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

Pyrodex Turns 50
Pyrodex Turns 50

Pyrodex Turns 50

Pryodex, the revolutionary black powder substitute that continues to be one of Hodgdon Powder Company’s most popular products for hunters who head afield with a “smoke pole,” was first introduced at the 1976 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits.

Know How: Understanding and Obtaining a Cold-Bore Zero

Have you ever spent hours at the range zeroing a rifle only to learn it is nowhere near center when you go to confirm it at camp? Many attribute this malady to scope shift during travel, and that can sometimes be the case. However, far more often this point-of-impact change can be attributed to the way we zeroed back home.

First Look: Winchester Air Rifles Single Action Western Revolver

Built to recall the Wild West, the Single Action Revolver from Winchester Air Guns is the perfect sidearm for junior-shooter summer fun.

#SundayGunday: Ruger Harrier

On this week's #SundayGunday, we’re taking a look at the latest modern sporting rifle from Ruger, the Harrier. Chambered in classic 5.56, this is a great rifle for any hog or predator hunter targeting large packs or sounders. Learn more in this exclusive video.

Early-Start Big-Game Hunts

With whitetail populations in some areas exceeding management goals, many states are offering special seasons, extra tags, and other incentives to entice hunters to get out there early and more often. States also offer early opportunities for many other big-game species; in fact, there are so many opportunities that it can be difficult to even keep up with your own state, whereas early seasons across state boundaries can easily be missed out on.

Shell Shock Technologies Announces .50 BMG NAS³ Case

Shell Shock Technologies has announced the completion of independent live-fire testing for its .50 BMG NAS3 case, with results confirming velocity and performance advantages over standard brass at standard operating pressures.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.