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March Madness: The Sweet Sixteen of All-Purpose Deer Rifles
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March 20, 2012
March Madness: The Sweet Sixteen of All-Purpose Deer Rifles
by Dave Hurteau
VOTE FOR DIVISION II AND SEE THE RESULTS OF DIVISION 1 HERE
Basketball? What basketball? All I know is that March means the Sweet Sixteen of Deer Guns and Ammo. Two years ago, the .30-06 won the title of Whitetail Cartridge Champ. Last year, the venerable Marlin 336 won the title of Whitetail Brush Rifle Champ. This year, it’s the all-arounders. That is, whitetail rifles that are light enough for the mountain, quick enough for the woods, tough enough for the swamp, accurate enough for the prairie, and not too hard on the wallet.
It’s a tough category because there are so many good general-purpose rifles today. So as usual, to cover my butt and get in on the fun of complaining about the rankings, I let someone else choose them. This year, F&S Contributing Editor Lawrence Pyne picked our players, with instructions from me to go with: [1] the latest version of any still-produced model, [2] only widely available discontinued models, and [3] non-custom, affordable models (read under $2,000).
And so, with those caveats, below are his seeded selections (which I encourage you to take issue with).
Let's get started. Check out the bracket (you can click here to print out a copy if you want to fill it out by hand). Then vote for your preferred all-purpose deer rifle in each matchup below to begin the first round of play for Division I. We'll follow up with Division II, then move on the Elite Eight, Final Four and finally the F&S All-Purpose Deer Rifle Championship.
Division I
1. Winchester Model 70: The rifleman’s rifle is back better than ever, and the Featherweight version is both easy to carry and deadly at long ranges. Jack would approve.
2. Savage 11/111: One of several modern variations of the venerable Model 110, this one features Savage’s proven AccuTrigger and new AccuStock.
3. Weatherby Vanguard: Weatherby changed the face of American firearms more than 50 years ago. Its latest rifle features guaranteed sub-MOA accuracy, standard calibers, and an eye-catching price (MSRP: $599).
4. Browning X-Bolt: Sleek, fast, and loaded with innovative features, it's arguably the best bolt-action rifle Browning has ever built. It’s an A-Bolt, only better.
5. Ruger Model 77: Like all things Ruger, it’s rugged, reliable, and a proven performer. The LC6 trigger on the new Hawkeye models make it more accurate than ever.
6. Thompson/Center Encore: The one-shot gun for all seasons. Interchangeable barrels let you switch between muzzleloader, slug gun, and more than a dozen centerfire cartridges.
7. Marlin 308MX: It’s basically the 336—a classic brush gun—but in a caliber that offers legitimate long-range performance. That said, the trigger can’t compare to the best bolts.
8. Remington 7600: No gun provides quicker, more reliable follow-up shots in thick cover than this proven pump, yet with a 22-inch barrel, it can still reach out and touch ’em. Again, too bad it doesn’t have a better trigger.
Division II
1. Remington Model 700: Perhaps the most popular American bolt action ever made, even though it’s a push feed. Its time-tested accuracy has only been enhanced by the new X-Mark Pro trigger.
2. Kimber 84M Montana: The lightweight champ of production bolt rifles. Its blind magazine isn't for everyone, but hey, a gun weighing only 5 pounds, 6 ounces, has to have at least one tradeoff.
3. Sako Model 85 Hunter: This Swedish import has great lines, a lustrous finish, and a silky smooth action. It doesn't come cheap, but it’s one fine rifle.
4. Thompson/Center Icon: A thoroughly modern firearm that is still pleasing to the eye, it is one of the most accurate out-of-the-box rifles on the market. If only it was a pound lighter.
5. Savage 99: A classic lever that was ahead of its time and remains in high demand despite being out of production for 15 years. It's old-school cool. But mounting a scope is tricky and the trigger is only okay.
6. Marlin X7: Loaded with premium features--adjustable trigger, pillar bedding, button-rifled barrel, and fluted bolt action—it’s a best buy at under $400.
7. Ruger No. 1: If you’re a really good hunter, this single-shot is all you need. A compact killer that looks as good as it shoots.
8. Browning BAR: Reliable and surprisingly accurate, it’s the gold-standard in autoloaders. But it’s a little clunky and no lightweight, especially in magnum offerings.
Sweet Sixteen Whitetail All-Purpose Tournament: Division I
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Comments (56)
I would have liked to have seen the Tikka in the bracket somewhere. There’s always next season I guess.
Your bracket is set up all wrong. 1's & 2's shouldn't have to face each other in a 2nd round match up.
I think they should also do a shotgun one too.
Need to fix the Brackets. 1 and 2 dont face each other in the 2nd round of anything ever.
Need to fix the Brackets. 1 and 2 dont face each other in the 2nd round of anything ever.
The Tikka T3 should have been in one of the brackets. Barrel and trigger by Sako. Light weight, accurate and built tough.
as said before, bracket needs fixed. my view/vote results were also messed up showing them out of order, and showing the value of the next bracket you had not voted on yet.
I've got a savage/stevens(m110) and a win m70, I won't like to vote that round....
Thanks uplander and Jason,
Brackets are fixed now.
man, i was waiting for this! gonna be some great matchups this time around. i've never had any problem with the trigger on my 99 in .300. where did that come from?
really a savage 99 rather than a winchester 94? and two inlines both from Thompson??? Really??? I question this list......
jamsti,
My 99 is in .300 Savage, too. The trigger is pretty good, but I must admit, it's no AccuTrigger.
srlarson
We're happy to have you. We welcome readers of all gun-knowledge levels.
Still not correct. The 3/6 & 4/5 matchups need to be switched as well.
There also seems to be a glitch to allow you to vote more than once. I voted earlier, and it showed the results a while, but now I can vote again. Don't worry, I'll only vote once. Until the Remington 700 is on the ballot.
Not even a mention of a semi-auto from Heckler & Koch such as the SLB 2000+? That is at least on par with the BAR if not better.
Even thou I am a proud owner of not one but three Savages I had to vote for the M70 carried one for years and it is still the best 30.06 ever In Savages the .308 Tactical still makes my heart skip a beat always.
When / where do we vote on division 2?
What about the Remington 740/7400?? You writers need to stop listening to Petzal, Hunters clean their guns and I guarentee I can accurately outshoot anyone with a 760! I'll shoot my 5th shot before they shoot their 3rd!
I didn't like the pairing of the Win.Model 70 and the Remington 7600. Two classics, but bolt vs pump? Not sure that is a good bracket.
cant beat a savage
Tikka T3 should have been on the list somewhere, probably should replace the TC Icon.
Used A Savage11/111 for the first time last Nov in Texas. I ordered one when I got home. A very accurate well made gun!
I installed the Timmey 870 Trigger Fix on my 7600. It is a different rifle now.
The Sako 85 is from Finland, not Sweden.
Hunter_Fass, Beekeeper and jay: The T3 was on the bubble. It's a fine rifle that scores well in the value category. But in the end I went with two domestics (308MX and Icon). I guess that makes me a homer, but at least the USA is still a power conference... plainsman: you're right. I must have had blondes on the brain...
Division I is interesting, but I think Div. II has it all over Div. I! But who will foul out?
How is putting a scope on a Savage 99 tricky??? They have been factory drilled since 1950, and bases are readily available. As for the 99 over the Win. 94....no brainer. The 94 cannot compete in accuracy or variety of potent calibers. Sure, it is handy, and nostalgic, but those were the selection standards.
Right, buckmeister,
But my 99, like plenty of others, is from before 1950.
How about an AR-10 in 308, 16" barrel, with adjustable stock, scope on top rail, red dot, or open sights canted to the side for close up, or maybe an AR-15 in 6.5 Grendel(1200 yd accuracy).
The only thing about those MOA out-of-the-box models is the question about barrel break-in and whether or not that degree of accuracy might change after 200 rounds?
Back in the day it seemed to always take 100 rounds before we'd even try to tweek accuracy with handloads. Then came the BOSS-like devices that offered a mechanical fix for 2" groups.
Now we have cryo-barrels, custom projectiles and powder loads that can produce 3-4-5/10ths of an inch groups for a few dollars more.
While not a scientific study, I've long-been of the opinion that our rifles were generally more accurate than their owners. And I don't believe that theory has changed too much over time...
I like the Browning BLR as a better choice than the BAR or Marlin 336 as an entrant into the final 16 IMHO. Also, the Savage 16/116 is the top of the line Savage bolt that has all of the best value features from the Savage folks. I own several and they are first class hunting rifles, available in lots of Deer cartridges too like 250 and 300 Savage, 260 Rem, 270 Win, 7-08 Rem, etc.
The Tikka T3 is the best value on the market today. It shoots 3/8" inch groups with factory ammo. I would not trade it for any two on your bracket.
It's going to be fun to find out the winner
WHAT!?! No Winchester 94 in 30-30???
Interesting subject. likewise Tikka should have been a no brainer , also 16 instead o0f 11, Venture Weathershield instead of Icon, and BLR 3006 , Hard to beat the Vanguard S2 in 257 mag , 7mm08, 308 etc . Great valAn outsider would be the Rossi 4570 lever but not fot the longer shots . Mark Australia.
Give me a light rifle that's easy to handle and I'll take it to the ends of the earth and back. The model 70 a good one, just isn't that rifle. As a left hander, a lever in any caliber over 243 is ideal as the best all 'rounder.
It's kind of a modern bracket but a few good old staples.
like the bracket! and people need to complain less and enjoy more!!!
I’m surprised that the Winchester 94 didn’t make the list or the Ruger Gunsite Scout. No matter the winner of the bracket I'll still use my grandfathers Remington model 725 in 30-06 Springfield.
won't the rifle with the highest production numbers invariably win if people vote for rifles they own ??
The Winchester 94 has probably killed more deer than all of the others combined. It's a travesty to leave it out.
Sako is Finnish - not Swedish.
and where is the marlin 336c in 35remington cripes i have mine for 40 years hasn't failed me yet so far two generations have gotten deer with this firearm great woods rifle
note should be taken how about the remington model 700 mountain rifle lightweight packs a punch with the mix of calibers plus its a remington
First Round,
I would either pick the Winchester model 70 or the Savage 11. If I had an option to use the Winchester model 70 compact I would take it over any in the first bracket
Bob,
I've got a 336 in .35 Rem, too. Great gun, but not for all-purpose, IMO. It won our Brush Rifle title. Same with the 94, which took second behind the 336.
Gtbigsky,
I hear you: I've got a Model 70 Classic Compact in 7mm-08 that I absolutely adore.
Bob,
I've got a 336 in .35 Rem, too. Great gun, but not for all-purpose, IMO. It won our Brush Rifle title. Same with the 94, which took second behind the 336.
Gtbigsky,
I hear you: I've got a Model 70 Classic Compact in 7mm-08 that I absolutely adore.
Oops. Sorry for the double post.
the rem 7400 30.06 needs to be in there. have had mine for over 12 yrs an i wouldnt trade for 5 of any other gun made. i've taking game from 25yrds out to around 650yrds with a single shot. everyone i know complains that they are bad to jam but the way i see it any gun will jam if you dont keep it clean and mine hasn't failed me not once.
the rem 7400 30.06 needs to be in there. have had mine for over 12 yrs an i wouldnt trade for 5 of any other gun made. i've taking game from 25yrds out to around 650yrds with a single shot. everyone i know complains that they are bad to jam but the way i see it any gun will jam if you dont keep it clean and mine hasn't failed me not once.
My bracket prediction is a shootout between th M-70 and M-700 in the championship game.
A shotgun sweet 16 would be fun.
I have 2 Savage 99's that I'll put up against anything for MOP at 150 yards offhand!
What happend to the CZ550 series ? They surely deserved a place here !!
Savage has got this one in the bag! Best rifles EVER!
Hey Goon. Sako is made in Finland, not Sweden. How can we take you seriously if you don't even know that?
Post a Comment
The Tikka T3 should have been in one of the brackets. Barrel and trigger by Sako. Light weight, accurate and built tough.
I would have liked to have seen the Tikka in the bracket somewhere. There’s always next season I guess.
man, i was waiting for this! gonna be some great matchups this time around. i've never had any problem with the trigger on my 99 in .300. where did that come from?
I didn't like the pairing of the Win.Model 70 and the Remington 7600. Two classics, but bolt vs pump? Not sure that is a good bracket.
The Sako 85 is from Finland, not Sweden.
Tikka T3 should have been on the list somewhere, probably should replace the TC Icon.
Used A Savage11/111 for the first time last Nov in Texas. I ordered one when I got home. A very accurate well made gun!
Your bracket is set up all wrong. 1's & 2's shouldn't have to face each other in a 2nd round match up.
I think they should also do a shotgun one too.
Need to fix the Brackets. 1 and 2 dont face each other in the 2nd round of anything ever.
Need to fix the Brackets. 1 and 2 dont face each other in the 2nd round of anything ever.
as said before, bracket needs fixed. my view/vote results were also messed up showing them out of order, and showing the value of the next bracket you had not voted on yet.
I've got a savage/stevens(m110) and a win m70, I won't like to vote that round....
jamsti,
My 99 is in .300 Savage, too. The trigger is pretty good, but I must admit, it's no AccuTrigger.
cant beat a savage
I installed the Timmey 870 Trigger Fix on my 7600. It is a different rifle now.
The Tikka T3 is the best value on the market today. It shoots 3/8" inch groups with factory ammo. I would not trade it for any two on your bracket.
WHAT!?! No Winchester 94 in 30-30???
Interesting subject. likewise Tikka should have been a no brainer , also 16 instead o0f 11, Venture Weathershield instead of Icon, and BLR 3006 , Hard to beat the Vanguard S2 in 257 mag , 7mm08, 308 etc . Great valAn outsider would be the Rossi 4570 lever but not fot the longer shots . Mark Australia.
the rem 7400 30.06 needs to be in there. have had mine for over 12 yrs an i wouldnt trade for 5 of any other gun made. i've taking game from 25yrds out to around 650yrds with a single shot. everyone i know complains that they are bad to jam but the way i see it any gun will jam if you dont keep it clean and mine hasn't failed me not once.
My bracket prediction is a shootout between th M-70 and M-700 in the championship game.
Thanks uplander and Jason,
Brackets are fixed now.
really a savage 99 rather than a winchester 94? and two inlines both from Thompson??? Really??? I question this list......
srlarson
We're happy to have you. We welcome readers of all gun-knowledge levels.
There also seems to be a glitch to allow you to vote more than once. I voted earlier, and it showed the results a while, but now I can vote again. Don't worry, I'll only vote once. Until the Remington 700 is on the ballot.
Even thou I am a proud owner of not one but three Savages I had to vote for the M70 carried one for years and it is still the best 30.06 ever In Savages the .308 Tactical still makes my heart skip a beat always.
When / where do we vote on division 2?
Hunter_Fass, Beekeeper and jay: The T3 was on the bubble. It's a fine rifle that scores well in the value category. But in the end I went with two domestics (308MX and Icon). I guess that makes me a homer, but at least the USA is still a power conference... plainsman: you're right. I must have had blondes on the brain...
Division I is interesting, but I think Div. II has it all over Div. I! But who will foul out?
How is putting a scope on a Savage 99 tricky??? They have been factory drilled since 1950, and bases are readily available. As for the 99 over the Win. 94....no brainer. The 94 cannot compete in accuracy or variety of potent calibers. Sure, it is handy, and nostalgic, but those were the selection standards.
Right, buckmeister,
But my 99, like plenty of others, is from before 1950.
The only thing about those MOA out-of-the-box models is the question about barrel break-in and whether or not that degree of accuracy might change after 200 rounds?
Back in the day it seemed to always take 100 rounds before we'd even try to tweek accuracy with handloads. Then came the BOSS-like devices that offered a mechanical fix for 2" groups.
Now we have cryo-barrels, custom projectiles and powder loads that can produce 3-4-5/10ths of an inch groups for a few dollars more.
While not a scientific study, I've long-been of the opinion that our rifles were generally more accurate than their owners. And I don't believe that theory has changed too much over time...
Give me a light rifle that's easy to handle and I'll take it to the ends of the earth and back. The model 70 a good one, just isn't that rifle. As a left hander, a lever in any caliber over 243 is ideal as the best all 'rounder.
like the bracket! and people need to complain less and enjoy more!!!
won't the rifle with the highest production numbers invariably win if people vote for rifles they own ??
The Winchester 94 has probably killed more deer than all of the others combined. It's a travesty to leave it out.
Sako is Finnish - not Swedish.
and where is the marlin 336c in 35remington cripes i have mine for 40 years hasn't failed me yet so far two generations have gotten deer with this firearm great woods rifle
Bob,
I've got a 336 in .35 Rem, too. Great gun, but not for all-purpose, IMO. It won our Brush Rifle title. Same with the 94, which took second behind the 336.
Gtbigsky,
I hear you: I've got a Model 70 Classic Compact in 7mm-08 that I absolutely adore.
Bob,
I've got a 336 in .35 Rem, too. Great gun, but not for all-purpose, IMO. It won our Brush Rifle title. Same with the 94, which took second behind the 336.
Gtbigsky,
I hear you: I've got a Model 70 Classic Compact in 7mm-08 that I absolutely adore.
Oops. Sorry for the double post.
the rem 7400 30.06 needs to be in there. have had mine for over 12 yrs an i wouldnt trade for 5 of any other gun made. i've taking game from 25yrds out to around 650yrds with a single shot. everyone i know complains that they are bad to jam but the way i see it any gun will jam if you dont keep it clean and mine hasn't failed me not once.
A shotgun sweet 16 would be fun.
I have 2 Savage 99's that I'll put up against anything for MOP at 150 yards offhand!
Hey Goon. Sako is made in Finland, not Sweden. How can we take you seriously if you don't even know that?
Still not correct. The 3/6 & 4/5 matchups need to be switched as well.
Not even a mention of a semi-auto from Heckler & Koch such as the SLB 2000+? That is at least on par with the BAR if not better.
How about an AR-10 in 308, 16" barrel, with adjustable stock, scope on top rail, red dot, or open sights canted to the side for close up, or maybe an AR-15 in 6.5 Grendel(1200 yd accuracy).
It's going to be fun to find out the winner
It's kind of a modern bracket but a few good old staples.
I’m surprised that the Winchester 94 didn’t make the list or the Ruger Gunsite Scout. No matter the winner of the bracket I'll still use my grandfathers Remington model 725 in 30-06 Springfield.
note should be taken how about the remington model 700 mountain rifle lightweight packs a punch with the mix of calibers plus its a remington
What happend to the CZ550 series ? They surely deserved a place here !!
Savage has got this one in the bag! Best rifles EVER!
I like the Browning BLR as a better choice than the BAR or Marlin 336 as an entrant into the final 16 IMHO. Also, the Savage 16/116 is the top of the line Savage bolt that has all of the best value features from the Savage folks. I own several and they are first class hunting rifles, available in lots of Deer cartridges too like 250 and 300 Savage, 260 Rem, 270 Win, 7-08 Rem, etc.
First Round,
I would either pick the Winchester model 70 or the Savage 11. If I had an option to use the Winchester model 70 compact I would take it over any in the first bracket
What about the Remington 740/7400?? You writers need to stop listening to Petzal, Hunters clean their guns and I guarentee I can accurately outshoot anyone with a 760! I'll shoot my 5th shot before they shoot their 3rd!
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