Bargain Guns: Best Bolt Action Rifle for the Money

Ruger American Rifle.
Ruger American Rifle. Photo courtesy of Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.

Value is something that we all seek. Be it in the clothes we wear or the cars we drive. This is also true with firearms and especially rifles. There was a day not too long ago where the cliché of “you get what you pay for” was the absolute truth. The principle is still solid, but with an expanding bolt gun market, many rifles now have a quality that exceeds their price tag. If you are looking for a bolt gun that will perform well without breaking the bank, you might consider one of the following.

Remington 783 Synthetic

Remington has built upon expertise that’s dominated bolt-action technology for over 50 years. Their engineering team started from scratch and combined their most advanced, accuracy-enhancing features to create an all-new platform. The black synthetic stock contains a high nylon fiber content, which promotes superior strength and rigidity. Also helping deliver those inherently tight groups is a precision button-rifled barrel. For shot control, it’s equipped with the crisp new CrossFire trigger system that’s user adjustable to suit your preferences. The Model 783 features a steel detachable magazine with a steel latch. Standard calibers have a four-round capacity, and magnum calibers hold three rounds. Like all Remington bolt actions, expect a lifetime of rock-solid reliability from the next generation in a legendary bloodline.

Remington 783 Bolt Action Rifle 30 06 20inch. Find it on GunBroker.com
Remington 783 Bolt Action Rifle 30 06 20inch. Find it on GunBroker.com

Savage Axis II XP

This rifle features a durable synthetic stock, a matte-black-finished carbon steel barrel, and a receiver. The Axis II XP has a factory-mounted and bore-sighted Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm scope. Savage’s AccuTrigger enables shooters to obtain exceptional accuracy with the Axis II rifle by allowing precise adjustments for the desired weight of pull with a crisp release and no creep. A lever mounted within the trigger body blocks the sear unless the trigger is intentionally pressed in the center, virtually minimizing the risk of accidental discharge. A smooth bolt and detachable box magazine provide uncompromised reliability. A 2-position tang safety is easy to reach with the shooter’s thumb. Sling swivel studs allow you to carry the rifle with a sling and/or attach a bi-pod to the fore-end, and a rubber recoil pad enhances comfort while shooting. The Savage Axis II XP package is an extremely durable, low-maintenance bolt-action rifle that comes ready for hunting adventures right from the box.

Savage Axis II XP Hardwood 243 Win 22" with Scope.  Find it on GunBroker.com
Savage Axis II XP Hardwood 243 Win 22″ with Scope.

Mossberg Patriot-Hunting

The Patriot’s button-rifled fluted barrels are free-floated and have a recessed crown for maximum accuracy. At 22” in length, the barrels are long enough to achieve full-velocity from every caliber, yet short enough for quick handling in the densest woods. The Patriot’s attractive spiral fluted bolts feature an ergonomic bolt angle and knurled bolt handle offering plenty of grip providing for quick follow-up shots and enhanced shooter comfort. Its box-magazine-fed action makes loading and unloading a snap.

Mossberg Patriot LR Hunter 300 Win Mag 24" . Find it on GunBroker.com
Mossberg Patriot LR Hunter 300 Win Mag 24″

Tikka T3x Superlite

The Tikka T3X SuperLite Bolt-Action Rifle comes in a synthetic stock, featuring O2 Octane camo. The bolt, receiver, and fluted barrel are made of stainless steel. A steel recoil lug seats the action firmly in the stock; and the barrel is free-floated. A high-quality recoil pad makes shooting the SuperLite extremely manageable; and the classic low-angled pistol grip provides comfort for shooting from multiple positions. The T3X uses a 2-lug bolt with a 75° lift that cycles smooth as silk. The 75° bolt lift aids in keeping hand and gloves away from the scope and speeds the cycling process. An enlarged ejection port ensures unhindered ejection, and facilitates feeding rounds one at a time. A single column polymer magazine feeds reliably. The SuperLite Bolt-Action Rifle features a single stage adjustable trigger that breaks crisp and clean, allowing hunters to make quick, accurate shots under field conditions. The dovetailed receiver accepts Tikka rings and has additional screw placements to attach a Picatinny rail.

Tikka T3X Superlite 308WIN 22.5'' 3+1 1:11 Twist. Find it on GunBroker.com
Tikka T3X Superlite 308WIN 22.5” 3+1 1:11 Twist

Ruger American Rifle

The Ruger American Rifle is a 100% American-made rifle sporting the latest engineering innovations from Ruger. Its Marksman Adjustable Trigger is adjustable from 3 to 5 pounds, breaks clean and provides customization for the individual shooter. It has an ergonomic and lightweight black composite stock for a comfortable fit and delivers quick, easy handling. The grip serrations offer a positive hold in a variety of conditions. A soft-rubber recoil pad dramatically reduces felt recoil and a three-lug bolt has a short 70° throw that easily clears your scope. Dual-cocking cams allow for smoother and easier cycling from the shoulder. It uses the Ruger Power Bedding integral block system to lock in the receiver and free-float the barrel for great accuracy. Its hammer-forged barrel is precise and delivers exceptional accuracy, longevity and easy cleaning. The four-round, rotary-bolt magazine fits flush and complements the smooth feed cycle. As we expect, the receiver is drilled and tapped to accept optics mounts and the scope bases are included.

Ruger American Rifle Ranch .450 Bushmaster 16" threaded barrel. Find it on GunBroker.com
Ruger American Rifle Ranch .450 Bushmaster 16″ threaded barrel

Related Articles: Top 10 Budget Handguns For Under $400 [2023 Edition]

Related Articles: 8 New Rifles: Ruger, Jacob Grey, VKTR, Cox Arms, Bersa, & More

Related Videos: Beretta A300 Ultima Patrol Shotgun: New Release for 2023!

Categories