Best Precision Rifles: A Look at the Top ‘Out of the Box’ Rifles

Last updated on October 25th, 2024

If you’re the sort who can’t deal with the agonising wait for a custom rifle to be built, you’re in the right place. We’re diving into the best precision rifles available right now straight out of the box. These aren’t your run of the mill plinking rifles, these are the best of the best, factory made rifles. We’ve compiled a list of the finest precision rifles, and we’re not ranking them because frankly, they’re all fantastic in their own right. “Out of the box” here means straight from the factory, no custom work required.

First up, we have some real heavy hitters that are as solid as a battleship. But before you rush off and make a purchase, remember that choosing the right rifle isn’t just about picking the sleekest one. You need to consider the caliber, the weight, and how user friendly it is. Basically, pick something that suits your shooting style.

Table of Contents

1. Best Overall Precision Rifle – Sako TRG 22 A1
2. Best Long Action Precision Rifle – Accuracy International AX
3. Most Durable Precision Rifle – Barrett MRAD
4. Best Value Precision Rifle – Daniel Defense Delta 5 Pro
5. Best Medium Budget Precision Rifle – Tikka TAC A1
6. Most Modern Precision Rifle – Christiensen Arms MPR
7. Best Entry Level Precision Rifle – Ruger Precision Rifle
8. Best Precision Rifle For Hunting – SIG CROSS STX

Best Overall Precision Rifle

Sako TRG 22 A1

The action is smoother than silk sheets, and the cold hammer forged barrel is the secret sauce behind Sako’s legendary accuracy. The folding stock is a nifty touch, making transport easy. Plus, it comes with an adjustable trigger pull ranging from 2 to 4 pounds and a 20 MOA full-length Picatinny rail for effortless mounting of your optics, whether you’re shooting in broad daylight or the dead of night and want to add some nightvision capability.

For those who love their accessories, the fore-end has M-LOK around the barrel and is a great feature, allowing you to mount just about anything. If your budget can stretch to it, you’ll find the Sako TRG 22 A1 is worth every cent. It’s undoubtedly one of the best precision rifles out there, delivering top notch performance and quality. In summary, if you want a rifle that’s ready to perform straight out of the box, with precision engineering and unparalleled reliability, the Sako TRG 22 A1 should be at the top of your list. It certainly was for me.

Quick Stats: Sako TRG 22 A1

Sako TRG 22 A1

Check Price at EuroOptic

ScopeList(See Price)

Best Long Action Precision Rifle

Accuracy International AX

The Accuracy International AX series are one of the cornerstones of precision rifle shooting. This legendary piece of engineering has become a go to choice for professional shooters, military snipers, and competitive marksmen across the globe. It comes in both long and short actions, catering to every conceivable need and then some. Built like a tank, the AX series is designed to take a beating and still deliver consistent accuracy at very long distances.

Now, the AX isn’t just tough, it’s also incredibly versatile. Want to switch calibers? No problem. You can change the barrel in minutes using the hex key conveniently stashed in the cheek piece. This little feature is a godsend for those who need to measure the distance to the lands for reloading or check the rifling. It’s the kind of user-friendly design that makes you wonder why all rifles aren’t built this way.

The customization options on the AX are nothing short of extraordinary. You can adjust the length of pull, the height of the cheek piece, and the length of the butt pad, all to ensure the rifle fits you like a glove. It’s this attention to detail and the established combat reputation that sets the AX apart from the competition.

But let’s talk about what really matters, performance. The AX delivers repeatable accuracy, whether you’re in a high stakes competition or a life or death military operation. The bolt is very smooth, the trigger breaks satisfyingly, and the barrels are top notch. Yes, it’s pricey, but you get what you pay for. You won’t be disappointed if you add one of these to your collection.

Quick Stats: Accuracy International AX

Accuracy International AX

Check Price at EuroOptic

ScopeList(See Price)

Most Durable Precision Rifle

Barrett MRAD

The Barrett MRAD, or ‘Multi-Role Adaptive Design’, a rifle that can only be described as a beast in the world of precision shooting. Just like Sako and Accuracy International, Barrett has a long standing reputation for creating exceptional long distance rifles, and the MRAD is no exception. Launched in 2013 to meet the stringent requirements of the US Special Operations Command Precision Sniper Rifle contract, this piece of kit is built to thrive in the harshest of environments and an easy contender for one of the best precision rifles.

Now, let’s talk about the MRAD’s modular design, it’s a bit like having a Swiss Army knife in rifle form. Need to switch calibers? Piece of cake. Just loosen two bolts with a standard Torx wrench, and you’re good to go. It’s so simple, and makes a fantastic feature to have on a long range rifle. And, like the TRG and Accuracy International models, the MRAD boasts a full length Picatinny rail on top and a folding stock.
The performance of the MRAD is nothing short of spectacular. The bolt action is smoother than a well aged single malt, the trigger is crisp, and the feeding system is unfailingly reliable. It’s no wonder this rifle has become a favorite among long distance shooters.

Accuracy, adaptability, and reliability are the key elements with the MRAD. If you can handle its weight and length, this is a professional grade rifle that deserves serious consideration. In short, the Barrett MRAD is a precision instrument that will not let you down when it matters most.

Quick Stats: Barrett MRAD

Barrett MRAD

Check Price at EuroOptic

ScopeList(See Price)
Palmetto State Armoury(See Price)

Best Value Precision Rifle

Daniel Defense Delta 5 Pro

The Daniel Defense Delta 5 Pro, a rifle that screams precision. Daniel Defense first dipped its toes into the bolt action world with the Delta 5 in 2019, and after a few tweaks and improvements, the Delta 5 Pro was born in 2020. Designed to fit into the production division of the Precision Rifle Series (PRS), this beauty comes equipped with a free floating threaded cold hammer-forged barrel, ensuring top tier accuracy right out of the box and a very easy choice as one of the best precision rifles on the market today.

The heart of this beast is the chassis. Built from solid aluminium, it provides a rock solid platform that’s as stable as a mountain. This chassis isn’t just tough it’s also versatile, allowing you to kit out your rifle with a bunch of accessories and attachments to tailor your setup to your needs. The Delta 5 Pro doesn’t just look good, it runs well too. The bolt action is satisfying, and the adjustable trigger lets you dial in your perfect pull weight. The stock is fully adjustable too, allowing you to find your ideal length of pull and cheek rest height. This means you can get as comfortable as possible behind the rifle, which is crucial for those long days at the range or competition.

What really sets the Delta 5 Pro apart is its price point. For what you get, a quality barrel, superb action, and a bomb proof chassis, it’s a steal. It’s no wonder this rifle has quickly gained a reputation as one of the best precision rifles on the market. Competitive shooters love it, and for good reason, it offers fantastic value for money. The only chink in its otherwise impressive armor? The limited caliber options currently available. But if you can live with that, the Daniel Defense Delta 5 Pro is a rifle that’s hard to beat for the price.

Quick Stats: Daniel Defense Delta 5 Pro

Daniel Defense Delta 5 Pro

Check Price at EuroOptic

Palmeto State Armory(See Price)

Best Medium Budget Precision Rifle

Tikka TAC A1

The Tikka TAC A1, the industry standard for the basic needs of out of the box precision rifle. This Finnish marvel, made by the reputable Tikka, made waves when it first hit the scene, balancing price and performance like a high wire act. Popular at the rifle range here in Australia, it’s an out of the box precision shooter’s dream, and here’s why.

First off, let’s talk about the barrel, the heart of any good rifle. The TAC A1 sports a cold hammer forged, threaded free floating barrel, a major factor in its consistent accuracy. Available in various calibers, including .308 Winchester and 6.5 Creedmoor, with barrel lengths of 20 or 24 inches, this rifle caters to a range of shooting needs. The 24-inch option, in particular, ensures those long range shots land exactly where you want them with the added velocity.

Now, onto the chassis. This beauty is built on a solid aluminum chassis, providing a stable and rugged platform. It’s designed for modularity, featuring an AR stock interface, AR pistol grip interface, and an M-LOK fore-end for attaching all the tactical accessories your heart desires. The stock is adjustable, allowing you to customize the length of pull, cheek rest height, and recoil pad position, making sure you’re always in the most comfortable and efficient shooting position.

The action on the TAC A1 is as smooth as a well oiled machine, thanks to its two lug bolt with a 70 degree throw, ensuring quick and effortless cycling. The two stage trigger, adjustable from 2 to 4 pounds, breaks nicely, providing a crisp, clean shot every time. Of course, all this excellence doesn’t come with too hefty of a price tag. The Tikka TAC A1 offers military grade specifications and performance for a fraction of the cost of its competitors, making it an unbeatable value in the precision rifle market. It’s designed to perform alongside systems that cost twice as much, and it does so with style and reliability.

So, if you’re after a precision rifle that delivers superb accuracy, rugged reliability, and exceptional value, the Tikka TAC A1 is the one to beat. Just be aware of the limited caliber options, but honestly, with everything else this rifle offers, it’s a minor issue.

Quick Stats: Tikka TAC A1

Tikka TAC A1

Check Price at EuroOptic

Palmetto State Armory(See Price)
ScopeList(See Price)

Most Modern Precision Rifle

Christensen Arms MPR

The Christensen Arms MPR, I haven’t seen an out of the box rifle offered in as many 6mm variants as this. If you’re not familiar, Christensen Arms is a bit like the NASA of the firearms world, thanks to Dr. Jason Christensen. Yes, you heard that right, this gentlemen started out working with rocket fuselages and aircraft parts before turning his sights on making the ultimate bolt rifle.

Now, the MPR isn’t just any old rifle you pluck off the shelf. It’s had some serious design thought. Its well crafted for those who want excellence straight out of the box. The MPR comes with a 20 MOA Picatinny rail on top as well as a folding stock. The folding stock is a great feature, making it easier to lug around without feeling like you’re carrying a set of skis. And the adjustable length of pull and cheek height ensures that every shooter finds their perfect fit for them.

Now, let’s talk about versatility. This rifle is available in a variety of calibers, which basically means it’s ready for any kind of competition you want to enter. Whether you’re popping targets at a thousand yards or just want something that won’t break your back on a long trek, the MPR has got you covered. It’s lightweight, sleek, and reliable, a trifecta that’s rare to find in the precision rifle world. So, if you’re in the market for a rifle that’s not just a tool, but a finely tuned instrument of precision, the Christensen Arms MPR should be on your shortlist.

Quick Stats: Christiensen Arms MPR

Christiensen Arms MPR

Check Price at EuroOptic

Palmetto State Armory(See Price)

Best Entry Level Precision Rifle

Ruger Precision Rifle

When I embarked on my precision shooting journey many years ago, I kicked things off with a Ruger Precision Rifle in .308. The Ruger made its debut on the world stage back in 2015, and it came packed with features and at a price point that changed the industry. For a rifle straight out of the box, it’s extremely affordable and quickly ascended the ranks to become one of the most accessible precision rifles when it first hit the scene. The chassis system on this rifle makes it a breeze for any shooter to dive into precision rifle matches without the need for any drastic modifications.

Ruger offers the Precision Rifle in a bunch of calibers, catering to both short and long action fans. Whether you’re aiming to plink or reach out to great distances, Ruger’s got you covered. Thanks to its weight, it helps to tame the recoil from larger calibers. Everyone was surprised by the low recoil shooting my .308 RPR. The bolt is a three lug design with a 70 degree throw, its very robust and gives you confidence it will perform. The rear of the bolt even houses a take down Allen key for adjusting the trigger weight. Engaging the bolt feels like shutting a bank vault, and cycling rounds its nice and smooth for the price.

Talking accuracy, the Ruger Precision Rifle has fantastic performance for the cost. Achieving sub MOA accuracy with high quality factory ammo or hand loads is easy. In my 500 meter shoots, this rifle had no issues about consistently pinging 5 inch gongs. Overall, the Ruger Precision Rifle is a stellar choice for anyone stepping into the precision rifle arena. Straight out of the box, it’s a complete package that offers an unbeatable blend of performance and affordability and it has made a name for itself as one of the best precision rifles for the money.

Quick Stats: Ruger Precision Rifle

Ruger Precision Rifle

Check Price at PSA

Best Precision Rifle For Hunting

SIG CROSS STX

The SIG SAUER CROSS range, a rifle series gaining more and more popularity around the world, added a new player to its lineup, the STX. The original CROSS rifle hit the scene in 2020, flaunting 16” and 18” barrel options. Fast forward to 2022, and we got introduced to the PRS model with its impressively long 24” barrel, perfect for those who like their rifles to get as much velocity as possible.

And now, the latest tactical variant, the CROSS STX. This beast sports a 20” barrel, a 20 MOA full-length rail, and a QD flash hider. It’s like they’ve taken the already formidable CROSS rifle and given it a shot of adrenaline adding some great features. The STX borrows some of the finer details from the PRS model, the thumb rest safety selector, PRS-style grip, but manages to shave off some weight, making it a bit more nimble in the field.

Since its debut in 2020, this rifle has earned a sterling reputation as an out of the box wonder. The bolt is as smooth as a well oiled piston, the accuracy is like a laser guided missile, and the overall performance? Simply top notch. It’s a solid choice for sports shooters and hunters alike, proving once again that SIG SAUER knows how to make a great factory rifle.

Quick Stats: SIG CROSS STX

SIG CROSS STX

Check Price at EuroOptic

ScopeList(See Price)

Summary

So, here’s the bottom line, if you’re after one of the best precision rifles that delivers repeatable accuracy, these bad boys are it. Designed to perform straight out of the box, they cater to every need from long range target shooting to rugged hunting. We’re talking smooth bolt actions, adjustable triggers, and modular designs that fit like a glove. These rifles are built to last, boasting reliability and performance that make lesser guns look like children’s toys. In short, whether you’re a seasoned shooter or just starting out, these precision rifles will elevate your shooting game to greater heights.

EDITORS PICK

Sako TRG 22 A1

Great ergonomics, easy to shoot

Check Price

LONG ACTION PICK

Accuracy International AX

Time proven and battle tested, the AI is hard to beat

Check Price

MOST DURABLE

Barrett MRAD

Another battle proven option built like a battleship

Check Price

BEST VALUE

Daniel Defense Delta 5 Pro

Good quality, reliable, easy to use

Check Price

CLASSIC PICK

Tikka TAC A1

Loaded with features, great for competitions

Check Price

MODERN PICK

Christiensen Arms MPR

A lightweight and reliable modern precision rifle

Check Price

ENTRY LEVEL PICK

Ruger Precision Rifle

Cheaper than the Tikka TAC A1 but brings alot of features to keep up

Check Price

LIGHTWEIGHT PICK

SIG CROSS STX

Affordable and lightweight, would also suit hunting

Check Price

Frequently Asked Questions

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.

Are long range rifles good for hunting?

Typically long range rifles are on the heavier side, the larger barrel profile, rigid and customisable stock and large magnification optic all combine into a heavy package. Hunting usually involves alot of travel and a heavy cumbersome rifle makes this job alot more difficult, that’s why hunters prefer lightweight agile rifles and typically avoid heavy precision rifles.