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Gear Guide: Great Bolt-Action Rifles for Predator and Varmint Hunting

March 17, 2023 | 0 Comments

Blog cover image "Gear Guide Predator and Varmint Hunting Rifles"

While hunting season is over for many animals in the U.S., there are still numerous opportunities for you to get out there and sharpen your skills during this time of year, all while enjoying the thrill of the hunt. Today, we’re going to be talking about predator hunting and varmint hunting, looking at some of the best bolt action rifles to get the job done.

Predator/Varmint Hunting: What is it and why do it?

While these types of hunting are pretty well known, we thought we’d provide some background on them and why it’s as important as it is fun.

What is it?

Predator and varmint hunting is the practice of hunting unregulated game, which can be hunted year-round and doesn’t have a traditional season like regulated game. This allows hunters to get out and enjoy the practice of hunting without the regulations that protect game like deer, elk, and various birds and waterfowl. It should still be noted that hunting licenses are required. Additionally, consult your state laws for specific guidelines surrounding these types of hunting. The most common examples of this include hunting coyotes, foxes, bobcats, and the popular and needed activity of feral hog hunting.

Why do it?

Beyond the fun of varmint and predator hunting, there’s a definitive need for this kind of hunting as well. The main reason why predator and varmint hunting is important has to do with population control. Whether it’s coyotes, foxes, feral hogs, rodents, birds, etc., the populations of these animals can quickly get out of control. Once they do, they can cause damage to land, destroy crops, deplete natural resources, and overtake populations of desirable game like elk and deer. In fact, a recent Texas Standard article covering the feral hog issue states, “Feral hogs are among the most destructive invasive species in the United States. Every year, they cause over $1 billion in damage nationwide to crops and property. So landowners and government agencies like the U.S. Department of Agriculture are investing in decreasing their population.”

The Rifles

Now that we’ve looked at what varmint and predator hunting is and why it’s important, we can move on to our favorite rifles for these types of hunting. Depending on what you want to hunt and what you’d like to prioritize (such as stopping power, pelt preservation, and distance), you’ll need a specific caliber to get the job done. Though there are both semi-auto and bolt action rifles for this type of hunting, we have focused this blog post on bolt action rifles. We will write a separate article on semi-auto rifles in the near future. While you can start this kind of hunting with a typical hunting rifle meant for big game, we have a selection of hunting rifles in specific calibers that are better suited for these small to mid-sized animals.

The Tikka T3X Lite – 6.5 Creedmoor

The best choice for hunting at long range, the 6.5 Creedmoor will easily maintain the energy and speed needed to travel several hundred yards for distance shots. Our pick for this caliber is the Tikka T3x Lite. The T3x rifle combines a lightweight build with incredible accuracy and reliability, with Tikka rifles delivering quality you can depend on.

This Tikka T3x rifle delivers great features like a two-stage safety, a bolt with a spring-loaded plunger ejector, bolt handle, and a 70-degree opening angle. The T3x’s single-stage steel trigger has vertical grooves for added grip and is adjustable through the magazine well from 2 to 4 lbs. The receiver introduces a widened angular ejection port, integral rails for scope mounts, and is tapped so you can add a Picatinny scope mount base. The cold hammer-forged stainless steel barrel is hand-crowned and is guaranteed to shoot 1 MOA with match ammo.

Tikka T3x Lite Specs

Caliber: 6.5 Creedmoor	Barrel Length: 24.30”	Rate of Twist: 1:8”
Capacity: 3+1	Sights: Drilled and Tapped	OAL: 44.50”
Safety: Two-Stage	Stock: Synthetic	Weight: 6.60 lbs

GAG SKU: GAG_LS-JRTXB382

CZ 457 Varmint – .17 HMR

The best choice for those that are trying to harvest the pelts of their targets, .17 HMR has a smaller mass while maintaining a high muzzle velocity. This means it can take out smaller varmints as well as coyotes or foxes from close range without causing large entrance or exit wounds. While there are a lot of options for .17 HMR rifles, our pick is the CZ 457 Varmint. Designed with traditional bolt action rifles in mind, the 457 Varmint delivers a modern hunting rifle you can use with confidence.

The features of this CZ 457 include a heavy 20.5-inch barrel that delivers precision accuracy and swift maneuverability, allowing you to hit the mark every time. This rifle also features a walnut wood stock, adjustable trigger, and a swappable barrel and stock system like the previous CZ 455, allowing for a premium and customizable experience. To make mounting a scope easier, the 457 Varmint has a 60-degree bolt rotation instead of 90 degrees, for scopes with lower heights to be mounted. It also features a 5-round polymer magazine.

CZ 457 Varmint Specs

Caliber: .17 HMR	Barrel Length: 20.5”	Rate of Twist: 1:9”
Capacity: 5+1	Sights: None, Integral 11mm Dovetail	Length of Pull: 13.75”
Safety: Two-Position	Stock: Walnut Stock	Weight: 7.08 lbs

GAG SKU: GAG_LS-02342

Savage 110 Apex Predator XP – .22-250 Rem

Savage 110 Apex Predator XP bolt action rifle

One of the best high-speed and high-energy choices in ammo is the .22-250 Rem, which allows for good long ranged shots as well as shots on a moving target. One of our favorite options in this caliber is the Savage 110 Apex Predator XP. The Apex Predator XP pairs a Savage Model 110 rifle with a factory-installed 4-12x44mm Vortex Crossfire II scope that’s ready to take on the hunt.

The platform provides accuracy and adjustability thanks to the features that come with it. The Savage 110 Savage AccuTrigger, thread-in headspacing, floating bolt head, and button-rifled heavy barrel all contribute to on-target accuracy. Plus, the length-of-pull of its synthetic Mossy Oak camo stock can be easily adjusted as well to fit any hunter for better comfort and consistency. The Vortex Crossfire II optic has a Dead-Hold BDC reticle and is securely mounted to a one-piece EGW 0 MOA rail, making it easy to place accurate shots at extended range. In addition, this hunting rifle is magazine fed with a 4+1 round box mag.

Savage 110 Apex Predator XP Specs

Caliber: .22-250 Rem	Barrel Length: 20”	Rate of Twist: 1:12”
Capacity: 4+1	Sights: Vortex Crossfire II 4-12x44mm Scope	OAL: 40.25”
Finish: Mossy Oak Mountain Country	Stock: Synthetic	Weight: 8.41 lbs

GAG SKU: GAG_LS-57357

Remington Model 700 ADL Varmint – .308 Win

Remington 700 ADL Varmint bolt action rifle

The best caliber for big game and taking out larger, more dangerous game like bobcats or feral hogs, the .308 Winchester packs a punch and has a higher mass. Our pick for the .308 is the Remington Model 700 ADL Varmint, as it provides excellent accuracy and reliability. The Remington 700 is the number one best selling bolt-action of all time, proudly made in the U.S.A. The legendary strength of its 3-rings-of-steel receiver paired with a hammer-forged barrel, combine to yield the most popular bolt-action rifle in history.

Though the Remington 700 ADL has a simple design, it boasts a quality build and features which provide the performance you can depend on. It features the R-5 barrel, which is cold hammer-forged and features a 5-R rifling profile which increases barrel life expectancy, accuracy, and creates less fouling and bullet deformation over time. It also has a durable composite stock, a drilled and tapped steel receiver, and a dual front swivel stud system that provides convenient mounting of bi-pod and sling. The Remington Model 700 also utilizes an X-Mark Pro externally adjustable trigger.

Remington Model 700 ADL Varmint Specs

Caliber: .308 Winchester	Barrel Length: 26”	Rate of Twist: 1:14”
Capacity: 4+1	Sights: Drilled and Tapped	OAL: 46.50”
Finish: Matte Black	Stock: Synthetic	Weight: 8.50 lbs

GAG SKU: GAG_138627

.223 Remington

As you might expect, the .223 Remington is one of the best all-around calibers for varmint and predator hunting. It’s widely available, relatively inexpensive, and delivers good velocity and range. Because of how popular it is, we have two different picks which come from the Ruger American lineup of hunting rifles.

Ruger American Predator

The Ruger American Predator is an excellent mag-fed bolt-action rifle in .223 Remington which delivers precision and accuracy. 100% American-made, the American Predator delivers the rugged performance and reliability that’s featured in many of Ruger’s new products, making it a rifle you can depend on.

The Ruger American Predator .223 offers a variety of great features that provide smooth operation with every shot. Its Ruger Marksman Adjustable trigger offers a crisp release with a pull weight that is user adjustable between 3 and 5 pounds, allowing customization of the feel of the rifle. The one-piece, three-lug bolt with 70-degree throw utilizes a full-diameter bolt body and dual cocking cams for easy cycling from the shoulder and allows for ample scope clearance. The rifle also features a bedding block system that positively locates the receiver and free-floats the barrel for outstanding accuracy, allowing the rifle to provide minute-of-angle accuracy that can make every hunt a success. The 22-inch cold hammer-forged barrel results in ultra-precise rifling that provides exceptional accuracy, longevity and easy cleaning. It also comes with a 10-round capacity AR-style mag.

Ruger American Predator Specs

Caliber: .223 Remington	Barrel Length: 22”	Rate of Twist: 1:8”
Capacity: 10+1	Sights: Picatinny Rail Scope Base	OAL: 42”
Safety: Tang	Stock: Synthetic	Weight: 6.60 lbs

GAG SKU: GAG_RES-RUG26944

Ruger American Ranch

The Ruger American Ranch is a great option that’s very similar to the American Predator. However, it’s a great option for those that want a shorter, more maneuverable build. It has a 16.12-inch barrel and an overall length of 36 inches, making it easier to carry and manipulate. It’s also a great option for smaller shooters since it has a smaller build and a lighter weight.

Ruger American Ranch Specs

Caliber: .223 Remington	Barrel Length: 16.12”	Rate of Twist: 1:8”
Capacity: 10+1	Sights: Picatinny Rail Scope Base	OAL: 36”
Safety: Tang	Stock: Synthetic	Weight: 6.10 lbs

GAG SKU: GAG_RES-RUG26965

Hunting Rifles For Sale at GrabAGun

If you want one of the hunting rifles that we covered in this article, or you’re looking for another gun for sale, look no further than GrabAGun! On our website, you can easily find bolt action rifles for sale, predator rifles, and other great deals on things like hunting ammo, handguns for sale, and shotguns for sale. Additionally, if you want to learn more about coyote hunting basics, check out this coyote hunting article by Outdoor Life. And if you are interested in hunting feral hogs, look no further than this wild pig hunting guide by Meat Eater. Thanks for reading and we hope you enjoy!

—Matthew Cornell

Deer Hunting Essentials: 2021

November 1, 2021 | 0 Comments

Deer hunting is not just exhilarating—it’s incredibly rewarding. There is no greater thrill than taking down a high-point buck or doe. To do that, however, you need the right tools and experience. That’s where GrabAGun comes in. We provide hunters of every experience with the right equipment to have an enjoyable experience. Through our store you can find everything from tactical shotguns for sale to ammo online, all at affordable rates. In this post, we broke down all the deer hunting essentials you’ll need before, during, and after a big hunting trip. Let’s get into it.

Pre Deer Hunting Essentials

If this is the first year you’ve decided to go deer hunting, there are a few things to get out of the way beforehand. First and foremost, start by checking your local laws regarding hunting limits, the duration of the season, and the types of weapons you are allowed to use. Next, you’ll need to pay for your hunting license. You cannot hunt in the United States without a valid license. With it, you are legally allowed to hunt during a specific time in whichever state you live. If you are going to be hunting out of state, you will need to purchase a license for the area you’ll be located.

Note: Many areas have a cap on how many licenses and permits are issued each season. Permits are different from licenses, allowing individuals to hunt specific animals on private or public land. You don’t need a permit to hunt, but you absolutely need a license.

Once you have your licenses and permits, the next thing to determine is the “bag” limit. A “bag” limit refers to how many deer (antlered and antlerless) you are allowed to bag and tag. Limits will vary based on location, time, and other factors. Tags can come in a package deal with your license or be purchased over the counter in most outdoor supply stores.

Last but not least, you’ll need to decide which season you’ll be hunting in. Your hunting season is determined by your location and will help you decide which weapon you choose to use. Archers typically have the first pick with their season starting in September for most areas. After that, muzzleloaders and other firearms are next in line. So how do you know which weapon is best for you?

Choosing Your Perfect Weapon

Deer hunting requires very different equipment compared to something like duck or dove hunting. In those instances, you need a firearm that can disperse a large number of pellets at varying distances. With deer hunting, however, you need a singular blow to hit accurately at a long distance. For that, hunters have a few options to choose from, including:

Crossbow/Bowhunting

For bigger game like deer, bowhunting is a much sought-after weapon. Unlike dove or duck hunting, deer hunting provides larger, more stationary targets that an arrow can hit. This is not necessarily the best method for beginners, but it certainly is an enjoyable one once you get the hang of it. When you’re packing, don’t forget extra bow releases in case something happens!

Muzzleloaders

For dynamite long-range power and accuracy, muzzleloaders are the only way to go. Not only are they inexpensive, but they also provide unmatched power. It only takes one good shot to take down a high-point buck, and this firearm can do that. This is an option for experienced hunters who want to stop a deer in its tracks. Muzzleloaders for sale shouldn’t cost an arm and a leg, and they won’t when you shop with GrabAGun.

Rifle/Shotguns

Hunting rifles and shotguns are what you will most typically find in the field, specifically long-range rifles and bolt-action shotguns. Whichever you choose will be determined by the time when you go hunt, your location, and other factors. Long-range rifles for sale will obviously provide the most accurate shots from further distances. Bolt-action rifles are just as common amongst hunters, providing incredible power and accuracy. If knock-down power is what you are after, then a shotgun is what you will need. Whether it be semi-automatic or a pump-action shotgun, you won’t be missing a shot with either. GrabAGun has hunting rifles and tactical shotguns for sale and you don’t want to miss out on our prices.

With your firearm, you’ll also need ammo. It’s unlikely that you’ll need more than a box or two the day of, but it never hurts to have a few extra on hand for target practice. For any semi-automatic rifle, you want to look for ammunition that blends high-velocity distances with weight retention for powerful impacts. Brands like Winchester, Hornady, and more produce high-quality ammo at affordable rates.

Pick up a box of rifle ammo online with flat rate shipping from GrabAGun!

We also have plenty of shotgun ammo for sale here

Practice, Practice, Practice

Regardless if you are a new or experienced hunter, it never hurts to take the time to practice at the range. While the conditions aren’t going to be the same, getting used to setting up shots can do wonders for your performance in the field. Start by setting targets up at 25-yards and work on placing shots in the same area. Once you’ve got a grasp of it, move the target back in 25-yard until you reach somewhere between 100 and 150-yards. These are perfectly respectable distances for new hunters. What helps is picking up bulk ammo so you can practice without worrying about wasting precious rounds that you might use in the field.

Day of Deer Hunting Essentials

Nothing is quite as exhilarating as waking up the day of a deer hunt. The night before is the best time to pack up everything. You don’t want to be fumbling around in the dark trying to find your permit or gear bag. Believe us when we say even some of the most experienced hunters have left the house without their gun on more than one occasion!

But we understand. For your first trip, it can feel overwhelming to figure out what you need and what you don’t. It can result in overpacking, especially for first-time hunters, which is why we put together a general checklist. Items you’ll need the day of a deer hunt include:

Permit
First aid kit
Hunting knife
Weapon of choice
One or two boxes of ammunition
A blaze orange hunting cap or vest
Appropriate camouflaged cold-weather gear (depending on the climate)
- Hat, gloves, shirts, jackets, waterproof boots, rain jacket, cleaning kit, etc.
Scent control/scent attractant
Treestand/blind
Binoculars

This isn’t an exhaustive list. In fact, there are a few extras that you can also bring with you, including items such as a safety harness for blinds, LED flashlights, a trail camera, odorless bug spray, a rangefinder, and even a walkie-talkie for convenience. Get all of this and more items like ammo online or a quality rifle for sale from GrabAGun today!

Post Deer Hunting Essentials

At the end of your hunt, you will need to make sure that any deer you have taken down are properly tagged. As soon as that is done, you can either take your deer somewhere to be dressed or start the process yourself. Whether you are hunting on private or public land, there are a few things to keep in mind.

Mind Your Manners

Be respectful
- Whether you are hunting on private land, public property, or your own land, be respectful of where you are. Don’t leave any trash or used shells behind. Not only can it spook deer for future hunters, it’s just not cool.
Safety is the highest priority
- New and experienced hunters alike must remember that safety should always be their number one priority. Never shoot above the horizon, toward homes, or populated areas, no matter how far away. The safety of yourself and others should always rank higher than bagging a deer.
Common courtesy
- If you have the opportunity to hunt on someone’s private land, it’s never a bad idea to offer any meat you catch to them. While there is no rule, spoken or unspoken, this is a common courtesy that many hunters follow.

deer hunting essentials: blaze orange vest

Final Thoughts

Whether you are an experienced hunter or this year will mark your first official hunt, a checklist for all your items is a must. It’s easy to get lost in the hustle of packing up everything that you end up missing important items. While your list shouldn’t be a mile long, it also shouldn’t be so short that you end up leaving all your essentials behind. When you need all your deer hunting essentials, including deer scents, hunting rifles, ammo online, and more; check out GrabAGun. We have everything you need plus things you may not have even thought of!

—Kellie Krevosky