s components and feel have been highlighted as impressive features by users. These aspects contribute to the overall shooting experience, ensuring that hunters can handle the rifle comfortably and effectively during their hunting expeditions. 

The thoughtful design and quality components add to the rifle’s appeal, making it a trusted companion for hunters in the Southern Piney Woods.

Technical Deer Hunting Rifle: Proof Research MTR

The Proof Research MTR is a technical deer hunting rifle that impresses with its outstanding fit and finish, ergonomic design, and reliable performance. 

It caters to serious hunters who appreciate the attention to detail, precision, and quality in their firearms, making it a compelling choice for those who seek a rifle that stands out in terms of design and functionality.

Excellent Fit and Finish

One of the defining features of the Proof Research MTR is its excellent fit and finish, which can be compared to full custom builds. 

This attention to detail and craftsmanship reflects the commitment of the manufacturer to deliver a high-quality firearm that meets the expectations of discerning hunters. The rifle’s aesthetics are just as impressive as its performance, adding to its overall appeal.

Reliable and Ergonomic Performance

Users have reported reliable and ergonomic performance with the Proof Research MTR. The rifle consistently shoots exceptionally well, ensuring that hunters can rely on its precision and accuracy when in the field. 

While it may not match the level of a Long Rifles Inc. custom rifle, it holds its own in terms of reliability and performance, making it a trustworthy companion for serious hunters.

Unique Hybrid Design

The Proof Research MTR features a unique hybrid design, combining the action of the Terminus model with the stock of the TAC II model. This combination contributes to the rifle’s distinctive look and functionality, ensuring that it stands out in the crowded market of deer hunting rifles. 

The hybrid design provides hunters with the best of both worlds, offering the advantages of both action styles.

Attention to Design, Detail, and Finish

The rifle’s meticulous attention to design, detail, and finish is evident in every aspect of its construction. This level of craftsmanship ensures that the Proof Research MTR not only performs exceptionally but also looks impressive. 

Hunters who value the aesthetics of their firearms will appreciate the thought and effort put into the rifle’s design and finish.

Great Plains Stalker: Tikka T3x Lite Stainless

The Tikka T3x Lite Stainless is a rifle that strikes a perfect balance of portability, accuracy, and dependability, making it an ideal choice for hunters in the Great Plains. 

Renowned for its exceptional features, this rifle is designed to meet the needs of serious hunters who require a reliable and precise firearm.

Stainless Steel Barrel and Superb Trigger

The Tikka T3x Lite Stainless features a stainless steel barrel, which not only adds to its durability but also enhances its overall aesthetics. 

The rifle’s superb trigger ensures a crisp and consistent pull, contributing to its remarkable accuracy. These features are crucial for hunters who demand precision in their shots.

Surprising Accuracy

Users of the Tikka T3x Lite have consistently praised its surprising accuracy. 

This rifle is known for its ability to consistently deliver precise shots, ensuring that hunters can rely on it to make accurate hits in various hunting scenarios. Its accuracy is a testament to its quality construction and design.

Convenient Push-Feed Bolt-Action Design

The Tikka T3x Lite is a push-feed bolt-action rifle with a detachable magazine, offering convenience and efficiency for hunters. 

The push-feed design ensures smooth and reliable cycling of cartridges, reducing the chances of jams or malfunctions. The detachable magazine allows for quick and easy reloading, adding to the rifle’s overall efficiency in the field.

Versatile Barrel and Muzzle Options

The rifle’s fluted, cold hammer-forged barrel in a medium-heavy profile is threaded to accept muzzle brakes or suppressors, enhancing its versatility. 

This feature allows hunters to customize their firearm to suit their preferences and hunting environment. Whether using a muzzle brake for reduced recoil or a suppressor for quieter shots, the Tikka T3x Lite offers adaptability.

Smooth and Precise Action

Users have highlighted the Tikka T3x Lite’s smooth and precise action. The rifle’s lightweight design and exceptional action ensure that it handles well and meets the expectations of hunters. 

The combination of its weight, action, and smooth operation makes it a joy to use in the field.

Family Heirloom: Winchester Model 70 Super Grade

The Winchester Model 70 Super Grade is a rifle with a rich history and a reputation for surprising accuracy and robust build. It is designed to offer consistent performance, with Winchester stating that shooters can expect one minute of accuracy with the Model 70 with three-shot groups. 

Impressive Accuracy:

The rifle has been tested to deliver impressive accuracy, with reports of .546-inch groupings. The Model 70 Super Grade is not just about performance; it is also about aesthetics and quality. 

Quality Craftsmanship:

Users have been impressed with the beautiful wood and excellent bluing, reflecting the high-quality craftsmanship that goes into each rifle. 

Worthy Heirloom:

The Winchester Model 70 Super Grade stands as a testament to quality and performance, making it a worthy choice as a family heirloom.

Straight Wall Shooter: Mossberg Patriot

The Mossberg Patriot is a rifle that is known for its accuracy, reliability, and smooth operation. It is reported to offer good performance at a fair price, making it an accessible choice for many hunters. 

Ergonomics:

The ergonomics of the Mossberg Patriot are excellent, with an easy-to-load double-stack polymer magazine and a bolt that functions easily and without drama. 

Maximum Shooting Experience:

Users have noted the excellent trigger, good safety, and a soft buttpad that effectively soaks up recoil, enhancing the shooting experience. 

Reliable and Efficient:

The Mossberg Patriot is considered a great gun for hunting, with its performance and features aligning well with the needs of hunters. 

It may not be the best for bench shooting, but it stands as a reliable and efficient rifle for hunting activities.

Pennsylvania Stalwart: Remington 760 and 7600

The Remington 760 and 7600 are known for their reliability and diverse chambering options. The 760 model is noted for its complex locking lug system, contributing to its robust build and performance. 

Lug System:

The 7600, on the other hand, simplified the lug system, enhancing ease of use without compromising on performance. 

Both rifles are considered very good guns, with the Remington 7600 offering adjustable rear sights for fast sight acquisition and effective performance well past 100 yards. 

Excellent Performance:

Users have reported satisfaction with the rifles’ performance, highlighting their reliability and efficiency for hunting. The Remington 760 and 7600 stand as reliable choices for hunters seeking dependable pump-action rifles for their expeditions.

10 Modern Classic Deer Hunting Rifles

In the world of deer hunting, modern classic rifles combine the timeless features of reliability and precision with contemporary advancements in technology and design.

New Reliables

New reliable rifles are those that have recently entered the market and have quickly established a reputation for reliability and performance.

Tikka T3x Lite Roughtech

The Tikka T3x Lite Roughtech is known for its affordability, smooth action, and decent accuracy.

It features a heavier barrel, fluted bolt, and an oversized bolt knob, enhancing its functionality and performance. 

The rough texture of the stock and the foam insert provide a solid feel and minimal noise during movement, making it a suitable choice for stalking through various terrains. 

The T3x Lite Roughtech stands out as a rugged, lightweight, and accurate stalking rifle, ideally suited for real-world hunting scenarios.

Winchester Model 70 Extreme Weather SS

The Winchester Model 70 Extreme Weather SS is a lightweight rifle designed for mountain hunting, offering a balance that ensures it is not too light to shoot effectively. 

It features a superior MOA trigger with an accuracy guarantee and tighter headspace control for enhanced accuracy. The rifle’s Pachmayr Decelerator buttpad and muzzle brake make the recoil manageable and comfortable, even for its caliber size. 

Despite some reports of issues with accuracy, the majority of users find the Model 70 Extreme Weather SS to be a reliable and efficient hunting rifle.

Cheap Shots

Cheap shots refer to rifles that are affordable yet do not compromise on performance and reliability, ensuring that hunters can have a reliable hunting companion without breaking the bank.

Remington 700 ADL Synthetic

The Remington 700 ADL Synthetic is a budget-friendly rifle that doesn’t skimp on performance. It is appreciated for its affordability.

Users have described it as a great gun for the money, especially when found on sale. Despite its low price, the rifle offers remarkable accuracy and is considered a reliable choice for hunting and shooting. 

The optics are noted to be outstanding for the money, with low-light performance comparable to higher-end scopes. 

Some users have noted the trigger to be heavy and gritty, but the overall consensus is positive for the Remington 700 ADL Synthetic as an affordable and efficient rifle.

Savage Axis II XP

The Savage Axis II XP is recognized as a potentially one of the best budget bolt actions available. It is known for its Accutrigger which is easily adjustable, crisp, and lighter compared to other models. 

The rifle is described as incredibly accurate and dependable, available in various calibers without breaking the bank. 

Despite its budget-friendly nature, the Savage Axis II XP does not compromise on performance, offering accuracy and reliability for hunters and shooters. 

Some users have noted the stock to be light and the design not the prettiest, but the overall performance and affordability make it a worthy choice for those seeking a budget-friendly rifle.

Thin-Air Rifles

Thin-air rifles are designed for high-altitude hunting, offering features that ensure performance and reliability in the thin-air conditions of mountainous terrains.

Seekins Precision Havak Element

The Seekins Precision Havak Element is a rifle that is praised for its great action and trigger. 

Besides the initial concerns about recoil, users have reported a comfortable shooting experience, thanks to the cushy butt pad and effective muzzle brake. 

The Havak Element is noted for its excellent fit and finish, smooth operation, and impressive accuracy. 

Users have reported achieving sub half-inch 5-shot groups, highlighting the rifle’s precision. The Havak Element is more than just a lightweight rifle; it ticks all the boxes for performance, accuracy, and comfort, making it a reliable choice for high-altitude hunting.

Weatherby Mark V Weathermark LT

The Weatherby Mark V Weathermark LT is a rifle that guarantees to shoot a 3-shot group of .99” or less at 100 yards (SUB-MOA) from a cold barrel when used with Weatherby factory or premium ammunition. 

Users have discussed the rifle’s performance, highlighting its accuracy and reliability for hunting. The Weathermark LT is noted for its quality construction and finish, ensuring durability and consistent performance in various hunting conditions. 

While being discontinued, the Mark V Weathermark LT continues to be a sought-after rifle for hunters seeking a reliable, accurate, and well-built firearm for their hunting expeditions.

Lever Guns

Lever guns are classic firearms that offer quick action and reliability, making them a preferred choice for many hunters seeking efficiency and a bit of nostalgia in their hunting rifles.

Marlin 1895 Modern Hunter

The Marlin 1895 Modern Hunter is a fresh take on the classic Marlin 45-70, offering a modern and practical design for today’s hunters. 

It is described as a rifle that is not your grandaddy’s lever gun, reflecting the advancements and improvements made to the classic design. The Marlin 1895 Modern Hunter is noted for its enhanced design and functionality, with features like factory threading adding to its appeal. 

Despite changes in ownership and manufacturing, the Marlin 1895 continues to be a reliable and efficient lever-action rifle for hunting, ensuring performance and reliability in various hunting scenarios.

Long Rangers

Long rangers are rifles designed for long-range hunting, offering features like enhanced accuracy, stability, and performance for hunting at extended distances.

GA Precision Xtreme Hunter

The GA Precision Xtreme Hunter is a rifle that stands out for its flatter trajectory, lightweight design, minimal wind correction, and light recoil. 

It boasts a great barrel life of over 2500 rounds and exceptional cartridge component life with 8+ reloads per cartridge. Users have described the Xtreme Hunter as “stupid accurate,” being tested and proven at distances up to 839 yards. 

The rifle’s weight is around 9 lbs, offering a balanced and manageable experience for hunters. Despite its use, it maintains its performance, ensuring accuracy and reliability for hunting various game.

Browning X-Bolt Hell’s Canyon Speed

The Browning X-Bolt Hell’s Canyon Speed is a bolt-action hunting rifle that is popular for its accuracy and feature-rich design. 

The rifle is noted for its removable muzzle brake, enhancing its performance and shooting experience. 

Users have described the X-Bolt Hell’s Canyon Speed as very accurate, with all rifles tested achieving 0.5 MOA with factory ammo. 

The Dura-Touch finish on the rifle is described as comfortable and lively, offering a soft and rubbery feel. Despite some concerns about the bedding job, the rifle is reported to shoot exceptionally well, with a short and light bolt lift and a decent trigger for a hunting rifle. 

The Browning X-Bolt Hell’s Canyon Speed stands out as a reliable and efficient choice for hunters seeking accuracy and performance in their hunting rifles.

FAQs About the Best Deer Hunting Rifles

What is the best caliber rifle for deer hunting?

There are many great calibers for deer hunting, and the best one for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. Some popular choices include:

• .243 Winchester
• .270 Winchester
• 7mm-08 Remington
• 308 Winchester
• 30-06 Springfield

What is a good deer hunting rifle on a budget?

There are a number of good deer hunting rifles available at a variety of price points. Some budget-friendly options include:

• Savage Axis II
• Ruger American Rifle
• Mossberg Patriot
• Marlin 336
• Henry X Model Lever-Action

What should I look for in a hunting rifle?

When choosing a deer hunting rifle, the most important factor is caliber. Other important factors to consider include action type (bolt-action or lever-action), weight, and features. Try out a few different rifles before you buy one to find one that is comfortable to shoot and accurate.