Selecting the right tool for long-range precision is more than just a purchase; it’s a commitment to a system that must perform under pressure. The difference between a hit and a miss at extreme distances often comes down to the rifle’s inherent accuracy, consistency, and the quality of its components. Having spent years behind the glass, I know that a good long range rifle isn’t just about grouping shots at 100 yards. It’s about predictable performance in shifting winds, under different temperatures, and from various shooting positions. The best platforms are those that give the shooter confidence, turning a complex ballistic calculation into a successful impact.
This list is built from hands-on experience and a practical understanding of what makes a rifle reliable beyond the 800-yard mark. I’ve ranked these based on critical factors like out-of-the-box accuracy, action smoothness, chassis or stock stability, and overall value for the investment. Whether you’re a seasoned competitor or a serious hunter looking to extend your effective range, these selections represent the top-tier options available in 2025. We will look at a variety of the best long range rifles that cater to different budgets and specific use cases, from tactical bolt-actions to modern gas guns capable of making precise shots.
My Picks for the Best Long Range Rifles
- Christensen Arms Modern Precision Rifle
- Tikka T3x TAC A1
- Bergara B-14 HMR Pro
- Accuracy International AX ELR
- Barrett MRAD MK22
- Sako TRG 22 A1
- Seekins Precision HAVAK Pro Hunter
Christensen Arms Modern Precision Rifle
The Christensen Arms Modern Precision Rifle (MPR) is where modern composite technology meets precision shooting. Christensen is famous for using carbon fiber barrels and stocks, which results in a rifle that is significantly lighter than its all-steel counterparts without sacrificing accuracy. The MPR features a fully adjustable chassis system that provides a solid cheek weld and length-of-pull, making it easy to get a perfect fit. The action is smooth, and the rifle comes with a excellent trigger that breaks cleanly. For a hunter who also wants to compete or a shooter who needs to cover ground, the weight savings are a massive advantage.
In terms of performance, the MPR lives up to its name. The carbon-wrapped barrel not only reduces weight but also helps with heat dissipation and reduces barrel harmonics, contributing to excellent accuracy. I’ve found that these rifles consistently shoot sub-MOA with hand-loaded or high-quality factory ammunition. The fit and finish are top-notch, and the overall design is both sleek and highly functional. While the price is still substantial, it offers a unique combination of lightweight handling and long-range precision that is hard to find elsewhere. It’s an excellent choice for someone who refuses to compromise on accuracy but needs a rifle that won’t weigh them down.
Pros
- Lightweight construction due to carbon fiber components
- Excellent out-of-the-box accuracy
- Well-designed, adjustable chassis for a custom fit
Cons
- Higher price point than many traditional precision rifles
- Carbon fiber barrel may not appeal to all traditionalists
Tikka T3x TAC A1
The Tikka T3x TAC A1 is, in my opinion, one of the best values in the precision rifle world today. Tikka’s reputation for superb out-of-the-box accuracy is fully realized in this purpose-built chassis rifle. The heart of the TAC A1 is the same smooth, reliable T3x action found in their hunting rifles, but it’s dropped into a fully featured, modular chassis. This chassis includes an adjustable folding stock, a pistol grip, and a full-length Picatinny rail, making it ready for any optic and accessory you need. The two-stage trigger is excellent, providing a predictable and clean break that is vital for precision shooting.
Where the TAC A1 really shines is its consistency. It is not uncommon for these rifles to consistently produce groups under 0.5 MOA with quality ammunition. The barrel is cold hammer-forged and provides a great balance of accuracy and durability. For its price point, the feature set is incredible, offering many of the benefits of custom rifles at a fraction of the cost. It’s a rifle that requires very little, if any, gunsmithing to be competition-ready. Whether you’re new to long-range shooting or a seasoned competitor on a budget, the TAC A1 delivers performance that punches well above its weight class.
Pros
- Outstanding accuracy for the price
- Excellent two-stage trigger and smooth action
- Well-designed, feature-rich chassis with folding stock
Cons
- Aftermarket support is not as vast as for Remington 700 patterns
- The magazine can be somewhat expensive to replace
Bergara B-14 HMR Pro
The Bergara B-14 HMR Pro is a fantastic option for shooters who want near-custom performance without the custom price tag. Bergara actions are renowned for their quality; they use a Remington 700 footprint, which means immense aftermarket support for triggers and stocks, but often with better out-of-the-box tolerances. The HMR Pro takes the popular HMR platform and upgrades it with a premium, hand-lapped carbon steel barrel that is incredibly consistent. The stock is a hybrid chassis-style design from Bergara that offers excellent stability and adjustability, with an aluminum bedding block that ensures a perfect action fit.
Shooting the B-14 HMR Pro feels like shooting a rifle that costs much more. The trigger is a very good factory unit that is user-adjustable down to a crisp pull. The barrel is where this rifle really stands out, delivering exceptional accuracy that rivals many custom barrels. It’s a heavy rifle, making it ideal for range use and competition where stability is key, but perhaps less so for long-distance hunting hikes. For the shooter looking to get into PRS competition or just wants a supremely accurate rifle for target shooting, the HMR Pro offers an incredible blend of performance, features, and value.
Pros
- Superior barrel quality and exceptional accuracy
- Remington 700 pattern allows for huge aftermarket customization
- Stable and adjustable stock with excellent ergonomics
Cons
- Heavy weight makes it less ideal for dynamic hunting
- Lacks a folding stock option for compact storage
Accuracy International AX ELR
When you need absolute certainty that your rifle will not be the reason you miss, the Accuracy International AX ELR is the benchmark. This isn’t just a rifle; it’s a complete long-range system built for professionals who operate in the most demanding environments. The AX chassis is legendary for its rigidity and ergonomics, providing a stable foundation that is fully adjustable to fit any shooter perfectly. The quick-change barrel system is a game-changer, allowing you to switch calibers in minutes without a gunsmith, which is invaluable for adapting to different mission or competition requirements. The action is incredibly smooth, and the rifle’s overall construction is bomb-proof, designed to withstand harsh conditions and maintain zero through hard use.
From a performance standpoint, the AX ELR is simply exceptional. Out of the box, it is capable of sub-half-MOA accuracy with quality match ammunition. The integral Picatinny rail is machined directly into the action, ensuring a perfect, permanent zero for your optics. Every detail, from the fully adjustable trigger to the ambidextrous controls, is engineered for maximum efficiency under pressure. While the price tag is significant, you are paying for proven reliability and performance that has been trusted by military and law enforcement units worldwide for decades. It is a tool that removes variables, letting you focus entirely on wind reading and shot execution.
Pros
- Unmatched build quality and extreme durability
- Quick-change barrel system for caliber versatility
- Consistent sub-MOA accuracy with match-grade ammo
Cons
- Extremely high cost, placing it out of reach for many shooters
- Heavy weight makes it less suitable for mobile hunting
Barrett MRAD MK22
The Barrett MRAD is a masterpiece of modern engineering, developed to meet the rigorous standards of the U.S. military’s MK22 program. What sets the MRAD apart is its incredible modularity. Like the AI AX, it features a quick-change barrel system, but Barrett took it a step further by designing the rifle to be completely tool-less for field stripping. You can change barrels and calibers with nothing but a cartridge tip, which is an incredible feature for operational flexibility. The chassis is incredibly robust and highly adjustable, with a folding stock that makes the rifle much more compact for transport without sacrificing any performance.
Shooting the MRAD is a precise and satisfying experience. The action is buttery smooth, and the trigger is one of the best factory triggers available, crisp and user-adjustable. The rifle is built to maintain extreme accuracy across its multi-caliber capability, consistently delivering sub-MOA groups. The attention to detail is evident in features like the integrated bubble level and the oversized bolt handle that works seamlessly with gloves. While it is a large and heavy rifle, its weight contributes to its stability, making it an excellent platform for sustained long-range engagements. The MRAD represents the pinnacle of American rifle manufacturing, offering unparalleled versatility for the serious long-range shooter.
Pros
- Advanced tool-less, quick-change barrel system
- Exceptional accuracy and smooth, reliable action
- Folding stock for improved portability
Cons
- Very expensive, similar to top-tier custom rifles
- Substantial weight can be a drawback for long carries
Sako TRG 22 A1
The Sako TRG is a legendary name in precision rifles, often considered the main European rival to Accuracy International. The TRG 22 A1 is the latest evolution of this iconic platform, refining an already exceptional system. The TRG chassis is incredibly robust and ergonomic, designed from the ground up for maximum stability and shooter comfort. The action is integral to the chassis, creating a single, ultra-rigid unit. The bolt lift is smooth and requires minimal effort, and the double-stack magazines are reliable and offer generous capacity. Everything about the TRG feels purpose-built and over-engineered in the best way possible.
Accuracy with the TRG 22 A1 is simply phenomenal. It is built to meet the most demanding military standards, and this reliability translates into incredible consistency on the range. The trigger is widely regarded as one of the best two-stage triggers available, fully adjustable for weight and travel. While it shares a high price point with other top-tier rifles, the TRG offers a slightly different feel and handling characteristic that many shooters prefer. Its reputation among professional marksmen is well-earned, making it a rifle you can bet your life on, which is the highest compliment I can give.
Pros
- World-renowned build quality and exceptional accuracy
- Outstanding two-stage trigger system
- Extremely robust and ergonomic chassis system
Cons
- Very high cost and premium-priced accessories
- Heavier than some competing systems
Seekins Precision HAVAK Pro Hunter
The Seekins Precision HAVAK Pro Hunter is a rifle that bridges the gap between a lightweight hunting rifle and a heavy-barreled target gun. Seekins is known for manufacturing top-quality components, and they’ve poured all that
Buying Guide: 11 Best Long Range Rifles in 2025 | Ranked by a Marine Sniper
Picking a long-range rifle isn’t about finding the one with the highest price tag. It’s about matching a tool to a job. Having spent years behind a scope in various conditions, I look for a few key things that separate a good rifle from a great one. Let’s talk about what actually matters when you’re trying to connect with a target way out there.
First, consider the action. Bolt-action rifles are the standard for precision. They are inherently more rigid and consistent than semi-autos, which is the name of the game. A solid action, like a Remington 700 pattern or a custom surgeon-style, gives you a fantastic foundation. For most people starting out or looking for maximum accuracy without a custom build, a good bolt-action is the way to go.
Next, the barrel. This is where the magic happens. Barrel quality, length, and contour are critical. A heavy or bull barrel is better for long-range work because it resists heating up, which can cause your point of impact to shift as you fire. Look for a quality barrel from a known maker; it’s one of the best investments you can make. The caliber is part of this conversation too. While 6.5 Creedmoor remains a top choice for its manageable recoil and excellent ballistics, don’t sleep on classics like .308 Winchester for availability or newer rounds like 6mm ARC for even less wind drift.
The chassis or stock system is your interface with the rifle. A good chassis offers adjustability for length of pull and cheek weld, which is non-negotiable for a consistent shooting position. It should also have a solid bedding system or an integrated aluminum block to ensure the action is secured without stress. A flimsy stock will ruin the potential of a great barrel and action.
Finally, the trigger. A clean, crisp trigger pull is a huge help for making accurate shots. You don’t need a 1-pound pull, but you do need a trigger that breaks predictably without creep. Most factory triggers are decent now, but an aftermarket trigger from Timney or TriggerTech can be a game-changer. Remember, the rifle is just one part of the system. A quality scope, mount, and lots of practice are what will actually make you a long-range shooter. This guide to the 11 best long range rifles in 2025 is built on these principles.
FAQ
What is the most important factor for long-range accuracy: the rifle or the scope?
This is a classic “chicken or egg” situation, but I’ll give it to you straight: you can’t have one without the other. A precision rifle with a poor scope will never show you its true potential, and a fantastic scope on an inaccurate rifle is just a expensive way to see your misses clearly. However, if I had to prioritize, I’d invest in the best optics you can afford first. A high-quality scope with repeatable tracking, clear glass, and a reliable reticle is what allows you to actually apply the rifle’s inherent accuracy. A $500 rifle with a $1500 scope will generally perform better than a $1500 rifle with a $500 scope.
Is a semi-automatic rifle as accurate as a bolt-action for long range?
For the vast majority of shooters, a bolt-action rifle will be more accurate and easier to shoot accurately than a semi-automatic. The simpler, more rigid design of a bolt-action generally provides better consistency. That said, modern gas guns like the LMT MARS-H or the Knights Armament SR-25 are incredibly capable and have closed the gap significantly. They are fantastic for dynamic shooting or when follow-up shot speed is critical. But for pure, bench-rest style precision, the bolt-action still holds the edge in my book.
What is a realistic effective range for a beginner with a quality rifle?
It’s easy to get caught up in YouTube videos of people hitting targets at a mile, but let’s be practical. A realistic goal for a beginner with a good setup—like one of the 11 best long range rifles in 2025—and proper instruction is consistently hitting a man-sized target out to 600 yards. The key word is consistently. This distance forces you to learn wind reading and the fundamentals of marksmanship without getting overly frustrated. Master 600 yards, and then push out to 800, 1000, and beyond.
How much should I expect to spend on a good long-range rifle setup?
This varies widely, but you need to budget for the whole system, not just the rifle. A solid entry-level precision rifle starts around $800 to $1,200. A good scope mount is another $150-$300. You absolutely need a high-quality scope; plan on spending at least as much on the optic as you do on the rifle, so another $1,000+. Then add a bipod ($150-$400) and ammo. A complete, reliable setup for serious practice can easily land in the $2,500 to $4,000 range. It’s not cheap, but buying quality once is cheaper than upgrading later.
Why is the 6.5 Creedmoor so popular compared to the .308 Winchester?
The 6.5 Creedmoor is popular for good reason. It has a much higher Ballistic Coefficient (BC), meaning the bullets slip through the air better. This translates to less wind drift and a flatter trajectory over distance compared to the .308. It also has significantly less recoil, which makes shooting more pleasant and helps you spot your own shots through the scope. The .308 is still a great, capable round with wide ammo availability, but for dedicated long-range shooting, the 6.5 Creedmoor’s performance advantages are real.