5 Best Varmint Rifles [2024]: Plus The Best Calibers

Varmint hunting, a pursuit blending skill and precision, is more than just a pastime—it’s essential for protecting crops and managing pest populations.

In this realm, the right tool is paramount: a varmint rifle that’s the epitome of accuracy and reliability. Leading the pack is the Browning X-Bolt Medallion Bolt-Action Rifle, a rifle that’s become a go-to for farmers and hunters alike.

My years of experience in varmint hunting have taught me that the perfect rifle balances precision shooting with ease of handling. The Browning X-Bolt Medallion Bolt-Action Rifle, for instance, stands out for its exceptional accuracy, ergonomic design, and adaptability to various environments. Whether you’re targeting small, elusive pests or engaging in longer-range shooting, this rifle has you covered.

But what makes this rifle, and a few select others, ideal for varmint control? In the following sections, we’ll delve into the features that set them apart — from barrel design to trigger sensitivity and even scope compatibility.

Stay tuned for a comprehensive guide that will help you choose the best varmint rifle for your needs, ensuring that your next hunting trip is as efficient as it is enjoyable.

Selecting the best varmint rifle can be a tough decision if you’re just starting to explore varmint hunting. Each of these can be suitable for you under the right circumstances.

When you’re going through the following best varmint rifles for sale, take note of the individual characteristics that appeal to you, and you’ll find one that’s perfect for your needs.

Image	Product	Price
	Best Lightweight for Walking – Winchester Model 70 Coyote Light Rifle	Check Price
	Best for Versatility – Ruger 77/22 Bolt Action Rifle	Check Price
	Best for Build Quality and Finish – Browning X-Bolt Medallion Bolt-Action Rifle	Check Price
	Best for Small Game – Henry Varmint Express Rifle	Check Price
	Best for Precision Shooting – Remington Varmint Model 700	Check Price

Best Lighweight for Walking – Winchester Model 70 Coyote Light Rifle

Although a heavy barrel has its benefits, it can also add weight to your varmint rifle. But the designers of this Winchester came up with ways to shave off a couple of pounds. The Model 70 weighs just seven pounds, which is great if you’re searching for a walking rifle.

The carbon fiber/fiberglass composite Bell and Carlson stock replaced the previous generation’s laminated-wood stock. The fluted barrels also play a part in reducing the weight. It’s not purely aesthetic, either.

It enhances heat dissipation for more reliable discharging. Furthermore, the new stock may also improve accuracy.

The Winchester is compatible with multiple cartridges, including the Short Magnum, Super Short Magnum, and .223 Remington. This allows you to hunt various species of varmints with one rifle.

Another commendable feature is the Controlled Round Push Feed (CRPF) bolt, which holds the cartridge base for easy extraction. Plus, loading and bolt removal is rather simple with this rifle, which has a standard three-position safety.

Best for Versatility – Ruger 77/22 Bolt Action Rifle

Renowned for making high-quality rifles, you may be able to tell right away that the 77/22 is a Ruger. You can feel how stable it is and be raring to take it out to the field. It features a two-tone wood stock with a satin finish. It has a really nice and attractive feel to it. The stainless steel scope rings for mounting the scope are well-built and appear long-lasting.

It might take a little time to figure out the magazine, but it’s not anything that most people can’t handle. As you remove it, you have to hold down the catch, which can be especially useful for beginners. Inserting the rounds won’t take much time at all.

Moreover, the rifle has a sleek and clean look where the rotary magazine is not visible from the side. Besides, it’s also got a long pull of 13 ¾ inches. The high-quality magazine and dual extractors help you eject the rifle with ease. This one comes equipped with front and rear sights so it’s ready to go out of the box. It helps that the Ruger is one of the most accurate varmint rifles on the market.

Best for Build Quality and Finish – Browning X-Bolt Medallion Bolt-Action Rifle

If you’re searching for a beautiful traditional bolt-action rifle, this Browning might be right for you. The X-Bolt Medallion is a top-range Browning rifle. It looks the part and is just all in all great for long-distance shooting.

With the glossy walnut Monte Carlo stock and stainless steel barrel, did I say that it looked the part? In addition, the stock also has a synthetic finish that’s water-resistant. The grip should be sure-handed even in bad weather conditions.

The rifle utilizes an excellent rotary magazine. You can feed cartridges directly and get additional ones for spare. Even with the safety on, you can still open it for reloading. Furthermore, the flattened bolt knob is extremely comfortable. The laser-etched panels add to the overall elegance.

The caliber compatibility is great. You can use it with the .243 Win. and up to the .308 Win. Finally, the rifle is fairly standard to operate and maintain.

Best for Small Game – Henry Varmint Express Rifle

How about a rifle that’s handcrafted in the USA? Made of all high-quality materials, the Henry Varmint Express features a 20-inch checkered American walnut stock. From the first shot on out, you’ll marvel at how smooth the rifle performs. It also feels hefty and reliable and accurate over long distances.

The rifle can store 11 rounds in the magazine. When used with a .22 Winchester Magnum, the rated velocity is up to 2,550 feet per second and it’s flat-shooting too. It’s a lethal weapon for any varmints, including larger critters.

Mounting this rifle to your shoulder is straightforward, so you can start varmint hunting as soon as it arrives.

Overall, this rifle combines style with performance. The stainless steel barrel is corrosion and water-resistant. It offers a good grip. The traditional and elegant feel of the rifle may also make you stand out from the hunting crowd.

Best for Precision Shooting – Remington Varmint Model 700

When it comes to hunting varmints, the .223 caliber is the most popular and practical choice. The Remington 700 uses exactly that. It’s got great power at a range of distances. The design is rather simple, not anything that will turn people off. Loaded with a few rounds, you probably won’t ever end up with no ammo during varmint hunting.

However, it’s also compatible with other calibers: .204 Ruger, .22-250 Remington, .243 Winchester, and .308 Winchester. Although the barrel touches the front of the stock, this doesn’t mean the rifle isn’t accurate. It can shoot a few rounds before the barrel gets too warm, which affects its accuracy.

The rifle is quite affordable to all. It’s also got a military feel to it through and through, if that’s your cup of tea. The new X–Mark Pro trigger might take a little getting used to, however. It’s the only change over the regular Model 700. The new trigger is thinner and has a rounded front that may not be the preference of every hunter.

Varmints, those pesky critters that wreak havoc on crops and properties, need a special kind of attention.

And by attention, I mean the kind delivered by a top-notch varmint rifle. What makes a rifle stand out in this category? It’s all about precision, power, and practicality. A good varmint rifle is lightweight enough for ease of maneuvering yet powerful enough to ensure a clean, humane shot at a distance.

Precision is key; after all, you’re often targeting smaller, elusive animals. The rifle should boast high accuracy, a quality scope for clear sighting, and a comfortable stock design that helps steady your aim.

In essence, the right varmint rifle turns the tide in your favor, efficiently managing your land and keeping those future crops safe from unwanted visitors. So, when you’re in the market for a varmint rifle, remember: that accuracy, power, and comfort are your best friends.

When it comes to managing varmints on your property, whether it’s prairie dogs, ground squirrels, rabbits, or other small pests, the right rifle can make all the difference.

But not just any rifle will do. Choosing the best varmint rifle requires careful consideration of several key features to ensure effective, humane, and safe pest control.

Power and Precision Balance

When you’re in the market for a varmint rifle, understanding the balance between power and precision is like finding the sweet spot in a well-composed symphony. It’s about delivering the right amount of force with pinpoint accuracy, ensuring an ethical and effective approach to pest control.

What Constitutes Too Much Power?

Let’s talk about what you don’t want first. High-caliber rifles, like those designed for big game hunting (.308 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield, etc.), are overkill for varmint hunting.

They pack a punch that’s too strong for smaller animals, leading to unnecessary destruction of both the target and possibly the surrounding area. This is not only unethical but also impractical, as it can damage your property or crops.

Ideal Caliber Range

Now, onto the good stuff. Calibers like the .223 Remington and .22-250 Remington strike a perfect balance for varmint rifles. These rounds offer sufficient power for a clean, humane shot on small pests, without the excessive force that leads to overpenetration or collateral damage.

They’re effective against varmints at a range of distances, yet their impact is controlled and precise.

Precision: The Partner of Power

Precision in varmint rifles is not just about caliber; it’s also about the rifle’s build and features.

For instance, a rifle chambered in .223 Remington with a well-crafted, precision-engineered barrel and a finely tuned trigger mechanism can deliver remarkable accuracy. This ensures that the bullet hits the intended target with minimal risk of stray shots.

Examples of Balanced Rifles

Consider models like the Ruger American Rifle in .223, known for its lightweight design yet impressive accuracy. Savage Arms also offers models like the Savage 110 Varmint in .223 Remington, which includes features like an AccuTrigger and a heavy barrel for increased precision.

Barrel Design

A heavy barrel, often found in specialized varmint rifles, plays a pivotal role in enhancing accuracy. Why? Because it minimizes two major enemies of precision: vibration and barrel whip.

When you fire a shot, the barrel vibrates, and a heavier barrel reduces this movement, leading to a more stable and predictable bullet path.

While a heavy barrel is generally preferred for its stability and accuracy, remember to consider your hunting style. If you’re often on the move, tracking varmints over varied terrains, a rifle with an overly heavy barrel might become cumbersome. In such cases, look for a balance between weight and maneuverability.

Scope Options

Most varmints are small and nimble, making them challenging targets. A magnified scope can be a game-changer, allowing you to spot and accurately target these critters from a distance. When selecting a scope, consider one with high magnification and clarity to ensure precise shooting.

High Magnification: Seeing the Unseen

• Range of Magnification: For varmint hunting, a scope with a higher magnification range, such as 6-24x or 8-32x, is ideal. This range allows you to adjust the zoom depending on the distance and size of your target, providing a clear view for both close and long-range shots.
• Quality of Glass: The clarity of the glass in the scope is paramount. High-quality glass with multi-coated lenses ensures maximum light transmission, providing a bright and clear image, even in low-light conditions.

Reticle Choices: Precision Aiming

• Fine Crosshairs: A reticle with fine crosshairs or a fine duplex is beneficial for varmint hunting, as it allows for more precise aiming points without obscuring small targets.
• Bullet Drop Compensation (BDC): Some scopes come with BDC reticles that help in estimating holdover at different ranges, a handy feature when dealing with varying shooting distances.

Durability and Ease of Use

• Rugged Construction: Look for a scope built to withstand the rigors of outdoor hunting. A scope that’s waterproof, fog-proof, and shock-resistant will serve you well in different environmental conditions.
• User-friendly Adjustments: Features like fingertip-adjustable turrets and a side-focus parallax adjustment can significantly enhance your shooting experience, allowing for quick and easy adjustments in the field.

Top Recommendations

• Vortex Viper PST Gen II: Known for its exceptional clarity and build quality, this scope offers a wide magnification range and a reliable BDC reticle.
• Leupold VX-3i LRP: Leupold scopes are renowned for their crisp optics and durability. The VX-3i LRP model is particularly suited for long-range precision, a perfect match for varmint hunting.

Rifle Action

Traditionally, bolt-action rifles have been the go-to for varmint hunting due to their reliability and accuracy. However, the landscape is changing.

Semi-automatic and specialized AR-style rifles are increasingly popular among varmint hunters. These modern rifles offer faster follow-up shots and can be advantageous when dealing with multiple or fast-moving targets.

So you may want to consider one of those as well, although, I personally am a fan of bolt-action for these cases.

Caliber

A flat-shooting caliber is another important characteristic. The bullets should be small and fast so as to not just wound the varmint but kill it on the spot.

Usually, there are three groups of calibers that are most suitable for varmint hunting, depending on the shooting distance. If you’re hunting at a smaller distance, you’ll want to use the .17 HMR, .22 WMR, or .22 Hornet. Hunters who prefer low-noise shooting often go with the .22 Hornet. Nonetheless, all of them are a great option for up to 185 yards.

For medium ranges, both the .222 Remington and .223 Remington will do the job right. Ballistically, there isn’t much difference between the two. Although the .222 may be a bit more accurate, the .223 is more versatile and one of the most affordable cartridges available.

Finally, long-distance hunters are often armed with the .243 Winchester. Furthermore, the 6mm Remington, .220 Swift. and .223 WSSM are great for their accuracy and power.

While you should consider all of the above when purchasing the best varmint rifle for the money, your shooting skills will also make a difference.

Compared to other game, varmint hunting requires speed and accuracy. After you get a rifle that’s right for you, you may want to practice and work on your hunting skills.

In addition to the above, the other aspects of buying the best varmint gun include your place of residence.

If you live in the suburbs or a residential area in general, you may not be able to use a firearm with live ammo, whether it’s forbidden by law or it’s just not worth the risk. In that event, air rifles can be a sensible choice. Of course, if you live in a rural area this problem would go away.

Furthermore, if you’re relatively new to firearms, you might be wondering how many rounds of ammo you should have. To answer your question, just think about your current varmint infestation. This will dictate how many rounds you’re going to need.

Ease of use and dependability may also be important to you. How much maintenance is needed to make sure that it’s not going to jam on you?

When you’re out there trying to outsmart those pesky critters, you need a rifle that’s reliable, accurate, and easy to handle. Overkill? No, we don’t need that.

While I’m a big fan of the Browning X-Bolt Medallion Rifle, it’s only fair to give a shout-out to the other solid contenders.

The Ruger American Predator and Savage Arms Model 12 Varmint are both pretty awesome in their own right. The Ruger is like that budget-friendly, dependable friend – great for hunters watching their wallets. And the Savage? It’s a sharpshooter’s dream, but it’ll make your wallet a bit lighter.

Now, why am I all about the Browning X-Bolt Medallion? This beauty mixes old-school style with top-notch performance. That rotary magazine of its? Smooth as butter. Plus, it’s ready to handle a bunch of different calibers, which is great for folks who like options. Sure, it’s a bit of an investment, but for serious hunters, it’s worth every penny.

If dropping a lot of cash isn’t your thing, don’t sweat it. The Remington Varmint 700 is a solid backup plan. It’s got some neat features, like a trigger you can adjust and a heavy barrel, all without breaking the bank.

So, whether you lean towards the Browning’s class and power or you’re eyeing the Remington for its value, the best varmint rifle is the one that feels right in your hands and fits your hunting style (and budget).

Each option has its perks and quirks, but hey, that’s hunting for you. It’s all about finding your perfect match and enjoying the thrill of the hunt.