Best Bolt-Action Rifles You Should Get Your Hands On

Bolt-action rifles like the Remington 700 and Winchester Model 70 have been the tried and true models that have been popular for years. But in the present times, digital technology is advancing, and new designs of rifles are hitting the market. Hence, picking the right gun might be very tough. To make the job of selection easier, we have gathered a list of the best bolt action rifles of 2024. Selections ranging from precision, trustworthiness, and main functionality emerged.

6 Best Bolt-Action Rifles of 2024

1. Tikka T3x

Tikka T3x is the go-to gun for hunters and is also a popular option for precision shooters. Its smooth bolt gun with a sensitive trigger pull is especially suited to follow-up shots. The gun is equipped with a cold hammer-forged barrel and synthetic stock, which makes it light but strong. It accelerates proper range by having a sub-MOA accuracy level; thus, it never fails to perform.

Here are some special features and highlights of the Tikka T3x:

Modular Stock: The T3x series offers a modular stock system with interchangeable grips and fore-ends, allowing shooters to customize the rifle for their preferred ergonomics and shooting style.

Improved Grip: The pistol grip has been redesigned for enhanced comfort and better control, especially in adverse weather conditions.

Smooth Bolt Operation: The bolt has a redesigned, smoother operation with a short 70-degree bolt lift, allowing for faster cycling and easier handling.

Adjustable Trigger: The single-stage trigger is adjustable from 2 to 4 pounds (approximately 1 to 2 kg), allowing shooters to fine-tune the trigger pull to their preference for optimal accuracy.

Robust Construction: Built on a sturdy and rigid steel action, the T3x rifle is designed to withstand harsh conditions and maintain accuracy over time.

Scope Mount Compatibility: Equipped with integral scope mounts on the receiver, ensuring secure and reliable attachment of optics without the need for additional bases or adapters.

Versatile Caliber Options: These guns are available in various popular calibers, catering to different hunting and shooting preferences.

Interchangeable Barrel Options: Some models offer interchangeable barrels, allowing shooters to swap barrels easily to adapt to different hunting or shooting scenarios.

2. Savage Arms 110 High Country

To overcome long-distance shooting and pinpoint hunting, the Savage Arms 110 High Country inaugurates itself as one of the most desired rifles on the market. It comes complete with Savage’s AccuFit stock system, which can be tailored to different lengths of pull and comb height. The gun has a screwed-on barrel that can easily fit a silencer. Moreover, the AccuTrigger system is relatively new and will bring a clean break on every shot.

Here are the special features of the Savage Arms 110 High Country rifle:

AccuFit System: This allows for adjustable pull length and comb height with interchangeable inserts, ensuring a customized fit for different shooters.

AccuTrigger: Savage’s proprietary adjustable trigger system offers a crisp, light pull for enhanced accuracy and shooter comfort.

Stainless Steel Barrel and Action: Provides durability and resistance to the elements, ideal for rugged outdoor conditions and hunting environments.

Threaded Barrel: Some models feature a threaded barrel for easy attachment of muzzle devices such as suppressors or muzzle brakes.

Drilled and Tapped Receiver: This receiver facilitates easy optics mounting and accommodates various scopes and sights to suit individual preferences.

Detachable Box Magazine: Offers convenient reloading and enhances the rifle’s versatility for different shooting scenarios.

High Country Camouflage Stock Finish: Enhances concealment and aesthetics in high-altitude or mountainous terrain hunting environments.

Floating Bolt Head Design: Enhances accuracy by ensuring consistent alignment with the chamber for every shot.

Adjustable Two-Stage Safety: Provides added security and peace of mind during handling and operation.

3. Browning X-Bolt Pro

The Browning X-Bolt Pro is a sleek and lightweight bolt-action rifle that stands out in terms of performance and aesthetics. Its carbon fiber stock reduces weight while maintaining rigidity, allowing for improved accuracy. The Browning rifles also have a match-grade, fluted barrel and an adjustable feather trigger, making it ideal for precision shooting.

Here are the special features of the Browning X-Bolt Pro rifle:

Carbon Fiber Stock: The rifle features a lightweight, durable carbon fiber stock ergonomically designed for comfort and enhanced handling.

Cerakote Finish: The Browning X-Bolt Pro’s metal surfaces are coated with Cerakote, which provides excellent corrosion resistance and durability in various environmental conditions.

Adjustable Feather Trigger System: Browning’s adjustable Feather Trigger System allows for a crisp, clean trigger pull that can be fine-tuned to suit individual preferences for optimal accuracy.

Top-Tang Safety: The top-tang safety is conveniently located for easy access and provides added security during handling and operation.

Drilled and Tapped Receiver: The receiver is drilled and tapped, making installing scope mounts or optic accessories easy.

Inflex Technology Recoil Pad: The Inflex Technology recoil pad helps mitigate felt recoil, enhancing shooter comfort and reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions.

Adjustable Length of Pull: The Browning X-Bolt Pro comes with shims that adjust the length of pull, ensuring a customized fit for different shooters.

Threaded Muzzle: Some models feature a threaded muzzle, enabling the attachment of muzzle devices such as suppressors or muzzle brakes.

4. Bergara B-14 BMP

The Bergara B-14 BMP (Bergara Match Precision) is popular among long-range shooters. It boasts solid construction, smooth bolt action, and excellent accuracy. This rifle is chambered in popular long-range calibers like .308 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, and 6mm Creedmoor. It also features a fully adjustable TriggerTech trigger, which allows for a crisp and precise trigger pull. The rifle’s stock is made from a rugged yet lightweight carbon fiber and fiberglass composite that is sturdy and comfortable to shoot. Overall, the Bergara B-14 BMP is a top-performing rifle for those seeking a high-quality, well-crafted precision rifle.

Here are the special features of the Bergara B-14 BMP bolt action rifle:

Mini-Chassis System: Integrates the barrel with the Bergara BMP chassis stock, enhancing rigidity and accuracy.

Adjustable Stock: Offers adjustable length of pull (LOP) and comb height for personalized fit and comfort.

Bergara Performance Trigger: Smooth and adjustable from 2.5 to 4 pounds for precise shooting.

Threaded Muzzle: Includes a threaded muzzle with a Bergara Mini-Chassis muzzle brake, reducing recoil and muzzle rise.

Accuracy: Known for its exceptional accuracy out of the box, suitable for long-range precision shooting.

AICS-Compatible Magazine: AICS-style detachable magazines are used for reliable feeding and ease of reloading.

Scope Mounting: Features an integrated 20 MOA Picatinny rail for secure scope mounting and optimal long-range shooting capabilities.

5. Ruger Precision Rifle

The Ruger Precision Rifle (RPR) is a relatively newer addition to the long-range precision rifle market. Still, it has quickly gained a reputation for its exceptional performance at an affordable price point. The RPR is available in various calibers, including 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Winchester, and .300 Winchester Magnum. It features a cold hammer-forged barrel for improved accuracy and a fully adjustable stock for a customized fit.

The rifle also has a Ruger Marksman Adjustable trigger, which can be adjusted for a pull weight between 2.25 and 5 pounds. For those looking to get into the world of long-range shooting without breaking the bank, the Ruger Precision Rifle is an excellent option.

Versatile Caliber Options: These calibers cater to various shooting preferences and are available in 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Win, .243 Win, .22-250 Rem, .300 Win Mag, and 5.56 NATO.

Adjustable Folding Stock: This stock features a Precision MSR with adjustable length of pull (LOP) and comb height, offering customization for different shooters.

Ruger Marksman Adjustable Trigger: This trigger provides a customizable pull weight ranging from 2.25 to 5 pounds, enhancing accuracy and control.

Muzzle Brake: The rifle has a Ruger Precision Rifle Hybrid Muzzle Brake, which reduces recoil and muzzle rise for improved shot follow-through.

Enhanced Ergonomics: Includes a free-float M-LOK handguard for accessory attachment and a comfortable shooting experience.

Accuracy and Stability: Built with a cold hammer-forged barrel and a 20 MOA Picatinny rail for secure scope mounting, ensuring consistent performance at extended ranges.

6. Savage Arms Impulse

The Savage Arms Impulse is a revolutionary straight-pull rifle making waves in the long-range shooting community. This gun combines the speed and smoothness of a bolt action with the lightning-fast repeat shots of semi-automatic rifles. It utilizes a unique Impulse Action system, allowing the shooter to cycle the bolt with just a forward and backward motion, making it one of the fastest and easiest bolt actions.

The rifle also features an AccuTrigger, which can be adjusted for a clean and crisp pull, and is chambered in popular calibers like 6.5 Creedmoor, 6mm Creedmoor, and .308 Winchester. With its innovative design and top-notch performance, the Savage Arms Impulse is a game-changer in long-range precision shooting.

Here are the special features of the Savage Arms Impulse:

Straight-Pull Bolt Action: Allows for quick and efficient action cycling with a simple backward and forward movement.

AccuStock with AccuFit System: This system provides a customizable fit with adjustable length of pull (LOP) and comb height inserts for optimal comfort and control.

AccuTrigger: A user-adjustable trigger allows for a crisp, light pull weight, enhancing accuracy.

Threaded Muzzle with Brake: Includes a threaded muzzle for easy attachment of suppressors or muzzle devices, with a brake included for recoil reduction.

Soft Grip Inserts: Enhances grip and comfort on the fore-end and pistol grip, providing better control during shooting.

Weaver-Style Scope Base: This scope base allows for easy optics mounting and ensures compatibility with a wide range of scopes.

Final Thoughts

In 2024, bolt-action hunting rifles have advanced significantly, offering various options tailored to different shooting needs and preferences. From the precision-focused Tikka T3x and rugged Savage Arms 110 High Country to the sleek Browning X-Bolt Pro and innovative Bergara B-14 BMP, each rifle brings unique features like adjustable stocks, precise triggers, and durable constructions.

The Ruger Precision Rifle rounds out the selection with affordability and high-performance features, appealing to new and seasoned sharpshooters. These rifles represent the cutting edge of firearm technology, delivering reliability, accuracy, and versatility for hunting, competition, and long-range shooting.

FAQs

Q. What is a bolt action rifle?

A bolt action rifle manually cycles a bolt to load, eject, and chamber cartridges. It’s known for its accuracy and reliability.

Q. How to clean a bolt action rifle?

To clean a bolt action rifle:

• Ensure it’s unloaded.
• Disassemble the bolt and other removable parts.
• Clean the bore with solvent-soaked patches and a cleaning rod.
• Scrub the bolt and receiver with a brush and solvent.
• Wipe down all parts, lightly lubricate, and reassemble.

Q. How to build a bolt action rifle?

Building a bolt-action rifle involves selecting and assembling components such as the action, barrel, stock, and trigger, typically requiring advanced gunsmithing skills and specialized tools.

Q. Who makes a 22 arc bolt action rifle?

The .22 ARC bolt action rifle is made by CMMG Inc., designed for enhanced performance in rimfire shooting.

Q. What is bolt action rifle?

A bolt-action rifle is a manually operated firearm in which the shooter cycles a bolt to load, eject, and chamber cartridges. It is favored for its accuracy and durability.