1. Home
  2. Sports
  3. Hunting / Shooting

Readers Respond: What's Your Favorite Bolt Action Deer/Big Game Rifle, and Why do You Like it?

Responses: 12

By Russ Chastain, About.com

Bolt action rifles might be the single most popular choice for hunters of deer and big game these days. Do you have a favorite bolt action hunting rifle? Let us know what it is and why you like it... especially if it has helped your hunting. What's Your Favorite?

No More Brownings for me...

...not since they are made in Japan. Had one that slipped off my shoulder, tried to catch it but it hit the ground and broke right in half. Good luck trying to have Browning stick by their product. American-made for me from now on.
—Guest charlie

My favorite...

...is a Remington Model 700, chambered for 270 Winchester.
—Guest booboo1998

Browning 284

I have a Browning Micro Medallion in 284 cal. I've used it on deer and bear, and my daughter used it for her first 2 bucks. She said not to get rid of it - she wants it if something ever happens to me.
—Guest teege

Remington 788

My favorite gun by far is my Remington 788 in 308 win. Fits me very well, hardly any recoil, and because of the 18.5 inch barrel it doesn't weigh anything. No accuracy loss due to the short barrel either. My uncle can punch a tack in at 150 yards.
—Guest Justin

favorite bolt action

I have quite a few, Tikka, Ruger Hawkeye, Savage, Model 70 Super Shadow, Remington 700VTR. Lately, the best buy for your money is the Marlin XL7.
—poncaguy

Favorite bolt rifle is a Weatherby MK V

I recently purchased my first Weatherby MK V, and it is my current favorite bolt action big game rifle. It is a Lightweight Sporter model in 7mm-08 Remington. For once I own a rifle where the stock fits me very well. I have owned and used a number of bolt action rifles including Remington 721, Remington 660, Winchester pre-64 Model 70, and a couple Swedish Mausers. I looked for more than a year to replace my current "go-to" bolt rifle, which was the Remington 660, and am very happy with the Weatherby MK V. I have mentioned the stock fit, which is probably the most important consideration, but I also appreciate the refinement and precision in the design of the action, the nice metal and wood finish, and the balance and feel of the rifle. I like that it has a hinged magazine, and not a removable box magazine. It easily beats the factory guarantee of 1.5 minute of angle accuracy. A fine choice.
—Guest Brian Berg

NOTHING beats a Browning

For those of you who shoot something else - you must have never shot a Browning.
—Guest Jinni Paley

Marlin XL7

Marlin XL7 - Because they shoot very well and are reasonably priced. I have one in 25-06 that shoots less than a half inch at over 100 yards.
—Guest 3456789

They're All Good

I own 5 of the 9 rifles...I see no difference in all as long as you buy quality mounts, rings, and scopes. I use different rifles for different areas... example longer shots 25-06.
—Guest jbryant

Why I love the Model 70

Simply the finest rifle I ever had was a Winchester pre-64. Next to that are my post-64's. The action is smooth, the accuracy is great and it just looks darned good at the same time.
—Guest douglas2712

Where's Blaser?

A superior rifle, I also own Dumoulin, CZ, and Sako bolt actions at the moment. The Blaser's stock, barrel and bolt head interchangeability have had me shooting American varmit to African plains game with the same rifle so far. If I'm going on a hunt with only one rifle, my 'offroad' Blaser is my first choice.
—Guest postalbuzzard

Ruger 77 mark2

I have had this rifle for 12 years in 308. I like the crisp trigger. Not too heavy to walk and stalk. I have taken several deer with it. I just took a nice Axis buck back in April. The bolt action is smooth and quick. The wood stock even now looks new.
—Guest Bastin

What's Your Favorite?

What's Your Favorite Bolt Action Deer/Big Game Rifle, and Why do You Like it?

Receive a one-time notification when your response is published.

Explore Hunting / Shooting

About.com Special Features

Learn to Pitch

Strike out the competition with these step-by-step pictorials. More >

Introduction to Pilates

Learning Pilates fundamentals can help you get the most out of your exercise regime. More >

  1. Home
  2. Sports
  3. Hunting / Shooting
  4. Explore Guns and Shooting
  5. Bolt Action Deer Rifles - What is Your Favorite Bolt Action Deer/Big Game Rifle>

©2009 About.com, a part of The New York Times Company.

All rights reserved.