From agile all-rounders to precision rimfires, we look at five of the best rifles currently helping gamekeepers manage everything from rabbits to red deer
From rabbits to reds, every keeper requires the right tool for his trade. To manage a modern estate effectively, a keeper requires a versatile arsenal. Whether you are tucking into a hedgerow for a long night of fox control, thinning out rabbit populations to protect young crops, or performing the quiet, clinical work of a woodland roe cull, the right rifle makes the difference between a clean harvest and a disappointing time in the field. Here are five of our favourites.
An agile, lightweight rifle suits many situations, and Browning’s X-Bolt 2 delivers impressive manoeuvrability with crisp accuracy. The Vari-Tech stock allows extensive customisation, including interchangeable pistol grip sections, plus adjustable length of pull and cheekpiece for precise eye-to-scope alignment. Its polymer construction keeps weight down while remaining rigid and weather resistant. The redesigned action features an ultra-low bolt lift and fluted bolt to reduce weight and prevent binding, with optional interchangeable bolt knobs. The improved DLX trigger offers a noticeably better feel too. In the Nordic model, the 20in barrel enhances stealth and handling. Browning barrels are typically unfussy with ammunition.
This rimfire is built around its foam-lined polymer stock, which is light yet feels reassuringly solid. Styled after the B14R HMR, the X stock omits the elevating cheekpiece but retains a high comb for proper eye-to-scope alignment. An upright pistol grip with a subtle palm swells aids control, while the length of pull adjusts from 13.5in via 10mm spacers. The soft-touch, speckled finish with stippled panels enhances grip throughout. The blackened bolt runs smoothly with a straight handle and twin claw extractors for reliable ejection, and the bolt lift clears scopes easily. At 36in and 5.3lb it’s trim and nimble – essentially a proven BMR action in a lighter HMR-style stock for small-game hunting.
Savage’s B Series of rifles are specifically designed to accommodate rimfire rounds. The Precision Lite .17 HMR features a stable chassis and a short varmint-type barrel that offers good handling and an accurate platform. This rifle is designed for the competition market but being in .17 HMR makes it a very stable shooting platform for corvids and foxes. The bolt action is considerably better than previous models and it exhibits no feeding issues. It’s certainly worth a look considering the price – £860 for the steel and £1,200 for the carbon fibre barrel model irrespective of calibre.
The Tikka T3x range has earned its place as both a dependable estate rifle and an affordable, hard-working option. It’s available in numerous configurations, with an optional adjustable cheekpiece that is handy for angled shoots on the hill. Other options are the weather-resistant Cerakote finished model; the laminate stocked version with stainless-steel metalwork; and the stainless-steel Lite model with alternative RoughTech options that feature a fluted barrel that shaves off even more weight to achieve a terrifically well-handling rugged rifle. The free-floating barrel promotes consistent accuracy – particularly beneficial when using a heavy moderator. No wonder the T3x remains a popular choice as a go-to rifle.
The ATA Turqua range of rifles really outshoot their price to offer a serious and viable budget option for woodland stalking. Stalkers will appreciate that the Turqua comes with both a three-shot and a five-shot single-stack polymer magazine. This is a thoughtful addition and both are easily removed with the forward-mounted release lever. The barrel is button rifled with lengths of 24in, 22in or 20in – perfect for woodland roe. The Turqua’s weather resistant laminate stock combines comfort, adjustability and great handling, which certainly complements the astonishing accuracy from these rifles.
Balance style and function with our selection of leather cartridge bags
Choosing a sound moderator for your stalking rifle is a personal decision based on weight, balance, and noise reduction. We round up five of the best options currently on the market
Discover the best high-tech gear for nocturnal pest control. Our expert guide covers thermal optics, silenced air rifles, and precision pellets for ratter success.
Five of the best shotgun cartridges for pigeon, game and steel shooting in the UK. The Great British Shooting Awards 2026 nominated loads reviewed for performance, value and versatility.
Get the latest news delivered direct to your door
Discover the ultimate companion for field sports enthusiasts with Shooting Times & Country Magazine, the UK’s leading weekly publication that has been at the forefront of shooting culture since 1882. Subscribers gain access to expert tips, comprehensive gear reviews, seasonal advice and a vibrant community of like-minded shooters.
Save on shop price when you subscribe with weekly issues featuring in-depth articles on gundog training, exclusive member offers and access to the digital back issue library. A Shooting Times & Country subscription is more than a magazine, don’t just read about the countryside; immerse yourself in its most authoritative and engaging publication.
