Top 5 Best Bolt Action Rifle Designs

A quick video discussing the top 5 bolt action rifle designs!
1. Mauser 98
2. Winchester Pre 64 Model 70
3. Remington Model 700
4. Ruger M77 Hawkeye
5. Tikka Model 65/Model 55

[@chipsterb4946]

Thank you! “Modern sporting rifles” are fun to build and shoot but there is something so basic, so satisfying about a fine bolt action rifle. I inherited a rifle chambered in .270 Winchester and built on a Belgian Mauser ‘98 action. It’s pretty much flawless.

[@tedpfenninger4972]

Hear! Hear! I have an FN 30-06 and a Husqvarna. 270, as well 2 pre 64s a 270 and an 06. I use and shoot them pretty much interchangeably. All are fine rifles. Absolutely NOTHING wrong with an FN product.❤

[@subparmonkey9186]

This is the most professional and informative review I've ever watched. Very little opinion and tons of background information. Thank you

[@kennethbailey2616]

Subpar Monkey I agree, I always learn a lot from USOG. I am more interested in his collection of old/rare and obscure weapons.

[@daverodkey]

I have always been partial to the M77 Ruger, loved the tang safety too.

[@markcahoon2534]

Yep me too, but I do like other brands too.

[@evaneason6906]

Me too, besides kicking like a donkey. I have the stainless with skeleton stock or whatever its official name is. 30.06

[@AK-xu5sj]

The Adrien Monk of rifles! That is a huge compliment in case you never watched the show Monk.

[@scallywag6768]

I did well as a young man of twenty choosing my own hunting rifle. In 1972 I bought the Ruger 77 in 270 cal. It is still my hunting rifle of choice. I have no regrets.

[@paulsimmons5726]

I've watched countless KZbin videos on firearm related topics but have only now discovered yours. I was struck by the mannerisms of your speech and presentation, very honest and without any hidden agendas. Funny that you were seated during this video as I was seated and drinking a cup of coffee so it was like having a conversation about bolt action rifles over breakfast, a great way to start any morning! As I listened to your explanation for the guns chosen, I had to agree with your choices except for the Ruger. I've never been that impressed with them because they always feel clunky and over built, however, if you run out of ammo and have to use your rifle as a club.... well, a Ruger would be high on my list! I've subscribed to your channel and look forward to looking at the rest. FYI - I'm a Winchester Model 70 fan (7x57 and 375H&H).

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hey Paul, that makes me feel great. So good to just sit and talk; share ideas and observations - things we've learned - good times. I know what you mean about Rugers but Bill Ruger worked so hard against all odds and the 77 is okay - even as a club! Yes - the Winchester Model 70 is it. Legend. Same goes for your favorite cartridges. Bye for now.

[@SansBinky]

Yes! Seems we're in the same boat, Paul! I have a 1947 Winchester Model 70 supergrade in 30-06 and got curious about it's history and stumbled across this channel. Very nice!

[@kennedydewitt3219]

cup a coffee looking to get a new rifle for elk hunting and yes a great way to start a saturday morning

[@briangard951]

Excellent reviews.

[@bullseyedixon5660]

thank you sir for your delightful presentation

[@subparmonkey9186]

You deserve way more subs

[@avocado9763]

Excellent! Pure and simple. Wow! Thanks

[@ronlafitte6864]

Mike, I give you five great big YESSES!!!! on your choices! I love my 98 Mauser, and if I had to replace it, I would certainly do so with one of the other choices you showed. There is so much to be spoken of concerning the strength and reliability of the Mauser action. It was the Mona Lisa of rifle design, and always will be. Thank you for such a great presentation!

[@IronStraw1]

THANK YOU ! I never fired a Mauser but #2 a pre 64 model 70 is an absolutely spectacular rifle -

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you Peter! Good to have you on board : )

[@tadbarker7082]

Wonderful video. Thank you.

[@franciscopeixoto6609]

Performance rifles. Perfectly discribed and great selection.

[@rick4649]

Excellent video. Thank you.

[@johnhutcheson8869]

Superbly done, I could only add that the three position wing safety on the Winchester must be a consideration for where it ranks.

[@KINGSOWN100]

Well, I thought I knew about rifles! I learn a lot from every one of your splendid videos. Thanks again, very enjoyable.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I probably wrote this before Paul - but thank you and it is my privilege.

[@rickbattle5706]

Excellent info, thanks for the short, to the point videos. Well done!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hey - thank you for your kind words. The gun community worldwide seems to be a very fine group of people - of course - you're one of them. Thanks again.

[@shawndrag1009]

Great list for the right reasons!

[@SluggerStark]

Just found this channel and subscribed; fantastic presentation and content!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Welcome on board and thanks for the support.

[@carba8606]

Soft spot for rifles BRNO.....timeless

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I agree - superb rifles.

[@Me2Lancer]

Thank you! The Model 98 is a favorite of mine yet it's good to see how lower cost and efficiency have been behind other quality designs.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Rich

[@kennethbailey2616]

I agree with your choices. You know your guns, best gun videos ever. Thank you for making these videos.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you Kenneth!

[@Venditio1]

Thx for this asome and very informative vídeo!

[@DrBreezeAir]

I'd love to see the other Top 5 lists you've mentioned.

[@keithlucas6260]

I have a 700 ADL from 68' in .243, and also a Lee Enfield MKIV from 45', both excellent condition and well made.

[@KAP32DW]

Excellent video and your summary/list is on point. Mauser 98 is the the foundation of the majority of all high end rifles. Thanks I enjoyed the video.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you for watching and commenting.

[@panama-canada]

Thank you for making these videos for us.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

My privilege.

[@mattsharpe3989]

I have a 1939 model 70 in 30-06, my great grandfather bought it new, killed countless deer for him, my grandfather, my father and now myself, only thing that has ever gone wrong with it was the extractor broke on me a few seasons ago, took awhile to find one that could be shipped to Canada but now that it’s fixed I’m sure it’ll be good to go for another 80 years and several more generations…still shoots great too, I’ve taken deer at 600yds with it

[@Blimpie1000]

Just to add a thought about the claw extraction. I have an Argentine Mauser converted to 30-'06 which we have used for feral hogs. The importance of the positive extraction is for use against targets that shoot back; military uses and for dangerous game. There, it is vital that a shooter not run into extraction and/or feeding problems.

[@kevn22]

thankfull for men like you, appreciate the knowledge sir.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you 🙏

[@brianlee6849]

I really like the Mauser 77 that you had another video. I thought it was pretty incredible. If I had one of those I want it in something long range for big game. Like a 300 Winchester magnum or the equivalent in a metric European round. For deer and Hogs less than 200 yards I want a model 94 Winchester. As always thank you!

[@Laurenzo52493]

Great product! I recommend

[@carlweiderick]

Great choices, great rifles, well reasoned and presented. I have a strong preference for the Mauser action although I do own a Remington and a Tikka. Thanks again.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you Carl!

[@kanggoo57]

I mean it isnt far off, the tikka action is loosely based on the mauser.

[@kristinejackson8268]

Love your videos found them 2 weeks ago.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks for being here and your kind words

[@j.m.browning8645]

Nice video. Very informative, thanks.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

You're most welcome Dave.

[@rileymyers1661]

You should do a side by side of the Mauser 98 and the 1903 Springfield

[@johnnywolford4519]

Mauser 98 is king to bolt action riffles while the Winchester 97 and 12 are king to pump action shotguns.

[@dannylandrum7899]

I have a real hard on for my T/C Icon and my mid-2000s FN-made Win 70s. Also love browning AB-2s. Hon. mention to CZ 550 and 527.

[@Nick-wn1xw]

I’m a HUGE fan of the CZ 550 action and the old world craftsmanship that goes into it but understand your choice of your top five. Number one cannot be argued with-the M98 is the finest bolt action ever designed. Your other choices were interesting as well. I balked at the Remington 700 but you are correct in its influence on other designs as well as what it offered as an alternative when it came out. Another great video.

[@DucDNA]

The Remington 700 has earned its reputation. There is a reason the military and police chose it. I would agree with you on the CZ 550. I have one in 308 WIN that I will never part with. With Handloads I get 0;33" groups using a cheap Nikon Pro Staff 3x9x40 scope. I am not a fan of the set trigger on the CZ because it's gritty, but it works.

[@steveg1667]

@@DucDNA Remington is junk they put millions in danger with their crappy trigger safety design. Then they tried to cover it up, glad they went bankrupt those guns need to be melted.

[@coreychilders4970]

Excellent review on some historical rifle.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you Corey!

[@coreychilders4970]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns your more than welcome

[@jmfa57]

Until this evening, I couldn't figure out why I had trouble finding your videos, because I really, really enjoy them. It just now dawned on me that I was NOT subscribed. Oversight corrected, and thank you sir for so many delightful, informative, and well thought out videos! Of the actions you presented, the only one I've not owned in some incarnation is the Tikka. My Winchester is the newer controlled feed version, which I consider close enough to the pre-64 to have ended my quest. Again, thank you!

[@culverinefirearms9453]

Another excellent video. I have learned lots from all of your videos. Two points: I would place the 30-40 Krag (Model 1892) with the others. It has the smoothest action by far. This was the first video where you had bed-head (a little levity).

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Good points. Maybe 1895? I tried to get the tennis out of my hair but it just wouldn't cooperate : )

[@j.ongman5512]

the guy likes his mausers thats for sure

[@edwardwu2749]

So did US (designer of 1903 Springfield, 1917 Doughboy, Winchester 70 etc) and the Swedish M41, and the French, and.......pretty much the whole world agrees Mauser 98 is the best bolt action ever designed and copied it to fit their own cartridge sizes.

[@kesleycottrell1416]

Every bolt action is where all other bolts was born. And the design all came from the latch on the outhouse door.

[@ditto1958]

And well he should!

[@kevinwilson9589]

@@kesleycottrell1416 Are you sure the outhouse door latch wasn't a Mauser design?

[@baobo67]

@@edwardwu2749 Not the whole world. The British Empire stuck with the Lee Enfield whose advantages over the Mauser made it the best military rifle. Those advantages being the rear locking lucks which helped it handle mud and sand and gave it the fastest action which took advantage of its 10 round magazine. Expensive to produce however this was helped with the design of the no.4 which introduced peep sight, another advantage. I do not think any of the above had cock on closing like the Lee which assists with primary extraction when the weapon heats in action. The P13 and M1917 were great Mauser based military rifles and all the subject selection make good sporting rifles. All the rifles I own are collectables and the only one I now shoot is ..........wait for it...... A Zastava M70 i.e. 98 Mauser sporter in 22.250. Nice video. Cheers.

[@robertshoemaker6204]

Excellent job as alway, thank for the videos. Shoe

[@robinj.9329]

I've owned an original Ruger "Ranger" rifle since the 80's. An EXCELLENT rifle!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Robin - Great from day one.

[@alanwitton5039]

Great video very informative! I've only ever used and fired a Lee Enfield 303

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Alan - In a class of its own. The Lee Enfield is a diamond.

[@mckwilly]

nice layout, I've got a Rem 700 ML in .50 cal. great platform

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Solid - isn't it! Millions of the 700 made. Sometimes when I go hunting all I run into is 700's and the odd other rifle. Says a lot.

[@michaelpayne4232]

Great video. I totally agree with your rankings. I do prefer crf actions, I’ve had rounds start to slide out of the action and trouble chambering with non crf rifles while hunting. I’ll always use a crf action now

[@robinj.9329]

That original Ruger was introduced in 1968. Round about the end of the 80's or 1990 they went to the Mark 2, which lost the much beloved tang mounted safety. Instead having a safety mounted on the bolt. NEXT came the Hawkeye, many years later. The 68 design had a Mauser type long claw extractor, but a "plunger" style ejector. But they work just fine! I've owned an original Ruger since about 1988!

[@stetsonspurs4680]

Correct. The original Ruger M77 wasn't a true CRF, or Mauser extractor. Hence the plunger style ejector. Ruger returned to the CRF, and claw extractors in the M77 MK2's and now the M77 Hawkeyes. Which is why I personally prefer the Mk2's and Hawkeyes better. Although I did like that tang safety on the originals.

[@Gunners_Mate_Guns]

So nice to see that a true rifle connoisseur includes the exact same rifle on his list of great rifles that I have, the tang safety Ruger M77. Mine is a .30-06, and it will shoot five rounds of either of two of my home-rolled loads into just under MOA @ 100 yards.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

You bought the right rifle : )

[@stephen240]

All of the actions, with the exception of the Rem 700, are either loosely based on the Mauser action or share Mauser features. We all know how great the legendary Mauser is and I am sure that these rifles all rightfully deserve to be on this list. I'd like to see the five best unique bolt action designs, for example the swiss K31, Lee Enfield, Mannlicher-Schönauer 03, and Mauser 98 of course. Again, I am sure that from a reliability perspective that these actions may be the five best. Just my thoughts, great video though!

[@davidharris7687]

I found your channel by watching this video first and immediately subscribed. I've watched many more since and I seriously listen to what you say! I've come back to video often, and I have to agree with your picks overall! Hey who dispute Mauser 98 and Mod 70! But being a Tikka Mod65 owner for several years now, and many rounds downrange from it, I've absolutely l9ve this rifle! It is like you said, pretty much the best of all actions simplified! I have a Rem 700 in 270, been around Rugers. They're great! But knowing from experience, my Mod 65 in 30-06, I doubt I'd trade it for a 98 or 70! It's absolutely the smoothest, best performing action I've ever seen, at any speed, single loaded or from the mag, fast or slow! IMHO it's #3 and as far as I'm concerned #1!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks for being on the channel. You're right - the 65 is as good as it gets. Interesting how Tikka went from a one piece bolt and handle in the 65 to a bolt body and slide in bolt handle in the T3 etc... and the T3 has sold by the trainload. Oh well...the T3 does have a very smooth action. I guess smooth is preferred; although the bolt could still be one piece. Anyway, it's all good in gun land. Good health and good shooting.

[@davidharris7687]

@UnitedStatesOfGuns when I found the M65 on a Pawn Shop rack, I saw it, and before handling my first thought was a Weatherby! Which really caught my interest! When clerk handed it, he replied, no its actually a Tikka, Ithaca LSA 65 on barrel. I lost interest cause I was totally ignorant of any details on it. When I was handing it back, he mistakenly said it's made by Sako really, and a clone to the Finn Bear. That got my attention although my research afterwards showed him being mostly wrong! His comparison to the Finn Bear made me think, don't let this rifle slip. I gave it a good look and work, and it was plain, this is quality! I got home and blindly started searching. I found your video IDK how and subscribed! Further research showed how rare really and prized these rifles are, regardless of trader value! I found out why, it's incredibly everything and I consider it my most prized rifle find in my 64 years! It turns out it's a 1975 model, in 90% condition obviously a hunters rifle, ironsights perfect, shoots anything I put in it well to extremely accurate! I honestly would not trade it to a 98 or 70 unless I was allowed to prove them first by plenty testing! I'm a hunter, no huge collector but I live quality! That's why I love your channel and opinions they're based on truth not trader values! Thanks very much I appreciate what you do, it's beneficial to us! I'd love to see a video on the M55 & 65, they're very little to none knowledge of them at least here in KY! Thanks David

[@danielcantu5576]

Thanks for the video 10/10👍

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you Daniel. I am humbled - that's a high mark. : )

[@danielcantu5576]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns you're the best thanks 😀

[@markhansen8078]

I agree with your selection. The M98 changed everything. So many of today's rifles are based upon the M98 action. I own several bolt action rifles and they are all very good actions. I think the Ruger M77 and Hawkeye are the two rifles I own that are the best actions. All 3 of the Ruger bolt action rifles I own are all weather models. These are serious heavy duty rifles that are going to function perfectly for several lifetimes. The three Ruger rifle calibers are 260 rem, 30-06 sprg, 338 win mag. The Ruger M77 MKII all weather 30-06 is the first center fire rifle I purchased. TY for yet another entertaining and informative video. MH

[@bradwolfgram6345]

I’ll agree the Ruger M77 is the best rifle . All I know it’s not as good as the Remington 700 BDL. On the Stainless Remington 300 I had the solder from the bolt brake off . And was never crazy about there safety cut into the stock.

[@ChromeArty]

I just got a Ruger M77 Hawkeye in 7mm-08 and had a gunsmith lap the rings and mount a Zeiss on there. Got it back from the shop yesterday. Look forward to sighting her in

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

As you know - superb rig and the 7mm-08 is a fantastic and strangely underappreciated. Come to think of it - the 7mm-08 is probably a better cartridge than the Creedmoor - but fortunately not many know that so the Creedmoor sells very well.

[@ChromeArty]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns I'm pretty excited about it. My Tikka T3 in .270 was stolen in September, out of my vehicle after a hunt. I was gutted. So this is the replacement, I always liked the M77. I gave up a free floated barrel, but this is a hunting rifle. Toughness trumps extreme accuracy IMO. And yes! I almost wish I had gone with the creed creedmore for the ammo availability, I live in a small town and 7mm-08 is expensive here. But the Creedmore is not the hunting cartridge the 7mm-08 is, not even close, and I'm not punching holes on paper with this thing :) Thanks so much, I subbed today btw 😁

[@ronsindric4241]

You consistently produce excellent posts. THANK YOU ! What would be your TOP FIVE bolt guns PRE-MAUSER ? I am just beginning to collect .22 bolt-guns with a proclivity for single shots. Would like your thoughts on the following: how to check out a rifle before purchasing ( gun shows? ), and how to clean and treat a collectible rifle before long term storage. Would also like to hear your choices for TOP FIVE BLACK POWDER ( muskets and rifles ) long guns both modern replicas and originals that are reliable, precise and accurate long-range "shooters".

[@ryanslife4478]

My dad has a winchester model 70 that ive been wanting to start shooting I've never shot a bolt action so I'm happy to see the model 70 so popular

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Ryan - hope you head out to the range or shooting place soon. You'll like the Model 70.

[@squirrelhunter1300]

A man of taste I love my guns to

[@kemitchell]

Never forgets concern for "less expensive". Notes the sad symptoms of Millions Sold. I wonder, did he crawl his way up, or learn to see down? Either way, the balance he finds feels right to me. Maybe for how he presents it. Gentle-man.

[@carba8606]

And a happy new year my long distance friends.....keep the good work

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you Carba! Happy New Year!

[@hawgleyferguson9832]

I think I can say on behalf of my fellow gun nerds : Thank you and PLEASE keep your vids coming.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you so much! I'll keep going.

[@josearellano5778]

Hey there boss man‼️ I was hoping to see the Steyr or Mannlicher and Blaser on the list

[@shawnweed265]

You have great taste in rifles, for sure!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Shawn! I'm sure you do as well.

[@shawnweed265]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns Lol...Thanks...I like a good rifle that's for sure. I like the engineering aspects and esthetics. Unlike you, I just don't have the rifles!...Would love a Steyr Mannlicher Model M Professional or Westley Richards...but we use the guns we have! Cheers.

[@russellkeeling9712]

I have a Ruger M77/270 that I had re-barreled to 7x57. The action is a hybrid of the M98 and Remington. The extractor is the claw type but the ejector is the button like a Remington. Mine also does not have the cast in scope mounts or a 1/4 rib I wish it did have. They are expensive to buy and have installed. Great rifle, the action is what I wanted.

[@adamcuneo7189]

So re-barreling an M77 is possible? That's really cool, because I heard that it wasn't.

[@kjetilvaarlund8342]

What about the Mannlicher Schoenauer? Smoothest action and best machine work on any rifle I have ever owned.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Kjetil - Yes I agree - the MS in 6.5X54 MS and other cals. is an amazingly smooth action and the quality of workmanship is about as good as it gets. Thanks for the reminder.

[@vincef5832]

I own 2 Mannlichers and love them. Surprised they didn't make it on this video.

[@AudiowaveTV]

What about the Post 92 Model 70? They changed a lot of features back to Pre-64 including Claw Extractor etc!

[@dennistaylor6486]

All the bolt action rifles you mentioned are great rifles but you need to do a top five of the very best rifles ever and I would have to go with 1903 Mannlicher Shoenauer carbine in 6.5 x 54 ,Winchester model 54 standard rifle in 270 WCF, model 96 Swedish Mauser carbine in 6.5 x 55,model 1920 Savage rifle in 250-3000, German made Weatherby in 257wby. Thanks for the great vid.

[@carba8606]

Another good vid....my long distance friend

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Carba. My greetings to you.

[@nmelkhunter1]

I have an uncle that has four Model 70 pre-64s. They are in 300 WM, 30-06, 7MM Rem Mag and 270 Winchester. They are all great shooters and I hope he leaves me at least one of them when he is done with them.

[@cpborrelli]

I think the Savage floating bolt head design is a real step forward in bolt action due to the head spacing

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I agree Charles - but at a cost - a one piece bolt including bolt handle is the ideal : as we know from Mauser. Other features may serve other purposes which can be clever and useful and even reduce production costs. Yet, one ought to not forget that all these apparently advantageous elements are at the cost of the perfection of a one piece bolt.

[@cpborrelli]

That is a good point and great accuracy can certainly be achieved with single piece bolts.

[@steemerxaxon1643]

I'd have to put the Rem. 700 above the Pre 64 win. "Just me" BOTH ARE AWESOME 👌

[@lacyproudhouse3271]

Love your videos good sir. Any thoughts on the modern Sauer 404 rifles? The smoothest action I have seen with the ability to change barrels and calibres.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello Lacy - I'm going to find one for review and report back; I've only seen them in stores and print so far. Sauer usually makes first class rifles - as you know. I'm looking forward to studying the 404. Thanks for asking.

[@Viking9700]

I truly miss the Mannlicher-Schönauer.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Yes - I do too. Such a smooth bolt operation and I always liked the rotary magazine. I had a couple of 6.5 X 54s - fantastic cartridge and flawless operation. Later I bought a 51 and then an MCA - all were excellent but I liked the original full stock carbine best. Thanks for reminding me of these legendary rifles.

[@MS4RS]

I was surprised too not to see the MS on the top 5. To me it's the number one due to the ease of bolt disassembly. But I love my Mausers, too.

[@googlechicken]

I would through an honorable mention to the Arisaka for their strength and durability

[@fiskeman92]

With the m70 is was kinda the same thing . Which is was with the mannlicher schoenauer they become to expensive to produce. Both are great guns .

[@Nick-wn1xw]

Agreed Mauser 98 is number one now and probably always will be.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Unstoppable and the best.

[@gregwalker4236]

ah 'the 98--found one years ago with modernized stock, but still in 8 mauser. paid about $200 and have a scope worth about twice that mounted on it. it remains an all time favourite.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Greg - the 98 is timeless and no rifle since has surpassed its excellence. A fellow I knew bought a few crates of ammo many years ago and took his position at a remote range. His objective was to keep shooting his 98 in 7X57 until something went wrong. He finished shooting all the ammo and nothing had gone wrong. He waded through the brass and went home; then he returned for the endless brass.

[@shyamply1648]

Greetings, excellent description of the subject, but you forgot the SAKO L57 FORESTER.

[@danramzinski2957]

Respect you and your knowledge,but was wondering why current production model 70 not mentioned. I love your channel!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Dan - I forgot - sorry; The Win. 70 sort of falls into the Mauser category - at least the new and old pre-64 versions do. I realize there are differences. Anyway - those are the best actions. Thanks for the note.

[@edpottinger849]

Personal preference is the Winchester pre 64 action but in a stainless action and barrel with preferably a MacMillan fiberglass stock in a 300 win mag or a 7mm Rem mag.With a good straight fiberglass stock with no Monte Carlo hump and in the 10 to 11 pounds loaded range you can pack or sit for game

[@richfreireich4528]

Will the Sako blackbear in 9.3x62 ever be imported into the U.S. again, I am kicking myself in the rear for not buying one when I had the chance, I have checked scopelist,eurooptic, virtually everywhere in the continental u.s. and Alaska where I live to no avail. Excellent videos!

[@frontwoodsfarmer2063]

Great video I do have a question we have a older hunting rifle with what I was told had a Mauser action however unlike any other bolt action I seen when you got to open the chamber there is like a spring assist that helps “kick” back the bolt! I was wondering if you ever seen an a bolt action like this? Thank u

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello FWF - Some bolt actions are "cock on open" - such as the Mauser 98. Others are "cock on close" - the latter actions - such a 1917 Enfields and Lee Enfields spring open when the bolt is raised. These actions take more effort to close as the cocking of the bolt firing pin spring occurs when the shooter pushes the bolt closed. Hope this makes sense. You likely have an Enfield. Please let me know if the action has a bent "dog leg" bolt handle. Thanks!

[@tmaretzki]

I really appreciate your video, especially on a topic like this where the potential for leaving off someone’s favorite and drawing a great deal of ire is so great. Well done. Given your level-headed presentation, I would value your opinion on the following question - if you were limited to one new, modern bolt-action rifle for hunting North American game, which would you choose? Here are the parameters: $1500 or less ($2000 max), 30.06 caliber and preferably weather proof (SS/synthetic). I’m considering the Mauser M18, Winchester Model 70, Weatherby Vanguard S2, and leaning heavily towards the M18. There is some concern that rifle is not a controlled feed action though, but since you mentioned the Rem 700 action, does it really matter? I’ve read that controlled feed is more of a ‘dangerous game’ necessity and not really applicable to North America, but a bear is pretty dangerous last I checked. Anyway, appreciate your video and a short reply if you have time on your recommendation for someone in my position (budget constrained hunter looking for quality and value). Thanks in advance, keep up the great work.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks for asking. The Mauser is very well made and the other selections are without a doubt excellent rifles; but I would buy the Winchester Model 70 every time. Everything that followed hoped to duplicate the performance, design and value of the Model 70 - in different ways. Push feed is not better than controlled round feed - but push feed will do. The Mauser - with the bolt that locks into the barrel and not the receiver is not better than the Model 70 locking into the receiver, but it will do. A removable magazine is nice, but it is not superior to a floorplate - it is just different and it will do. I have no idea how the Model 70 can still be made and one of these days it will likely be gone again. There are still countless pre-64 Model 70s in the field every year. I'm not sure other rifles and actions will survive time as well as the Model 70. In fairness - the greatest of them all remains the Mauser 98 - which the Model 70 is the finest sporter version of. All of this is my humble opinion and any one of the rifles you mention is superb...but if it is only one.... All the best to you.

[@johnkendall6962]

When comparing designs it depends on what it was designed to do For battle rifle I would choose the Lee-Enfield getting mud out of the bolt races of a Mauser or clone while being shot at would not be easy. For economy rifle I would choose the Remington model 788 while the stock left something to be desired and the action was a little ruff the lock time was very very short and it often shot better than the model -700 known for its accuracy. for straight pull actions I would choose the Swiss K-31 While it's never went to war it is a well proven design. For hunting I would choose the Mauser 98 or one of its clones. With very few exceptions almost all hunting rifles are clones or simplified Mausers the Rem 700 falls into this category. and finally for very long range hunting I would choose the Weatherby mark V Its action is smooth and only needs 60 degrees to unlock Instead of mausers 90 Plus you can hunt any animal on earth with its selection of magnum cartridges.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I agree with everything you wrote.

[@doubled6595]

I realize this is a very old post but just wanted to say I'm intrigued with the Swiss k-31 and would love to see more of it.

[@drdoutdoors1603]

Nice video! I'm curious as to what you might think about some of the Browning bolt action rifles. I own two of the hi-power safari models chambered in 30-06 and a 300 win mag and they were made in Belgium. I personally think that that line of rifles from Browning were some of the best ever made with the exception of the salt wood period. I think that in the action, looks, accuracy, and reliability, those rifles should be ranked fairly high also. Any thoughts? Thanks

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello DRD! I agree with you. I collected Browning Safari rifles for a few years. The FN Mauser based rifles Made in Belgium - with the stepped barrels are superb and so are the Made in Finland short action rifles. I'm going to think about it but as it is I'm not aware of a better Mauser based sporter. The stock design was particularly comfortable and although of Monte Carlo design - quite elegant and understated. Sights were excellent too. Altogether brilliant rifles - and undervalued. Thanks for writing.

[@miked8227]

I’m fond of Browning rifles since it was the first rifle that I actually purchased for myself. Mine was manufactured in japan and I’ve never had a complaint about the feel or action of the rifle.

[@stevenschmitz2361]

I have a Browning BAR, shoots about a 5 inch group at 100 yards, tried different ammo, scope etcetera, going on the chopping block

[@MrPh30]

Schultz&Larsen Otterup, m54, 56( Roy Weatherby got them designed by them in .378 Wby ), m60, Rudolf Sand used one in 7x61S&H . The m65 and Dl, m68 and a few others. Rarest of them all , SL shotgun sidelock patterned after Holland& Holland Royal pattern.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi MrPh30 - I didn't know about the H&H sidelock - have to to look it up - must be fantastic. Thanks!

[@MrPh30]

UnitedStatesOfGuns It was made during ww2 when Germans banned them make rifles, less than a dozen made i think it was . Will look it up, more like 6-10 of them. If you get a M42 rifle for Danish Coastal protection Police you get a good rifle made by them that is sought after .

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

A shotgun! Now I have to find one : ) Thank you.

[@Einhaerjar]

Good video, its not often i see someone thats so humble around firearms, unless theyre from europe... Although i dont know where youre from, but as i said, good video.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Einhaerjar.

[@ed5042]

I really do appreciate your channel. It is my time to learn and relax at the same time. May I ask , why oh why does the Tikka T3, Mossberg Patriot, Remington 700's not feel as 'deep' in feel , a sense of density of steel, almost like a well oiled machine feel of my Swedish Mausers , my Sako L61,and my M48? I can only assume metallurgy is the answer. Any opinion? Thanks

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Ed - Thank you and excellent question. The modern bolts are slick pipes running in slick pipes - they work and are accurate - but have no character. The rifles you mention have necessary complexity and feel and run right. The steel may make some difference but I think it is mostly the mechanisms.

[@ed5042]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns thanks again!

[@chandlermcelroy7198]

I agree with your selections of what you think are the best. I had an Israeli Mauser and unfortunately it was the most inaccurate rifle I ever owned. O/W i am very happy with my very accurate CZ 550 in 6.5x55 rifle that is based on the Mauser design.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Your CZ in 6.5x55 is just about all one needs in a hunting rifle - you chose well. Some of the Israeli Mausers have seen much use and if the lands are eroded - blow by can happen and accuracy goes out the window. I usually have someone thread on another barrel; but your CZ solves all issues as is.

[@rickmansberger4136]

Hello Sir, Love you have my Model 70s near the top. Wondering why Sako didn't make the list? Take care and be safe. Rick Mansberger

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Rick - I have to update the video : ) and your comments is perfectly timed. The video people are going to post my latest video on the Sako today : great rifle.

[@brucenovotny5924]

Great video 👍. I'm no expert but some people also swear by Lee Enfield rifles..

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

You're right Bruce - in a class of its own.

[@aujlajas1]

Great review. I have Lakelander M389 rifle. The bolt stop is stuck so the bolt comes out. The push button is stuck so the there is nothing to stop the bolt. Any idea how to fix this. Thanks.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Jas - I had the same thing. I tapped the bolt stop with a small hammer - to the right - so the bolt stops. I tried to fix and find a spring and all that. No luck. In the end I epoxied the bolt stop in place and clean from the muzzle. A friend had no bolt stop at all - he filed down a piece of soft steel to fit until the bolt stopped and did the same thing - still works. Hope this helps. Cheers.

[@fernandoscholzcambiaso1622]

Good video, thank you, but I think you missed adding CZ, I have two, 527 lux in 223 and 550 lux in 30-06 and in terms of quality and precision I think it better some of those mentioned.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

You're right Fernando - I'll make another video.

[@lucthomas3968]

You never talk about the FN supreme action Mauser rifle!

[@kennethbailey2616]

I heard the post 2007 Model 70s have returned to the pre-64 quality. Not sure if this is true, what’s your opinion USOG?

[@ragnar338]

Nice, would include the Savage as a improvement over the 700 push feed: min. chamber legth by construction, the tilting bolt face-don't know if thats a positive, accu-trigger so a very light 1stage-trigger + adjustable while still being safe like a 2 stage one, 3 stage tang safety and current models aluminum bedded and shooting really good for affordable money.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Ragnar - I had 2 of these - maybe more. Excellent rifles and mine were extremely accurate. Having said that, the Savage has many parts - even just the bolt is comprised of several. That is true of the M16 and M4 - of course semi-auto but the point I'm making is many parts does not necessarily mean a rifle will not perform and be accurate and reliable. In terms of top 5 though, I looked for "classic" attributes or groundbreaking adaptation of the Mauser system. The Remington spawned countless imitations - some better and some worse; the Tikka is a steel tank and uniquely purposeful and a one piece bolt. Still I paused when I put the Tikka in top 5. There is the Weatherby Mark V, Voere Titan, Krico and countless others (some of them rear locking) but I stuck with the 5 in the video. I should make a video of top 10 best value bolt actions. Anyway, the Savage is up there. BTW, the Svage 99 lever is one of my favorite rifles of all.

[@Kman31ca]

I was thinking this too. It's maybe not the "Best" action, but it's really an ingenious design. It makes it possible to build a very accurate rifle, at low cost, and can mitigate slight QC issues, that other rifles can't tolerate. The Barrel nut, makes it quick and easy for a average skilled employee too headspace bang on. While the tilting bolt head, can keep the cartridge squared even if manufacturing tolerances aren't perfect. And the ease of changing barrels by an amateur gunsmith as myself is really nice. I bought an older, high round Savage 12 target action in 243. Barrel was pretty much shot out. I put it in an MDT HS3 chassis. With a Shilen ss varmint profile barrel in 6.5 CM, did a lil work on the trigger, and lapped the bolt lugs. It shoots bugholes with factory ammo at 100 yards. Up here in Alberta, there are tons of coyotes, Have a few ranches that let me hunt on their land, plus a huge amount of Hutterite land that always welcome me out to take hunt coyotes, as they don't own anything more than 22's. I have some great overlook areas, where I have line of site as far as I can see. I drive my quad up there, get settled in on a shooting mat, or even a chair with tripod. I sometimes use a "meatsicle," lol. I just get all my scraps from hunting season, and extra bacon grease from a restaurant my son works at. Freeze it all into a big plastic container with water in layers. Drop it off in certain areas, and the coyotes come from all over for it. Or simply, just watch for them in areas I know they use as corridors between areas. That rifle will help me take 1000 yard shots or more, on coyotes.Depending on conditions, and if I pull my weight. I know one other guy who actually makes youtube videos, who uses, well it was a stock savage 338LM, but is modified now, and has taken coyotes at a mile a few times. He's an amazing shot. Can't remember the name of the channel, but I worked with him years back. Back to my point now, lol. I know others who spend 6 grand on custom rigs for the same shooting. And they aren't getting much better accuracy at all than I am getting with this cheap build. And what someone can do with the extra money he saves, from going this route, paid for a Schmidt and Bender optic that's on this rifle. And the fact Marlin, Remington and others are copying so much of Savage's action and trigger in, just shows how much this action makes sense. But ya, I own quite a few higher end rifles. Sako's, Winchester's, etc. All amazing rifles, and definitely more refined than a Savage. But you just can't deny they work great, and are very accurate for what they are, and the price. Definitely in my beliefs it's an ingenious design, made for a world of mass manufacturing, and a cheap, but good rifle especially for young broke students, or people who aren't as financially blessed. It evens the playing field, and gives everyone the chance to own a hunting rifle that will be reliable enough, and accurate enough to enjoy the hunting outdoors as much as anyone. Sorry for the novel. I'm not great at putting my point across in a short paragraph. Cheers guys.

[@tedpfenninger4972]

I've not owned a Savage, but the ones lbe fired impressed me a lot. Both reliable and accurate. Hard to go wrong with one!

[@nickdobrovolny5295]

Would’ve liked to see a husqvarna great video regardless

[@pauledwards8576]

Could you explain what changes were made from the Ruger 77 to the Hawkeye? I thought it was the safety but I have not come across a Ruger 77 to compare. Thank you.

[@stetsonspurs4680]

I believe he made a video explaining just that. The differences between the original M77 to the M77 Mk2's and M77 Hawkeye's.

[@davidhayes7596]

Plain and simple to the point. He's right. . I mean what else is there.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you

[@kenwolshan5752]

I agree with you for the most part but everybody gives the credit to the Remington 700 instead of the Remington 721- 722