A buyer’s guide for the best budget bolt-action rifle and scope combos currently on the market.
We all appreciate luxury items, but when it comes to rifles, the cost can be prohibitive. For the majority of hunters, a cheaper rifle can be just as effective at putting meat on the table as an expensive one. Nowadays, budget rifles come with scopes, but are they any good? This article takes a look at a variety of budget rifle and scope combos to find out.
Out Of The Box And Into The Woods
Before getting into individual reviews, it is important to consider some key points. Firstly, the cost shouldn’t be the only factor in making a decision. Actual store prices are often lower than the Manufacturer’s Suggested Retail Price (MSRP), so it is essential to check current prices before making a purchase. Additionally, it is important to thoroughly check the quality of the scope, torque on the mount and scope rings, zero the rifle, and test it with preferred ammunition. Finally, while these packages provide great value for their price, they do have limitations that need to be considered based on the type of hunting intended.
Savage Axis II XP & Bushnell Banner 3-9x40mm
This rifle offers good value for the money, but the quality of both the rifle and scope may not be satisfactory due to their low price. The scope performs adequately, but does not offer exceptional features. Despite some drawbacks, the rifle functions well, making it a viable option for hunting. Its low price makes it suitable as a secondary rifle or for introducing new hunters to the sport.
Editor’s Note: This article originally appeared in the December 2023 issue of Gun Digest the Magazine.
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