{"id":17639,"date":"2026-02-19T22:51:26","date_gmt":"2026-02-19T22:51:26","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/?p=17639"},"modified":"2026-02-19T22:51:26","modified_gmt":"2026-02-19T22:51:26","slug":"best-bolt-action-rifle","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/best-bolt-action-rifle\/","title":{"rendered":"Best Bolt-Action Rifle?"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Thinking about buying the best bolt-action rifle for your needs? These rifles are renowned for being tack-drivers and offering unmatched durability. Whether you\u2019re stalking game in the backcountry or punching paper at the range, a bolt-action rifle is a timeless choice for precision and reliability.\u00a0 With numerous options available, selecting the right one can feel overwhelming.<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">I had a tough time even ranking them, so I opted to list the five rifles on my list by MSRP.\u00a0 There\u2019s an obvious gap between the Ruger American Gen 2 (the cheapest on the list), and the wallet-busting Bergara Premier Competition. However, the middle of the pack is pretty tight. Here\u2019s a look at each rifle.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong>Ruger American Gen 2 (MSRP $729)<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_18921\" style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-18921\" class=\"wp-image-18921 size-full\" title=\"Ruger American Gen 2\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Best-Bolt-Action-Rifle-Art-Ruger-American-Gen-2.jpg\" alt=\"a photo of the Ruger American Gen 2\" width=\"1024\" height=\"680\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Best-Bolt-Action-Rifle-Art-Ruger-American-Gen-2.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Best-Bolt-Action-Rifle-Art-Ruger-American-Gen-2-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Best-Bolt-Action-Rifle-Art-Ruger-American-Gen-2-768x510.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Best-Bolt-Action-Rifle-Art-Ruger-American-Gen-2-790x525.jpg 790w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-18921\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The benchmark for accuracy, durability, and performance in bolt-action rifles continues with the Ruger American Gen 2.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019re looking for an affordable bolt-action rifle that doesn\u2019t skimp on quality, the<\/span> <a href=\"https:\/\/ruger.com\/products\/americanRifleGenII\/overview.html\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Ruger American Gen 2<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is hard to beat. This updated mode brings significant improvements over its predecessor.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">You\u2019ll notice the sleek <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.cerakote.com\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cerakote<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> finish and upgraded paint job, which not only look sharp but also add durability for rugged field use. The action is smooth, and feeding has been refined, addressing one of the original model\u2019s weaker points.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">What really sets this rifle apart is its surprising accuracy for the price\u2014often rivaling firearms costing twice as much. The stock is sturdy, and the rifle comes with a threaded muzzle, making it suppressor-ready. At around $729, it\u2019s a fantastic value, though the trigger could use some aftermarket love for a crisper pull. If you\u2019re a beginner or on a tight budget, this rifle delivers performance that punches well above its weight.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pros<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Affordable price for solid performance\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Surprising sub-MOA accuracy for the cost<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Threaded muzzle for suppressor use<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Durable Cerakote finish\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cons<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The trigger could be crisper<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Basic stock lacks a premium feel\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><strong>Tikka T3x UPR ($1629)<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_18923\" style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-18923\" class=\"wp-image-18923 size-full\" title=\"Tikka T3x UPR\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Best-Bolt-Action-Rifle-Art-Tikka-T3x-UPR.jpg\" alt=\"a photo of the Tikka T3x UPR\" width=\"1024\" height=\"680\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Best-Bolt-Action-Rifle-Art-Tikka-T3x-UPR.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Best-Bolt-Action-Rifle-Art-Tikka-T3x-UPR-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Best-Bolt-Action-Rifle-Art-Tikka-T3x-UPR-768x510.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Best-Bolt-Action-Rifle-Art-Tikka-T3x-UPR-790x525.jpg 790w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-18923\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Innovative, well-designed, and lightweight, the Tikka T3x UPR rifle checks many boxes for bolt-action enthusiasts.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Step up to the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/choose.tikka.fi\/usa\/tikka\/t3x-upr\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tikka T3x UPR<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, and you\u2019re getting a rifle that\u2019s a favorite in the precision shooting world, particularly in NRL Hunter competitions. Priced at around $ 1,629, this rifle offers a lightweight yet robust platform with a stellar reputation for accuracy. Admittedly, the prices for this firearm varied significantly. You may even be able to find a used one for under $1,000, but do your homework to make sure nobody ran it into the ground.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The action is buttery smooth, thanks to Tikka\u2019s renowned two-lug bolt design, and the adjustable stock lets you dial in the perfect fit. You\u2019ll appreciate the fluted barrel for reduced weight without sacrificing precision.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">During testing, the T3x UPR consistently delivered sub-MOA groups, with some 5-shot groups averaging around 0.75 inches at 100 yards. The downside? Not all models come with a threaded muzzle, which might be a dealbreaker if you plan to run a suppressor. Still, for a versatile rifle that excels in both hunting and long-range shooting, the T3x UPR is a top contender.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pros<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Smooth two-lug bolt action<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lightweight with adjustable stock<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Consistent sub-MOA groups<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Great for hunting and precision shooting<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cons<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Not all models have threaded barrels<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Slightly pricey for some budgets<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><strong>Sako S20 (MSRP $1699)<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_18925\" style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-18925\" class=\"wp-image-18925 size-full\" title=\"Sako S20\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Best-Bolt-Action-Rifle-Art-Sako-S20.jpg\" alt=\"a photo of the Sako S20\" width=\"1024\" height=\"680\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Best-Bolt-Action-Rifle-Art-Sako-S20.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Best-Bolt-Action-Rifle-Art-Sako-S20-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Best-Bolt-Action-Rifle-Art-Sako-S20-768x510.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Best-Bolt-Action-Rifle-Art-Sako-S20-790x525.jpg 790w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-18925\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The Sako S20 is the company&#8217;s first true hybrid rifle, the one that both hunters and precision shooters can embrace.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For those willing to spend a bit more, <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.sako.global\/series\/sako-s20\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">the Sako S20<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> offers a premium experience at approximately $ 1,699. Like the T3x UPR, the Sako S20 is subject to significant price variability. This rifle boasts one of the smoothest actions on the market, making every cycle feel effortless. Its modular design allows you to swap stocks for hunting or precision shooting, giving you unmatched versatility.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The S20 features a threaded muzzle and delivers exceptional accuracy, often surpassing that of its Tikka siblings. While it\u2019s slightly heavier than some competitors, the trade-off is worth it for the build quality and precision. If you\u2019re looking for a rifle that feels like a custom build without the custom price tag, the S20 is a no-brainer. It\u2019s a fantastic choice for hunters and shooters who want a rifle that can do it all.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pros<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Exceptionally smooth action<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Modular stock for hunting and precision<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Threaded muzzle included<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Sub-MOA accuracy out of the box<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cons<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heavier than some competitors<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Higher cost may deter budget buyers\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><strong>Savage 110 Elite Competition (MSRP $1999)<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_18927\" style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-18927\" class=\"wp-image-18927 size-full\" title=\"Savage 110 Elite Competition rifle\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Best-Bolt-Action-Rifle-Art-Savage-110-Elite-Competition.jpg\" alt=\"a photo of Savage 110 Elite Competition rifle\" width=\"1024\" height=\"680\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Best-Bolt-Action-Rifle-Art-Savage-110-Elite-Competition.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Best-Bolt-Action-Rifle-Art-Savage-110-Elite-Competition-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Best-Bolt-Action-Rifle-Art-Savage-110-Elite-Competition-768x510.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Best-Bolt-Action-Rifle-Art-Savage-110-Elite-Competition-790x525.jpg 790w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-18927\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">The 110 Elite Precision is the pinnacle of Savage\u2019s 110 bolt-action designs, equipped with a MDT ACC aluminum chassis.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">When precision is your top priority, the <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/savagearms.com\/blog?p=110-elite-precision-review-accurate-well-equipped-competition-rifle\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Savage 110 Elite Competition<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> delivers. Priced around $2,000, this rifle is built for competitive shooters who demand tack-driving accuracy. The adjustable stock lets you fine-tune the length of pull and comb height, ensuring a perfect fit for your shooting style.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Paired with Savage\u2019s legendary AccuTrigger, you\u2019re getting a crisp, customizable pull that enhances accuracy. The carbon-fiber-wrapped barrel reduces weight while maintaining rigidity, and the rifle\u2019s action is smooth and reliable. In testing, it consistently produced sub-MOA groups, making it a favorite for long-range competitions. The downside is the price, which might stretch your budget, but if you\u2019re serious about precision shooting, the Savage 110 Elite Competition is worth every penny.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pros<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Tack-driving sub-MOA accuracy<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Adjustable stock for a perfect fit\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Crisp AccuTrigger enhances precision<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Carbon-fiber barrel keeps weight down<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cons<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pricey for casual shooters<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">It may be overkill for basic hunting\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><strong>Bergara Premier Competition (MSRP $2299)<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_18929\" style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-18929\" class=\"wp-image-18929 size-full\" title=\"Bergara Premier Competition best bolt action rifle\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Best-Bolt-Action-Rifle-Art-Bergara-Premier-Competition.jpg\" alt=\"a photo of the Bergara Premier Competition best bolt action rifle\" width=\"1024\" height=\"680\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Best-Bolt-Action-Rifle-Art-Bergara-Premier-Competition.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Best-Bolt-Action-Rifle-Art-Bergara-Premier-Competition-300x199.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Best-Bolt-Action-Rifle-Art-Bergara-Premier-Competition-768x510.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/Best-Bolt-Action-Rifle-Art-Bergara-Premier-Competition-790x525.jpg 790w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-18929\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Bergara&#8217;s Premier Competition bolt-action rifle distances itself from the competition with precision movements and exceptional accuracy.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">At the top of our list, the Bergara Premier Competition is a precision shooter\u2019s dream, retailing around $2,000. This rifle is designed for those who settle for nothing less than the best. The Premier series is renowned for its exceptional accuracy. Bergara claims an average group size of 0.441 inches at 100 yards, and <a href=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/watch?v=O1FYFWc8iVQ\">real-world tests<\/a> often confirm this.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The action is modeled after <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.remarms.com\/rifles\/bolt-action\/model-700\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">the Remington 700<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, offering compatibility with a wide range of aftermarket accessories. You\u2019ll love the adjustable stock and TriggerTech trigger, which provide a tailored shooting experience. The lightweight carbon-fiber stock and free-floated barrel make it a joy to shoot, whether you\u2019re at the range or in a match. The only drawback is the weight\u2014around 12.7 pounds\u2014which might be a touch heavy for long treks in the field. If accuracy and customization are your goals, the Bergara Premier Competition is a top-tier choice.<\/span><\/p>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Pros<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Exceptional groupings<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Premium trigger<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Lightweight carbon-fiber stock<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Upper and lower Picatinny rail\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Cons<\/span><\/h3>\n<ul>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Heavy at 12.7lbs<\/span><\/li>\n<li style=\"font-weight: 400;\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Top-end price for the category\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h2><strong>Cartridge Considerations: Best Bolt-Action Rifle<\/strong><\/h2>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Choosing the right cartridge for your bolt-action rifle is just as important as picking the gun itself. Popular options like .308 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, and <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/30-06-vs-30-30\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">.30-06 Springfield <\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">offer a balance of performance, availability, and cost. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/308-ballistics\/\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The .308 Win<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\"> is a versatile and affordable choice, with ammunition widely available and costing around $0.80 to $1.50 per round for quality loads. It\u2019s great for hunting and target shooting, but can be limiting for extremely long-range shots.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/rifle\/6.5-creedmoor-ammo\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The 6.5 Creedmoor<\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">, a favorite among precision shooters, offers flatter trajectories and less recoil. However, ammo costs slightly more, typically ranging from $1.20 to $2 per round. <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/rifle\/30-06-ammo\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The .30-06 <\/span><\/a><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">is a classic hunting round with excellent stopping power, but its recoil can be substantial, and ammo prices are comparable <\/span><a href=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/rifle\/308-ammo\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">to those of the .308.\u00a0<\/span><\/a><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">For budget-conscious shooters, the .223 Remington is a cost-effective option for target shooting, often priced under $0.50 per round, although it\u2019s less suited for big game. Availability can vary, so check local suppliers or online retailers to ensure your preferred cartridge is in stock. Ultimately, your choice depends on your shooting goals\u2014hunting, precision, or plinking\u2014and how much you\u2019re willing to spend on ammo.<\/span><\/p>\n<h2><strong>What\u2019s The Best Bolt-Action Rifle? How To Choose<\/strong><\/h2>\n<div id=\"attachment_18933\" style=\"width: 1034px\" class=\"wp-caption alignnone\"><img decoding=\"async\" aria-describedby=\"caption-attachment-18933\" class=\"wp-image-18933 size-full\" title=\"shooting the best bolt action rifle\" src=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/DSC0722-Web.jpg\" alt=\"a photo of a man shooting the best bolt action rifle\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/DSC0722-Web.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/DSC0722-Web-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/DSC0722-Web-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.wideners.com\/blog\/wp-content\/uploads\/DSC0722-Web-790x444.jpg 790w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><p id=\"caption-attachment-18933\" class=\"wp-caption-text\">Price, performance, and reliability should all be considered when selecting the best bolt-action rifle for you.<\/p><\/div>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">If you\u2019ve never bought a premium rifle before, it\u2019s easy to get sticker shock with some of the higher-priced options on my list. I always encourage people to purchase the firearm that works for them, even if it means going with a cheaper option.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">However, if you are serious about shooting, don\u2019t look at any of these weapons as a waste or overkill. Every last one of them is worth the price tag. It\u2019s just a matter of finding something that fits your budget.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">Personally, the Tikka T3x UPR is my go-to option. I\u2019m partial to Tikka because they have a wide selection of left-handed bolt-action rifles, although this particular model is only available in a right-handed configuration.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400;\">The bottom line is that you should take your time. If you have the opportunity, visit your local retailer and test a few different models. While you probably won\u2019t get a chance to shoot all of them, manipulating the action and familiarizing yourself with each configuration can help you choose the right rifle for you.\u00a0 <\/span><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Thinking about buying the best bolt-action rifle for your needs? These rifles are renowned for being tack-drivers and offering unmatched durability. Whether you\u2019re stalking game in the backcountry or punching paper at the range, a bolt-action rifle is a timeless choice for precision and reliability.\u00a0 With numerous options available, selecting the right one can feel [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":5,"featured_media":18932,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[10,693],"tags":[456,1206,342,343,345,3432,3431,3425,891,1406,644,3426,3427,3429,3430,3428,3433,3434],"class_list":["post-17639","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-history","category-hunting","tag-30-06","tag-30-06-springfield","tag-342","tag-308-ammo","tag-7-62x51","tag-bergara","tag-bergara-premier-competition","tag-best-bolt-action-rifle","tag-bolt-action","tag-centerfire","tag-rifle","tag-ruger-american","tag-ruger-american-gen-2","tag-sako-s20","tag-savage-110-elite-competition","tag-tikka-t3x-upr","tag-triggertech","tag-triggertech-trigger"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v25.9 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/wordpress\/plugins\/seo\/ -->\n<title>Best Bolt-Action Rifle? - Wideners Shooting, Hunting &amp; Gun Blog<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Looking for the best bolt-action rifle? 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