Gun Tests has evaluated dozens of bolt-action rifles in various chamberings over the last few years. We’ve often NOT liked some market favorites because we’re able to shoot several side by side, which shows the deficiencies and strengths of each firearm.
With that in mind, we’ve compiled our Top 10 Centerfire Bolt-Action Rifles in the listicle below. As always, prices reflect what we paid for the gun at the time of the test. Expect the prices of new or used guns to be different. — Todd Woodard
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
Well designed for positional shooting and easily folded for carry. Slightly heavier. Great for shooting from support, it might be a bit harder to carry.
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
A hybrid tactical/hunting rifle. Offers an excellent stock with vertical grip, has a smooth-cycling action, is lightweight and accurate. Recoil was mild. Accuracy was less affected as the barrel heated up.
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
Weatherby tried to use the best elements from the very popular Remington 700 design and correct the 700’s shortcomings. We think they did a great job on this new rifle line.
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
Tikka rifles are one of the best production-class rifles and are a serious value. This version doesn’t provide all the features found on the Savage, but it will shoot head-to-head with it on accuracy.
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
The magnesium chassis and minimalist design combined to provide the lightest package with the best overall accuracy.
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
Slightly more accurate in our tests than the Christensen Scout, we liked the versatility of the stock. Known for the quality of the Accu-Triggers, this rifle came to us with the best trigger we’ve ever shot on a Savage.
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
Seldom has a rifle so easily overwhelmed the competition. And good competition at that. The Alpha is very smooth in operation and feeds well. The Alpha proved to be light kicking, accurate, and ergonomic. The CZ Alpha is a good introduction and among the best rifles we have tested in some time.
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
Offering good accuracy and a good trigger, we thought the rifle’s Accustock provided the best shooting foundation in this test group. The stock’s comb-height inserts and buttpad length-of-pull inserts allow for wide fit customization for many different sizes of shooters.
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
A bit heavy for all-day carry in the field, the Tikka Varmint is perfect for a bench or tripod. We find their actions incredibly smooth with great factory triggers.
GUN TESTS GRADE: A
Extremely light and maneuverable, this Ridgeline FFT operated smoothly, carried easily, and shot accurately. We picked the Ridgeline based on its better accuracy and lighter weight, which would make it a joy to carry.
