Best Precision Rifles 2026 | Top Factory-Built Long Range Rifles Reviewed

Last updated on January 17th, 2026

Precision rifles are purpose-built tools designed for accuracy, consistency, and repeatability at extended distances. Unlike standard sporting rifles, these platforms feature rigid actions, heavy barrels, adjustable chassis systems, and trigger assemblies tuned for precision shooting.

In this guide, we’ve selected the best factory-built precision rifles for 2026, rifles that deliver exceptional performance straight out of the box, without the need for custom gunsmithing or aftermarket upgrades.

Whether you’re competing in long-range matches, setting up a dedicated precision rifle for training, or looking for a crossover platform suitable for hunting and field use, the rifles below represent the top precision rifle platforms currently available.

Each rifle has been assessed on accuracy potential, build quality, ergonomics, calibre options, and real-world usability for long-range shooting.

Quick Picks – Best Precision Rifles of 2026

If you’re short on time, these are the standout factory-built precision rifles for 2026, selected for accuracy, build quality, and real-world long-range performance.

• Best Overall Precision Rifle: Sako TRG 22 A1
• Best Modular Precision Rifle: Barrett MRAD
• Best Long-Action Precision Rifle: Accuracy International AX
• Best Value Precision Rifle: Daniel Defense Delta 5 Pro
• Best Proven Competition Rifle: Tikka TAC A1
• Best Lightweight Precision Rifle: Christensen Arms MPR
• Best Entry-Level Precision Rifle: Ruger Precision Rifle
• Best Precision Rifle for Hunting: SIG CROSS

All rifles listed below are factory-built platforms designed to deliver consistent precision out of the box, without the need for custom gunsmithing or immediate upgrades.

How We Selected These Precision Rifles

Selecting the best precision rifles for 2026 required more than simply listing popular models. Each rifle in this guide was evaluated as a complete factory-built system, with emphasis on performance out of the box, not after extensive modification.

Our selection criteria focused on the following factors:

• Accuracy potential – barrel quality, action consistency, and factory tolerances
• Build quality and durability – materials, machining, and long-term reliability
• Ergonomics and adjustability – stock or chassis design, balance, and shooter fit
• Calibre availability – support for modern long-range and competition cartridges
• Real-world usability – suitability for competition, training, and field use

All rifles listed are proven platforms used by competitive shooters, professional end-users, or serious long-range enthusiasts. Custom builds and budget sporter rifles were intentionally excluded to keep the focus on true precision rifle systems.

Sako TRG 22 A1 — Best Overall Precision Rifle

The A1 variant introduced a modernised aluminium chassis system, replacing the earlier stock while retaining the rifle’s proven core. This chassis offers extensive adjustability, including length of pull, cheek height, grip position, and a folding mechanism for transport. The result is a rifle that fits a wide range of shooters without compromise and remains stable in prone, barricade, or supported positions.

Calibre support is another major strength. The TRG 22 A1 is available in multiple long-action cartridges suited to serious long-range work, including .300 Winchester Magnum and .338 Lapua Magnum. This makes it equally viable for competition, training, and extreme-distance shooting, provided the shooter is prepared to manage its size and weight.

Where the TRG 22 A1 truly stands out is in system cohesion. Nothing feels aftermarket or added as an afterthought. The trigger is clean and predictable, the chassis is rigid without being harsh, and the rifle maintains accuracy even as conditions and round counts increase.

That said, the TRG 22 A1 is not a lightweight rifle, nor is it inexpensive. Its mass is a deliberate design choice, favouring recoil control and stability over portability. For shooters seeking a lightweight hunting rifle, this is not the right platform.

Best suited for:
Shooters who want a no-compromise, factory-built precision rifle capable of competition, long-range training, and extended-distance shooting without modification.

Quick Stats: Sako TRG 22 A1

Weight	12.6lb / 5.7kg
Length	40-47″
Calibers	260, 6.5, 308, 300WM, 338
Trigger Adjustment	1.2-2.1 kg / 3-5 lbs
Colors	Tungsten, Coyote, Graphite, Olive

Accuracy International AX — Best Long-Action Precision Rifle

The Accuracy International AX represents the upper end of factory-built precision rifle design, prioritising absolute consistency, modularity, and durability above all else. It is a rifle engineered for shooters who operate at extended distances and demand repeatable performance under sustained use.

At the core of the AX platform is Accuracy International’s proven bolt action, known for its rigid construction and precise lock-up. The action is designed to maintain alignment and consistency even under high round counts and adverse conditions, a key reason AI rifles are widely respected in professional and competition circles. The bolt lift is deliberate rather than light, reinforcing the rifle’s emphasis on reliability and mechanical stability.

One of the defining features of the AX is its quick-change barrel system. This allows shooters to swap barrels and calibres with minimal tools while maintaining repeatable zero, making the platform exceptionally versatile for long-action cartridges. When chambered in cartridges such as .300 PRC or .338 Lapua Magnum, the AX excels at extreme-distance shooting where consistency and recoil management become critical.

The aluminium chassis system is equally purposeful. It offers extensive adjustability in length of pull, cheek height, and grip position, allowing the rifle to be precisely fitted to the shooter. The chassis is rigid and weight-forward, contributing to excellent recoil control and stability in prone and supported firing positions. While not lightweight, the mass is intentional and beneficial for long-range precision work.

In practical use, the AX is a rifle that rewards disciplined shooting fundamentals. Its predictable recoil impulse, consistent feeding, and repeatable accuracy make it particularly well suited to ELR-style shooting and long-action competition formats. The trigger is clean and adjustable, reinforcing the rifle’s precision-first design philosophy.

The primary drawbacks of the Accuracy International AX are its cost and weight. It is one of the more expensive factory precision rifles on the market, and its mass makes it unsuitable for shooters prioritising portability or hunting use.

Best suited for:
Shooters focused on long-action precision, extreme long-range shooting, and those who value modularity, durability, and consistency over weight or cost. Its also a popular choice for the military.

Quick Stats: Accuracy International AX

Weight	13.7lb / 6.2Kg
Length	1155mm-940mm
Calibers	6mm, 6.5, 308, 338, 300WM
Colors	Dark Earth, Green, Brown, Sand, Midnight

Barrett MRAD — Most Durable and Modular Precision Rifle Platform

The Barrett MRAD (Multi-Role Adaptive Design) is a precision rifle built around one defining principle: modularity without sacrificing durability or accuracy. Unlike many factory precision rifles that prioritise competition ergonomics alone, the MRAD is engineered as a hard-use platform capable of sustained long-range performance in demanding environments.

At its core, the MRAD uses a robust bolt action designed to handle high-pressure cartridges and extended firing schedules. The action is paired with a heavy, hammer-forged barrel system that emphasises longevity and thermal stability. Accuracy is not achieved through tight tolerances alone, but through a system designed to maintain alignment and consistency even as conditions change.

The defining feature of the MRAD is its user-configurable barrel and calibre system. Barrels can be swapped quickly with minimal tools, allowing the rifle to transition between calibres such as .308 Winchester, .300 PRC, and .338 Lapua Magnum while maintaining reliable headspacing and repeatable zero. This flexibility makes the MRAD particularly attractive to shooters who want a single precision rifle platform capable of covering multiple roles.

The monolithic aluminium chassis is rigid, heavy, and intentionally overbuilt. It provides excellent recoil management and stability in prone and supported positions, at the expense of portability. The folding stock and extensive adjustability allow the rifle to be fitted to a wide range of shooters, while the overall balance favours controlled recoil and shot-to-shot consistency rather than quick handling.

In real-world use, the MRAD excels under sustained firing. Recoil impulse is predictable, feeding is reliable, and accuracy remains consistent over longer strings. While it may feel less refined than some competition-focused rifles, it compensates with durability and adaptability that few factory platforms can match.

The trade-offs are clear. The MRAD is heavy, expensive, and not optimised for lightweight field use. For shooters focused purely on competition, there are lighter and more specialised options available. However, for those who value modularity and ruggedness, the MRAD stands apart.

Best suited for:
Shooters who want a single, factory-built precision rifle capable of handling multiple calibres, sustained use, and demanding conditions without compromise.

Quick Stats: Barrett MRAD

Weight	6kg / 13.3 lbs
Length	1026mm-1204mm
Calibers	6.5, 308, 300WM, 300 PRC, 300NM, 338,
Trigger Adjustment	3-5lb
Colors	Black, Tungsten, FDE, Coyote

Daniel Defense Delta 5 Pro — Best Value Factory Precision Rifle

The Daniel Defense Delta 5 Pro occupies an important space in the precision rifle market: a factory-built platform that delivers genuine long-range performance without the extreme cost associated with flagship European or military-oriented rifles. It is designed for shooters who want precision capability out of the box, but with a stronger emphasis on accessibility and competition value.

The Delta 5 Pro is built around a rigid bolt action paired with a heavy-profile barrel designed to maintain accuracy through longer shot strings. While not as overbuilt as some military-focused platforms, the action provides consistent lock-up and reliable feeding, which translates into predictable accuracy in both training and competition environments. Barrel lengths and twist rates are chosen to support modern long-range cartridges commonly used in precision rifle matches.

A major strength of the Delta 5 Pro is its chassis system, which offers a high degree of adjustability for length of pull, cheek height, and grip ergonomics. This allows shooters to achieve a proper fit without resorting to aftermarket components, an important consideration for newer competitors or those transitioning into long-range shooting. The folding stock adds practicality for transport while retaining rigidity when deployed.

In practical use, the Delta 5 Pro performs best in competition-style shooting where positional stability, recoil control, and repeatability matter more than absolute ruggedness. Recoil impulse is manageable, the trigger is crisp and predictable, and the rifle maintains accuracy well across extended range sessions. It does not attempt to be a duty-grade rifle; instead, it focuses on delivering consistent precision in controlled environments.

The primary compromise comes in overall refinement. While accuracy is excellent for the price point, the Delta 5 Pro does not offer the same level of modularity or extreme durability as higher-end platforms. For most civilian precision shooters, however, these trade-offs are acceptable and often irrelevant.

Best suited for:
Shooters seeking a high-performance, factory-built precision rifle for competition or long-range training at a more approachable price point.

Quick Stats: Daniel Defense Delta 5 Pro

Weight	11.7 lbs / 5.3kg
Length	38.5″
Calibers	6mm, 6.5, 308,
Trigger Adjustment	1.5 to 4lbs
Colors	Black, OD, Coyote

Tikka TAC A1 — Proven Competition Precision Rifle

The Tikka TAC A1 has earned its reputation through consistent performance rather than novelty. It is a precision rifle built on proven fundamentals, combining Tikka’s well-regarded action with a robust chassis system designed for long-range competition and serious training use.

At the heart of the TAC A1 is the Tikka action, known for its smooth bolt throw, excellent lock-up consistency, and strong manufacturing tolerances. This action has long been respected in both competition and professional circles, and in the TAC A1 it is paired with a cold hammer-forged heavy barrel that delivers reliable accuracy over extended shot strings. Barrel quality and chamber consistency are among the rifle’s strongest attributes, contributing to predictable performance at distance.

The TAC A1 chassis is purpose-built for precision shooting. It offers extensive adjustability in length of pull, cheek height, and grip positioning, allowing shooters to achieve a repeatable and comfortable firing position. The folding stock improves transport and storage without compromising rigidity, while the overall weight and balance of the rifle aid in recoil management and stability, particularly in prone and barricade-supported positions.

In competition environments, the TAC A1 is valued for its shootability. Recoil impulse is smooth, the trigger is clean and consistent, and the rifle tracks well through recoil, making it easier to spot impacts and maintain follow-up shots. While it may lack the extreme modularity of some newer platforms, its simplicity is often seen as an advantage by shooters who prioritise reliability and consistency over configurability.

The trade-offs are largely related to flexibility. The TAC A1 does not offer the same calibre-change capability as modular systems, and its weight makes it less suitable for hunting or highly mobile applications. However, these compromises are intentional and aligned with the rifle’s intended role.

Best suited for:
Competitive shooters and long-range enthusiasts seeking a proven, factory-built precision rifle with excellent accuracy, ergonomics, and reliability.

Quick Stats: Tikka TAC A1

Weight	11.2lb / 5.1 kg
Length	1104mm-869mm
Calibers	223, 260, 308, 6.5
Trigger Adjustment	2-4 lbs
Colors	Black, Coyote

Christensen Arms MPR — Lightweight Precision Rifle Option

The Christensen Arms MPR (Modern Precision Rifle) is designed for shooters who want precision rifle capability in a platform that places a stronger emphasis on weight reduction and portability. Unlike many traditional precision rifles that prioritise mass for recoil control, the MPR targets shooters looking for a crossover between long-range precision and field practicality.

At its core, the MPR uses a bolt action paired with Christensen Arms’ signature carbon fibre–wrapped barrel. This barrel construction is intended to reduce overall weight while maintaining stiffness and thermal stability. In practice, the barrel offers good accuracy for its class and handles moderate shot strings well, although it is not designed for the sustained, high-volume firing typical of heavy competition rifles.

The aluminium chassis system is more streamlined than those found on heavier precision platforms. It provides necessary adjustability in length of pull and cheek height, but without the bulk of fully modular competition chassis systems. This results in a rifle that balances well and remains comfortable to shoot from prone or supported positions, while still being practical to carry in the field.

Where the MPR distinguishes itself is in application flexibility. It is well suited to shooters who want a rifle capable of long-range accuracy for training or recreational shooting, but who also intend to use the same platform for hunting or field work. Recoil management is naturally more demanding due to the reduced mass, particularly in magnum calibres, but this is an expected trade-off for the weight savings.

The primary limitations of the MPR are related to durability under sustained use and recoil control when compared to heavier precision rifles. It is not intended as a high-round-count competition platform, and shooters focused on PRS-style matches may find heavier rifles more forgiving.

Best suited for:
Shooters seeking a lighter, factory-built precision rifle that balances long-range capability with portability and field use. For the plinkers, there’s even a rimfire version.

Quick Stats: Christiensen Arms MPR

Weight	8.9lb / 4.05kg
Length	42.75″
Calibers	223, 6mm, 6.5 CRD, 6.5 PRC, 6.8, 7mm, 308, 300WIN, 300 PRC, 338
Trigger Adjustment	1.5-4 lbs
Colors	Black, Desert Brown, Tungsten

Ruger Precision Rifle — Best Entry-Level Precision Rifle

The Ruger Precision Rifle (RPR) has played a significant role in making long-range precision shooting accessible to a much wider audience. While it may not match the refinement or durability of higher-end platforms, it remains one of the most approachable factory-built precision rifles available and continues to serve as a practical entry point into the discipline.

The RPR is built around a bolt action designed to balance cost, functionality, and accuracy. When paired with its heavy-profile barrel, the rifle is capable of respectable long-range performance, particularly in commonly available calibres such as 6.5 Creedmoor and .308 Winchester. While the action lacks the smoothness of premium European platforms, it is reliable and consistent enough to support precision shooting fundamentals.

One of the RPR’s key strengths is its chassis-based design, which provides adjustability in length of pull, cheek height, and overall ergonomics. This allows new shooters to achieve a workable fit without immediate aftermarket investment. The folding stock improves transport and storage, and the rifle’s geometry supports prone and supported shooting positions well.

In practical use, the Ruger Precision Rifle rewards good fundamentals but is less forgiving than heavier, more refined platforms. Recoil management is adequate, and accuracy remains consistent for moderate round counts, though extended high-volume firing can expose its limitations compared to more expensive rifles. The trigger is serviceable and adjustable, though many shooters eventually upgrade it as skill level increases.

In terms of accessories on my RPR, I ran a PIG saddle tripod, Vortex scope rings and a PST Gen II.

The primary appeal of the RPR lies in its value proposition. It offers genuine precision rifle features at a significantly lower price point than most competitors, making it an attractive option for shooters who are new to long-range shooting or working within a defined budget. Its widespread adoption also means strong aftermarket support and readily available accessories.

Best suited for:
New precision rifle shooters, budget-conscious long-range enthusiasts, and those looking for an accessible entry point into factory-built precision rifles. You can read more about the new RPR improvements here.

Quick Stats: Ruger Precision Rifle

Weight	10.7lb / 4.8kg
Length	43.25″ – 46.75″
Calibers	223, 6.5, 6mm, 243, 338, 300WM, 300PRC
Trigger Adjustment	2.25-5 lb
Colors	Black, Tan

SIG CROSS — Best Precision Rifle for Hunting

The SIG CROSS occupies a different niche to most rifles in this guide, prioritising portability, balance, and field usability over mass and recoil mitigation. While it lacks the heavy, competition-focused characteristics of traditional precision rifles, it offers a compelling option for shooters who want precision capability in a lightweight hunting platform.

Built around a lightweight bolt action, the SIG CROSS is designed to be carried rather than staged. The rifle features a folding, adjustable stock that keeps overall length manageable while still allowing for a proper shooting fit. Barrel lengths are shorter than those found on dedicated competition rifles, which contributes to reduced weight and improved handling in field environments.

In terms of accuracy, the SIG CROSS delivers solid performance for its intended role. It is capable of consistent long-range hits within realistic hunting distances and performs well when paired with modern cartridges suited to medium and long-range field shooting. Recoil management is naturally more demanding due to the reduced mass, particularly in larger calibres, but this is an expected compromise in exchange for portability.

The rifle’s ergonomics reflect its dual-purpose design. The stock and grip geometry are comfortable in prone and supported positions, while the lighter overall weight makes the rifle easier to manoeuvre in uneven terrain. Unlike heavier precision platforms, the SIG CROSS encourages deliberate shot placement rather than high-volume firing.

The primary limitations of the SIG CROSS become apparent in competition or high-round-count environments. Heat management, recoil control, and sustained accuracy are not its focus, and shooters looking for a dedicated match rifle will be better served by heavier platforms in this guide.

Best suited for:
Hunters and field shooters seeking a lightweight, factory-built precision rifle that balances accuracy, portability, and practical long-range capability.

Quick Stats: SIG CROSS STX

Weight	7.7lb / 3.51kg
Length	41.5 in / 1054.1 mm
Calibers	6.5, 308
Trigger Adjustment	2.5-4 lb
Colors	Black

Precision Rifle Comparison Table – 2026

Rifle	Action Type	Calibre Support	Weight Class	Strengths	Best For
Sako TRG 22 A1	Bolt Action	Long-action magnums	Heavy	System cohesion, durability, accuracy	No-compromise precision
Accuracy International AX	Bolt Action	Long-action magnums	Very Heavy	Consistency, modularity, ELR	Extreme long range
Barrett MRAD	Bolt Action	Multi-calibre	Heavy	Durability, calibre flexibility	Hard-use modular platform
Daniel Defense Delta 5 Pro	Bolt Action	Short & long action	Medium-Heavy	Value, competition readiness	PRS & training
Tikka TAC A1	Bolt Action	Short & long action	Heavy	Proven accuracy, ergonomics	Competition shooters
Christensen Arms MPR	Bolt Action	Short & long action	Medium	Weight savings, versatility	Field & crossover use
Ruger Precision Rifle	Bolt Action	Short & long action	Medium-Heavy	Accessibility, aftermarket	Entry-level precision
SIG CROSS	Bolt Action	Short action	Lightweight	Portability, handling	Hunting & field use

Precision Rifle Buying Guide

Choosing a precision rifle involves more than selecting a well-known brand or popular calibre. Precision rifles are systems, and their performance is determined by how well the action, barrel, chassis, and calibre work together to deliver consistent results at distance.

This guide outlines the key factors that matter when selecting a factory-built precision rifle.

What Defines a Precision Rifle?

A precision rifle is designed to deliver repeatable accuracy, not just occasional tight groups. Compared to standard sporting rifles, precision rifles typically feature:

• Rigid bolt actions with consistent lock-up
• Heavy or stiffened barrels to manage heat and vibration
• Adjustable chassis or stocks for proper shooter fit
• Triggers tuned for predictable, repeatable release

These characteristics allow shooters to maintain accuracy over extended shot strings and across varying conditions.

Barrel Length, Profile, and Twist Rate

The barrel is one of the most critical components of a precision rifle.

• Longer barrels generally provide higher muzzle velocity, which improves ballistic consistency at long range.
• Heavy or stiffened profiles reduce barrel whip and heat-induced point-of-impact shift.
• Twist rate must be matched to bullet weight; modern long-range cartridges benefit from faster twists to stabilise high-BC projectiles.

For competition and training rifles, barrel mass is an advantage. For field and hunting rifles, weight becomes a trade-off.

Action Design and Lock-Up

Action rigidity directly affects consistency. Precision rifle actions prioritise:

• Uniform bolt lug engagement
• Minimal flex under recoil
• Smooth but controlled bolt operation

Actions that favour reliability and alignment over speed tend to perform better during sustained firing. This is particularly important in long-action calibres where recoil forces are higher.

Chassis Systems and Adjustability

Proper fit is essential for repeatable shooting. A good precision rifle chassis should allow adjustment of:

• Length of pull
• Cheek height
• Grip position

A rifle that fits the shooter reduces fatigue, improves recoil management, and makes it easier to maintain a consistent firing position across stages or shot strings.

Choosing the Right Calibre for Long Range

Calibre selection should be driven by intended use, not popularity alone.

• Short-action cartridges (e.g. 6.5-class cartridges) offer lower recoil and high efficiency for competition.
• Long-action cartridges provide better performance at extreme distances but increase recoil and system weight.

For most shooters, consistency and shootability matter more than raw ballistic performance.

Weight and Intended Use

Heavier rifles provide better recoil control and stability, making them easier to shoot accurately. Lighter rifles are easier to carry but demand stronger fundamentals.

• Competition and training rifles favour mass
• Hunting and field rifles prioritise portability

Understanding where your rifle will be used most often should guide every purchasing decision.

Why Buying the Right Precision Rifle Matters

A well-chosen factory-built precision rifle reduces the need for immediate upgrades, accelerates skill development, and delivers predictable performance from day one. While custom builds offer ultimate flexibility, modern factory rifles now provide exceptional accuracy and reliability without the cost or complexity of a full custom setup.

Frequently Asked Questions About Precision Rifles

What rifle do snipers use?

Military and police snipers around the world use a number of different setups, with each country and individual unit having their own preference. A number of military favorites made the list above for being some of the best precision rifles available. There are of course rifle manufacturers that are more common than others being used by these units. For example some of the top rifles being used by snipers around the world are the Accuracy International AXSR, Sako TRG M10 and Barrett MRAD.

What makes a rifle a precision rifle?

A precision rifle is designed for repeatable accuracy at extended distances. This typically includes a rigid action, a heavy or stiffened barrel, an adjustable stock or chassis, and a trigger designed for consistent release. These features allow the rifle to maintain accuracy over sustained firing rather than just producing occasional tight groups.

Are precision rifles suitable for hunting?

Some precision rifles are suitable for hunting, particularly lighter platforms designed for field use. However, many competition-oriented precision rifles are heavy and optimised for stability rather than portability. Hunters should prioritise weight, handling, and realistic engagement distances when choosing a rifle.

What calibre is best for long-range precision shooting?

The best calibre depends on intended use. Short-action cartridges offer lower recoil and excellent efficiency for competition and training, while long-action cartridges provide better performance at extreme distances. Consistency and shootability are generally more important than maximum ballistic performance.

Do I need a custom rifle to shoot long range accurately?

No. Modern factory-built precision rifles are capable of excellent long-range accuracy. For most shooters, a factory rifle paired with quality ammunition, optics, and proper training is more than sufficient for competition, training, and recreational long-range shooting.

Final Thoughts

The precision rifle market has matured significantly, and factory-built platforms now offer exceptional accuracy, durability, and ergonomics without the complexity of custom builds. The rifles listed in this guide represent the best factory precision rifles available for 2026, covering a wide range of applications, from competition and training to hunting and field use.

Choosing the right precision rifle comes down to understanding your intended use, managing trade-offs between weight and stability, and selecting a platform that supports consistent, repeatable shooting. With the right rifle and fundamentals, long-range precision becomes far more achievable.