It is difficult to single out the best hunting rifle unambiguously among the huge variety of models presented on the world and domestic markets. A popular weapon since its inception has been in stable demand among the population. It is used not only for its intended purpose, but also to protect houses, collectibles. In an effort to improve performance and ergonomics, manufacturers have improved old modifications and created new versions. Let's try to make a brief review of the best hunting rifles of foreign and domestic production.
Evaluation criteria
As practice shows, when choosing and testing weapons for hunting, attention is paid to the following points:
- ease of maintenance;
- ergonomic;
- assembly and finishing;
- functionality;
- maintenance and recoil force;
- equipment.
Based on the sum of all the characteristics, the best hunting rifle is chosen, although the overall rating cannot be called 100 percent objective.
BR110 Rizzini
Italian model is available in 18/20/28/410 calibers and is equipped with a three-inch chamber. The mechanism is of a tipping configuration, the placement of the trunks is vertical. Weight - 2, 86 kg. One of the best hunting rifles is a convenient and elegant modification, ideal for mining. Robust construction is not equipped with special innovations, benefiting from its value.
Except for laser engraving, which does not always decorate the product, the rest of the elements and parts are as elegant and complete as possible. This option outperforms more expensive counterparts in most indicators. The most popular versions perfectly combine perfect balance and low weight.
SavageFox
Horizontal 20-gauge is an updated version of American double-barreled shotguns from the famous brand. A distinctive feature of the weapon is the beautiful shape and original design combined with the engraving typical for A. H. Foxes, although the internal performance is quite different. Made in the style of the "old school" the gun is equipped with an elegant forearm, a pair of triggers. It is perfectly balanced, weighing only 2.7 kg.
The version is made in modern overall dimensions, convenient for shooters who are accustomed to new modifications. Three-inch chambers universalize the model, most of the elements and parts are made of metal.
Caesar Guerini
The specified version is included in the list of the best hunting rifles in the world due to its specifics. The vertical is made in 12/20 and28 caliber, has a 3-inch chamber. With a mass of about 2.5 kilograms, the modification is equipped with a breaking design, the length of the trunks is 28 or 26 inches.
Version features rich decoration, lightweight alloy last and hollow stock. The balance is shifted forward, which is also considered a plus, since the weapon behaves as smoothly as possible for its mass in operation. However, it is not suitable for sports shooting. A specific variation is focused on hunting game birds.
Mossberg SA-28
The following are the main parameters of one of the best Turkish-made semi-automatic hunting rifles:
- caliber - 28;
- chamber type - 3-inch knot;
- mechanism - semi-automatic gas outlet;
- weight – 2.4 kg;
- barrel length - 25 inches.
The weapon is notable for its light weight, low recoil. The disadvantages include a tight descent and the possibility of failure with the shutter open after the third salvo.
Beretta 690
The specified model with a breaking mechanism and vertical placement of trunks belongs to the best hunting rifles in the world. It is available in 20 or 12 gauge, has a 3-inch chamber, weighs 2.7 kg, and has a 28- or 26-inch barrel.
The updated version is a perfectly balanced field weapon. Not all users liked the appearance, taking into account the rather high price (about three thousand dollars). However, the aluminum elements of the forearm allow you to maintain optimal balance.between the user's hands. The rest of the metal parts are black anodized.
Stevens 555
Turkish vertical rifle with 28-m running caliber is equipped with a breaking mechanism, weighs just over two kilograms, the barrel length is 26 inches. It is pleasant to shoot from this gun, the accuracy is good, the recoil is practically not felt. Facilitates the construction of a block made of a special alloy. An improved modification was released in 2016, received automatic ejectors and a silver block with engraving.
Among the best 12 gauge hunting rifles, another Turkish representative is noted - Huglu Gammergun. The weapon has retained its rare appearance, however, it corresponds to all the characteristics of modern weapons of its category. It is convenient to use, but its price is not affordable for everyone. It should be noted another unique "Turk" - Akkar Triple Crown. Its feature is reliability, convenience and the presence of three trunks. True, a decent weight and high price do not attract all ordinary hunters.
10 Best Domestic Hunting Rifles
Among Russian representatives, models from Izhevsk and Tula gunsmiths are popular. First, consider the best representatives of the IZH line:
- Modification 18 - an easy-to-handle weapon, for a long period belonged to the "running" versions, made without external triggers, the barrel was developed for several calibers.
- IZH-54 is one of the mostpopular "children" of the plant. Removable barrels of the 12th gauge are placed horizontally, the chamber is 7 cm long. Standard constrictions have a parabolic configuration, the working channels are chrome-plated. This model is one of the first hammerless versions released into mass production. Locking is triple type.
- IZH-43 is a shotgun created back in 1969 that has gone through several stages of modernization. Weight - 3 kg, number of barrels - two with a horizontal arrangement. They have a removable design, are connected with the help of an aiming and lower bar. The working channels are chrome-plated, the ejection of spent cartridge cases occurs due to a common ejector, followed by pulling them out manually.
- IZH-27 - the model was developed by designer Klimov, mass-produced since 1973. It is considered the most modernized modification from this manufacturer, is very popular, often referred to as the "people's gun". The new versions have improved stock, forearm, and introduced a ventilated aiming bar.
- IZH-58 is a popular gun, recognized by professional and amateur hunters, is an easy-to-use tool. The standard double-barrel version is equipped with two horizontal barrels (12/16/20/28 caliber), is still produced today, mass production began in 1958.
TOZ modifications
Which hunting rifles are better from Tula gunsmiths, let's try to find out further:
- TOZ-B model is the progenitor of the majoritymodern Tula trunks. Externally-trigger design with a pair of barrels is suitable for any kind of hunting. It is noteworthy that the first batch was distributed to hunters for free, so that they could be convinced of the reliability and practicality of the product.
- TOZ-BM is a modified variation of the predecessor above. It differs slightly from it, the stem part, which was made of reinforced materials, has changed. Calibers - 16th and 20th.
- Series 34 - the vertical is popular with the population, has a low stem fit. The model has been produced in limited editions and on order since 1964.
- TOZ-80 - refers to trigger specimens with two horizontally paired barrels, the length of which is 71 centimeters. The 12 mm caliber shotgun has been manufactured since 1986, the working channels are chrome-plated, the barrels and forearm are of a removable type. Triple locking provided by underbarrel hooks and cross bolt.
- TOZ-66 – 12-gauge double-barreled shotgun equipped with a reinforced stem box, barrel length 70-72 cm, weight 3.2 kg, chamber designed for paper and metal cartridge cases.
Conclusions
Absolutely uniform criteria for choosing the best hunting rifle does not exist. Much depends on the type of hunting, financial capabilities of the user and his personal preferences. Nevertheless, among the budget models there are quite a few worthy representatives who have been tested by time and have been in demand for decades.
