Top Cheap Rifles for Sale in 2026: Affordable Options That Deliver Quality
You don't need to spend a fortune to get a rifle that shoots straight, holds up in the field, and gives you confidence behind the trigger. The modern rifle market is packed with affordable options that punch well above their price tags, and in 2026, manufacturers like Ruger, Savage, Mossberg, and CVA are producing budget rifles that deliver sub-MOA accuracy right out of the box. Whether you're a first-time buyer, a hunter on a tight budget, or just looking to add a reliable workhorse to the safe without emptying your wallet, this guide covers the top cheap rifles for sale in 2026 that actually deliver quality.
What Makes a Budget Rifle Worth Buying?
Not all cheap rifles are created equal. A truly good value-priced rifle should offer consistent accuracy — ideally 1 MOA or better with quality ammunition — a reliable action that feeds and ejects cleanly, a trigger with a manageable pull weight, and enough chambering options to make it versatile. It should also be durable enough to handle real hunting or range conditions, not just look good in the gun store. The rifles on this list have been vetted against those standards. They won't have the hand-fitted actions or premium walnut stocks of a $2,000 custom build, but they will get the job done in the field or on the range — often remarkably well.
1. Ruger American Gen II – Best Overall Budget Bolt-Action
MSRP: ~$499 | Chamberings: .243 Win, .308 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor, .30-06, 7mm-08, and more
The Ruger American has long been the gold standard for budget bolt-action rifles, and the Gen II update for 2026 only strengthens that claim. Ruger refined the stock ergonomics, improved the trigger to break consistently around 3 pounds, and maintained the three-lug, 70-degree bolt design that makes the American one of the smoothest-cycling rifles in its class. A V-block bedding system keeps the barrel properly supported for consistent accuracy, and many shooters report sub-MOA groups with factory ammunition right out of the box. Available in a wide range of popular hunting and sporting chamberings, the Ruger American Gen II remains the benchmark that every other budget rifle is measured against.
2. Savage Axis II – Best for Hunters on a Tight Budget
MSRP: ~$400-$479 | Chamberings: .223 Rem, .243 Win, .308 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor, .270 Win, .30-06, and more
Savage has been building affordable, accurate rifles for generations, and the Axis II is one of their strongest value propositions. The biggest upgrade over the original Axis is the AccuTrigger — Savage's user-adjustable trigger system that lets you dial the pull weight to your preference. For a rifle at this price, having a quality adjustable trigger is exceptional. The Axis II is available in an impressive range of chamberings, feeds from a detachable box magazine, and has a simple synthetic stock that holds up in wet conditions. The Axis II XP variant even comes packaged with a mounted and bore-sighted Bushnell scope, making it a complete hunting setup for under $500. If you need a deer rifle that won't break the bank, the Savage Axis II is a top contender.
3. Mossberg Patriot Synthetic – Best Features for the Price
MSRP: ~$399 | Chamberings: .243 Win, .270 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor, .30-06 Springfield, .308 Win, and more
Mossberg is best known for shotguns, but the Patriot line has established the company as a genuine player in the bolt-action rifle market. The Patriot Synthetic offers a fluted barrel, spiral-fluted bolt, and the Lightning Bolt Action (LBA) user-adjustable trigger for around $399 — a feature set that would cost significantly more on a competing platform. It ships with a Picatinny scope rail already installed and accepts detachable magazines. The trigger is one of the best in class at this price, and the rifle cycles smoothly. For hunters who want maximum features per dollar, the Mossberg Patriot Synthetic consistently ranks at the top.
4. CVA Cascade SB/XT – Best Budget Rifle for Precision Shooters
MSRP: ~$499-$549 | Chamberings: 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Win, .300 Win Mag, 6.5 PRC, 7mm PRC, and more
CVA has built a reputation for offering features typically found on $1,000+ rifles at budget-friendly prices. The Cascade series uses a cold hammer-forged barrel, a Bergara-style two-lug bolt, and a smooth two-stage trigger system that's been praised by reviewers for its crisp, consistent break. The stock has a modern ergonomic design and the whole package is available in a broad range of modern precision cartridges including the increasingly popular 6.5 PRC and 7mm PRC. For a shooter who wants to run a long-range setup without spending Bergara or Tikka money, the CVA Cascade is a serious overperformer for its price.
5. Thompson/Center Compass II – Best Accuracy Guarantee Under $400
MSRP: ~$399 | Chamberings: 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Win, .30-06, .243 Win, and more
Thompson/Center backs the Compass II with a 1 MOA accuracy guarantee using premium ammunition — a claim that holds up under testing. The rifle features a crisp, adjustable trigger, a three-position safety, and a threaded muzzle for suppressor use. The stock is ergonomic and comfortable, and the whole package weighs in at a manageable 7.5 pounds. At around $399, the T/C Compass II offers exceptional accuracy for the money and is a great choice for hunters who prioritize shot placement above all else.
6. Howa 1500 Hogue – Best Premium Budget Rifle
MSRP: ~$549-$649 | Chamberings: .223 Rem, .243 Win, .308 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor, .300 Win Mag, 300 PRC, and more
The Howa 1500 is the only rifle on this list that edges slightly above the $500 mark, but it earns its spot with a combination of build quality and included features that make it exceptional value. The Hogue Overmold pillar-bedded stock alone retails for $250 separately, and the 1500 action is renowned for its smooth bolt cycle and inherent accuracy. Howa backs the rifle with a 3-shot sub-MOA guarantee using premium factory ammunition. For anyone who wants a rifle that feels and shoots like it costs twice as much, the Howa Hogue is as close as you'll get at this price point. It's also the only budget rifle on the list available in 300 PRC.
Budget AR-15s Worth Considering
If bolt-action hunting rifles aren't your focus, the AR-15 platform also has excellent budget options in 2026. The Ruger AR-556 MPR continues to deliver reliable performance and solid build quality at a street price around $700–$750, making it one of the best-value modern sporting rifles on the market. For hunters and sport shooters looking for a semi-automatic option without stepping up to premium brands, the Ruger AR-556 MPR is a proven platform that won't leave you disappointed.
What to Look for When Buying a Cheap Rifle
When shopping for an affordable rifle, keep these key factors in mind:
Accuracy guarantee: Some manufacturers like T/C and Howa offer formal sub-MOA guarantees. This is a meaningful differentiator at the budget level. Trigger quality: Look for adjustable triggers or at least a predictable, clean-breaking pull. A bad trigger will cost you groups every time. Chambering availability: Choose a cartridge with widely available, affordable ammunition. 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Winchester, and .30-06 Springfield are all excellent choices. Barrel quality: Cold hammer-forged barrels are more durable and accurate than button-rifled or cut-rifled barrels, but any of the rifles on this list have acceptable barrel quality for their price. Stock ergonomics: A rifle that fits you well and shoulders naturally will always outperform one that doesn't, regardless of price.
How to Buy a Cheap Rifle Legally Through an FFL Dealer
Whether you find a great deal on one of these rifles at an online retailer or want to order from a distributor, you'll need a licensed Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) to complete your transfer. When purchasing a firearm online, the gun ships to a local FFL dealer of your choice, who then processes the background check and completes the transfer. FFL Search makes it easy to locate a licensed FFL dealer near you. Simply search by your city or state to find a local dealer who handles transfers, compare transfer fees, and get your new rifle into your hands quickly and legally.
The Bottom Line
The idea that you need to spend $1,500 or more to get a quality rifle is simply not true in 2026. The Ruger American Gen II, Savage Axis II, Mossberg Patriot, CVA Cascade, Thompson/Center Compass II, and Howa Hogue all deliver genuine accuracy, reliable function, and field-worthy durability at prices that leave room in the budget for quality glass and ammunition. Pick the one that fits your intended use and chambering preference, find a local FFL dealer through FFL Search, and get behind the trigger. You'll be surprised how much rifle you can get for the money.