“deer rifles”

Perhaps the single most noticeable change in firearms over the last 15 to 20 years has been the proliferation of synthetic stocks. But are they a superior product?

Other than the feral hog, the whitetail deer covers more diverse types of terrain than any other game animal, leading hunters to have a wide variety of favorite cartridges. Additionally, whitetail hunters are perhaps the most fervent defenders and proponents of their chosen cartridges, which can range from the .22 Hornet to the .45-70 Government—not to mention the shotgun crowd. How do you even begin a "Top 5?"

Overall, in fit and finish you'll find the Sauer 100 Classic XT at or near the top of the budget bolt-rifle class. It’s atop the price ladder, too, but if you want Sauer precision, you won’t find it for any less.

The introduction of Mossberg's new Patriot bolt-action series in 2015 is the company's latest development, and it has been a big success.

Fitting of its name, the Minimalist is a svelte AR with just enough features to make it eminently practical in the woods. Weighing 6 pounds, it’s lighter than almost any centerfire bolt-, lever- or pump-action rifle you’ll see at deer camp.

The 1895SBL, a serious big-bore lever-action gun that can take it as well as dish it out, is destined to become another Marlin 1895 legend.

While BSA’s Contender series may not wow us with optical brilliance, they provide reliable shot placement and endurance at a great price.

When it comes to selecting a rifle, there's almost no end to the options available. Which models are the best on the market today? Check out Keith Wood's Top 10.

Right now, there’s a guy on a stool in a gun shop arguing over what the “best home defense gun” is. Whether he’s right or wrong isn’t relevant—the best gun for home defense is the gun you have when you need it.