The Best .308 Hunting Rifles of 2024

There are dozens, if not hundreds of different models of rifles chambered in .308 Winchester, so finding the best 308 hunting rifle for you can be overwhelming. On top of that, today’s gun purchasing environment is complex and many rifles have been in short supply. So I dove deep in researching the best .308 hunting rifles that are currently manufactured and can be readily purchased in the United States.

I went all out and got eight of the rifles on our short list, all in .308 Winchester. Then I teamed up with renowned hunter and outdoorsman, Ron Spomer of Ron Spomer Outdoors, to help test all these guns and provide expert input on what they’re each good for. He had a brand new .308 rifle himself that was more than worthy of consideration, so that gave us a pool of nine worthy rifles to put head to head. Ron and I have handled and fired all of these rifles at the range and used some of them in the field on hunts.

Scroll through to see our reviews and recommendations based on research, side-by-side tests, and hands-on experience. At the end of our list you’ll find our comparison chart, how we tested, and why you can trust us.

NOTE: The original testing and side-by-side review with Ron Spomer was done in 2023, but this article was updated with current information in 2024.

The 9 Best 308 Rifles of 2024: Tested and Reviewed

1. Best Overall: Wilson Combat NULA Model 20
2. Best Budget: Ruger American Predator
3. Editor’s Pick: Browning X-Bolt Speed SR
4. Best for the Money: Tikka T3x Lite Stainless
5. Best Bolt Action: Springfield 2020 Waypoint
6. Most Accurate: Savage 110 Tactical
7. Best Semi-Auto: PSA PA10 Gen3
8. Best Crossover: Bergara B-14 HMR
9. Also Great: Remington 700 SPS

DISCLOSURE: As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases. Many links in this article are affiliate links. If you click on a link we may earn a commission if you make a purchase, at no additional cost to you.

Ron and I also created a series of videos that show these top .308 rifles in action, including the range tests and a summary of their pros and cons. Be sure and check out all the fun on the Ron Spomer Outdoors YouTube channel or from right here on outdoorempire.com!

How To Choose the Right .308 Rifle

There are many reasons choosing a .308 rifle makes sense for a hunter or shooter. It’s sufficiently powerful for almost any use, the recoil is tolerable, a variety of ammunition is readily available, and the cartridge fits in a short action receiver.

How to choose the right .308 rifle for you depends on your needs. Key considerations include:

1. Intended Use: Define whether you’ll primarily hunt, target shoot, or balance both. Your primary activity influences the rifle’s ideal setup.
2. Physical Suitability: Look for a rifle that fits you comfortably. Adjustable stocks can aid in achieving a good fit.
3. Shooting Style: Choose a rifle suited to your preferred shooting style. For example, a rifle for stalk hunting may not be ideal for competitive shooting.
4. Attachments: Consider future attachments, like suppressors. Opt for rifles with pre-threaded barrels to avoid extra costs down the road.
5. Caliber: While .308 is versatile for big game and long-range shooting, a smaller caliber could be a good choice for other uses.
6. Rifle Features: Pay attention to action, barrel, stock, trigger, safety, weight, accuracy, and customization options.
7. Ammunition: Think about the type of .308 ammo you’ll use, as it will affect the rifle choice and performance.
8. Price: Budget is always a factor and while you shouldn’t spend more than you can afford, it may be worth saving up to get the rifle you really want.

Make your choice based on a holistic assessment of these factors.

You’ll also want to be sure to check out our Buyer’s Guide on How To Choose the Right 308 Rifle where we dive deep into what to what to consider and how these rifles compare against each other.

1. Best 308 Hunting Rifle

The Wilson Combat NULA Model 20, selected by Ron Spomer as the best .308 rifle, excels in both backcountry hunts and range performance. Its surprising accuracy, despite its lightweight design, makes it a superb lightweight 308 rifle for hunting.

Key Specifications

• Action: bolt, dual-lug, push feed, SAKO style extractor, plunger ejector
• Barrel: 20-inch, lightweight profile, 416R stainless, free-floated, threaded
• Trigger: Timney Elite Hunter, adjustable 2.75-3.25 lbs
• Safety: 2 position, locks bolt
• Stock: carbon fiber, camouflage
• Magazine: 4-round, aluminum hinged floor plate
• Weight: 5.3 lbs
• Overall length: 39.75 inches
• MSRP: $3,295

Many folks expect accurate .308 rifles to be heavy with long barrels, but the NULA (New Ultralight Arms) Model 20 defied that expectation. It shot MOA or better groups with all three loads we tested, outperforming all the other rifles. Later, Ron tried five different loads and got several 3/4-inch groups with the best group being only 0.62 inch.

Despite popular beliefs, the saying “kicks like a mule” doesn’t apply to the NULA, even with 180 grain bullets. This rifle is slightly muzzle-heavy, which is advantageous for steady aiming compared to a butt-heavy rifle. Its design ensures it’s comfortable and balanced to carry by hand. The NULA features a comb that rises slightly toward the rear, allowing the rifle’s recoil to push the butt under your cheek instead of snapping back against it. This, along with the Decelerator recoil pad, allows you to shoot this lightweight rifle comfortably without feeling beaten up.

Ron Spomer’s preference for this rifle is rooted in history. He’s used Melvin Forbes’ original Ultralight Arms rifle (4.75 lbs) since 1988, hunting various North American game effectively. Despite its light weight, he’s consistently found it to be highly accurate.

Forbes sold the company to Wilson Combat, who maintained the original vision and further improved the design. The name “Model 20” refers to the weight of the action at only 20 ounces, remarkably light compared to typical bolt actions. Wilson Combat achieved this through expert miniaturization, yet ensuring safety and top-notch performance. This makes the NULA Model 20 perhaps the lightest .308 rifle, perfect for backpack hunting but versatile enough for other tasks.

Contrary to what you might expect, the current price of the NULA is less than the original. If you can afford it, I don’t think you’ll regret shedding 3 or 4 pounds when you’re hiking up a mountain on a hunt. The Wilson Combat NULA Model 20 stands up in accuracy to any high precision .308 rifle.

Despite its affordability, the Ruger American Predator offers both core and extra features typically seen only in higher-priced firearms: a free-floated barrel, picatinny rail, threaded muzzle, and adjustable trigger, to name a few.

Compare prices at: Sportsman’s Warehouse, Bass Pro Shops, Brownells, Guns.com, Sportsman’s Guide

Key Specifications

• Action: bolt, push feed, 3-lug bolt head, hook extractor, plunger ejector
• Barrel: 18-inch, steel, threaded, free-floated
• Trigger: adjustable 3-5 lbs, bladed for safety
• Safety: 2 position, non-locking bolt
• Stock: synthetic molded polymer
• Magazine: 4-round, detachable, flush-fit
• Weight: 6.2 lbs
• Overall length: 38 inches
• MSRP: $619

If you’re considering a Ruger American 308, the Predator model stands out with its added perks. It comes with a factory-installed picatinny scope base, saving the hassle of separate purchases, and its shorter barrel is suppressor-ready.

The rifle’s slick bolt features a three-lug extractor which results in a low-lift (70-degree) bolt handle. This facilitates better scope clearance and faster cycling, even when shooting from the shoulder.

Ron originally picked the Tikka as his favorite among the .308 hunting rifles under $1000. But later he switched to the Ruger because it’s a lightweight 308 rifle that’s ergonomic, quick to draw, and well-balanced for both shooting and carrying in the backcountry.

This Ruger 308’s 18-inch barrel offers greater maneuverability when hunting in wooded areas and reduces vibration while shooting for improved accuracy. Testing confirmed its precision, with a 1-inch MOA group at 100 yards using 150 gr bullets. Performance dipped slightly with larger bullets, but it still shot respectable 1.25-inch groups with 168 and 180 grain rounds. Ruger’s Power Bedding “V-block” in the stock secures the action and ensures a free-floated barrel for consistent accuracy.

This Ruger 308 isn’t flawless, however. We experienced more recoil compared to the other rifles we tested and there’s some mush in the trigger, for lack of a better word. It’s a bit soft before breaking, but there’s no roughness or creep.

Regularly available below MSRP (I purchased mine for $530), the Ruger American Predator is an accessible, value-packed, inexpensive .308 hunting rifle for both new and experienced shooters.

3. Editor’s Pick: Best 308 Hunting Rifle

Among eight top .308 rifles, my choice for deer hunting this year is the Browning X-Bolt Speed Suppressor Ready (SR). I prefer it for its lightweight design and simple operation, coupled with a blend of functional and cool high-end features.

Compare prices at: Palmetto State Armory

Key Specifications

• Action: bolt, 3-lug, push feed, M-16 style hook extractor, plunger extractor
• Barrel: 18-inch, stainless steel, cerakote, free-floated, fluted, sporter weight, threaded, muzzle brake
• Trigger: feather trigger, adjustable 3-4 lbs
• Safety: 2 position, locks bolt, bolt-release button
• Stock: synthetic composite, OVIX camouflage
• Magazine: 4-round, detachable
• Weight: 6.3 lbs
• Overall length: 38 inches
• MSRP: $1,430

The three-lug bolt of the Browning X-Bolt Speed (SR) provides a shorter bolt throw and a smooth-cycling action. I especially appreciate the bolt release button that allows ejecting rounds without disengaging the safety. This feature adds peace of mind, as I can safely unload the rifle without switching off the safety, especially after a shot or while repositioning during a hunt.

Its lightweight and sleek stock design offer traditional hunting rifle aesthetics, making it easy to carry and quick to shoulder, even from a sitting field position. The rifle looks and feels premium with OVIX camo, Browning’s gold trigger, and a bronze cerakote finish. Enhancements like a light, fluted, and threaded barrel for suppressors or brakes, along with being free-floated and cerakote finished, add just about all the mountain hunting rifle barrel optimizations you could imagine. When I put my new PWS BDE .30 caliber suppressor on it, I feel like the coolest biped in the woods.

It shoots well too. In our tests, Ron shot only one MOA group with it, but later with my suppressor and Hornady Superformance 165 gr SST bullets, the performance improved significantly.

The Browning X-Bolt Speed Suppressor Ready is comparable to our overall best .308 rifle pick, the NULA Model 20, but it’s more moderately priced (about 60% cheaper). It’s an excellent choice for hunters seeking a high-quality bolt-action rifle without the need for an overly extravagant investment.

4. Best .308 Hunting Rifle for the Money

The Tikka T3x Lite Stainless stands out as one of the best 308 hunting rifles under $1000. It’s durable synthetic stock and stainless barrel can withstand all weather conditions and it’s free of distracting bells and whistles.

Compare prices at: Bass Pro Shops, Cabela’s

Key Specifications

• Action:bolt, push feed, dual-lug, spring-loaded hook extractor, plunger ejector
• Barrel: 22.4-inch, stainless steel, free-floated,
• Trigger: adjustable
• Safety: 2 position, locks bolt
• Stock: synthetic
• Magazine: 3-round, detachable
• Weight: 6.4 lbs
• Overall length: 42.5 inches
• MSRP: $979

The Tikka T3x Lite, one of the most popular .308 rifles, is available in around 300 variations considering all the calibers it’s produced in. People, including myself, favor this bolt action for its dependability and smooth operation. It flawlessly handles both ejecting and loading rounds and it’s easy to remove for boresighting and cleaning.

It features a two-lug bolt face, yet the bolt handle doesn’t rise too high, providing ample scope clearance and enabling quick cycling of the action. This is handy for guys like me that sometimes botch the first shot and need to put another one in the chamber pronto.

During our range tests, the Tikka notably preferred 150-grain bullets, achieving a sub-MOA group, though larger bullets slightly exceeded MOA. In my experience, this rifle consistently performs well with various types of ammunition. Even as an average shooter, I’ve found it shoots reliably and predictably, both at the range and in the field. I took my deer with it last season and I’ll use it again.

Ultimately, Ron would choose the Ruger over this rifle, primarily due to the Tikka stock feeling “a bit clunky” for him. The flat-bellied forend, similar to a target rifle, divides opinion among hunters. However, from all the .308 hunting rifles under $1,000 that we reviewed, my personal choice is the Tikka T3x Lite Stainless. Its simplicity, reliability, and low maintenance make it our top pick for the best 308 for the money. Just do yourself a favor and get a light scope to complement this lightweight rifle.

5. Best .308 Bolt Action Rifle

The Springfield Model 2020 Waypoint stands out as potentially the best .308 bolt action rifle of 2024, thanks to its blend of versatility, superior components, and consistent accuracy. It’s not officially a custom rifle, but it sure feels like one.

Compare prices at: Bass Pro Shops, Guns.com, Brownells

Key Specifications

• Action: fluted bolt, push feed, dual-lug, hook extractor, plunger ejector, cerakote
• Barrel: 20-inch carbon fiber, threaded, radial muzzle brake
• Trigger: TriggerTech, adjustable 2.5-5 lbs
• Safety: 2 position, non-locking bolt
• Stock: carbon fiber, M-Lok, hybrid profile, camo
• Magazine: 5-round, drop out, AICS style
• Weight: 6.6 lbs
• Overall length: 41.5 inches
• MSRP: $2,599

The Springfield Model 2020 Waypoint is available in various configurations including adjustable or fixed stocks and steel or carbon barrels. My Waypoint, with a fixed stock and carbon barrel, is excellent for target shooting since the barrel cools so quickly. And, of course, you can throw a suppressor on it if you wish.

The carbon fiber stock, featuring a pistol grip, wide forend, and high comb, hints at a target rifle, yet its simplicity and light weight gear it towards hunting. The 2020 Waypoint’s duality as both a target and hunting rifle makes it a top .308 bolt action rifles, though its higher price may deter budget-conscious or casual shooters.

Springfield promises 0.75 MOA accuracy, which we verified with lighter bullets, although heavier bullets showed slightly lower accuracy with about 1.25-inch groups. Despite this, with some ammunition experimentation, practice, and sight adjustment, I’m confident it would compete well with the most accurate .308 rifles.

The rifle’s mild recoil and flat-bellied stock make it comfortable for bench shooting. Its protruding magazine can be cumbersome for one-handed carry while spot-and-stalk hunting or when slung over the shoulder, but its QD flush cups offer various sling configurations for better comfort. This might not be an issue at all for backcountry hunts where the rifle is primarily transported in a pack.

Balancing weight, precision, and stock features, the Springfield 2020 Waypoint excels in long-range hunting and shooting. It’s an excellent choice for pursuing game like sheep in Alaska or elk or mule deer in the rugged terrain of the Mountain West. And it’s equally proficient at target shooting from a bench or whitetail hunting from a stand.

6. Most Accurate .308 Rifle for the Money

At a relatively inexpensive price point, the Savage 110 Tactical was consistently the most accurate 308 factory rifle we tested right alongside our top pick, the NULA. While it’s on the heavy side for a dedicated hunting rifle, it can certainly do the job. And at the same time, it’s a versatile target and long-range .308 rifle.

Compare prices at: Sportsman’s Warehouse, Cabela’s, Guns.com

Key Specifications

• Action: bolt, push feed, hook extractor, plunger ejector
• Barrel: 24-inch, carbon steel, free-floating, fluted, threaded
• Trigger: Savage AccuTrigger, adjustable 1.5 to 6 lbs
• Safety: 2 position, locks bolt, on tang
• Stock: Synthetic AccuStock, adjustable comb height and length of pull spacers
• Magazine: 10 round drop out, AICS
• Weight: 8.9 lbs
• Overall length: 42 inches
• MSRP: $919

The Savage 110 Tactical is an upgrade from the standard Model 110 with the same action dropped into Savage’s Accustock. It includes dual forward sling swivel studs for bipod and sling attachment, an Evolution Gun Works Picatinny rail with 20 MOA elevation, and a 10 round Magpul P-MAG magazine. These features are generally premium or purchased aftermarket upgrades on other rifles. Note that hunting regulations in some areas may require a 5-round magazine instead.

In our range tests, this Savage 308 consistently delivered MOA and even sub-MOA groups, shooting better than the more expensive Bergara B-14 HMR and Springfield Waypoint 2020 under the same conditions. This accuracy can be partially attributed to Savage’s floating bolt head, which ensures precise cartridge alignment with the bore. Admittedly, the bolt requires some effort and a third hand to remove and reinstall, but the big bolt handle makes it easy to find and chamber a new round while your eye remains on target.

What makes it a contender for the most accurate .308 rifle is its fluted, medium-contour barrel which balances heat-resistance and weight. This improves accuracy but keeps the weight manageable if you decide to hunt with it. The barrel is threaded for a suppressor and it even has a simple nut-driven barrel replacement system.

We loved the tactile feel of the bladed Accutrigger which, like the butt stock, is highly adjustable. For under $1,000, you get the fit of a custom rifle.

While there would certainly be debate about it being the most accurate .308 rifle, the Savage 110 Tactical is our top pick for the best Savage 308 rifle for its accuracy, affordability, and suitability for both new and seasoned long-range shooters.

7. Best Crossover .308 Rifle

The Bergara B-14 HMR (Hunting and Match Rifle) is a tricked out precision rifle. Though heavy for active hunts, it’s a versatile, affordable target gun, perfect for those seeking a single multi-purpose .308 rifle that can basically do it all.

Compare prices at: Bass Pro Shops, Guns.com, Brownells

Key Specifications

• Action: bolt, push feed, Sako style sliding plate extractor, plunger ejector
• Barrel: 20-inch, 4140R steel, black cerakote finish, free-floating, threaded
• Trigger: adjustable 2-4 lbs (pre-set at 3)
• Safety: 2 position, non-locking bolt
• Stock: molded polymer, adjustable cheek piece and length of pull spacers
• Magazine: 5 round drop out, AICS
• Weight: 9.5 lbs
• Overall length: 40.5 inches
• MSRP: $1,199

The Bergara B-14 HMR’s action is remarkably smooth and robust. Its polymer stock, similar to McMillan’s precision models, includes an internally bedded chassis. The ergonomic pistol grip and rear hook differ from traditional hunting rifles, promoting a straight-wrist position and lighter trigger touch. Its on-the-fly adjustable comb height allows for a comfortable cheek weld even with high-mounted target scopes. Among the .308s we tested, the B-14 HMR stood out for its solid feel and stability, especially from a bench, without the forestock movement we saw in cheaper models.

Bergara’s heavy target barrels are renowned for repeatable accuracy. In our testing, the rifle favored 150 gr bullets, achieving a sub-MOA hole-touching group. Surprisingly, however, the 168 gr match bullets went haywire with a 2.5 in group and the 180 gr bullets didn’t shoot MOA either. Finding a load it likes may require extra range time and ammo. But this may not be a big deal for hand loaders.

Additionally, the B-14 HMR features QD flush cups and dual sling studs, accommodating a wide range of slings and bipods. It’s a fun gun to set up and shoot, so it will appeal to gun-tinkering enthusiasts interested in mods and upgrades. I purchased mine well below MSRP, making it an affordable choice for both hunting and competitive shooting.

8. Best 308 Semi-Auto Rifle

The largest cohort of .308 semi auto rifles is the AR-10 family. The PSA GEN3 PA10 is a far cry from your traditional hunting rifle, but it’ll do the job, it’s surprisingly accurate, and it’s a ton of fun at the range.

Key Specifications

• Action: semi-automatic, AR-10 platform
• Barrel: 18-inch, 416R stainless steel, floating, muzzle brake, threaded
• Trigger: two-stage
• Safety: 2 position
• Stock: synthetic butt stock, adjustable length of pull
• Magazine: 20 round PMAG drop out, AICS
• Weight: 8.2 lbs
• Overall length: 36-39.5 inches
• MSRP: $1,310

AR-10s often get a bad rap for accuracy compared to precision-oriented bolt-action .308 rifles. However, our testing showed the PA10 shooting MOA with 150 gr bullets and sub-MOA with the 168s, but the 180 group was unimpressive. We even had a misfire, but it’s unclear whether the rifle, ammunition, or shooter was at fault.

This rifle stands out with its smooth, responsive two-stage trigger and gentle recoil. Its adjustable stock can comfortably accommodate virtually any shooter, making it an enjoyable firearm for the entire family to use.

Palmetto State Armory manufactures nearly all components of this rifle themselves right here in the USA and sells directly to customers at remarkably low prices. Typically, it retails around $900, a fraction of the cost of alternatives from gunmakers like Daniel Defense or Wilson Combat.

Thanks to extensive aftermarket support and ease of modifying optics and parts, the PSA GEN3 PA10 is versatile for hunting, competition, target shooting, and more. Yet, for a semi-auto .308 hunting rifle, the included 20-round magazine gets in the way and the gun feels heavy and cumbersome compared to lighter options like the Ruger American. But if you love the AR platform, its value for money makes the PA10 our top choice for the best .308 semi-auto rifle.

Take note that you should check the regulations in your state before purchasing a gun like this. Some states place restrictions on semi-automatics or magazine capacity, especially for hunting. Look it up and follow the regs.

9. Also Great

The Remington 700 SPS (Special Purpose Synthetic) has all the makings of a classic .308 caliber hunting rifle. Its slender stock, reliable action, and prolific array of aftermarket support make it a great starter rifle.

Compare prices at: Palmetto State Armory

Key Specifications

• Action: bolt, dual-lug, push feed, hook extractor, plunger ejector
• Barrel: 24-inch, carbon steel, sporter weight, bedded to stock
• Trigger: X-Mark Pro adjustable trigger
• Safety: 2 position, non-locking bolt
• Stock: synthetic with rubberized grips
• Magazine: 4-rounds, internal hinged floor-plate
• Weight: 7.25 lbs
• Overall length: 43.6 inches
• MSRP: $950

This Remington 308 bolt-action rifle, while consistent, was the least accurate in our tests, with 100 yard groups between 1.5 to 3 inches. The shots varied in height and direction. It’s still good enough to hit a deer at 200 yards, but it may be somewhat unreliable for long-range shooting. The barrel is bedded to the synthetic stock, not free-floated. Sometimes this stiffens the barrel and is good for accuracy, but with a somewhat flimsy plastic stock, it may be an issue. Sanding under the barrel to increase barrel clearance may improve accuracy. We were a little disappointed in its precision, but it could do better with the right ammo.

It has a sleek stock, similar to the Browning X-Bolt, which I like in a hunting rifle. And there are tons of aftermarket accessories for the Remington 700.

Drawbacks include some creep in the trigger and some reports of rust on the matte black barrel finish. We also discovered the bolt operation can be a little rough, though it may smooth out in time with use.

There may be some debate about our inclusion of the Remington 700 SPS since Remington got sloppy in their quality control and went bankrupt before being acquired and promising to restore the brand’s reputation. Despite this, the Remington 700’s significant influence in hunting, sport shooting, law enforcement, and military sectors can’t be overlooked. As one of the most produced civilian rifles, with a variety of models available, the Remington 700 SPS should be given a place as one of the best bolt action .308 rifles.

10. Honorable Mention Lever Action

The .308 lever action rifle I was really interested in trying out due in large part to the fact that it is still in production is the Browning BLR Lightweight. If you’re looking for a lever action and, like me, were disappointed that we couldn’t test one out, take a good look at this Browning BLR.

308 Rifle Comparison Chart

	Editor’s Choice	Best Overall	Budget Pick	Best Precision
	Browning X-Bolt Speed Suppressor Ready	Wilson Combat NULA Model 20	Ruger American Predator	Savage 110 Tactical
Barrel Length	18 in	20 in	18 in	24 in
Weight	6.3 lbs	5.3 lbs	6.2 lbs	8.9 lbs
Threaded Barrel	Yes	Yes	Yes	Yes
Capacity	4+1	4+1	4+1	10+1
Bottom Line	Tricked out hunting rifle that can do just about anything at a mid-range price point.	Ultra-light hunting rifle made of high-end materials with remarkable accuracy.	Accurate lightweight hunting rifle at a low price, but with premium features.	Affordable long-range rifle with consistent accuracy, more target-oriented.
Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price	Check Price

Recommended reading: Pros and Cons of .308 Rifles: Great Gun, But Not For Everyone

Why Trust This Review

• Unsponsored: This review is not sponsored and no company has paid us to recommend their product.
• Our money: I spent thousands of dollars of Outdoor Empire’s money to purchase these rifles.
• Hands-on: Ron and I handled, shot, and used the nine .308 rifles in this review ourselves.
• In-depth research: I have researched and compared more than 40 of the most popular .308 rifles.
• Expertise: I learned about and handled dozens of rifles from factory reps at SHOT Show and gun counter guys at sporting goods stores.
• Experience: We have spent well over 120 hours working on this review (that’s just what I remember).
• Trust: I work hard to bring you honest, unbiased content. I recommend the same 308 guns to you that I do to my friends and family.

As an outdoor enthusiast, I see guns as tools for my hunting hobby, but I’m no expert. So I enlisted Ron Spomer, fellow Idahoan and seasoned expert in firearms and hunting, to evaluate these nine .308 rifles. With a successful career in outdoor writing and TV hosting, Ron has educated millions about firearms and conservation, benefiting hunters like me through his YouTube videos. As it turns out, he’s just as pleasant to hang out with as he seems on camera.

How We Tested

For more than a year I have been researching, purchasing, and shooting .308 rifles. On paper, I’ve compared specs, price points, and features of more than 40 of the most popular 308 rifles. Once we had nine of them in hand, Ron and I tested and compared them barrel to barrel.

Since Ron is the expert rifleman, he shot three groups of three rounds at 100 yards with each .308 rifle to compare accuracy. He let the barrel cool between groups. He shot the following three types of factory ammo in order to give each rifle a fair opportunity at finding a load it can group well with.

1. Typical deer hunting load: Hornady American Whitetail 150 gr InterLock
2. Match grade: Hornady Match 168 gr ELD
3. Elk load: Federal Premium 180 gr Trophy Bonded Tip

Then we compared the actions, barrels, stocks, triggers, weights, and features of each rifle side by side.

If you follow Ron Spomer, you know that he doesn’t hesitate to give the .308 Winchester cartridge a hard time. So if he likes these rifles in this caliber, that’s saying something!

Final Words on the Best .308 Hunting Rifles

In order to choose the best 308 gun for you, you ultimately need to decide what your budget is, what factors are most important to you, and how many bells and whistles you really need (or want).

It was hard to narrow down my long list of noteworthy .308 rifles to a short list of candidates to buy and test. Then, based on lack of availability in some cases and my meager attempt to practice some budgetary restraint, I had to draw the line somewhere. There are a number of others I would have liked to test too, like the Mossberg Patriot, Howa Hogue, Winchester XPR, Savage Axis, CZ American, and the Kimber Hunter. One of these may be just as worthy of your attention as some of those above.

Stay tuned. Ron and I have plans to do this again.

If you want to see more hands-on outdoor gear reviews, I also host Outdoor Empire’s YouTube channel about outdoor gear.

Recommended reading: Best .17 HMR Rifles Tested and Reviewed

Frequently Asked Questions