Deer Rifles

There are few hunting pursuits quite as popular as the annual deer hunt, but selecting a good all round deer rifle can be a daunting task. Before you even begin looking for a rifle consider the terrain you’ll be hunting. Will you have to react fast in tight brush, or are you likely to be shooting over a greater distance in a marsh or meadow. Terrain aside there are three basic elements to consider when purchasing a rifle.

First is the type of action. Personally I prefer a rifle with a silky smooth bolt action. I find it reliable, simple, and easy to use. Lever action and pumps are also quite popular and it may come down to a matter of personal preference.

Second is the length of the barrel. A longer barrel will generate slightly more muzzle velocity and might give you an edge if you’re hunting in wide open spaces, but a shorter barrel of 22” or less is more compact and maneuverable if you have to you push through dense cover.

Third is the caliber. The 30-30, 30-06, 7mm, and .270 are all popular deer rifles and all have their die-hard advocates, and if you’re looking for a gun strictly for deer and will do most of your shooting in close quarters consider something like a .270 or 30-06 with a shorter 22” barrel. But if you’re out in the open, or want a solid rifle to use on a variety of species, or if your budget only has room for one rife, take a look at the bolt action 300 Win Mag with a 24 3/8 barrel. As our field coordinator Taylor Wright says, this is his “git er done gun”. It shoots flat and can be used for almost any big game animal in North America.

Whatever your choice handle your rifle safely, treat it with respect and it’s sure to become your life long hunting companion.