The Best Hunting Rifles of SHOT Show 2025

SHOT Show 2025 brought out the best in the firearms industry, and we got our hands on some of the hottest rifles hitting the market this year. From precision bolt guns built for long-range dominance to rugged, no-frills hunting rifles designed to get the job done, the show floor was packed with innovation.

After a windy day on the range in Nevada, we were a bit confused about where all the hunting rifles were. The place seemed far more reserved than years prior, and some brands were notably absent. Fortunately, we found exactly what we sought once we hit the show floor.

Whether you’re into backcountry hunting or tactical shooting, or you just want the latest and greatest in rifle tech, these models caught our attention. They certainly won’t be leaving our wishlists anytime soon.

Interested in what got our nod for Best in Show? Check out this year’s SHOT Show award winners.

The Best Hunting Rifles of SHOT Show 2025

Browning X Bolt 2 Western Hunter LR

The Browning X-Bolt 2 Western Hunter LR builds on the previous foundation (which we covered in last year’s SHOT Show roundup) with several key upgrades that improve fit, recoil management, and overall performance for long-range shooters.

One of the most significant changes is the adjustable comb stock, allowing shooters to fine-tune their cheek weld for better alignment with optics. This means more comfort and consistency when taking long-range shots.

The new Recoil Hawg muzzle brake significantly reduces felt recoil compared to the original, making follow-up shots faster and more controlled. Browning also refined the bolt handle design, making it more ergonomic for easier manipulation. While both models maintain the same rugged reliability and Burnt Bronze Cerakote finish for weather resistance, the X-Bolt 2 delivers an even more shooter-friendly experience with these upgrades.

Price: $1,470-1,550

Caliber – Barrel Length:

• 6.5 CREEDMOOR • 24″
• 6.5 PRC • 26″
• 6.8 Western • 26″
• 7MM REM MAG • 26″
• 7MM PRC • 24″
• 28 Nosler • 26″
• 300 WIN MAG • 26″
• 300 PRC • 26″

Savage Axis 2 Pro

The Savage Axis II Pro is a no-nonsense bolt-action rifle whose job is simply to get the job done. Outfitted with an almost industry-standard AccuTrigger, it offers a crisp, adjustable trigger pull that gives you customizable confidence in every shot. Its lightweight synthetic stock is tough enough for rugged terrain while remaining easy to carry on long hunts.

The free-floating barrel and button-rifled bore are engineered for consistent accuracy, making this rifle as dependable as it is versatile. With options for a variety of calibers and finishes, the Axis II is built to handle everything from deer to varmints.

The biggest perk? The price is far easier on the wallet than most rifles today.

Price: $599-639

Calibers – Barrel Length:

• Too many to list. There are currently 59 different configurations. The odds are that if you want it chambered in a particular caliber, it’s likely available.

Seekins Precision HAVAK PH3

The Seekins Precision HAVAK PH3 is touted as a long-range scalpel. It is one of the few actual rifles that found a place on our Best of SHOT Show award winners this year.

With its 24-inch hand-lapped, spiral-fluted barrel, full-length ARCA rail and Havak action, this rifle is built to put rounds exactly where you want them, with no excuses short of shooter error.

The carbon composite stock keeps it light without sacrificing rigidity, while the adjustable cheekpiece ensures perfect eye-to-optic alignment. Chambered in serious long-range calibers and paired with a Timney Elite Hunter trigger, the PH3 is for those serious about their time in the field.

Whether you are setting up for a mile-long shot or stalking through the backcountry, this rifle is all about precision, which is what everyone expects from the machine shop at Seekins Precision.

Price: $1,895

Caliber – Barrel Length:

• There are currently 17+ different configurations for the PH3.

Watchtower Firearms Bridger Rifle

From tactical to the trees, Watchtower is making a big move aimed directly at hunters.

The Watchtower Firearms Bridger Rifle is built for precision shooters who demand reliability and modern modularity. A 20-inch stainless steel barrel ensures consistent accuracy, while the monolithic free-float handguard provides a solid, stable attachment platform. The fully ambidextrous billet receiver makes operation seamless for both left- and right-handed shooters.

An adjustable gas system allows fine-tuning for suppressed or unsuppressed use, and the two-stage match trigger delivers a crisp, predictable break for precision shots. Lightweight yet rugged, the Bridger is chambered in high-performance calibers and engineered for repeatable accuracy at extended distances.

This certainly isn’t a purchase for the casual hunter. The price tag might be tough for some to swallow. Price aside, it’s a rad rifle from a serious gun maker, and the thing just looks sweet.

Price: $6,499

Caliber – Barrel Length:

• 7mm PRC, 22 inches

CVA Scout

The CVA Scout is a no-nonsense, single-shot rifle built for hunters who value simplicity, accuracy, and reliability. A stainless steel barrel ensures durability in harsh conditions, while the lightweight synthetic stock makes it easy to carry on long hunts. The DuraSight scope rail allows quick optic mounting, and the crisp single-shot action keeps things straightforward and dependable.

Available in various hard-hitting calibers, the Scout is designed for hunters who want a lightweight, accurate rifle without unnecessary complexity. Whether in the woods or on the range, this rifle proves that sometimes, less is more. Because let’s be honest; you can spend a lot on a rifle that will do the same thing a budget rifle can.

For hunters in states with caliber restrictions, the Scout is available in straight-wall cartridges like .350 Legend and .450 Bushmaster, offering legal and effective options for whitetail hunting. These calibers provide excellent stopping power while meeting state regulations, making the Scout an ideal choice for hunters needing compliance without sacrificing performance.

Price: $425-495

Calibers – Barrel Length:

• Available in 13 configurations for both straight wall and bottleneck shooters.