As a hunting enthusiast, you know just how important it is to have the best gear. And when it comes to long-range hunting rifles, there are so many options out there that it can be overwhelming.
But fear not, because we have done the research for you and have compiled a list of the best long-range hunting rifles out there. From precision accuracy to unbeatable recoil reduction, these rifles have it all.
So whether you are looking to take down big game or simply want to improve your long-distance shooting skills, read on for our top picks.
5 Best long-range hunting rifle
Benjamin Bulldog .357 PCP Hunting Rifle
| Brand | Benjamin |
| Color | Black |
| Rounds | 5 |
| Caliber | 0.357 |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 44 x 16 x 6 inches |
| Item Weight | 16.8 Pounds |
| Air Gun Power Type | Electric |
| Frame Material | Plastic |
| Barrel Type | Rifled-steel |
| Barrel Length | 26 inches |
| Sound Suppression System | Baffle-less sound trap |
| Optics | 4-16×50 scope, Picatinny rail for accessories mounting |
| Additional Accessories | Rifle case, ammo, sling, and bipod included |
| Other Features | Bullpup configuration, reversible sidelever bolt action, lever safety |
The Benjamin Bulldog.357 PCP Hunting Rifle is a top contender for the title of best long-range hunting rifle.
With its reversible side lever and easy-to-load, five-shot magazine, this rifle delivers power and accuracy for the serious hunter. Its synthetic design makes it durable yet lightweight, and the bullpup design allows for easier maneuverability in the field.
The.357 caliber pellets pack a punch, making it great for hunting larger game.
When it comes to long-range hunting, this precision rifle stands out from the crowd.
Pros
- Accurate, powerful, and has a high level of precision.
- Versatile and can be used for target shooting, hunting, and other outdoor activities.
- The .357 caliber pellet has a lot of power and can shoot through various materials including steel and plywood.
- It’s a lot of fun to use and the power of the rifle adds to the enjoyment.
- reliable and has not had any failure to fire.
Cons
- Expensive
- Some reported it to be too loud.
Umarex unisex adult Ruger Blackhawk
| Thumping Power | 1200 fps (with alloy pellet) |
| 1000 fps (with lead pellet) | |
| Type of power source | Spring piston |
| Trigger pull weight | 3.3 lbs |
| Length of pull | 14.5 inches |
| Cocking effort | 30 lbs |
| Overall length | 44.8 inches |
| Caliber | .177 |
| Scope | 4×32 air gun scope included |
| Fiber optic sights | Yes, aid with quick target acquisition and shooter accuracy |
| Stock material | All-weather composite polymer black stock |
| Stock type | Ambidextrous, with checkered grip areas in pistol grip and forearm |
| Dual shock reinforcement | Yes |
| Parallax setting | 35 yards |
| Mounting rings included | Yes |
With its ambidextrous stock, the Umarex adult Ruger Blackhawk air rifle is a cheap option for shooting with either your left or right hand.
With checkered grip areas on both the pistol grip and the forearm, shooters can be sure of their control and grip.
While it may not be the most powerful air rifle in its class, this new rifle does come with a 4X32 rifle scope, providing added accuracy for shooting targets or small game.
When considering this air rifle in the context of the overall best long range hunting rifle options, the Umarex Ruger Blackhawk may be a better fit for beginners or those on a tighter budget.
Pros
- Excellent accuracy for shooting pests and birds at a short range.
- Easy to adjust the sights.
- The rifle has a positive locking action, a good weight balance, and an oversized rubber stopper on the end.
- The rifle feels good and solid in the hands, and the break barrel mechanism holds the barrel true.
Cons
- The rifle is louder than expected.
- The scope that came with the rifle was DOA, so it had to be replaced.
- Using the rifle requires finesse and a light touch, as the recoil happens before the pellet leaves the barrel.
Gamo Swarm Fusion 10X
| Brand | Gamo |
| Color | Black |
| Rounds | 1 |
| Item Dimensions LxWxH | 49 x 8 x 3 inches |
| Item Weight | 5.8 Pounds |
| Air Gun Power Type | Spring-Piston |
| Barrel Material Type | Aluminum |
| Frame Material | Metal |
| Velocity | Up to 1,300 FPS with alloy .177 Cal. Pellets |
| Magazine | 10 shot Inertia Fed Magazine (GEN3i) |
| Noise Reduction | Whisper Fusion technology |
| Power Source | IGT Gas Piston |
| Trigger | CAT (Custom Action Trigger) |
| Recoil Reduction | RRR (Recoil Reducing Rail) |
The GAMO Swarm Fusion 10X is a top contender for the best long range hunting rifle.
Its accuracy and power provide the hunter with a reliable tool for pest management or big game hunting.
The breakbarrel design of the rifle makes loading quick and effortless, while the horizontally oriented magazine allows for ten shots without the need for reloading.
The rifle’s IGT Mach 1 gas piston and Whisper Fusion Mach 1 technology contribute to its powerful performance.
When it comes to optics, the rifle can be set up with a scope that has the right magnification and reticle.
When combined with a suitable caliber and barrel length, this target rifle is one of the best when it comes to best hunting rifles on the market.
Pros
- Highly accurate and easy to operate.
- The 10-shot magazine makes shooting enjoyable and eliminates the need to reload pellets by hand.
- Good safety features and an excellent trigger.
- Reasonably robust construction and light in overall weight, making it easy to carry without fatigue.
- Reasonably quiet, allowing for extended shooting without disturbing neighbors.
Cons
- Some users have recommended trying different pellets to see which work best for optimal accuracy.
- The Swarm Fusion 10X GEN2 and GEN3i models have been confused by some buyers, leading to receiving a different model than expected.
Daisy 880 Air Rifle with Scope
| Brand | Daisy |
| Color | Brown |
| Rounds | 50 |
| Item Dimensions (LxWxH) | 37 x 5 x 5 inches |
| Item Weight | 0.05 pounds |
| Air Gun Power Type | Spring-Piston |
| Barrel Material Type | Alloy Steel |
| Frame Material | Plastic |
| Caliber | .177 |
| Ammunition Type | BB’s or Pellets |
| Magazine Capacity | 50 BB Reservoir, Single Shot Pellet |
| Max Velocity | 800 fps |
| Action | Multi-Pump Pneumatic |
| Scope | 4×15 air rifle scope included |
| Stock Material | Woodgrained, molded Monte Carlo style |
| Front Sight | Blade and ramp |
| Rear Sight | Adjustable |
| Length | 37.6 inches |
| Length of Pull | 13.5 inches |
| Barrel Type | Steel Rifled |
| Shot Capacity | 50 BB or Single Shot Pellet |
The Daisy 880 Air Rifle with Scope is a top contender for those looking for a multi-pump pneumatic rifle.
It offers some impressive shooting speeds, with the ability to shoot BBs at 750 feet per second and pellets at 715 feet per second.
This great rifle also comes with a 4 x 15-inch scope, making it easy to aim accurately over a variety of distances.
While it may not be the most powerful option on the market, the Daisy 880 is a reliable and affordable air rifle for both game hunting and target shooting.
The Daisy 880 is a great option for those looking for a lightweight, accurate rifle that won’t break the bank.
Pros
- Lightweight and easy to handle, making it a good option for kids and beginners.
- Can be used for target practice and pest control.
- Iron sights are accurate for the range of the gun.
- Good value for the price.
- Shoots accurately with practice.
- Solid and well-made despite the all-plastic build.
Cons
- The scope that comes with the gun is not very good and needs to be replaced.
- The trigger requires a fair amount of effort.
- The pump handle can be awkward to use and can hit fingers or knuckles.
Barra Airguns Sportsman Air Rifle
| Brand | Bear River |
| Color | Black |
| Rounds | 50 |
| Caliber | 4.5 |
| Air Gun Power Type | Pump-Pneumatic |
| Barrel Material Type | Metal |
| Frame Material | Plastic |
| Barrel Length | 20 inches |
| Scope | 4×15 rifle scope |
| Sights | Adjustable fiber optic sights |
| Ammo Capacity | 50-shot reservoir for BBs, single .177 pellets |
| Maximum Velocity | 800 FPS |
| Stock Material | ABS plastic |
| Stock Finish | Textured |
| Design Features | Pistol grip handle, drop stock |
The Barra Airguns Sportsman Air Rifle is a solid choice for both beginners and experienced hunters.
Its multi-pump pneumatic action allows for consistent performance and versatility in the field. With a large chamber opening and a magnetic pin, loading is easy and quick.
The 20-inch barrel and adjustable fiber optic sights make it very accurate, and the 4×15 scope that comes with it makes that even better.
The manageable weight and ergonomic design of this long range rifle make it comfortable to carry on long hunts.
Pros
- The air rifle is powerful and accurate.
- It is effective in controlling pests, such as raccoons, without having to kill them.
- The rubberized and comfortable stock allows for a comfortable fit.
- The rifle has varying velocity settings.
Cons
- The fake embellishments and aesthetic parts are pointless and do not add any value.
- The so-called silencer is not effective and only adds weight to the barrel.
- The scope that comes with the rifle is relatively cheaply made.
Long range hunting rifle buying guide
When it comes to choosing the best long-range hunting rifle, it is important to consider these factors.
Caliber selection
When choosing a long range hunting rifle, caliber selection is an important consideration. The Benjamin Bulldog.357 PCP Hunting Rifle offers the power of a big game rifle with the accuracy of a smaller caliber, making it a great option for a versatile hunting rifle.
The Umarex Ruger Blackhawk offers the classic.177 caliber for small game and target shooting, while the Gamo Swarm Fusion 10X boasts a.22 caliber for better accuracy at longer ranges.Â
The Daisy 880 Air Rifle with Scope comes in both.177 and.22, making it another versatile option for different types of game. Additionally, the Barra Airguns Sportsman Air Rifle offers a.177 caliber for target shooting or a.22 for smaller game.
In the end, the hunter should choose the caliber based on what they want to hunt and how far away they want to shoot.
Optimum bullet weight
The optimum bullet weight is dependent on the caliber selection, barrel length, and twist rate.
Opting for a heavier bullet may provide better accuracy and penetration at longer ranges, but may sacrifice velocity and trajectory.
On the other hand, a lighter bullet will travel faster and flatter, but may not have the same stopping power as a heavier bullet.
It is essential to find the right balance and consider factors such as wind conditions and animal size when selecting the optimal bullet weight for your long-range hunting rifle.
Barrel
The length and twist rate of the barrel will determine the accuracy and velocity of your shots.
A longer barrel will give you a higher velocity but can also make the rifle heavier and harder to handle.
The twist rate of the barrel should also match the optimum bullet weight for the caliber of the rifle.
A faster twist rate is needed for heavier bullets.
Additionally, the material and contour of the barrel can affect the heat dissipation and durability of the rifle.
Stainless steel barrels are more resistant to corrosion and offer excellent accuracy, while carbon fiber barrels are lighter and have a faster cooling rate.
Length and twist rate
The length of the barrel can affect not just the accuracy but also the maneuverability of the rifle, so it is important to consider the terrain and the type of hunting you will be doing.
The twist rate of the rifling is also significant in determining the bullet’s spin and stabilization, which can impact its trajectory and accuracy at longer ranges.
Choosing the right combination of barrel length and twist rate is essential to hitting your target with precision. To get the most out of an American rifle, it is always best to match the caliber with the best bullet weight.
Scope
The scope’s magnification and reticle selection should be carefully considered to ensure the best possible accuracy.
It is also important to choose a scope with high-quality lenses that can capture enough light to provide clear images even in low-light conditions.Â
Additionally, the weight and ergonomics of the scope should be taken into account to ensure comfortable use for extended periods of time. The scope should also be durable enough to withstand harsh hunting conditions.
Magnification and reticle selection
The best magnification will depend on the shooter’s preferences and the distance they plan on shooting.
A scope with a high magnification of 24x, 25x, or 32x will provide clear and precise images for long-range hunting. Additionally, the reticle selection is equally important as it determines the accuracy of the shot.
A first focal plane reticle is preferred for long-range shooting as it adjusts with magnification changes.
Stock and pull weight
A proper fitting stock not only provides stability and comfort while shooting, but also ensures accuracy by aiding in sight alignment.
Pull weight, on the other hand, refers to the amount of pressure required to pull the trigger.
A lighter pull weight can increase accuracy and reduce fatigue during extended hunting trips.
It Is important to find a balance between the right stock fit and pull weight to optimize performance.
Take the time to test out various rifles and find one that feels comfortable in your hands.
Weight and ergonomics
A heavy rifle may be advantageous for long-range shooting, as it can help absorb recoil and increase stability, but it can also make the gun difficult to carry through rough terrain.
On the other hand, a lightweight gun can be more comfortable to carry for extended periods, but it may be less stable and accurate at long distances.
Finding the perfect balance between weight and ergonomics is essential to ensure a comfortable and accurate shooting experience. Additionally, choosing a rifle with an ergonomic design can make it easier to achieve the correct shooting position, reducing strain and fatigue during extended sessions.
Trigger, bipod, sling, and case
When it comes to choosing the best long-range hunting rifle, it Is important to consider the smaller details, such as the trigger, bipod, sling, and case.
These accessories can greatly affect the overall performance and ease of use of the rifle.
A good quality trigger with a light pull weight can make a huge difference in accuracy and consistency, while a sturdy bipod can provide stability for precise shots.
A comfortable sling and durable protective case can also make transportation easier and keep the rifle in top condition. It Is important to choose accessories that are compatible with your rifle and meet your specific hunting needs.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which caliber is best for long-range hunting?
Different calibers have different levels of accuracy and power at long range, so the best caliber for long-range hunting depends on the specific needs of the hunter. Generally, larger calibers such as.308 Winchester and.30-06 Springfield are better for long range hunting, as they have more energy, a better trajectory, and higher ballistic coefficients.
Which type of firearm would be most accurate at a long range?
When it comes to long-range accuracy, rifles are the most reliable option. Rifles are made to be more accurate than handguns and shotguns, so you can aim more precisely and hit your target from farther away. Long-range shooting is best done with powerful rifles like the AR-15, bolt-action rifles, and rifles with bigger calibers.
Is 6.5 Creedmoor good for long range hunting?
The 6.5 Creedmoor is an excellent choice for long range hunting due to its long range accuracy, flat trajectory, and low recoil. It is capable of taking down game at extended distances with ease, due to its superior ballistic performance. The 6.5 Creedmoor also has a relatively high muzzle velocity, which helps to reduce the wind drift and drop of the bullet.
How far can you shoot a deer with a 6.5 Creedmoor?
The 6.5 Creedmoor is a popular rifle cartridge known for its accuracy and power. The cartridge is capable of shooting accurately at distances over 800 yards, making it an ideal choice for shooting at medium- to long-range targets like deer. However, it is essential to use the proper techniques and equipment to ensure that a deer can be effectively taken down.
Which is better for long range: the 308 or the 6.5 Creedmoor?
The 6.5 Creedmoor is widely regarded as the best choice for long-range shooting due to its superior accuracy and flat trajectory. The 6.5 Creedmoor is capable of shooting out to 1,000 yards, while the 308 can only reach out to 600 yards. The 6.5 Creedmoor also has less recoil allowing for more accurate follow-up shots.
Which type of firearm would be most accurate at a long-range 200 meters?
When considering a firearm for long-range shooting at 200 meters, accuracy is key. Most of the time, a bolt-action rifle is the best choice because it is more accurate than a semi-automatic rifle. Bolt-action rifles also have the added benefit of a lighter trigger pull, which helps to increase accuracy. Additionally, the heavier barrel and stock of a bolt-action rifle also help provide stability and accuracy.
What is a long-range gun?
The long-range gun is a type of firearm designed for shooting at targets from long distances. These guns usually have long barrels and large calibers, making them ideal for hunting large game or shooting at distant targets. Long-range guns are also used for precision shooting in competitions or for military and police applications.
What is the most common rifle used for hunting?
The most common rifle used for hunting is the bolt-action rifle. This type of rifle is reliable, accurate, and easy to use. Bolt-action rifles come in a wide range of calibers and configurations, which makes them great for hunting different kinds of game. They are also lightweight, making them easier to carry in the field.
Is a 308 or 270 a better long-range rifle?
The.308 Winchester is the better choice for long-range shooting due to its higher velocity and bullet drop. It also has a flatter trajectory and better penetration than the.270 Winchester. The.308’s heavier bullet also produces more energy on impact, making it better suited for taking down large game at range.
What is the most accurate hunting rifle caliber?
The most accurate hunting rifle caliber is one that is tailored to the specific needs of the shooter. Generally speaking, larger calibers such as.30-06,.300 Win Mag, and.338 Win Mag are considered more accurate for longer range shots, while smaller calibers such as.223,.243, and.308 are more suitable for shorter range shots. Ultimately, the caliber that works best for the individual shooter is the most accurate.
What caliber do most hunters use?
The most commonly used caliber for hunting is the.30-06, a cartridge originally developed by the US Army in 1906 and still popular today. It is a potent, adaptable round that many hunters use all over the world and is suitable for a variety of game.
How much does a hunting rifle cost?
The cost of a hunting rifle can vary greatly depending on the type of firearm and the features it offers. A basic hunting rifle can cost anywhere from $200 to $400, while a more advanced firearm with more features and higher-quality components can range from $500 to over $1,000.
What should I know before buying a hunting rifle?
Before buying a hunting rifle, it is important to understand the different types of rifles, calibers, and ammunition. Additionally, you should consider the weight of the rifle, as well as its accuracy, power, and recoil. You should also familiarize yourself with the laws and regulations concerning hunting in your area.
What should I look for in a hunting rifle?
When shopping for a hunting rifle, it is important to consider the type of game you will be hunting and the type of environment you will be hunting in. You should also look for a rifle that is lightweight, has a comfortable stock, and is easy to use and maintain. Additionally, you should look for a rifle that is accurate, reliable, and durable.
What exactly is precision hunting?
Precision in hunting is the practice of aiming and shooting a firearm with extreme accuracy. It involves using specialized sighting systems, such as scopes, to accurately target game. It also requires the use of specialized ammunition and shooting techniques, such as using a steady rest or shooting bench, to ensure that the shot is as accurate as possible.
What is long-range shooting?
Long-range shooting is a type of shooting that involves shooting targets at a distance of up to 1,000 yards or more. It requires a high level of precision, accuracy, and knowledge of the wind, ballistics, and other variables. It is a skill that involves using specialized equipment and techniques to hit targets at a long distance.
What is considered long-range for rifles?
Long-range for rifles typically refers to any range of shooting that is beyond 500 yards. This type of shooting requires specialized equipment and knowledge, as well as a great deal of practice and skill. Long-range shooting can be done with both bolt-action and semi-automatic rifles, but the most common type of rifle used for long-range shooting is a bolt-action rifle.
I am Sam Billings, an entrepreneur who runs a printing business. In my free time, I enjoy the thrill of the hunt and often spend hours pursuing game. I am passionate about hunting gear and equipment, and I take great pleasure in helping fellow hunters find the right gear for their needs. From rifles and scopes to clothing and accessories, I am always happy to share my knowledge and expertise.
