Rifles are the firearm of choice for many gun enthusiasts who enjoy taking part in the great outdoors and doing some hunting. Their range means that potential prey can be far away, reducing the likelihood that an animal might sense a hunter’s presence and bolt. There are different types of rifles with various power levels, and it can be a tough job to choose the one that best suits you. Getting to know a few of the powerful rifles you can choose from can help you find the one that works for your needs.
.22LR
Some enthusiasts may be surprised to find the .22 rifle on a list of powerful long guns. Although the caliber is small, these cartridges pack a high level of velocity into a compact package. If you plan to hunt small game, this kind of rifle makes a good choice. In addition to formal hunting, the .22 rifle is also a decent option if you need to take some shots at pests that might be invading your home and yard. The recoil on these rifles tends to be low, and ammunition for them usually comes in bulk.
9mm
Another entry that may be surprising to some readers is the 9mm semi-automatic rifle. Historically, having a long gun that could also fire pistol ammunition like the 9mm could very well be a great boon on the trail when different calibers might have been in short supply. Rifles that use 9mm ammunition are experiencing a surge in popularity nowadays as well. This cartridge tends to perform well, offer relatively low recoil, and is quite ubiquitous. The semi-automatic design also makes it easy to get off a few quick shots if the first one doesn’t connect during a hunt.
7.62
Rifles chambered for 7.62 rounds can come in both semi-auto and bolt-action varieties. These kinds of long guns offer decent stopping power and are a good choice for enthusiasts looking to hunt medium-sized game. If you’re after deer and similar creatures, a 7.62 rifle is something to consider. The recoil on these guns tends to be mild, and their range is only moderate when compared to other kinds of powerful rifles. However, they can make good personal defense options as well.
.30-06
If you aren’t afraid of some pretty strong recoil and want to combine power with extreme accuracy, using a long gun with this caliber of ammunition is a safe bet. A bolt-action rifle with this round should be able to take down almost any critter you want to hunt thanks to superior range and excellent knockdown capabilities.
Each kind of rifle you come across may have different designs or features that make it useful or convenient to carry in the field during a hunt. Figuring out the power levels that work for you and what features you like can help you craft a great and memorable hunting experience.