Choosing Your Hunting Gun

Maybe you’re new to hunting and have yet even to purchase your first firearm. Or maybe you’re an old hand at the hunt, but you’d like to explore your gun options and buy something new. Where do you start?

If you know you want a rifle, and you’re familiar with shooting, here’s a rundown of the 50 best hunting rifles by John Snow of Outdoor Life. Each one is graded on workmanship, performance and price/value. And each one comes with a brief review and a few test notes. It’s pretty cool.

If you’re more of a newbie, are a few ideas from hunting writer NorCal Cazadora. She breaks down basic questions, such as “Do I need a rifle or a shotgun?” (Answer: it depends on what you’re hunting.)

For advice on choosing the right rifle for deer hunting, here’s a fact sheet for beginners. It leads you through choices of cartridge, action style and finish. The bottom line: don’t rush into anything. Take your time and ask questions.

And that’s probably good general advice for gun buying: ask questions. There are lots of people available to help you make the decision—fellow hunters, experienced shooters and hunting outfitters staff. Hopefully we’ve provided a few helpful resources here.

Are you in the market for a new gun? Which ones are you looking at?