Predator hunters with an appetite for precision and smooth in-the-field operation appreciate the commitment and extraordinary treatment that go into building special-purpose rifles that serve a wide variety of predator hunting wants and needs — from anchoring beastie wild boars and black bears to chasing down speedsters such as coyotes, foxes and bobcats. Whether it’s a quick-handling AR-platform rifle, pistol hybrid or lever gun for swift and decisive action or a precision-built bolt gun, fine-tuned for superior long-range performance, these fur-centric firearms are tailor made for today’s equal opportunity predator hunter. And rifles that are specifically designed with fur takers in mind come in a wide array of platforms, calibers, finishes and configurations, with a mind-boggling array of upgrades and accessories available.
While this selection is far from all-inclusive — just a few of the many models that caught my eye at the SHOT Show this year — the following are some fine examples to start you down the road to acquiring your next predator rifle.
Now it’s up to you to do the research, narrow down the options and choose wisely. And stay tuned for future “Best of the 2022 SHOT Show” gear posts in the weeks to come.
Christensen Arms Ridgeline FFT
Utilizing an aerospace monocoque shell, Flash Forged technology eliminates unnecessary internal weight in the new Christensen Arms Ridgeline FFT bolt-action rifle. The result is a stock that is up to a full pound lighter than traditionally manufactured carbon fiber composite rifle stocks and several times stronger and stiffer than current production models — creating a more consistent shooting foundation while reducing user fatigue in the field. The Ridgeline FFT weighs in starting at 5.3 pounds and color options include a stainless action with black and gray stock and burnt bronze Cerakote action with green, black and tan stock. The rifle is available in 20 chamberings with a magazine capacity of four/standard and five/magnum. MSRP: $2,299.99. Contact: www.christensenarms.com
Bergara Canyon
Featuring Bergara’s proprietary Premier action, its new bolt-action Canyon hunting rifle provides near custom performance at an affordable price. The Canyon weighs in at just over 6 pounds and features include a 20- or 22-inch No. 4 taper, fluted barrel with Omni muzzle brake, AG composite 100 percent carbon-fiber stock, adjustable TriggerTech trigger and AICS-style detachable five-round magazine (three-round magazine in 6.5 PRC). It comes dressed in Swamper Rogue Camo and is available in seven popular hunting calibers — 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC, .308 Win., .300 Win. Mag., .300 PRC, .28 Nosler and .375 H&H. The Bergara Canyon accepts Remington 700 bases with 8-40 screws. MSRP: $2,149. Contact: www.bergarausa.com
Mossberg MVP Patrol
The Mossberg MVP Patrol bolt-action rifle is now chambered in .300 AAC Blackout and comes with a host of features including a pillar-bedded stock with textured grip and forend, 16.25-inch threaded barrel with removeable A2-style muzzle brake and thread cap and a LBA user-adjustable — 3 to 7 pounds — trigger. This AR magazine-compatible rifle has a fluted bolt with an oversized bolt handle that provides a sure grip, even with gloved hands. It also features a top Picatinny rail and fiber optic/adjustable rifle sights, front and single rear sling swivel studs and a 10-round magazine. The MVP Patrol is available in 7.62 NATO/.308 Win. and 5.56 NATO/.223 Rem. chamberings. MSRP: $613. www.mossberg.com
Savage Arms Impulse Predator Rifle
Savage did not attend the SHOT Show due to Covid concerns but its Impulse Predator rifle warrants an honorable mention because of its innovation. It features a straight-pull action that refines the basic function of the conventional bolt into one fast and intuitive movement. At the heart of the rifle’s bolt is Hexlock, six hardened steel bearings that lock the bolt in place inside the receiver’s barrel extension. As pressure increases, Hexlock’s hold tightens, ensuring there can be no rearward movement of the bolt. Once the round has left the barrel, the pressure subsides, and the action can safely open again. The smooth bolt throw allows the shooter to cycle rounds intuitively, without the need for the four changes of direction common to a conventional bolt’s path of travel. Features include a user-adjustable AccuTrigger, 10-round AICS magazine and one-piece 20 MOA rail. MSRP: $1,379. www.savagearms.com
Seekins Precision Havak Hit
Seekins’ new Havak Hit is not just a hunting action slapped into a new, fancy stock — it’s a purpose-built chassis rifle loaded with features for utility, ease-of-use and affordability. With an integrated 20 MOA rail, recoil lug, extended thread tenon and flat bottom, its superior strength requires no need for bedding into the chassis. It features a quick-change barrel system with a toolless changeable bolt head that allows users to swap from standard to magnum calibers with ease. The chassis is extremely comfortable with toolless adjustability and is foldable for easy transport. The Hit weighs 11.5 pounds and is available is five high-performance chamberings. MSRP: $2,100. Contact: www.seekinsprecision.com
