When it comes to choosing a bolt-action rifle, knowing which ones stand out can make a big difference.
To help you find the best options in the U.S., a former Marine,¹ and a team of firearm experts who conducted range testing ² and meta-analysis, chose these bolt-action rifles that combine accuracy, reliability, and performance.
Keep in mind that prices for these rifles can change, so it’s a good idea to check the latest rates before making a purchase.
1. Bergara B-14 HMR
- Maker: Bergara
- Price: Starts at $1,079 (ref)
The B-14 HMR (Hunting and Match Rifle) is known for its exceptional accuracy, this rifle features a fully free-floated 4140 CrMo steel barrel, a matte blued finish, and a threaded muzzle.
The integrated mini-chassis in the stock enhances bedding and repeatable accuracy, while the adjustable cheekpiece and length-of-pull spacers provide customizable comfort.
The B-14 action is smooth, and the rifle is equipped with a Bergara curved trigger that delivers a crisp pull, further enhancing shooting precision. Weighing around 9.25 lbs, it’s suitable for long-range shooting and is available in various calibers, including the popular 6.5 Creedmoor.
2. CZ 600 Lux
- Maker: CZ (Česká Zbrojovka)
- Price: Around $999 (ref)
The 600 Lux rifle features a classic wood stock, providing both beauty and comfort. The 600 Lux boasts an adjustable trigger and a cold hammer-forged barrel, ensuring precision and reliability.
With an ergonomic design, it allows for easy handling and quick target acquisition. The rifle is available in various calibers, making it versatile for different shooting applications.
The CZ 600 series is recognized for its solid build quality and smooth action, suitable for both novice and experienced shooters alike.
3. Browning X-Bolt Series
- Maker: Browning
- Price: From $799 to $4,000 and up (ref)
The X-Bolt series is renowned for its accuracy and craftsmanship. Available in a wide price range from $799 to over $4,000, these rifles cater to various needs, from budget-conscious hunters to high-end enthusiasts.
The X-Bolt features a lightweight design, an adjustable trigger, and a unique bolt unlock button for safety. The cold hammer-forged barrel is designed for precision shooting, and the rifle comes with an integrated muzzle brake on some models, reducing recoil for a more comfortable shooting experience.
4. Kimber Hunter Pro Desolve Blak
- Maker: Kimber
- Price: From $1,000 and up (ref)
The Hunter Pro Desolve Blak is a lightweight bolt-action rifle that features a carbon-fiber stock that reduces weight while maintaining strength and stability.
The Desolve Blak camo pattern enhances concealment in various environments, making it ideal for hunting. The Hunter Pro is equipped with a match-grade barrel and an adjustable trigger for optimal shooting performance.
This rifle is built for easy carry and quick handling, perfect for long days in the field.
5. Tikka T3x Lite
- Maker: Tikka
- Price: $749.99 to $769.99 (ref)
The Tikka T3x Lite is a highly regarded rifle known for its lightweight design and excellent accuracy, making it a popular choice among hunters. Weighing approximately 6.5 pounds, the T3x Lite is constructed with a synthetic stock and a cold hammer-forged barrel that enhances precision.
The rifle features a smooth bolt action, which allows for quick follow-up shots, and an adjustable trigger for a customizable shooting experience. The T3x Lite is particularly noted for its ergonomic design, ensuring comfortable handling in various hunting scenarios.
6. Savage 110 Storm
- Maker: Savage Arms
- Price: $629.97 – $889.99 (ref)
The Savage 110 Storm combines ruggedness with advanced features, designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. This rifle is built with a synthetic stock and a stainless steel barrel, making it resistant to corrosion.
It boasts Savage’s AccuTrigger system, allowing shooters to adjust the trigger pull for greater accuracy. The 110 Storm is known for its reliability and is suitable for various shooting applications, from hunting to sport shooting.
Its balanced design and versatility make it a solid option for shooters of all experience levels.
7. Weatherby Vanguard First Lite
- Maker: Weatherby
- Price: $999 (ref)
The Vanguard First Lite is designed for the serious hunter, featuring a unique camo pattern that enhances concealment in the field. It is built with a durable composite stock and a cold hammer-forged barrel, ensuring long-lasting performance and accuracy.
This rifle includes a fully adjustable trigger, allowing for a tailored shooting experience, and is known for its smooth action and reliability.
8. Ruger American Rifles
- Maker: Ruger
- Price: Starts at $319 (ref)
The Ruger American Rifles are known for their exceptional value and performance. They feature a lightweight design, making it easy to carry on long hunts.
The rifles are equipped with synthetic stock and a precision-machined barrel. One of the standout features includes their adjustable triggers, which provide a customizable feel for different shooters.
The Ruger American is popular among both beginners and experienced shooters for its affordability and dependable performance in various shooting situations.
9. Ruger Precision Rifles
- Maker: Ruger
- Price: Starts at $2,599 (ref)
The Ruger Precision Rifles are engineered for long-range shooting enthusiasts, featuring modular designs that allow extensive customization akin to an AR-15 platform.
These models are renowned for its sub-minute-of-angle accuracy, thanks to its cold hammer-forged barrel and innovative linear recoil path that enhances precision by minimizing movement during firing.
The rifle is available in multiple chamberings, including .308 Win, 6.5mm Creedmoor, and .243 Win, with barrel lengths varying from 20 to 26 inches. Weighing in at around 9.7 lbs (without optics), it’s built with a robust one-piece bolt body and an adjustable buttstock.
10. Ruger Scout Rifles
- Maker: Ruger
- Price: Starts at $1,479 (ref)
Designed with versatility and functionality in mind, the Ruger Scout Rifles offer lightweight, compact options for hunters and tactical shooters alike. They feature forward-mounted rails for easy optics attachment, and their adjustable stocks allow for a personalized fit.
The rifle is chambered in several calibers, including .223 Rem and .308 Win, and its 16.5-inch barrel makes it an excellent choice for quick handling in varied environments.
11. Christensen Arms TFM
- Maker: Christensen Arms
- Price: Starts at $4,999.99 (ref)
The Christensen Arms TFM (Tactical Folding Model) represents the pinnacle of precision and portability in bolt-action rifles. Featuring a lightweight carbon fiber barrel and an innovative folding stock, this rifle is ideal for tactical operations and backcountry hunting.
The TFM is chambered in popular long-range calibers, such as .300 Win Mag and 6.5mm Creedmoor, with an emphasis on accuracy and performance. Its high-quality craftsmanship includes a hand-laid carbon fiber stock and a match-grade barrel.
12. Howa 1500 Kuiu Verde
- Maker: Howa
- Price: Starts at $699 (ref)
The Howa 1500 Kuiu Verde is a budget-friendly yet reliable option for both hunters and shooters. This rifle combines solid construction with a lightweight design, featuring a synthetic stock in a Kuiu Verde camo pattern that enhances its aesthetic appeal and functionality in diverse terrains.
Available in various calibers, such as .308 Win and 6.5 Creedmoor, the Howa 1500 is known for its smooth bolt action and accuracy out of the box, making it suitable for newcomers and experienced marksmen alike.
The rifles highlighted in our list represent some of the best options available in America, backed by expert opinions, the meta-analysis (ref), and rigorous testing.
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Martha A. Lavallie
Martha is a journalist with close to a decade of experience in uncovering and reporting on the most compelling stories of our time. Passionate about staying ahead of the curve, she specializes in shedding light on trending topics and captivating global narratives. Her insightful articles have garnered acclaim, making her a trusted voice in today's dynamic media landscape.