Although there’s been a rise in sales for semi-automatic rifles over the last few years, there’s still a big market for the more traditional bolt-action rifle. For hunters and others for whom precision is key, bolt-action rifles are the top choice.
Known for their precision and dependability, bolt-action rifles are the backbone of hunting adventures and target shooting. Despite the rise of modern sporting rifles, the appeal of these traditional firearms remains undiminished. Based on insights from the National Shooting Sports Foundation and sales data compiled by Gungenius from GunBroker, Simple Family Preparedness has put together a list of the bolt-action rifles that Americans purchased most often in 2023.
Bolt-action rifles, with their methodical operation, offer a contrast to high-speed semi-automatic firearms. Their simplicity means fewer malfunctions and a reputation for greater accuracy, making them the choice of U.S. military snipers and enthusiasts who value precision over rapid-fire capability. Whether for the adrenaline rush of hunting, the focus of target shooting, or the simple joy of plinking, bolt-action rifles have a storied place in American firearms culture. And they’re not going anywhere. At least not until they make a semi-automatic that offers the same high degree of accuracy and precision.
While some of these rifles have an accessible price tag, others command a higher investment due to their advanced features and superior craftsmanship. Also note that these are the base prices, so you could pay far more for some models within the same rifle family. Notably, the majority of these firearms that made the list are proudly manufactured in the United States, with a few exceptional models brought in from overseas, such as the Tikka T3.
1. Ruger American Rifles
- Approx. base price: $599
- Popular usages: Hunting
- Chambered in: .204 Ruger (Predator model only), .223 Remington (5 rd. cap.), 5.56mm NATO (Ranch/Predator models only), .22-250 Remington, .243 Winchester, .270 Winchester, 7mm-08 Remington, .30-06 Springfield, .308 Winchester[1], .300 Blackout (Ranch model only), 7.62 Soviet (Ranch model only), 6mm Creedmoor (Predator model only), 6.5mm Grendel (Predator model only), 6.5mm Creedmoor, .450 Bushmaster (Ranch model only), 7mm Remington Magnum, .300 Winchester Magnum, .338 Winchester Magnum.
- Parent company: Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc.
- Parent company U.S. headquarters: Southport, CT
Ruger American Rifles start at approximately $599. These rifles are designed for the hunter at heart but are adaptable enough for a variety of shooting activities. What sets the Ruger American Rifles apart is their thoughtful engineering.
Each rifle features a one-piece Picatinny rail, a 70-degree bolt throw for easier scope clearance, and a lightweight synthetic stock with Ruger’s Power Bedding system, ensuring a secure fit between the stock and receiver. The cold hammer-forged barrel, free-floating by design, along with the Ruger Marksman Adjustable trigger, enhances accuracy, making every shot count.
Safety and comfort are paramount in the design of Ruger American Rifles. The easy-to-reach tang safety adds an extra layer of security, while the soft rubber buttpad significantly reduces felt recoil, making extended shooting sessions more comfortable. Standard features include sling swivel studs and a 4-round magazine, emphasizing convenience and reliability.
The diversity within the Ruger American Rifle series is remarkable, with models like the standard Ruger American Rifles offering black synthetic stocks and alloy steel receivers across a variety of calibers. Then there’s the Predator variant, with its threaded muzzle and Moss Green camouflage, and the Ranch models, which bring additional calibers and magazine options into the fold. Each subgroup within the Ruger American Rifle family is tailored to specific shooting preferences
2. Remington Model 700 Rifles
- Approx. base price: $800
- Popular usages: Hunting, target shooting
- Chambered in: 6mm Remington, 6.5mm Creedmoor, 6.5×47mm Lapua, 7mm-08 Remington, 7mm Remington Magnum, 7mm Shooting Times Westerner, 8mm Remington Magnum, 8.6mm Blackout, .221 Fireball, .223 Remington, .243 Winchester, .25-06 Remington, .257 Roberts, .257 Weatherby Magnum, .260 Remington, .270 Winchester, .280 Remington, .30-06 Springfield, .300 Remington Ultra Magnum, .300 Weatherby Magnum, .300 Winchester Magnum, .300 Winchester Short Magnum, .308 Winchester, .338 Lapua Magnum, .416 Remington Magnum, .458 Winchester Magnum.
- Parent company: Freedom Group/Remington Outdoor Company
- Parent company U.S. headquarters: LaGrange, GA
Remington has been a stalwart in the gun industry for more than two centuries, with the Remington 700 standing out as a cornerstone of their lineup for over 60 years. Produced continuously since its introduction in 1962, more than five million Remington Model 700s have rolled off the line. Interestingly this rifle was the foundation for sniper models like the Remington 721 and 722.
The Remington 700 isn’t a one-size-fits-all kind of rifle; it’s a big family of bolt-action rifles ranging from the Model 700 Custom “C”, with its classic walnut stock, to the Model 700 North American Custom, designed for ruggedness and precision.
Among the standout offerings is the Remington 700 NRA American Hunter in 6.5 Creedmoor, a limited edition that emerged from a collaboration with the National Rifle Association. It features an olive-drab polymer stock, a 20-inch fluted barrel for enhanced strength and accuracy, and a Leupold Mark 4 scope mount.
Then there’s the Model 700 SIXSITE Edition, which has a unique “skip” fluting on its barrel, a scope, and accessory rails for additional customizations.
The Model 700 VTR, another notable variant, presents shooters with 20 models spread across five groups, covering four calibers. These rifles feature a distinct triangular barrel profile, triple porting for improved barrel cooling and recoil management, and a matte-blued finish.
3. Browning X-Bolt Rifles
- Approx. base price: $860
- Popular usages: Hunting, long-range, target shooting
- Chambered in: .204 Ruger, .223 Rem, .22-250 Rem, 6mm Creedmoor, 6mm GT, 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Win, 6.5 PRC, 6.8 Western, 7mm PRC, 7mm Rem Mag, 28 Nosler, .300 Win Mag, 300 PRC, .243 Win, 7mm-08 Rem, .270 WSM, .300 WSM, .270 Win, .30-06 Sprg, .280 Ackley Improved, 300 Rem UM, .25-06 Rem, .280 Rem, .375 HH, .338 Win Mag
- Parent company: Herstal Group
- Parent company U.S. headquarters: Morgan, UT
Browning has crafted the X-Bolt rifle series with precision and versatility at its core, appealing to those who take hunting and target shooting seriously. There are plenty of X-Bolt rifles to choose from, whether it’s for long-range accuracy or adaptability in different hunting environments.
One key feature across the X-Bolt series is the adjustable “X-Bolt Feather Trigger,” offering shooters crisp, clean shots. The rifles are available in a broad range of calibers, accommodating various hunting and shooting disciplines. Manufactured by the Japanese firm Miroku Corp, these rifles represent a marriage of Browning’s design excellence and Miroku’s manufacturing prowess.
The X-Bolt stands out for its innovation, including the “X-Lock” system that ensures stable mounting of scopes, enhancing accuracy over long distances. With at least 26 variations in the lineup, shooters can find an X-Bolt tailored to their specific needs, from suppressor-ready options to models designed specifically for left-handed users.
4. Savage 10/110 Rifle Series
- Approx. base price: $709
- Popular usages: Hunting, long range, target shooting
- Chambered in: .204 Ruger, .223 Rem, .22-250 Rem, 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Win, 6.5 PRC, 7mm PRC, 7mm Rem Mag, .300 Win Mag, .243 Win, 7mm-08 Rem, .270 WSM, .300 WSM, .270 Win, .30-06 Sprg, .25-06 Rem, .338 Win Mag,.350 Legend,.243 Rem,.260 Rem,.375 Ruger,300 BLK,6mm ARC,.450 Bushmaster,28 Nosler, .280 Ackley Improved
- Parent company: Savage Arms, Inc.
- Parent company U.S. headquarters: Westfield, MA
The Savage 10/110 series is recognized for its affordability and precision, making it a popular choice among hunters and shooters. First introduced in 1958 and continuously produced ever since, it stands as one of the longest-running bolt-action rifle series in the U.S.
This series has 30 variants, catering to a broad spectrum of shooting preferences. The Savage 110 Tactical, for example, offers different barrel lengths and calibers from the base models. Key features across the series include the adjustable AccuTrigger, AccuStock, and AccuFit system, which allow shooters to customize each rifle to their specific needs.
Despite its budget-friendly price tag, the Savage 10/110 series doesn’t skimp on quality. Its design incorporates modern aesthetics with practical functionality, including polymer stocks for a lightweight feel and a three-position safety system for secure handling.
5. Savage Axis Series
- Approx. base price: $414
- Popular usages: Hunting, long range, target shooting
- Chambered in: .223 Rem, .22-250 Rem, 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Win, .243 Win, 7mm-08 Rem, .270 Win, .30-06 Sprg, .25-06 Rem,.350 Legend,300 BLK,6mm ARC, .280 Ackley Improved
- Parent company: Savage Arms, Inc.
- Parent company U.S. headquarters: Westfield, MA
The Savage Axis series delivers exceptional value without sacrificing performance. Originally known as the Savage Edge, the Axis series underwent a rebranding to better align with Savage’s commitment to precision and affordability.
Featuring a modern design with a focus on ease of use, the Axis rifles come with detachable box magazines and synthetic stocks, making them both durable and lightweight. Despite its more accessible price point, the Savage Axis doesn’t compromise on accuracy, making it an excellent choice for both novice and experienced shooters looking for a reliable, budget-friendly option.
6. CZ-USA 457 Rifle
- Approx. base price: $549
- Popular usages: Hunting, target shooting, plinking
- Chambered in: .22 LR, .22 WMR, .17 HMR
- Parent company: Colt CZ Group
- Parent company U.S. headquarters: Kansas City, KS
The CZ-USA 457 rifle is celebrated for its classic American-style design and rimfire versatility. This series enhances the traditional rimfire rifle experience with modern updates, including a push-to-fire safety and an action that’s been trimmed down for a sleeker profile and lighter weight.
Each CZ 457 features a Turkish walnut stock with high, flat comb and classic checkering, appealing to shooters who value both aesthetics and performance. The rifle’s design also includes an 11mm dovetail on the receiver for easy scope mounting, making it an ideal choice for precision shooting. With its combination of traditional craftsmanship and contemporary features, the CZ 457 series is as a top choice for rimfire enthusiasts.
7. Tikka T3 Series
- Approx. base price: $1,170
- Popular usages: Hunting, target shooting, long range
- Chambered in: .308 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor, 7x64mm, .30-06 Sprg, .300 Win Mag, 9.3x62mm, .223 Rem, .22-250 Rem, 7mm-08 Rem, .243 Win, .260 Rem, 6.5 PRC, 6.5x55mm SE, .270 Win, 7mm Rem Mag, .270 WSM, .300 WSM
- Parent company: Beretta Holding
- Parent company U.S. headquarters: Accokeek, MD
The Tikka T3 series, manufactured by Sako in Finland, is renowned for its impeccable precision and build quality. Following its introduction in 2003, the T3 series saw an upgrade with the T3x models, which brought enhancements like an enlarged ejection port, a steel recoil lug, and a metal bolt shroud for increased durability and reliability.
The Tikka T3 series is celebrated for its versatility, offering shooters a high-performance rifle that can be tailored to their specific needs. And, if you’re the owner of an older T3 model, you’re in luck, as the improved parts from the T3x line are all backward-compatible.
8. Mossberg Patriot Series
- Approx. base price: $468
- Popular usages: Hunting, target shooting, security
- Chambered in: 6.5 Creedmoor, 7mm Rem Mag, 7mm-08 Rem, 6.5 PRC, .22-250 Rem, .243 Win, .25-06 Rem, .270 Win, .30-06 Sprg, .300 Win Mag, .308 Win, .338 Win Mag, .350 Legend, .375 Ruger, .450 Bushmaster, 7mm PRC
- Parent company: O.F. Mossberg & Sons Inc.
- Parent company U.S. headquarters: North Haven, CT
The Mossberg Patriot series is a solid blend of quality and affordability. Offering a broad range of models suited to different shooting disciplines, the Patriot series is designed to meet the needs of hunters and shooters looking for a reliable and accurate bolt-action rifle without breaking the bank.
Key features of the Patriot series include fluted barrels for reduced weight and improved barrel cooling, adjustable triggers for customized pull weight, and a variety of stock options to suit individual preferences. The Patriot’s design combines traditional aesthetics with modern functionality, making it a versatile choice for a wide range of outdoor and shooting activities.
9. Weatherby Vanguard Series
- Approx. base price: $549
- Popular usages: Hunting, sport shooting
- Chambered in: .22-250 Rem, 223 Rem, 240 WBY Mag, 243 Win, 25-06 Rem, 257 WBY Mag, 270 Win, 30-06 SPRG, 300 WBY Mag, 300 Win, 308 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC, 7MM Rem, 7MM-08 Rem
- Parent company: Weatherby, Inc.
- Parent company U.S. headquarters: Sheridan, WY
The Weatherby Vanguard series upholds Weatherby’s reputation for precision and performance, offering shooters a high-quality bolt-action rifle that excels in both hunting and sport shooting scenarios. The Vanguard has a SUB-MOA accuracy guarantee when used with premium Weatherby ammunition, ensuring top-tier performance.
The Vanguard is built for durability and reliability, with a two-stage trigger, adjustable down to 2.5 pounds, and a strong, machined bolt body. With 28 versions available, shooters can find a Vanguard rifle that perfectly matches their shooting style and preferences.
10. Winchester Model 70
- Approx. base price: $1,300
- Popular usages: Hunting, military
- Chambered in: 6.5×55mm, 6.5mm Creedmoor, 6.5mm PRC, 6.8 Western, 7mm-08 Remington, 7×57mm Mauser, 7mm Remington Magnum, 7mm Shooting Times Westerner, 7mm Winchester Short Magnum, 9×57mm Mauser, .22-250 Remington, .22 Hornet, .220 Swift, .222 Remington, .223 Remington, .223 WSSM, .225 Winchester, .243 Winchester, .243 WSSM, .25-06 Remington, .250-3000 Savage, .25 WSSM, .257 Roberts, .264 Winchester Magnum, .270 Weatherby Magnum, .270 Winchester, .270 WSM, .280 Remington, .30-06 Springfield, .300 H&H Magnum, .300 RUM, .300 Savage, .300 Weatherby Magnum, .300 Winchester Magnum, .300 WSM, .308 Winchester, .325 WSM, .338 Winchester Magnum, .35 Remington, .358 Winchester, .375 H&H Magnum, .416 Remington Magnum, .416 Rigby, .458 Winchester Magnum, .470 Capstick.
- Parent company: Browning Arms Company
- Parent company U.S. headquarters: Ogden, UT
The Winchester Model 70, affectionately known as the “Rifleman’s Rifle,” has a storied history dating back to its introduction in 1936. Renowned for its precision, the Model 70 has been a favored choice among hunters, law enforcement, and military personnel for decades. Its controlled round feed and high-quality action have set the standard for bolt-action rifle performance.
Modern Model 70s continue to be produced with the same attention to detail and quality as their predecessors, now manufactured by FN Herstal in facilities that uphold the Winchester legacy. The Model 70’s iconic status is maintained through a combination of traditional craftsmanship and modern manufacturing techniques, making it a timeless choice for those who demand the very best in bolt-action rifles.
Methodology
To get an accurate picture of the top-selling bolt-action rifles in the United States, Simple Family Preparedness looked at a report from Gungenius, utilizing sales data from Gunbroker. The rankings provided are based on the total number of units sold in 2023, offering a clear snapshot of consumer preferences within the bolt-action rifle market.
The listed base prices for each rifle were sourced directly from the manufacturers’ official websites, ensuring accuracy and relevance. However, it’s important to note that many models mentioned in our review come in several variations, with some configurations commanding significantly higher prices than the base figures mentioned. This discrepancy highlights the broad range of options available to consumers, catering to diverse needs and budgets.
There are an estimated 817 million firearms owned legally by private citizens across the world. That’s not including law enforcement or illegal gun ownership. Amid conversations concerning gun laws and firearm policies, several countries stand out with high gun-ownership ratios.
1. United States
Though this may not come as a surprise to experts on firearm policy, the United States boasts the highest rate of civilian gun ownership at a rate of 120.5 guns per 100 people. This means that against a population of over 326 million, the total number of civilian-owned firearms exceeds 393 million. The United States has more civilian-owned guns than it does people.
2. Falkland Islands
Coming in second, the Falkland Islands has a rate of 62.10 guns for every 100 individuals, around half that of the United States. The Falkland Islands Government reports a population of more than 3,200. In contrast to the total population, the total number of civilian firearms is about 2,000.
3. Yemen
With almost 15 million civilian-owned firearms, Yemen comes in third. This number is alarming since the number of military firearms pales in comparison, coming down to just 28,500. Yemen has a gun ownership rate of 52.80 per 100 people.
4. New Caledonia
This French overseas territory, situated in the heart of the Pacific, has a high gun ownership rate of a whopping 42.5 for every 100 people. The total number of civilian firearms is about 115,000, while the total population is about 271,000.
5. Serbia
For every 100 people in Serbia, there are 39.10 civilian-owned firearms. This landlocked country in Southeast Europe has 2.7 million firearms owned by civilians. Once again, the difference is vast compared to 384,422 military firearms and 53,100 law enforcement firearms.
6. Montenegro
With a gun ownership rate of 39.10 per 100 people, the total number of civilian firearms in Montenegro comes out to about 245,000. In contrast, the total number of military firearms is only 5,396, while law enforcement firearms stand at around 8,000.
7. Canada
According to Public Safety Canada, gun laws in the country have seen a shift after Bill C-21 as penalties for smuggling and trafficking firearms have surged, and a national handgun freeze has been codified. However, as of 2017, Canada had a gun ownership rate of 34.70 for every 100 people, translating to 12.7 million civilian-owned firearms.
8. Uruguay
With a gun ownership rate of 34.70 for every 100 people, Uruguay is placed 8th on the list. This rate translates to about 1.2 million civilian-owned firearms in contrast to 62,130 military firearms and 30,000 law-enforcement firearms.
9. Cyprus
Tying with Uruguay, Cyprus also boasts a gun ownership rate of 34.70. This translated to a total of 285,000 civilian-owned firearms. On the contrary, the number of military firearms is about 99,000, while law-enforcement guns come out to 11,000.
10. Finland
With 32.40 guns owned per 100 people, Finland has the 10th highest gun ownership in the world. Around 1.8 million firearms are owned by civilians, while military guns come out to 475,030, and law-enforcement firearms are estimated to be 14,000. Source: World Population Review.
Best Hunting Rifles of the Last 50 Years
Choosing the “best” hunting rifle is a pretty personal thing. We all have different opinions and preferences on what we like to hunt with. But still, over the last 50 years, there have been some remarkable weapons. Over the past half-century, the evolution of hunting rifles has seen so many innovations, catering to a wide range of needs from the casual deer hunter to the adventurous big-game enthusiast. What’s your favorite hunting rifle? Which weapons deserve a spot on this list?
- Read More: Best Hunting Rifles of the Last 50 Years
14 Most Versatile Hunting Cartridges
With almost 16 million hunters in the United States, and with such a huge range of game to hunt, the right rifle and the best cartridge is critical. We have some of the most diverse ecosystems on the planet, with animals ranging from tiny squirrels to gigantic moose. The cornerstone of a successful hunt lies in the hunter’s skill and knowledge but also in the choice of ammunition. The right cartridge can make all the difference, offering the power needed for a clean, humane kill without compromising the quality of the game.
- Read More: 14 Most Versatile Hunting Cartridges
38 Things Every Prepper Should Stockpile That Aren’t Water, Food, or Weapons
This list extends beyond the basic survival trio of water, food, and weapons. It’s a given that we need to stock up on water, food, and a way to defend ourselves and what we have. But what other things will you need in a survival situation? None of us truly knows what TEOTWAWKI will really look like, although most of us have theories we think most likely. But whatever the situation is, there are certain supplies that it just makes sense to have on hand, aside from the obvious trio I mentioned above.
