Choosing the right firearm for your hunting needs is a crucial decision that requires careful consideration. With such a wide variety of rifle and shotgun models available today in numerous calibers and action types, it can feel overwhelming to decide what is best suited for you. In this guide, we will explore the key factors to evaluate when selecting a hunting firearm. This includes defining the primary purpose of the gun based on the types of game you hunt most frequently. We will also discuss optimal calibers, the importance of weight and maneuverability for your specific hunting situations, action types to consider, matching the firearm to your experience level, and ensuring you choose a firearm aligned with your budget. With so many options on the market, it is critical to methodically assess your own needs and abilities to arrive at the ideal hunting firearm for your purposes.
What is the primary purpose of the firearm for hunting?
When choosing a firearm for hunting, it’s important to first consider your primary purpose for the gun. Ask yourself – what type of hunting will I be doing most often? Will this be a general use firearm for hunting small and medium game like rabbits, squirrels, turkeys, or deer? Or are you planning to specialize in certain types of hunting that require specific features in a firearm?
For example, if you want a hunting rifle primarily for long range shooting at prairie dogs or coyotes, you’ll need a heavier barrel and a scope with adjustments for windage and elevation. The caliber should be suited for smaller varmints while maintaining accuracy at longer distances, like .223 Remington or .22-250 Remington.
On the other hand, if your main hunting purpose is for larger game like elk, moose or bear, the rifle should be designed to handle heavier magnum calibers like .300 Win Mag, .338 Lapua or .338 Win Mag. You’ll want a thicker, free-floating barrel and a sturdy synthetic stock to handle the increased recoil of magnum cartridges. The scope should have ample magnification range to shoot at longer ranges.
Or perhaps your primary hunting purpose is to stalk game through dense brush or forests. In that case, consider a short, lightweight carbine in a brush-busting caliber like .450 Bushmaster. The goal is maneuverability and quick target acquisition at short ranges, not long distance accuracy.
Really defining your specific needs for the hunting firearm based on what you plan to hunt most often will help narrow down key factors like action type, caliber, barrel length, optics and other features. Don’t overbuy on a rifle just because it seems versatile. Focus on your primary hunting purpose first. That will lead you to the right firearm to match your specific needs and budget for hunting.
What game will you be hunting most often?
The species of game you’ll be hunting most frequently should be a major factor in choosing the appropriate firearm. The type of animals you’ll be targeting will determine what caliber, action type and features you need in your hunting rifle or shotgun.
For example, if you primarily hunt small game like rabbits, squirrels and upland birds, a .22LR rifle or a 20-gauge shotgun are good choices. The .22LR is an economical rimfire round with mild recoil that is perfect for headshots on squirrels and rabbits without destroying too much edible meat. A 20-gauge shotgun with modified or improved cylinder choke can handle a variety of upland bird hunting from ruffed grouse and pheasants to dove and quail.
On the other hand, if you plan on mostly deer hunting, you’ll need a larger centerfire rifle in a caliber suited for whitetails and mule deer. Popular choices include .30-30 Win, .308 Win and .30-06 Springfield. A 12-gauge shotgun with a rifled deer barrel can also be used for slug hunting. Consider your typical range when hunting deer to help choose the right caliber and features.
For large game like elk, black bear and wild hogs, look to even bigger magnum calibers and heavy bullets to ensure ethical kills at longer distances. Calibers like .300 Win Mag, 7mm Rem Mag and .338 Lapua are better suited for the larger bodies and thick hides of those big game animals. You’ll need a powerful, accurate rifle scope and a heavy barrel to withstand the increased recoil.
Consider all the game you currently hunt, as well as species you plan to target in the near future. Don’t overlook potentially versatile calibers that allow you to ethically take a wide range of game, from varmints up to deer-sized animals. Choosing a firearm well-suited for the game you will actually be hunting regularly will ensure your success in the field.
What is your budget for purchasing a hunting firearm?
When looking to purchase a new hunting firearm, setting a budget is an important first step. Firearms can range greatly in price from a few hundred dollars to several thousand dollars. It’s important to set reasonable expectations based on what you can afford.
For more budget-friendly options, consider basic hunting rifles or shotguns in common calibers from major manufacturers like Ruger, Savage, Remington, Mossberg and Winchester. These can often be found new for $500 or less. Used firearms in common calibers can also be good value, allowing more gun for less money. The key is finding a used gun in good functional condition.
If you can stretch your budget to $800-$1,000, you’ll gain more options in performance features. This price range allows for higher quality barrels, triggers, stocks and optics. You may also find better options for magnum calibers and precision rifles built specifically for hunting versus target shooting. Brands like Tikka, Browning and Weatherby begin to become available in this price tier.
For those with budgets over $1,000, the sky’s the limit. You can purchase specialized hunting rifles tailored for your specific needs from high end companies like Kimber, Nosler, Sako and others. Custom built rifles can also be commissioned from gunsmiths and boutique manufacturers. Exotic materials, intricate engraving and accessories are options in the high dollar realm.
Consider being flexible on certain features versus fixating on one model or brand. With a limited budget, you can get an excellent performing hunting firearm by prioritizing key functions like caliber, action type, barrel material and optics. Allocate more budget for aspects you can’t compromise on. A good rule of thumb is investing at least half your budget in a high quality optic scope if accurately placing shots is important.
Do you need a rifle, shotgun, handgun or muzzleloader?
When selecting a hunting firearm, one of the primary decisions is whether you need a rifle, shotgun, handgun or muzzleloader. The answer depends on several factors related to your specific hunting needs and situations.
Rifles offer versatility for most hunting given their accuracy and range capabilities. A rifle chambered in a suitable caliber is excellent for medium to large game like deer, hogs, bear, elk, etc. Rifles excel at longer range shot placement. Common hunting rifle types include bolt action, lever action, semi-auto and single shot break actions. Rifle calibers should be matched to the game pursued.
Shotguns using slugs are great medium-range firearms for hunting in thicker brush or woodlands, especially for deer. The wide spread of pellets makes shotguns suitable for birds and small, fast moving game. A 12 or 20 gauge shotgun covers many common hunting needs.
Handguns have limited hunt applications in most states, but can be used for finishing wounded game. Revolvers or pistols in heavy calibers like .44 Magnum provide sufficient power if legal for hunting your desired game. Handguns require skilled shooters to place accurate shots given the short barrels.
Muzzleloaders provide a vintage hunting experience and extended seasons but require meticulous cleaning. While slow to reload, muzzleloaders are capable hunting tools especially for deer and bears. These black powder firearms add a historical element to the hunt.
Evaluate your expected hunting situations, regulations, game pursued and shooting capabilities. A hunter wanting to stalk elk over long ranges needs a different tool than someone shooting turkeys at 40 yards in dense woods. Consider versatility, but choose the specific firearm type best aligned to your hunting needs and goals.
How important is the weight and maneuverability of the firearm for your hunting situations?
The weight and maneuverability of a hunting firearm is an important factor that should align with the conditions and terrain you expect to encounter. Lugging a heavy rifle all day through dense woods or brush can become exhausting, negatively impacting your hunt. Alternatively, an ultra light rifle may recoil harshly, developing flinching issues.
For hunting situations like spot-and-stalk or still hunting where you’ll be covering long distances by foot, an ideal weight is around 6 to 7 pounds. This allows you to carry the rifle comfortably without tiring you out. Synthetic stocks and short barrels help reduce weight. A lightweight mountain rifle or carbine style works well.
In contrast, for hunting situations involving blinds, tree stands or lying in wait for game, weight becomes less important. Heavier rifles in the 8 to 10 pound range are easily managed when mobility is not a major concern. These provide advantages in stability and recoil reduction.
The balance and handling of the rifle are also important. Look for smooth cycling actions and a balance point near the grip area. Proper muzzle weight helps swing the barrel quickly while still allowing off-hand shooting. Features like a palm swell grip and recoil pad aid comfort and control.
You’ll likely need to find a compromise between absolute lightest weight and positive handling characteristics. Test different rifles while carrying them, manipulating the actions and evaluating off-hand shooting. Given your expected terrain and conditions, assess how a rifle’s maneuverability could impact your hunting success. Consider options to tweak a rifle’s weight like aftermarket stocks. Overall, let your specific hunting needs drive the importance you place on weight and handling.
Should you consider a bolt action, lever action, semi auto or single shot hunting firearm?
When selecting a hunting rifle, one of the key decisions is choosing the action type – bolt action, lever action, semi-auto or single shot. Each has advantages and disadvantages to weigh for your hunting needs.
Bolt action rifles are the most common and versatile choice. They offer strength, accuracy and simplicity. Bolt actions tend to be affordable and reliable. The manual operation requires hunters to focus on every shot. Caliber options are broad from .22LR up to dangerous game cartridges. Major downsides are slow follow up shots and potential jams.
Lever action rifles provide fast cycling and handling for quick shots. Their lightweight and pointing qualities make them ideal for brush hunting. Limitations include lower magazine capacity and being mainly relegated to pistol calibers. Lever guns have classic styling but less long range accuracy.
Semi-auto rifles allow rapid follow up shots useful for hunting packs of small game or dangerous animals. They function well in adverse conditions. Drawbacks include added weight and legal hunting restrictions. Autoloaders can have complex maintenance and be prone to jams.
Single shot rifles are bolstered by superb accuracy due to their simple break action design. They force hunters to make every shot count given no repeat shots. Affordable prices and wide caliber choices are advantages. Slow reloading and limited magazine capacity, usually one round, are downsides.
Evaluate your shooting skills, typical range, hunting style and preferred calibers. This will guide your choice to the action type that aligns best to your needs between bolt action, lever, semi-auto or single shot rifles for an optimal hunting experience. Consider test firing various actions to make the right choice.
What is your experience level shooting and maintaining hunting firearms?
When selecting a hunting firearm, it’s important to objectively assess your current experience level in shooting, handling and maintaining guns. This will help guide you to choosing a firearm well-suited for your abilities.
If you’re new to firearms, consider choosing a bolt action or lever action rifle in a common beginner caliber like .22LR, .243 Win or 20 gauge. Attend a hunter’s safety course to learn essential skills. Seek instruction from experienced mentors on marksmanship fundamentals and safe handling techniques. Start slowly, developing competence before moving to more complex firearms.
With some basic experience, you can graduate to appropriate rifles for medium game like deer while expanding your knowledge. Try more powerful calibers with manageable recoil like .30-30, .308 Win and 12 gauge slugs. Practice extensively until proper form and accuracy are ingrained. Study ballistics tables to understand trajectory arcs and impact energies.
Those very experienced with firearms usage and care can better utilize complex semi-auto actions, magnum calibers and long range setups. Skills should include disassembling, cleaning and basic repairs. Learn to handload your own ammunition. Fit and adjust accessories like scopes and triggers for optimal performance. Share your knowledge to help novice hunters advance.
Honestly evaluating your current place on the experience spectrum will lead you towards a hunting firearm well-matched for your abilities. Don’t overbuy a gun unsuited for your level. Progress reasonably to build proficiency, safety and success. A wise hunter places function overfashion and has the discipline to wait until ready before upgrading equipment.
Final Thoughts
Choosing the optimal hunting firearm is a complex decision that requires thoroughly analyzing your needs and abilities. While it may seem daunting, methodically going through key factors like your hunting purpose, typical game pursued, budget, experience level, and expected field conditions will help narrow the choices. Test various models in person to assess critical qualities like handling, fit, recoil, and accuracy. Consult experienced mentors for guidance as well. With research and self-reflection, you can select the ideal rifle, shotgun, muzzleloader or handgun that aligns with your hunting situations and skill level. A thoughtful approach will lead to a firearm that provides years of effective performance afield. The right firearm becomes a trusted companion, helping create lasting memories on the hunt.
Enjoyed this guide of what should you check before choosing a firearm for hunting? Then be sure to check out our other outdoor gears guides.