Finding your Perfect Hog Hunting Rifle

Across the southern US, feral hogs have become a substantial issue for landowners, state wildlife agencies, and conservationists. With their population rapidly rising, hog hunting has exploded in popularity across the south. Today, many hunters have a dedicated hog hunting rifle that they set up specifically for the task of taking down as many hogs as possible. 

So, what makes a good hog hunting rifle? In this blog, we’ll outline some key features to think of like the rifle’s action, caliber selection, and other features, as well as a few Savage picks that are perfect for taking out a sounder. Let’s dive in! 

Action Matters

When it comes to selecting a hog hunting rifle, the rifle’s action can have a sizeable impact depending on how you plan to hunt. A couple of questions to consider are what size groups of hogs do you expect to be hunting, and how to do you plan to be hunting them? 

If you know that you’re hunting a smaller group of hogs, going with a traditional bolt action rifle can be effective. This is especially true if you’re hunting from a stationary position a couple hundred yards away where you can set up in a tripod and carefully pick your shots. You can set up, dial in your distance, and take deliberate, accurate shots with ease. 

If you plan to hunt with more of a spot and stalk or driven hunting style, a straight-pull action may be more beneficial. Straight pull rifles, like the Impulse, provide the opportunity for faster follow-up shots. This can be especially useful if you plan to hunt a larger group of hogs, or if you have the opportunity to take more than one hog in quick succession. Pairing a straight pull rifle with a low power optic can provide the perfect setup for a close-range hog hunting rifle.  

Caliber Selection 

Next, let’s consider the caliber selection for your ideal hog hunting rifle. The nice part of hog hunting is that a wide variety of calibers can be viable options, with no single caliber shining above the rest. Here are a few options you can consider based on your experience level and style of hunting: 

• Larger calibers (.30-06, 300 Win Mag, etc.): Large caliber rifles can be effective if you’re planning to hunt from a stand at a distance. Having a steady rest can help mitigate recoil, and larger projectiles will carry more energy over longer distances and have a harder hitting impact on target. They are also excellent for taking down larger boars. 
• Smaller calibers (.223, 22-250, etc.): If you’re aiming for some closer range hog hunting action, a small caliber rifle can be plenty effective. Lower recoil from these rifles will make getting back on target for follow-up shots easier, and they can still be effective on smaller hogs at distance. If you’re on the move for stalk or driven hunt, the reduced weight and lower recoil of smaller caliber rifles can be just the ticket.  

Rifle Features to Look For 

Aside from the caliber and action of your hog hunting rifle, there are a few other key features to look for that will make you and your rifle more effective in the field. 

• Threaded barrel: Threaded barrels are a key piece of any hog hunting rifle. Hog hunting at night is fairly popular and legal in several states on private property. Being able to add a suppressor to your rifle is a huge advantage to not only help mask the direction of the sound of your shot, but also to help reduce muzzle flash.  
• Optics rail: If you’re looking to add an optic, choosing a rifle that has an optics rail included makes the process even easier and helps you get setup faster! Having a one-piece rail also allows for ample adjustment to set your eye relief.  
• Barrel length: A key consideration for those choosing to spot and stalk or go on a driven hunt is barrel length. Having a shorter barrel length around 18 – 20 inches helps make maneuvering your rifle easier in tight spaces. To keep your rifle quiet and compact, don’t forget to add the AccuCan AC 30 B.O.B. for a nice, tidy package!  
• Adjustability: Having a rifle that fits you is important for any hunt. Having the perfect fit helps you get on target easier, stay on target longer, and make your shots more effective.  

Savage Picks for Hog Hunting 

It would be a Savage rifle guide without a few of our top picks for your next hog hunting rifle! From great budget options to higher end options packed with features, here are a few of our top picks to check out for your next rig. 

• Axis 2 Pro: The Axis 2 Pro is a reliable hog hunting option that comes packed with features for a great price. Featuring a one-piece 0 MOA rail, a threaded barrel, and fully cerakoted barreled action, the Axis 2 Pro has the features you need to stand up to night after night in the field. While the stock isn’t adjustable, the Axis 2 Pro comes in both full sized and compact models across the line to help shooters of all sizes find their perfect fit.  
• 110 Hog Hunter: The 110 Hog Hunter is a great choice for those looking to get up close and personal with feral hogs. Featuring a threaded barrel for suppressor mounting and factory iron sights, you can get on target quickly with the 110 Hog Hunter. It also features length of pull adjustment to help you get the perfect fit in the field, every time.  
• Impulse Hog Hunter: For the hog hunters who have the need for speed, the Impulse Hog Hunter is the perfect fit. Featuring an 18 inch carbon steel barrel that’s threaded 5/8x24, the Impulse Hog Hunter fits the bill for speed, maneuverability, and suppression capability. Tack on an AccuFit adjustment system and an integral 20 MOA rail machined into the receiver, and you have the perfect recipe for a top of the line hog hunting rifle.  
• Impulse Predator: If you’re looking to expand your magazine capacity and priorities up close, fast shooting, the Impulse Predator may just be your next go-to hog hunting rifle. Featuring a 10 round AICS magazine and the speedy Impulse straight-pull action, you can take the action up a notch and knock down multiple hogs in rapid succession. Top it off with your favorite optic with the integral picatinny rail and throw on a suppressor to the threaded barrel for a great choice for close in hog hunting.

From the mobile driven hunts to the patient stand hunts, there’s plenty to like about getting out for a hog hunt. The fast-paced action, test of marksmanship, and good times with friends all make hog hunting a lot of fun! When you’re looking for your next hog hunting rifle, make sure you take the action, caliber, and features into account to pick the rifle that best fits your needs. Also, don’t forget to enjoy your wild hog after the hunt with some recipes that will help turn into some tasty table fare. With opportunities available year-round, there’s always a great time to pick up a new hog hunting rifle and get out into the field!