Bolt Action Rifles

A bolt-action rifle is a rifle that uses a manually operated bolt to load the firearm and eject the cartridges after firing. The shooter is required to cycle the bolt after each shot. Bolt action rifles have multiple applications with target shooting, competition shooting, and hunting. At Fin Feather Fur Outfitters we have bolt action rifles for sale from top brands like Bergara, Ruger, & Savage Arms with free shipping on select bolt action rifles.

Bolt Action Rifles or Centerfire Rifles

A bolt action rifle is a rifle that uses a bolt mechanism to load and eject cartridges from the firearm, where the operator must manually lift, pull back, push forward, and lock the bolt between each shot. While on the other hand a centerfire rifle refers to the type of ammunition the rifle uses. Centerfire ammo is where the primer is located at the center of the cartridge base. Some confusion may come into place because most bolt action rifles are centerfire rifles, but not all centerfire rifles are bolt actions.

Why Choose A Bolt Action Rifle?

When it comes to shooting, bolt action rifles offer exceptional accuracy, reliability, and simplicity for firearms. Bolt actions have fewer moving parts than semi-automatic rifles meaning fewer mechanical disruptions during firing, making them one of the best choices for precision shooting and long range shots. Bolt action rifles are also easier to maintain and can be more affordable because of their overall simple designs.

Bolt Action Rifle Applications

Despite being incredibly simple, bolt action rifles are also highly versatile. Their impressive accuracy makes them a great choice for hunting, long-range shooting, shooting in harsh conditions, and training for skill development in beginner shooters.

Hunting With Bolt Action Rifles :
Bolt action rifles are among the top choices for hunters because of their accuracy, power, and reliability. Big game hunters choose bolt action rifles with high calibers for deer, elk, even moose. While on the other hand small game hunters can opt for a small caliber bolt action rifle like a .22LR or .223.
Bolt Action Rifles For Long-Range Shooting :
Bolt action rifles are among the top choices for hunters because of their accuracy, power, and reliability. Big game hunters choose bolt action rifles with high calibers for deer, elk, even moose. While on the other hand small game hunters can opt for a small caliber bolt action rifle like a .22LR or .223.
Bolt Action Rifles For Long-Range Shooting :
When it comes to long-range shooting, bolt action rifles are the premier choice because of their tight lockup and minimal mechanical movement. Bolt action rifles are the preferred firearm in precision rifle competitions, benchrest and tactical shooting sports, and sniper designated marksman roles (fore military and law enforcement settings). If you have access to a long distance firing range, enjoy some time shooting targets at long ranges with a bolt action rifle.
Bolt Action Rifle Reliability :
When it comes to shooting in harsh conditions, bolt action rifles are the firearm to choose. Many backcountry hunters or people shooting in cold and dirty environments choose bolt action rifles since they are simpler and more rugged making them less susceptible to jams or malfunctions.
Training & Skill Development With Bolt Action Rifles :
When beginners take up shooting, they can often become overwhelmed, confused, and overloaded with information. The simple design and ease of use of bolt action rifles makes them an excellent option when teaching people how to shoot because each shot is manually cycled, which encourages thoughtful shooting, and they promote focus on fundamentals like breathing and trigger discipline.

Top Bolt Action Rifle Brands

Ruger Bolt Action Rifles

Ruger provides affordable, accurate, and reliable bolt action rifles like the Ruger American Series. These rifles have a rugged build, smooth bolt operations, and are widely available combining performance and value making Ruger bolt action rifles great for beginners and seasoned hunters.

Savage Arms Bolt Action Rifles

Savage Arms is highly respected as a bolt action rifle brand because of their innovative accuracy-enhancing features like the AccuTrigger & AccuStock systems. This excellent accuracy like on the Savage 110 rival much more expensive rifles, making Savage Arms bolt action rifles not only among some of the most accurate, but valuable rifles perfect for target shooters and hunters alike.

Common Questions About Bolt Action Rifles

Are bolt action rifles more accurate than semi-automatic rifles?: Yes, generally. Bolt action rifles are widely considered more accurate than semi-automatics because they have fewer moving parts, a rigid locking mechanism, and no gas system disrupting the barrel during firing. This mechanical simplicity leads to greater shot-to-shot consistency, which is why bolt actions dominate in long-range shooting and hunting scenarios.
Are bolt action rifles good for beginners?: Yes, especially for learning proper marksmanship. Because they require manual cycling after each shot, bolt action rifles help beginners slow down and focus on fundamentals like aim, breathing, and trigger control. They’re also known for being reliable, easy to clean, and available in beginner-friendly calibers like .22 LR. Many first-time hunters and shooters start with bolt actions.
Do you need a background check to buy a bolt action rifle?: Federal law requires firearm dealers, regardless of location, to initiate a background check before selling or otherwise transferring a firearm to a person who is not a dealer. There is no “gun show loophole.” Federal law is the same, regardless of where a firearm sale takes place.