Bolt-action rifles are the preferred tool of big-game hunters. And while some deer and elk seasons have already ended, the tools of the trade are still top of mind for most hunters.
Whether your customers are seeking lightweight precision, top-notch craftsmanship, customization options, affordability, or classic design with modern features, the following five new bolt-action rifles have them covered. Stocking these rifles will help you cater to the needs of every customer who comes through your doors.
Bergara B-14 Squared Crest
Bergara’s new B-14 Squared Crest is designed for the highest standard of outback hunting adventures — an ultralight high-performance rifle for the most demanding hunters. The B-14 Squared concept is anchored by a 100% carbon fiber monocoque stock, and Bergara incorporated a carbon fiber spine throughout the stock to provide greater rigidity and strength. The rifle is equipped with a 20- or 22-inch fluted 4140 CrMo steel barrel, depending on the caliber, and the muzzle is threaded and includes a Bergara Omni muzzle brake. Other features include a 90-degree bolt throw, cone-shaped bolt nose ejector, sliding extractor and an AICS compatible detachable magazine. This rifle has a Sniper Gray Cerakote finish and an adjustable Bergara Performance trigger with a two-position safety, allowing the rifle to be unloaded while in the safe position. Its unloaded weight is a mere 6.9 pounds. Built for accuracy, the Crest guarantees sub-MOA precision and is chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC, .308 Win. and .300 Win. Mag.
MSRP: $1,999
Blaser R8 Ultimate Carbon
The R8 Ultimate Carbon bolt-action rifle from Blaser is designed for maximum performance and minimum weight, featuring a 100% hand-laid carbon fiber thumbhole stock built to withstand the most brutal hunting conditions. Equipped with vibration and recoil reduction technology and high torsional strength, the Ultimate Carbon is ideal for hunters who value craftsmanship, accuracy, repeatability and reliability in a durable lightweight rifle. It also features handsome dark brown weather-proof leather on the grip, forearm and cheek piece, and like other R8 rifles, comes with the Blaser precision trigger and manual cocking system. Optional upgrades include an adjustable comb and a recoil absorption system or adjustable recoil pad. It’s available in numerous calibers from .22 LR to .500 Jeffery.
Retail: Starts at $10,540
Howa Hera H7
The Hera H7 is the newest addition to Howa’s 2023 lineup. This affordable bolt-action rifle comes chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor and .308 Win., sporting three different color options — Tan, OD Green and Black — and is equipped with a modern and easy-to-use Howa short-action chassis system. Made from fiberglass-reinforced polymer, with aluminum V-block bedding and an aluminum fore stock, this stock system comes with two spacers, a polymer cheek piece support and two AICS-compatible five-round magazines. The H7 stock system also has M-Lok mount points for attaching accessories. The Hera H7 is available with three different barrel options: 24-inch heavy, 24-inch carbon-wrapped and 22-inch standard.
MSRP: $839-$1,299
Stevens 334
The Stevens 334 bolt-action rifle from Savage Arms features a two-stage adjustable trigger and comes in a Turkish walnut stock option with a silver bolt or a black synthetic stock version with a matte black action to match. This rifle is offered in three popular calibers — .243-Win., 6.5 Creedmoor and .308 Win. — with a 60-degree bolt lift to allow faster follow-up shots. Other features include a two-stage adjustable trigger, two sling swivel studs, three-position safety, three-round detachable magazine and ergonomic stock and recoil pad. The Stevens 334 has a free-floating, button rifled, carbon steel barrel with 11-degree target crown and matte black carbon steel receiver with integrated recoil lug.
MSRP: $389/Black synthetic; $489/Walnut
Weatherby Model 307 Alpine MDT
The Alpine MDT is built on Weatherby’s newest bolt-action rifle platform, the Model 307. Meant to complement the historic Mark V and Vanguard lineups, the Model 307 action is a two-lug, fully cylindrical action compatible with many aftermarket accessories. The Model 307 is designed to accommodate the vast offerings of stocks, triggers, rails, mounts and magazines that exist in today’s marketplace. Weatherby teamed up with MDT to produce an ultra-light chassis rifle that can own the range and dominate in the field. The carbon fiber chassis features a foldable buttstock and when collapsed cuts out over 9 inches of total length, making it a great compact option. The Alpine MDT has a durable Graphite Black Cerakote finish.
MSRP: $2,999
