Top Bolt Action Rifle Brands: A Marksman's Dream Selection

In the world of precision shooting and hunting, bolt action rifles have secured a place of repute across various disciplines. Known for their reliability, accuracy, and rugged design, these rifles are favored by marksmen and hunters alike. Choosing the right brand can make a significant difference in your shooting experience, with options ranging from traditional craftsmanship to modern innovation. Discover the top brands that lead the industry in producing high-quality bolt action rifles in the article below.

Illustration of bolt action rifle

Best brands of bolt action rifle in 2025

Remington

Remington is renowned as one of the leading producers of bolt-action rifles, with the Remington Model 700 standing out as a landmark product. This model, often referred to as the "number one bolt-action of all time," has seen production of over 5 million units since its introduction, making it one of the most produced rifle platforms in American history. The Model 700's popularity is underscored by its widespread use in various contexts, including hunting and law enforcement. Its durability and performance have solidified Remington's position in the firearms industry. The Model 700's success is a testament to Remington's commitment to quality and innovation. You can learn more about the most produced gun on Rock Island Auction's blog.

Savage Arms

Savage Arms is renowned as one of the premier producers of bolt-action rifles, with a legacy that spans decades. The company, based in Westfield, Massachusetts, has been a staple in the firearms industry since the mid-20th century, particularly with its iconic Model 110, which has been in continuous production since 1958. Savage Arms was a subsidiary of Vista Outdoor until 2019, when it was spun off, and it continues to innovate with products like the AccuTrigger system. As of 2018, Savage Arms' sales accounted for 7% of Vista Outdoor's overall business, but the company is expanding its offerings, including a recent foray into handguns to capture a larger market share. For more detailed information, visit the Savage Arms Wikipedia page.

Ruger

Ruger is renowned as one of the top producers of bolt action rifles, with a strong reputation for quality, accuracy, and durability. In 2021, Ruger was the top long-gun producer in the U.S., manufacturing 736,693 rifles, which was their highest total in that span. Their rifles, such as the Ruger 77, are often praised for their reliability and workmanship, with many users highlighting their performance and accuracy. Ruger's rifle exports also saw a significant increase, with a 34.4% year-over-year rise to 63,162 rifles in 2021. The company's commitment to innovation and meeting consumer demand has kept them at the forefront of the firearms industry. For more information about their extensive range of rifles, visit the official Ruger website.

Tikka

Tikka, a renowned Finnish brand, is highly regarded for producing some of the best bolt-action rifles, particularly the T3x series, which is known for its accuracy and durability. Acquired by Sako in 1983, Tikka rifles are now manufactured in the same facility as Sako, leveraging simplified manufacturing techniques to offer high-quality rifles at a lower cost point. The T3x series, updated in 2016, is a favorite among hunters and precision shooters, available in various calibers including .308 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor, and .300 Win Mag. Tikka rifles are popular for their reliability and precision, with fewer moving parts compared to semi-automatic rifles, making them less prone to malfunctions.

Browning

Browning is renowned as one of the top producers of bolt-action rifles, particularly with models like the A-Bolt and X-Bolt, which are highly regarded for their accuracy and reliability. The A-Bolt, introduced in 1984 and manufactured by Miroku Corp. in Japan, features a 60-degree bolt rotation and a unique cartridge depressor, enhancing its smooth operation and strength. The X-Bolt, popular for hunting and long-range shooting, has seen a rise in demand, with its new value increasing by $149.86 over the past 12 months. Browning's bolt-action rifles account for a significant portion of the U.S. rifle market, with the parent company producing 1,046,888 rifles from 2016 to 2020, which is 7.1% of all U.S. rifle production during that period. These rifles are available in numerous calibers and configurations, making them versatile choices for various shooting needs.

Weatherby

Weatherby is renowned for producing some of the most accurate and reliable bolt-action rifles, particularly with its Vanguard series, which has been a staple for hunters and shooters due to its guaranteed 1.5-inch, three-shot groups at 100 yards. The Vanguard, often compared to the esteemed Sako action, is manufactured by Howa in Japan and has been a favorite for its durability and precision. Weatherby's commitment to quality is evident in their rigorous testing processes, where guns that exceed the accuracy guarantee are set aside for special projects, such as the SUB-MOA Vanguards which guarantee groups under 1 inch. The Weatherby Mark V, introduced in 1958, is also celebrated for its strong action with nine locking lugs and a 54-degree bolt lift, making it a favorite for big game hunting. With decades of experience and continuous improvement, Weatherby remains a top choice for bolt-action rifles. For more insights into Weatherby's Vanguard series, visit American Rifleman.

Sako

Sako is renowned as one of the best producers of bolt action rifles, having achieved significant milestones such as manufacturing over 113,000 rifles in 2020 and selling the one millionth Tikka T3/T3x rifle, a rare feat in the industry. The company, now in its second century, has a strong global presence, with over 96% of its products exported, and it has doubled its rifle and ammo deliveries since 2018. Sako's products are known for their uncompromising precision and reliability, with the Tikka T3 model being a major sales success. Under Beretta's ownership, Sako has enjoyed 21 years of growth and continues to innovate with products like the Sako S20 hybrid rifle and the lead-free Sako Powerhead Blade bullet. With a long-term focus and solid professionalism, Sako remains a leader in the firearms industry. For more detailed information, visit their official website.

Winchester

Winchester is renowned as one of the best producers of bolt-action rifles, with a rich history dating back to 1866 when Oliver Winchester founded the Winchester Repeating Arms Company. The company's Model 70, introduced in 1936, is particularly celebrated for its quality and reliability, earning it a significant market share. Despite facing challenges in the 1960s due to rising labor costs, Winchester's pre-1964 models are still highly valued by gun collectors. The Model 70, for instance, was a major producer of the .30-06 M1917 Enfield rifle during World War I, highlighting its historical significance. Winchester's bolt-action rifles continue to be favored by hunters and target shooters for their precision and durability.

Mauser

The Mauser brand is renowned for producing some of the most iconic and widely used bolt-action rifles in history, with the Mauser 98 standing out as a landmark model. Manufactured between 1898 and 1945, over 100 million units of the Mauser 98 were produced, making it one of the most produced guns in history. This rifle was employed by 30 countries and played a significant role in both World Wars. The Mauser 98's design has influenced numerous other bolt-action rifles, and its variants, such as the Karabiner 98k, contributed to a total production of over 23 million units. Its impact on firearms design is unparalleled, earning it a place in the firearms hall of fame.

CZ USA

CZ USA is renowned as one of the top producers of bolt-action rifles, with models like the CZ-USA Model 457 consistently ranking among the best-selling firearms. In 2021, CZ USA's parent company, Colt CZ Group, reported a significant increase in revenues, with long firearms production rising by 17.3% from 2021 to 2022. The CZ 457, in particular, has been featured in the top ten best-selling bolt-action rifles on GunBroker.com for 2023, highlighting its popularity and quality. CZ USA's commitment to producing safe, reliable, and accurate firearms has solidified its position as a leader in the industry. With a rich history dating back to 1936, CZ USA continues to innovate and meet the demands of both commercial and military markets. For more details, visit their official website.