Best Rifle for Deer

Are you new to deer hunting? Maybe you’ve been away from the sport for a while and want to get back into it. Either way, the first thing you need to do is select a rifle. But which one is best? Let us help you navigate the seemingly endless options to find the right choice for you.

Deer hunting is an American tradition that may rival baseball as “America’s pastime”. There is no doubt that Americans have been hunting deer since before baseball was even invented. Early settlers relied on venison as a primary source of substance, material for clothing, and even traded deer for other resources. Although few of today’s hunters rely on venison to survive many families still consume what they harvest. But before you can harvest a deer you need to have the right rifle.

What to consider

The two may considerations when selecting a deer rifle are action and caliber. We will examine each of those in a little bit. Other considerations might include weight, length, range, and even availability of ammunition. Each of these will be more personal considerations based largely on where you hunt and personal preference.

Actions

Bolt – this is the most popular action for deer rifles. Not only is it simple, but it’s an easy-to-use design that can also be very accurate. They are also a good choice for longer ranges with some models capable of 1000 yards or more. Almost any caliber can be obtained in a bolt action model so you should have plenty of options. Depending on the caliber selected you will have a capacity of 3-5 rounds.

Pump – at one time pump action deer rifles were very common. Although they are still available, and very popular with those who have them, their availability has decreased. You can still find a wide range of calibers if you are willing to purchase a used rifle. This action is good for medium-long ranges out to several hundred yards. Like the bolt action, the capacity is generally 3-5 rounds.

Lever – if you prefer the .30-30 you will most likely be purchasing a lever action. Although not a great choice for more than 200-300 yards, a lever-action rifle is at home in dense woods, thick brush, or small hunting plots. The smaller size and heavy bullet make it perfect for penetrating heavy cover and still getting a kill shot. Most utilize a tube-style magazine which provides additional capacity but can be problematic with some modern ballistic tipped ammunition.

Semi-automatic – modern sporting rifles are growing in popularity among hunters but have a relatively small following among deer hunters. This will probably increase as more states allow their use for big game hunting. Semi-automatic platforms are as accurate as bolt action and available in a wide range of calibers suitable for taking down a deer.

Calibers

.223 – although a very popular semi-automatic round it is on the verge of being too light for deer. It can be done but shot placement is paramount.

.243 – it’s impossible to tell how many young hunters took their first deer with this round. It is flat shooting and has light recoil, making it perfect for the new shooter or younger hunter.

.25-06 – this is another flat shooting, light recoil round that has been very popular with young hunters. In recent years it has largely been replaced by the 6.5 Creedmoor.

6.5 Creedmoor – although this relatively new round has gained growing popularity among deer hunters. It shoots flat, has light recoil, and is available in both bolt or semi-automatic actions. Long-range hunters often see it as a less expensive option.

.270 – this is a classic deer round. It offers plenty of punch without being uncontrollable or uncomfortable for the average shooter. Due to its long-time popularity, it is available from almost every manufacturer in almost every action or desired platform.

.30-06 – although a great deer round and still popular with experienced hunters this round has seen a decline in popularity. This is due in part to availability and in part due to recoil. Nonetheless, if you choose this round, it will serve you well whether chasing deer or bigger game.

.30-.30 – this is a round that is available almost exclusively in lever-action but is nonetheless responsible for taking down more than its fair share of deer. Lighter recoil makes it a good choice for younger hunters, but limited range means it is best for close-range hunting.

7 mm – this round offers a good combination of range, recoil, and knockdown power for deer or some larger game. Although it may not be the best choice as a first gun, it is one that many hunters will grow into.