My First Rifle

by
posted on April 2, 2014
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
qa_ah2015_fs.jpg (19)

Q: I am a new hunter looking for an all-around big-game rifle. I'd like a bolt-action and would prefer to keep the cost under $500. Any suggestions?

A: Welcome to the club! As far as versatility goes, it's tough to beat a well-balanced, .30-caliber cartridge like the .308 Win. or .30-06. The .270 Win. is another fine choice, particularly if you anticipate hunting mostly deer-sized game or smaller in open country.

These three cartridges are among the most popular with big-game hunters for good reason, and several rifle manufacturers make bolt-actions within your budget that chamber them. We suggest taking a look at the Marlin X7, Mossberg ATRRemington Model 783Ruger American and Savage Axis.

Enjoy your new rifle, and practice with it often. Good luck this season.

Latest

CVA Paramount Muzzleloadersafety Recall
CVA Paramount Muzzleloadersafety Recall

Recall: Stop Use Order for CVA Paramount Series Muzzleloaders

CVA is issuing a safety recall for all Paramount, Paramount HTR, Paramount Pro, and Paramount Pro V2 muzzleloading rifles. This recall pertains.

An Ode to the Double Rifle

There are few who appreciate double rifles more deeply than our regular contributor, Phil Massaro. From the guns' storied history, to their heft and utility, the double rifle has fascinated Phil for a lifetime, and he has carried them in pursuit of game at home and abroad. Read on for his tribute to the classic design.

New for 2026: Spartan Precision Equipment Valhalla Gen 2 Bipod

Spartan Precision Equipment has announced the Valhalla Gen 2 Bipod, a shooting support system engineered for exceptional stability, rapid deployment, and lightweight performance for hunters and long-range precision shooters.

D.C. Legislators Who Understand Hunting and Shooting’s Role in Conservation

Yes Virginia, there are members of U.S. Congress and the Senate who hunt, fish or participate in the shooting sports despite their Beltway jobs.

Lever-Actions, Riflescopes and Suppressors?

The historic lever gun, modern optics, fancy ammunition, and suppressors all in one hunting unit. Should that even be allowed? Welcome to the clash of old versus modern.

Remington Collaborates with Original Grain on the Hunt Club Series

Remington Ammunition has announced Original Grain as an Official Remington Brand Licensee. The two companies have recently partnered to launch The Hunt Club series of watches. At launch, the four-watch collaboration includes Mother of Pearl Chrono, Ebony Barrel Chrono, Silver Barrel Auto and Black Chrono, with more styles planned.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.