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Every year, we test new rifles to help you decide which one might be right for you. But the way we do it changed this year. We used to assemble and evaluate all the rifles at once, because most manufactures introduced new rifles around the beginning of each year. But today, manufacturers introduce new rifles anytime they want. And since it makes no sense for you to wait to learn about these guns, we have been testing and reviewing new rifles as soon as we can get them.
However, we still bring our experts together for about a week to keenly evaluate each one and further examine them. This two-tiered process, combining an initial week of testing with another week of collaborative and comprehensive assessment, helps us provide you with the best information possible on all the new rifles—all in one place. That's what you'll find below.
The 16 rifles in this test might be the best group of rifles we’ve ever had the privilege to examine at one time, and they highlight several ongoing trends: Features commonly associated with precision long-range rifles continue to find their way onto hunting rifles; the threaded muzzle is now the standard; we seem to have forgotten the 270 and 30-06; rifles are getting lighter; and lever guns are getting cooler.
But in the end, what you probably want to know more than anything is: Which is the best? Which is the best for the money? And which is best for your style of hunting? Well, we spent a good part of the year figuring that out, and since there's still no reason to keep you waiting, here are the year's top new rifles.
The Best Rifles of 2024
Best Overall: Sauer 505 Synchro XT
Best Lightweight Rifle: Wilson Combat Model 20S
Most Innovative Rifle: Beretta BRX1
Best Value: Ruger American Gen II
Most Accurate Rifle: Proof Research Elevation 2.0
Most Affordable Rifle: Mossberg Patriot Predator SF
The Rest of the Best
How We Tested and Scored the Rifles
As soon as we receive a new rifle, we familiarize ourselves with it and then mount a quality riflescope. Next, we fire multiple five-shot groups at 100 yards with a variety of ammunition, chronographing every shot. After that we subject each rifle to a variety of examinations and shooting drills we feel are appropriate to establish the rifle’s reliability and field performance, based on its style and how it will likely be used. These drills include rapid fire and shooting from various field positions, from tree stands, shooting houses, and even at a moving deer target. Also, if the rifle has a threaded muzzle, we do at least some of the shooting with a suppressor.
Scoring
Once we are satisfied that each gun has been thoroughly scrutinized, we score it on a scale of 100 for these five categories:
Precision: Based on five-shot groups fired with multiple loads at 100 yards, what level of precision can you expect the rifle to deliver?
Interface: Is the stock comfortable, is the trigger easy to interact with, is the action and all controls easy to operate, how much adjustability is in the stock, and was the rifle easy to load, carry, and manage in the field?
Reliability: Did the rifle work? Did it feed reliably, function as intended, and were there any stoppages, failures, or quirks?
Workmanship: We look at stock-to-metal fit, tool marks, and the finish. Did the rifle function smoothly and was its design and innovation practical?
Price: Is the rifle’s suggested price commensurate with its features and performance—do you get your money’s worth?
Note that we didn't score the rifles compared to one another in each category. There’s no way to practically compare a lever-action 45-70 to bolt-action 6.5 Creedmoor, for example. Instead, we scored them individually against the ideal. Each rifle's total score is an average of the category scores.
The 16 Best Rifles of 2024, Tested and Reviewed
Best Overall: Sauer 505 Synchro XT
Why It Won Best Overall: This is one of the best designed, meticulously assembled, and versatile rifles we have ever evaluated. It’s beautifully engineered and can offer a one-rifle answer for everything from prairie dogs to buffalo.
Total Score: 94.63
Specs
Length: 40 inches
Weight: 7.87 pounds
Barrel: 22 inches, threaded at 15x1 w/ protector
Action: Sauer bolt action
Trigger: 1.0 pound (as tested)
Capacity: 3+1 or 5+1 (detachable magazine)
Finish: DLC
Stock: Two-piece, polymer thumb hole
Available Standard American chamberings: 222 Rem., 223 Rem., 243 Win., 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC, 270 Win., 270 WSM, 308 Win., 30-06 Springfield, and 375 H&H. Special order only chamberings: 6.5x55 SE, 7x64, 8x57 IS, 8.5x55 Blaser, 9.3x62, and 10.3x60 R
Price: $3500.00
Sauer 505 Features and Test Results
Pros
Fantastic trigger
Extremely versatile
Flawless workmanship
Cons
Pricey
Precision Test
The new 505 is a modular rifle with eight stock options, available in 19 different chamberings. The key to the rifle’s modularity is one of the quick detach sling swivel studs that has an integral hex-head wrench allowing you to swap stocks, change barrels, and adjust the comb height. The new action features the one-piece Blaser saddle scope mount system and a one-piece, six-lug bolt. The safety is a sliding actuator at the rear of the bolt, with a three-position function that locks the bolt handle down, and the 60° throw bolt is incredibly smooth.
The rifle feeds from a detachable magazine that’s held in place by a recessed release button you can also lock to circumvent accidental release. The Quattro trigger is user adjustable between 0.77, 1.65, 2.20, and 2.75 pounds, and utterly magnificent in function. A single hex-head screw holds the butt stock in place, and a latch secures the free-floating forend. Both stock sections are removeable with the supplied swivel/wrench, and three hex screws on the bottom of the receiver allow you to swap barrels. Additional barrels and bolts are available from Sauer.
Bottom Line: This rifle operates as precisely as a Swiss watch and the trigger was so fantastic you could almost think the rifle into firing. The sliding safety/cocking actuator took some getting used to, but the more we shot the 505, the better we interfaced with the safety and the more we liked it. The rifle is a bit butt-heavy which explains the nimble handling, but with a suppressor it balanced perfectly for field work. Admittedly, the rifle is expensive, but there is a hell of a lot here for the money, especially if you like the idea of only needing one rifle for everything you are going to hunt for the rest of your life.
Read a full review of the Sauer 505 here.
Best Lightweight Rifle: Wilson Combat Model 20S
Why it Won Best Lightweight Rifle: Weighing only 4.8 pounds and averaging less than an inch for five-shot groups, it’s clear Wilson Combat is continuing Melvin Forbes’ legacy of building the lightest, best-shooting bolt-action rifles made at any price.
Total Score: 94.35
Specs
Length: 35.0 inches
Weight: 4.80 pounds
Barrel: 16.25 inches, w/ 5.8x24 threaded muzzle and thread protector
Action: NULA Model 20S
Trigger: 2.75 pounds (as tested) adjustable
Capacity: 5+1
Finish: Armorlube DLC (action) Armor-Tuff (barrel) Hard Anodized (floorplate)
Stock: AG Composite
Available Chamberings: 300 HAMR (tested) 22 ARC, 223 Remington (Wylde), 6mm ARC, 6.5 Grendel, 300 Blackout
Price: $2995.00
Wilson Combat Model 20S Features and Test Results
Pros
Incredibly light and compact
Great trigger
Outstanding precision
Cons
Light-duty cartridges only
Heavy bolt lift
Precision Test
Wilson Combat builds the Model 20S (“S” stands for short) around an CNC-machined and EDM-cut cylindrical action of 4140 steel with a bolt that’s machined from 4340 barstock. It’s a push-feed action with a two-lug bolt that has a Sako style extractor and a plunger ejector. The action is perfectly sized to work with AR15 compatible cartridges like the 223 Remington and 6mm ARC, but the Model 20S has a 2.45-inch magazine box. This allows handloaders to craft ammunition with an overall cartridge length beyond the 2.26-inch restriction imposed by AR15 magazines, which can increase cartridge versatility.
A user-adjustable Timney Elite Hunter trigger, with a safety that locks the bolt handle down when set to “safe,” is standard, and the action is drilled and tapped at 8x40 for Wilson Combat’s proprietary, two-ounce scope rings. The 4126R stainless-steel barrel is free-floated and contoured based on caliber for a trimmer look and to keep weight down. Barrel lengths vary depending on the chambering, but in every case, muzzle threading at 5/8x24 is an option. The barreled action rests in a pillar-bedded AG Composites’ carbon-fiber stock that’s fitted with a featherlight hard anodized aluminum floorplate .Overall rifle weight—depending on barrel length and chambering—is right at five pounds or a bit less.
Bottom Line: The Wilson Combat Model 20S is every bit as good as their Model 20 we reviewed last year, with one exception. The force required to raise the bolt handle was much heavier than we would have liked. But that did not get in the way of this rifle’s tack driving capabilities. We tested three 300 HAMR loads, and they all averaged less than an inch. This is clearly a great-shooting rifle, but its best feature is its light weight and compact size. It was an absolute joy to carry, handle, and shoot, with or without a suppressor. From a big-game hunting perspective, cartridge choice is limited and on the light side, but for hunting whitetails, hogs, predators, and varmints, there are a half-dozen good options to choose from.
Read a full review of the Wilson Combat Model 20S here.
Most Innovative: Beretta BRX1
Why It Won Most Innovative: This is a very smartly designed, smooth operating, modular rifle that shoots well. Though Americans have never been much for straight-pull rifles, this one may very well change everyone’s mind.
Total Score: 94.04
Specs
Length: 40.75-inches
Weight: 7.44 pounds
Barrel: 20.1 inches with 5/8x24 muzzle threading and thread protector
Action: BRX1 straight pull
Trigger: 2.5 pounds (as tested)
Capacity: 5+1 (detachable magazine)
Finish: Blued steel
Stock: Black Synthetic
Available Chamberings: 6.5 Creedmoor, 308 Winchester (tested), 300 Winchester Magnum
Price: $1599.00
Beretta BRX1 Features and Test Results
Pros
Fantastic trigger
Fast and smooth action
Switch-barrel modularity
Cons
Heavy
Precision Test
Technically speaking, this is a chassis-style rifle because the action is housed in one section and the butt stock and forend are separate. Oddly, the action does not really contain the bolt—the bolt is mostly the action. The bolt assembly for the BRX1 is sort of like the bolt carrier group on an AR15. The big difference is that with the AR15, the bolt carrier group is contained in the rifle’s upper receiver, but the bolt assembly on the BRX1 is the upper receiver.
The BRX1 has a fantastically crisp single-stage trigger, and you can set the pull weight at either 2.1-, 2.6-, or 3.3-pounds. It also has a polymer magazine that works to perfection and is mostly bright orange; if you drop it in the woods or in the dark it should be easy to find. It also has a well-designed synthetic stock with noticeable negative drop at the comb. Accessories are available to adjust length of pull, change to a more vertical grip, swap bolt knobs, and choose between 20 MOA Picatinny or Tikka scope rail. Other versions are available with a green stock and/or with a 9.5-ounce lighter, carbon-fiber barrel.
Bottom Line: Though a lighter, more expensive version is available, at 7.5-pounds this rifle is a bit heavy. It’s also only available in 6.5 Creedmoor, 308 Winchester, or 300 Winchester Magnum. But it operates with utterly smooth and flawless efficiency. Though historically Americans have not shown much interest in straight-pull-action rifles, if you’ll give this new and unique Berretta a try, we predict you’ll not be disappointed. It might very well change your mind. I’d not feel in any way embarrassed or like my hair was purple if I was in a hunting camp anywhere in the world with a BRX1.
Read a full review of the Beretta BRX1 here.
Best Value: Ruger American Gen II
Why It Won Best Value: This is an attractive rifle that shoots even better than it looks. It’s also loaded with practical features that allows it to offer a lot of bang for not a lot of bucks.
Total Score: 93.84
Specs
Length: 41.25 inches
Weight: 6 pounds, 7.4 ounces (actual)
Barrel: 20 inches, cold hammer forged, 5-grooves, RH twist, threaded at 5/8”x24
Action: Bolt action, with three lugs and a 70° throw
Trigger: Ruger Marksman Adjustable (4.0 pounds as tested)
Capacity: 3+1 (10+1 in 204 Ruger and 223 Remington)
Finish: Gun metal grey Cerakote
Stock: Synthetic stock, with adjustable LOP, modular comb, optional weight kit
Chambering: 6.5 Creedmoor (tested), 7mm-08 Remington, 308 Winchester, 450 Bushmaster, 204 Ruger, 223 Remington
Price: $729.00
Ruger American Gen II Features and Test Results
Pros
Sub-MOA performance
Versatile and modular stock
Three position safety
Price
Cons
Binding bolt
Limber forend
Precision Test
The major upgrade from the original Ruger American to this Gen II version is the stock. The forend and the grip have raised panels to assist with a secure hold, and the comb is high with negative drop to aid with eye alignment and help with felt recoil. The comb is also modular to help maximize shooter interface. The length of pull is adjustable, and a unique weight kit can be added to establish proper rifle balance when a suppressor is used. The action rests on Ruger’s patented Power Bedding System, and the rifle is fitted with a spiral fluted, free-floated, 20-inch, cold-hammer-forged barrel, with 5/8”x24 muzzle threading. A radial port muzzle break is standard.
A Ruger Marksman Adjustable trigger is also standard along with the 70° bolt throw and a bolt handle that’s threaded at 5/16”x24 so you can swap out different bolt handle knobs. The rifle has a three-position tang safety that locks the bolt in the rear position. A 14-slot Picatinny scope rail comes mounted to the action, and the rifle feeds from a detachable polymer magazine. The standard magazine holds three rounds, but a 10-round version is optional with some chamberings.
Bottom Line: The first five shots from this rifle clustered into a group measuring 0.90-inch, and that’s pretty much how this $700 dollar rifle continued to shoot. We interfaced well with the rifle’s stock from the bench and while shooting from field positions. We did not experience any stoppages or malfunctions, but the magazine is not drop-free and to seat it—if the bolt is closed—you’ll have to give it a little slap. There was some minor binding of the bolt, but considering how well this rifle shot and what it costs, it’s one of the best value rifles we’ve ever tested.
Read a full review of the Ruger American Gen II here.
Most Accurate: Proof Research Elevation 2.0
Why It Won Most Accurate: Because it grouped the best. Some hunters and shooters place a high priority on precision, and this is one of the most precise shooting rifles we’ve ever tested at any price.
Total Score: 92.86
Specs
Length: 39.75 inches
Weight: 7.125 pounds (with magazine)
Barrel: 20-inch carbon fiber wrapped, threaded at 5/8 x 24
Action: Zermatt Arms Origin
Trigger: Trigger Tech (2.25-pounds as tested)
Capacity: 10+1
Finish: TFDE or black granite Cerakote
Stock: Proof Research carbon fiber MTR stock
Available Chamberings: 22 ARC (tested) 223 Rem., 6mm ARC, 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC, 7mm Rem. Mag., 7mm PRC, 300 Win. Mag., 300 PRC
Price: $3499.00
Proof Research Elevation 2.0 Features and Test Results
Pros
Great precision
Excellent fit, finish, and workmanship
Cons
Safety does not lock bolt
Expensive
Precision Test
Proof Research builds the Elevation 2.0 on a $900-dollar Zermatt Arms Origin action. This is a twin-lug action configured to be a push/control-feed design. Our test rifle had a 20-inch Sendero-contoured Proof Research carbon-fiber-wrapped, match-grade barrel, and the action has a Remington 700 footprint. The rifle comes with a 20 MOA, 14-slot Picatinny rail, and a Trigger Tech trigger with a two-position safety.
The camouflaged and textured stock is attractive and the rifle fed perfectly from a detachable 10-round MDT magazine. The barrel is fully free-floated, and though the stock’s comb is not adjustable, it was high enough to allow a decent interface with a 44mm objective riflescope mounted in medium rings. The recoil lug is bedded, and the action rests in the stock on two pillars and slightly raised guides on each side of the action, sort of providing a V-block nest. The rifle disassembles and reassembles just as precisely as it shoots.
Bottom Line: This rifle lived up to this company's excellent reputation for turning in groups near the half-inch mark. Granted, the 22 ARC is a puppy to shoot, but that does not diminish the rifle’s laser-like precision. Feeding was very smooth, and ejection was flawless. The large but tapered and smooth bolt handle was lighting fast to operate, and the rifle was a joy to shoot from a bench but also a pleasure to shoot off hand. If all Proof Research Elevation 2.0 rifles shoot this well, and if precision matters to you the most, spend the money.
Read a full review of the Proof Research Elevation 2.0 here.
Most Affordable: Mossberg Patriot Predator SF
Why It Won Most Affordable: Because it costs around $500 and it works reliably. With what things cost these days, it’s nice to know you can still buy a dependable rifle for less money than you’ll spend on groceries in a month.
Total Score: 91.25
Specs
Length: 36.75 inches
Weight: 6.34 pounds
Barrel: 16.25 inches, threaded at 5/8x24 w/ thread protector
Action: Bolt action
Trigger: 2.25 pounds (as tested)
Capacity: 5+1 (detachable magazine)
Finish: Blued steel
Stock: Black synthetic
Available Chamberings: 22-250 Remington, 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC, 7mm PRC, 308 Winchester (tested), 300 Winchester Magnum, and 450 Bushmaster.
Price: $536.00
Mossberg Patriot Predator SF Features and Test Results
Pros
Suppressor Friendly
Compact
Inexpensive
Cons
Average precision
Precision Test
This Patriot Predator rifle has a threaded, standard contour, non-fluted barrel. In 308 Winchester, the rifle comes with a 16.25-inch barrel, but in 22-250 Remington, 6.5 Creedmoor, 450 Bushmaster, 6.5 PRC, 300 Winchester Magnum, and 7mm PRC, it will have an 18-inch barrel. The rifle ships with a 15-slot Picatinny scope rail already installed and comes with Mossberg’s adjustable Lightning Bolt Action (LBA) trigger.
The Patriot utilizes a two-lug, push-feed bolt with a 90° throw, and the bolt body has spiral fluting around its circumference. The trigger breaks cleanly, but the safety does not lock the bolt handle when in the “safe” position. The rifle’s black synthetic stock has impressed textured areas at the grip and forend, and it's fitted with a thick and soft rubber butt pad and two sling swivel studs. Like most Patriot rifles, it feeds from a detachable magazine that weighs only 2.3 ounces, and capacity will vary with the cartridge.
Bottom Line: The rifle functioned to perfection. The magazine was easy to load, the action fed from the magazine perfectly. Extraction and ejection were flawless. However, when you just shorten a rifle’s barrel it can become unbalanced, and without a suppressor, this Patriot was a tad butt heavy. That made the rifle handle well and come to the shoulder fast, but it was a tad difficult to hold on target. Based on the performance of the test rifle, you’ll not be driving any tacks and may not shoot any brag-worthy groups. But you’ll also not break your wallet if you buy this rifle, which is the least expensive and one of the most suppressor friendly rifles we’ve looked at all year.
Read a full review of the Mossberg Patriot Predator SF here.
Browning X-Bolt 2 Speed
Why it Made the Cut: Browning X-Bolt rifles have a reputation of being a great value for the dollar, and the new X-Bolt 2 is no exception. It’s reliable, shot well, and is one of the most shooter-interface-friendly rifles we’ve tested.
Total Score: 93.73
Specs
Length: 43.75 inches (with all stock spacers)
Weight: 6.69 pounds (with magazine)
Barrel: 22-inch fluted, threaded at M13x0.75
Action: Browning X Bolt 2
Trigger: 3.0 pounds
Capacity: 4+1
Finish: Smoked Bronze Cerakote
Stock: Composite Vari-Tech user adjustable stock with OVIX camo
Available Chamberings: 308 Winchester (tested) 243 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC, 6.8 Western, 270 Winchester, 7mm Rem. Mag., 7mm PRC, 28 Nosler, 30-06 Springfield, 300 Win. Mag., 300 PRC
Price: $1469.99
Browning X-Bolt 2 Speed Features and Test Results
Pros
Excellent shooter interface
Hidden stock adjustments
Great trigger
Cons
Odd thread pattern on muzzle
Precision Test
The X-Bolt 2 Speed a lightweight (under 7 pounds), traditionally styled, bolt-action hunting rifle available in a dozen popular big game-cartridges. It’s very similar to older X-Bolts, but Browning has added a bolt-guidance surface for smoother operation, and new trigger. The DLX trigger is user-adjustable and very nice, but it hardly feels like any rifle trigger you’ve pulled in the past—you just apply pressure, and seemingly without trigger movement the rifle goes bang.
The major enhancement is the rifle’s stock. At first glance, it looks like the camouflaged stock Browning used on the X-Bolt Speed rifle we evaluated at last year. But what’s really camouflaged is the stock’s adjustability, as there are no externally visible adjustment screws or knobs. There are three holes in the recoil pad that allow access to the comb and length of pull adjustments, and with the barreled action removed, you can even swap the grip. The entire system is very smartly designed and very covert. This rifle also uses the flush-fitting Browning rotary magazine, which is one of the best detachable magazines offered for a traditional hunting rifle from any manufacture.
Bottom Line: The new X-Bolt 2 Speed shows some substantial improvements in shooter interface as well as a savvy way of disguising them from casual observation, and the trigger was exceptional. The shortest barrel length offered is 22 inches, but at least Browning offers a similar SPR (suppressor ready) version with a 4-inch shorter barrel. Our only real disappointment was the muzzle thread pattern of M13x0.75. The small diameter barrel necessitates this, but Browning could have provided an adapter with the rifle or slightly increased barrel diameter at the muzzle to work with the standard 5/8x24 pattern. Ultimately, what you have with the X-Bolt 2 Speed is a reliable and good-shooting big-game rifle, that’s adaptable to fit just about any adult.
Read the full review of the Browning X-Bolt Speed here.
Sako 90 Adventure
Why It Made the Cut: This is a mechanically impeccable rifle with a host of rifleman-friendly features. It’s also sized right with a length and weight to appeal to those who hunt from their feet instead of their backsides.
Total Score: 93.64
Length: 40.15
Weight: 6.44 pounds
Barrel: 20.1 inches, w/ M15x1 threading and thread protector (5.8x24 adapter provided)
Action: Sako bolt action
Trigger: 3.0 pounds (as tested) adjustable
Capacity: (detachable magazine)
Finish: Tungsten Cerakote
Stock: Fiberglass with carbon fiber reinforcement
Available Chamberings: 22-250 Remington, 243 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, 7mm-8 Remington, 7mm Remington Magnum, 308 Winchester, 300 Winchester Magnum,
Price: $2990.00
Sako 90 Adventure Features and Test Results
Pros
Fantastic trigger
Comfortable stock
Integral scope bases
Cons
Pricey
Precision Test
This rifle is built around a three-lug, push-feed action, with a bolt that utilizes dual-plunger ejectors. It’s also a bolt that you can easily disassemble for service in the field. Long and short actions are offered, depending on cartridge size, and a 20.1-inch cold-hammer-forged barrel is standard, with a 24.4-inch barrel available for some chamberings. But all Sako 90 Adventure rifles have an integral split rail for optics mounting.
The trigger is user adjustable for pull weight, but not in the common manner. It has five individual weight settings, and you can make the adjustments without disassembling the rifle by inserting the provided wrench through a hole in the trigger guard. It also has a two-position safety that locks the bolt when placed in the “safe” position. And you can override the lock by pressing a small button just forward of the safety. The rifle is fitted with a fiberglass stock that has carbon-fiber reinforcements around the action and recoil lug area. It’s not ultra-light, but it’s lean and trim and in a classic American profile with recessed and textured areas at the wrist and forend and an adjustable comb.
Bottom Line: With its famous Sako extractor, dual-plunger ejectors, and easy to adjust trigger, we felt that the Sako 90 Adventure was a very mechanically sound rifle, with the looks and specifications that should have put it near the top of the list for 2024. But our sample only delivered average precision, and we’d have liked to have seen a more centralized balance for a general-purpose hunting rifle. It handled lithely, but we felt it was a bit too butt-heavy to deliver optimum precision when shooting off-hand. The rifle functioned perfectly and the integral scope bases and locking magazine are a nice touch. The stock was also comfortable with an easy to adjust comb, but the stock’s finish was easily marred. Overall, we felt the rifle was just almost worth its asking price.
Read a full review of the Sako 90 Adventure here.
Stag Arms Pursuit
Why it Made the Cut: For dedicated long-range shooters who want a rifle they can also hunt with, the Stag Arms Pursuit has a lot going for it in terms of features and precision at a reasonable price.
Total Score: 93.57
Specs
Length: 37.75 inches
Weight: 8 pounds, 9.6 ounces, with empty magazine installed (actual)
Barrel: 18-inch, spiral fluted, 416 stainless steel, 1 in 10 RH twist, threaded at 5/8-24
Action: Bolt action with interchangeable three-lug bolt head and 60° throw
Trigger: Trigger Tech Primary trigger (2.8 pounds as tested)
Capacity: 5+1 (AICS/AW compatible)
Finish: Black Cerakote
Stock: Modular polymer, with adjustable comb and LOP, in black, green, or tan
Chambering: 308 Winchester (tested), 6.5 Creedmoor w/20-inch barrel
Price: $1899.99
Stag Arms Pursuit Features and Test Results
Pros
Good trigger
Ultra-smooth action
Versatile and user friendly stock
Cons
A little heavey
Not the prettiest rifle
Precision Test
This rifle’s action has a Remington Model 700 footprint, 60° bolt throw, three-lug interchangeable bolt head, and a toolless quick-takedown bolt. It also comes with a 20 MOA biased top rail already installed. This is a chassis rifle fitted with an 18-inch, 416 stainless-steel, radial-fluted barrel that’s fully free-floated and threaded at 5/8-24. All the metal work is finished in black Cerakote, and it has an adjustable Trigger Tech Primary trigger. The action feeds from AICS/AW style magazines, and there’s an ambidextrous paddle-style magazine release just forward of the trigger guard.
This Pursuit has a unique two-piece polymer stock. The flat bottomed forend is M-Lok-compatible on the underside, and at its front there’s a Picatinny spigot. This spigot makes bipod and tripod attachment easy, keeping both out of the way of hand placement. There’s also three quick-detach sling-swivel points on the forend and two on the buttstock, which has spacers for length-of-pull adjustment. The hand-filling pistol grip is nearly vertical, and an optional bag-ridding rail ships with the rifle. The comb is user-adjustable and—uniquely—you can easily remove the buttstock from the chassis with a single AR-style takedown pin.
Bottom Line: We enjoyed shooting this rifle and liked most everything about it except for how heavy it was and the fact that it’s, well, a bit ugly. With a 7.8-ounce suppressor, scope, rings, full magazine, and a sling, the rifle weighted 11.5 pounds. Beauty, of course, is in the eye of the beholder, but a rifle that’s constantly shooting sub-MOA five-shot groups, like this one did, can make up for some ugliness. You’ll need to follow the barrel-break-in procedure, and you’ll most likely appreciate the modularity and modernized features. I put the rifle’s weight and looks aside, and after the initial test back in early March, I took it to Africa where it performed extremely well. Given the Pursuit’s performance, uniqueness, and sub-MOA guarantee, its $1900 price tag does not seem that steep
Aero Precision SOLUS Hunter
Why it Made the Cut: This is a great-shooting rifle that’s well configured for long-range applications. It’s built on a well-designed a very smooth action and can serve double duty for the hunter or distance shooter.
Total Score: 92.52
Specs
Length: 39.75 inches
Weight: 8 pounds, 10.1 ounces, with empty magazine installed (actual)
Barrel: 20-inch, fluted, Sendero light profile, 1 in 10 RH twist, threaded at 5/8 - 24
Action: Bolt action with interchangeable three-lug bolt head and 60° throw
Trigger: Trigger Tech single stage (3.0 pounds as tested)
Capacity: 5+1 (AICS compatible)
Finish: Cerakote
Stock: AG Composites carbon fiber Adjustable Hunter stock, with adjustable comb
Chambering: 308 Winchester (tested) 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC
Price: $2499.00
Aero Precision SOLUS Hunter Features and Test Results
Pros
Good trigger
Ultra-smooth action trigger
Adjustable comb
Cons
Price
Weight
Precision Test
The SOLUS Hunter's push-feed action has the same footprint as a short-action Remington 700, but instead of being drilled and tapped for scope bases, there’s a 15-slot, 20 MOA optics rail that’s integral to the action. The bolt has a three-lug head that features a 90° extractor and dual-plunger ejectors, but the bolt head is also swappable. This is not a takedown rifle, but you could change the barrel and swap the bolt head making it compatible with one of the larger-diameter short-magnum cartridges. It comes with a fluted, 20-inch, light Sendero-profile barrel with a 1-in-10 twist, and it’s threaded at 5/8x24 to allow for installation of a muzzle device or suppressor. The barrel and action have a Cerakote finish, and the bore has been honed and lapped. A Trigger Tech single-stage trigger that’s adjustable is standard.
The barreled action is housed in a synthetic Adjustable Hunter stock manufactured by AG Composites. It’s 100% carbon fiber, pillar bedded, and also has an adjustable comb. However, this is not a quick-adjust comb. You set it where you want it and then lock it in place with a hex head screw. Very smartly, there’s a notch cut in the forward end of the comb to allow for bolt removal even if the comb is positioned above bore line. The rifle has 13.6-inch length of pull and comes with one rear and two forward sling swivel studs. Three camo-color options are available and the rifle feeds from a detachable AICS magazine.
Bottom Line: We tested this rifle at distance during a hunt in Texas, and it was nothing to repeatedly ring 12-inch gongs out to 500 yards. This is fine-shooting rifle, but it’s also a bit heavy. In fact, it’s heavier than every rifle we tested in last year's test. For an even heavier version of the SOLUS, Aero Precision also offers the rifle in 6.5 Creedmoor and 6.5 PRC, and both come with a 24-inch barrel. The SOLUS seems to be the sort of precision hunting rifle all the cool kids want these days, and our test rifle shot two of the loads we tested well. Aero Precision guarantees the SOLUS will deliver sub MOA precision with three-shot groups. We can’t guarantee you can shoot that well, but the rifle seems fully up to the task.
Read a full review of the SOLUS Hunter here.
Springfield Armory Boundary Carbon
Why it Made the Cut: This is a well-appointed traditionally-styled hunting rifle that’s available in a wide selection of great big-game cartridges. For hunters, we think it’s the best bolt-action rifle yet from Springfield Armory.
Total Score: 92.48
Specs
Length: 43.0 inches
Weight: 6 pounds, 12 ounces (actual)
Barrel: 22-inch carbon fiber wrapped or fluted stainless steel, RH 1 in 8 twist, threaded at 5/8x24
Action: Model 2020 bolt action, with fluted 4140 steel Nitride coated bolt
Trigger: Trigger Tech (3.0 pounds as tested)
Capacity: 4+1
Finish: Satin stainless Cerakote
Stock: Synthetic AG Composites Sportsman carbon fiber, Rouge camouflage
Chamberings: 6.5 Creedmoor (tested), 308 Winchester, 6.5 PRC, 7mm Rem. Mag., 7mm PRC 300 PRC, 300 Win. Mag.
Price: $2599.00
Springfield Armory Boundary Carbon Features and Test Results
Pros
Well-balanced
Great precision
Great stock
Cons
Safety does not lock bolt
Finicky feeding
Precision Test
The 2020 Boundary rifle uses the same Model 2020 action Springfield Armory uses on their Waypoint and Redline rifles, and it comes with either a short 308 Winchester length or a longer 300 Win. Mag. length action. This is a two-lug, push-feed action, with a plunger style ejector, and an extractor positioned within the face of one of the lugs. But unlike the Waypoint and Redline, the Boundary feeds from an internal magazine, and there’s a hinged floor plate to allow for easy unloading. You can have your choice between a traditional stainless-steel barrel that’s fluted, or a carbon-fiber-wrapped barrel, with lengths varying from 20 to 24 inches depending on the chambering. The non-carbon-wrapped barrel reduces the price by $426.00, and both are threaded at 5/8”x24, and a SA radial brake and thread protector is standard.
The Boundary has a TriggerTech Field trigger that features TriggerTech’s Frictionless Release Technology, and it is user-adjustable. For a stock, Springfield-Armory chose one from AG Composites who makes some of the best carbon-fiber stocks currently offered. It has an attractive Rouge camo finish and traditional lines, and the barrel is free-floated. One thing we really liked was the two M-Lok slots on the bottom of the forend. This provides a non-obtrusive attachment point for bipod or tripod interface and is a genius addition to a traditional hunting rifle.
Bottom Line: We had two issues with our test rifle. First, bolt lift after firing was a bit stiff with certain loads, and, second, we had occasional feeding issues no matter the ammo we were using. The Boundary rifle sort of splits the difference between Springfield Armory’s Waypoint, which is better configured for long-range shooting, and the Redline (see below), which is lighter and more suppressor-friendly. I’m confident the feeding issues will be sorted by the time this rifle hits the shelves, which will make it one of the best new traditionally styled hunting rifles on the market. And get this: If you purchase a new 2020 Boundary rifle prior to December 31st, 2024, Springfield Armory will give you a Model 2020 Rimfire Target Rifle for free! That’s a $434.00 value and a sub-caliber training rifle at no cost. That’s a deal that’s damned near to good to pass up.
Read a full review of the Springfield Armory Boundary Carbon here.
Springfield Armory Redline
Why it Made the Cut: Rifles that are compact, lightweight, and suppressor-friendly are becoming more popular with big-game hunters. The Springfield Armory Redline meets that description very well and it shoots well, too.
Total Score: 92.40
Specs
Length: 36.5 to 37.5 inches
Weight: 6 pounds, 3.25 ounces (actual)
Barrel: 16 (tested) or 20 inches, carbon fiber wrapped, RH 1 in 8 twist, threaded at 5/8”-24
Action: Model 2020 bolt action, with fluted 4140 steel, Nitride coated bolt
Trigger: Trigger Tech (3.0 pounds as tested)
Capacity: 3+1
Finish: Mil Spec green Cerakote
Stock: Synthetic Greyboe Trekker carbon fiber, olive with black webbing
Chambering: 6.5 Creedmoor (tested), 308 Winchester
Price: $2299.00
Springfield Armory Redline Features and Test Results
Pros
Lightweight
Short
Suppressor friendly
Cons
Safety does not lock bolt
Limited chamberings
Precision Test
The Redline is only offered in 6.5 Creedmoor and 308 Winchester, which have become the most popular hunting rifle cartridges of the day. It’s built on the same Model 2020 bolt action Springfield Armory uses on their Waypoint rifle, which is a short push-feed action, with a two-lug bolt and a plunger ejector. The bolt has spiral fluting and a cocked indicator, and the rifle feeds from a detachable, three-round, AICS, flush fitting, polymer magazine. The barrel is roll-wrapped in carbon fiber and is also threaded 5/8”x24. Out of the box, it comes with a radial port muzzle break and a thread protector, and it also has aluminum bottom metal that surrounds the magazine well. The magazine release is inside the trigger guard, which houses an adjustable Trigger Tech trigger, and the safety does not lock the bolt.
The rifle’s most distinguishing feature is its stock, which is the Trekker stock from Greyboe. It almost looks like they forgot to make part of it, but the missing section was intentionally left out to keep weight down. The stock’s length of pull (LOP) is adjustable from 13.25 to 14.25 inches, and with additional spacers, the LOP can even be increased to 16 inches. The stock’s comb is high to help with obtaining a good cheek weld and also has a slight negative drop, meaning the heel is higher than the nose. The stock is also reasonably stiff and the barrel free floats within the forend. There’s even a bubble level just to the rear of the action tang to help you keep the rifle level for longer range shots.
Bottom Line: For us the Redline felt a bit odd on our shoulders, but we were able to shoot to our potential during off-hand drills and other field positions. For the suppressed hunter looking to hike in deep, this rifle lives in a class few others occupy. But if you’re serious about long-range precision shooting, we think Springfield-Armory’s 2020 Waypoint is a better option. It’s worth noting that while some demand a 6.5 Creedmoor have a 20 or 22-inch barrel, the short 16-inch barrel on this rifle did not drastically reduce velocities. When it came to precision the Redline was a bit finicky, but shot the load it liked very well.
Colt CBX TAC Hunter
Why it Made the Cut: The rifle has a lot of features savvy shooters and hunters often demand, with application for hunting and recreational long-range shooting. It’s also a Colt, which is cool, and it costs less than a grand.
Total Score: 92.30
Specs
Length: 39.88 inches
Weight: 7 pounds, 3.2 ounces, with empty magazine installed (actual)
Barrel: 20-inch, w/1 in 10 twist, threaded at 9/16-24
Action: Bolt action with 60° throw
Trigger: (4.0 pounds as tested)
Capacity: 5+1 (AICS compatible)
Finish: Black nitride
Stock: Synthetic, modular
Chambering: 308 Winchester
Price: $999.00
Colt CBX TAC Hunter Features and Test Results
Pros
Good precision
Fast operating action
Safety locks bolt
Price
Cons
Unappealing stock ergonomics
Unreliable magazine latch
Precision Test
As best as we could tell, the action on the Colt CBX TAC Hunter is the same as the action CZ uses on their Model 600 rifles. The bolt has three, dual lugs—six total—and it operates with a 60° throw. Unlike most three-lug bolt actions, this is sort of a hybrid control-round-feed design, but “control” of the cartridge by the bolt is not realized until the bolt is pushed all the way forward. The rifle has a plunger ejector, but it’s mechanical as opposed to spring-loaded. The tang safety locks the bolt handle in the closed position, but there’s a bolt unlock button which also serves as a bolt-release. The rifle comes with an adjustable trigger, a 16-slot Picatinny rail, and a 20-inch button-rifled barrel that’s threaded with the 9/16”x24 pattern.
The CBX’s stock is polymer with stippling along the sides of the wrist and forend, and it’s outfitted with two sling-swivel studs. There’s also a recess in the bottom of the stock for a bag or for your support hand when shooting from a rest. If you remove the soft rubber buttpad, you can remove or add spacers to adjust length of pull. And while the butt pad is off, you can also replace the straight comb with one that’s about a half-inch higher. The rifle feeds from a detachable AICS magazine, and there’s an ambidextrous magazine release just forward of the trigger guard.
Bottom Line: This rifle is modern in looks and configuration; it’s representative of the hunting/long-range precision rifle crossover style that’s become so popular with many hunters. It shot reasonably well, with a couple of five-shot groups measuring under an inch and one under a half-inch. However, the rifle showed a distinct preference for certain loads, which is a common characteristic of most rifles in this price range. The adjustability inserts for the stock were nice, but the stock felt a bit more like a boat paddle than a refined rifle handle. Still, the CZ-like Colt CBX TAC Hunter looks to be a performer, and it’s exciting to see Colt back in the business of offering a rifle that will appeal to big-game hunters.
Read a full review of the Colt CBX TAC Hunter here.
Bear Creek Arsenal BC15
Why it Made the Cut: With its right-side charging handle and great precision, this sub-$600 AR15 in 6mm ARC is a steal.
Total Score: 91.20
Specs
Length: 40.74 to 44 inches
Weight: 8.69 pounds
Barrel: 416R 24-inch fluted stainless steel, threaded 5/8x24
Action: BC-15, with right-side charging handle
Chambering: 6mm ARC
Trigger: 6.0 pounds (as tested)
Capacity: Varies – magazine not included
Finish: Anodized black
Stock: Six-point adjustable
Price: $564.99
Bear Creek Arsenal BC15 Features and Test Results
Pros
Very affordable
Good precision
Right-side charging handle
Cons
Terrible Trigger
Magazine not provided
Precision Test
The standout features in this Bear Creek Arsenal AR15 is its right-side charging handle. This means the upper receiver is a bit different than your typical AR15; it’s void of the conventional T-handle used to operate the action. Also, the ejection port is of a different configuration to work with the right-side charging handle, which makes the rifle’s action much easier to manage while the rifle is on your shoulder. Our test rifle was chambered for the 6mm ARC, and the rifle is fitted with a 24-inch, heavy and fluted, 416R stainless steel barrel with a 1 in 8 rifling twist rate.
It has a rifle-length gas system and a non-adjustable gas block, which is concealed behind an aluminum BCA 15-inch M-Lok handguard. The muzzle is threaded at 5/8”x24 and was outfitted with a proprietary BCA flash hider. The forged 7075-T6 aluminum receivers have a black anodized finish and the lower was equipped with an inexpensive six-position adjustable stock and grip. The rifle also had a standard Mil-Spec trigger.
The rifle was extremely muzzle heavy, especially when a suppressor was used, but the plus side of the 24-inch barrel was that it allows you to extract all the velocity possible out of the little but long-range-friendly 6mm ARC cartridge. Though not a conventional hunting rifle, this rifle is well configured for long-range varminting, and given the modularity of the AR15 platform, you could trick it out with the aftermarket butt stock, grip, or trigger of your choice, and still spend less than a grand.
Bottom Line: At more than 8.5 pounds this is a heavy rifle, but it could be right at home shooting prairie dogs from a static location, and it could be effective for predator calling. If you typically hunt from a shoot house or blind, it would work well for feral hogs or deer, and the weight would be a non-issue. Regardless, keep in mind that this is a less-than-$600 AR 15, and with a right-side charging handle, you can interface with it very well. If you’ve been wanting to give the 6mm ARC a try, you’ll be hard pressed to find one more affordable, and if the rifle we tested is any indication of the level of precision you can expect from a BC AR15, good luck finding another 6mm ARC rifle this inexpensive that will average right at an inch with the three factory 6mm ARC loads currently offered.
Dove Custom Appalachian Scout Marlin 336 Takedown
Why it Made the Cut: Sometimes a quick-handling, compact, and packable rifle, designed for jump-shooting whitetails, is just what a hunter needs. This rifle was built just for that purpose.
Total Score: 90.40
Length: 33.75 inches
Weight: 7.06 pounds
Barrel: 16.25 inches (factory Marlin)
Action: Marlin 336
Trigger: 2.0 pounds (as tested)
Capacity: 4+1
Finish: Cerakote
Stock: Cerakoted factory wood stock
Available Chamberings: Any Marlin 336 chambering.
Price: $2450.00 (on your rifle)
Dove Custom Marlin 336 Takedown Features and Test Results
Pros
Fantastic trigger
Smooth action
Extremely compact
Take-down
Cons
Pricey
Not a tack driver
You must supply the original rifle
Precision Test
Okay, this one is different. It is not a new rifle. Rather, it is a fully custom conversion of your existing Marlin 336. You send Dove Custom your lever gun, and they send it back as a Appalachian Scout Takedown. The finished rifle is really a carbine and is ideally suited for those who hunt the rugged and hardwood covered mountains that make up much of the eastern United States. Dove Custom goes over every part to guarantee absolute smoothness. What mostly sets it apart is that it’s a takedown. A custom steel block is crafted for the rear of the forend, and the magazine tube is modified so you can slide it forward. A single screw is loosened and that allows the forend to unscrew from the receiver. What you end up with is a rifle that will fit inside a backpack.
The rifle’s wood stock is sealed, a Pachmayr recoil pad is installed, and then the stock receives a Cerakote finish of your color choice. All the metal work is bead blasted and Cerakoted as well. A fully adjustable XS Sights aperture rear sight and a white stripped front sight are standard along with a custom scout scope rail. The rail is perfectly positioned so you can mount a Burris 2.5X or 2.5-7X scout scope, or a red dot sight, and then disassemble the little carbine with the optic attached. In less than 30 seconds, you can go from your backpack to hunt ready.
Bottom Line: We would liked to have seen a threaded muzzle, but admittedly no one needs a muzzle brake on a 30-30, and a suppressor would destroy the fantastic agileness of this little carbine. In the timber-covered hills and hollows of the Appalachians, you don’t need 300 yards of reach, or a shoulder smashing magnum. What you do need is a fast-handling repeater that carries easy, and that’s exactly what the Appalachian Scout is. Like most lever guns, this is not a tack driver, but it doesn’t need to be. It's not cheap, though; if you purchase a new 336 for the conversion, the price will exceed three grand. However, if you have an old beat-up lever gun lying around like most hillbillies do, it can become the most portable, packable, quick-handling carbine you’ve ever put your hands on.
Marlin 1895 Dark
Why it Made the Cut: The Marlin Dark series rifle represents the common-sense evolutionary advancement of the lever-action rifle. It doesn’t look like daddy’s lever gun, and it will do things your daddy never thought a lever gun could.
Total Score: 89.57
Specs
Length: 35.5 inches
Weight: 6.0 pounds, 13 ounces (actual)
Barrel: 16.17 inches, 1 in 20 RH twist
Action: Lever action
Trigger: 5.0 pounds (as tested)
Capacity: 5+1
Finish: Graphite Black Cerakote/Nitride
Stock: Nylon reinforced polymer butt stock with anodized aluminum handguard
Chambering: 45-70 Government
Price: $1379.00
Marlin 1895 Dark Features and Test Results
Pros
Lightweight
Fantastic shooter interface
Reliable
Versatile
Cons
Trigger needs some work
Most expensive new Marlin to date
Questionable comb attachment
Precision Test
This Ruger-made Marlin 1895 has a 16.17-inch cold-hammer-forged barrel, and the muzzle is threaded at 11/16”x24. It comes with a radial-port muzzle break and a thread protector, and atop the action and barrel, there’s a 23-slot, 11¼-inch rail. There’s also a fully adjustable ghost-ring sight and a fiber-optic front sight with a tritium ring for enhanced visibility in low light. All the metal work is finished in graphite black Cerakote.
The butt stock is made of nylon-reinforced polymer and retains traditional lines, with textured inserts at the grip and a thick rubber recoil pad. The center section of the stock is dished out and has three M-Lok slots, and there’s also steel studs to accept a QD sling swivel. The comb of the stock is configured for use with open sights, but you can “snap on” a higher profile polymer cheek riser for use with optics. The forend is a 13-5/8-inch anodized aluminum handguard with M-Lok slots and QD sling swivel attachment points, and it conceals the magazine tube which holds five rounds. A mid-size finger lever, nitride-finished bolt, cross-bolt safety, and the traditional half-cock hammer are standard.
Bottom Line: The new Marlin Dark Series rifle is a significant evolvement of the standard lever-action rifle. Its butt stock and forend are very adaptable, and the rifle is compatible with any sight you want to use. Out of the box, it’s an ideal option for bear defense; it is straight-wall legal, and is also suitable for anything from deer to African buffalo. Our test rifle did not have a trigger as good as other new Ruger-made Marlins we’ve tested, and the comb attachment was a bit archaic. (We actually managed to break it.) We also had one stoppage that required disassembly to clear. While this rifle might not have the John Wayne appeal of a traditional lever gun, you could say it’s an ideal adaptation of the platform for the modern cowboy.
Why Trust Field & Stream
We’re hunters and shooters just like you, and when we test rifles, we test them like they’d likely be used. Collectively our editors have more than a hundred years of shooting and hunting experience, and we apply what we’ve learned in competitions and while hunting all over the world to the evaluations we make. We’ve used enough rifles in varied situations to know what works and what doesn’t. But just as importantly, we’re open to new technology but we’re not influenced by marketing hype. We call it like we see it because we know you’ll do the same.
