Best stalking rifles for red deer on the hill

For traditionalists, the Mauser M12 Max blends German build quality with modern innovation.

• Ergonomic thumbhole laminate stock works ambidextrously from any shooting angle.

• Elevated cheekpiece ensures perfect cheek weld and scope alignment.

• Low bolt-lift action with twin plunger ejectors offers smooth, reliable operation.

• Safety system on the bolt shroud is quiet and secure, preventing spooked stags.

The Mauser M12 Max delivers superb accuracy with both factory and hand-loaded ammunition. Built like a tank, it is designed to last a lifetime of hill stalking.

RRP: £2,650

The Tikka T3x has become a favourite estate rifle thanks to its reliability and excellent value.

• Available in wood, laminate, polymer and stainless-steel finishes.

• Adjustable cheekpiece options make it ideal for angled shots on the hill.

• Roughtech versions feature a fluted barrel for reduced weight.

• Free-floating barrel improves consistency, even with a heavy moderator fitted.

Accurate straight from the box, the Tikka T3x is a dependable workhorse. It’s often recommended to novice stalkers and widely chosen as the essential estate rifle.

RRP: £1,615

Italian gunmaker Benelli has taken a bold approach with the Benelli Lupo Open Country.

• Modular two-piece stock creates natural handling and pointability.

• 36 stock configurations for a custom fit.

• Cryogenic barrel technology improves accuracy by controlling heat expansion.

• Sub-MOA accuracy guaranteed at 100 yards.

• BE.S.T. finish resists weather, backed by a 25-year guarantee.

This rifle’s digital camouflage pattern is practical and effective, making it both eye-catching and versatile in the field.

RRP: £999

The Bergara B14 Hunter brings the brand’s famous barrel accuracy into an affordable stalking rifle. Built in Spain, it combines quality with performance that stands out in its class.

• Guaranteed sub-MOA groups at 100 yards with factory match-grade ammunition.

• Curved trigger gives a crisp, consistent pull on every shot.

• Moulded synthetic stock with glass-fibre reinforced polymer and solid steel pillar bedding.

• SoftTouch coating ensures a secure grip, even in harsh weather.

• Super-smooth B14 action with two-lug system, sliding plate extractor and coned bolt nose.

• Factory drilled and tapped to accept Remington 700-style rings and bases.

• Supplied with detachable magazine and open sights.

This rifle is built for serious stalkers tackling tough conditions on the hill. The B14 Hunter combines reliability, affordability and Bergara’s renowned barrel accuracy.

RRP: £915

The Ruger American Gen II offers rugged practicality at an attractive price.

• Grey polymer moulded stock with free-floating fluted barrel.

• Three-lug bolt with fast 70-degree lift and smooth stroke.

• Adjustable Marksman trigger (3lb–5lb) with safety blade.

• Spacer system adjusts length of pull for custom fit.

Finished in tungsten Cerakote, the Ruger is tough, reliable and resistant to corrosion. It’s a great entry-level rifle for deerstalking, delivering performance beyond its price point.

RRP: £850

Whether you want traditional build quality, customisable design or rugged value, there is a stalking rifle here to suit every shooter.

Carbon-fibre stocks and wrapped barrels may dominate the trend, but don’t overlook classic designs. Every rifle featured here is capable of bringing home venison from the hill.