subject: Top 5 Semi-automatic Deer Hunting Rifles [print this page] These models seems to define what big game hunting is and I doubt if big game hunting would be as fun as it is without these rifles, some have gained notoriety not as a result of their own making but due to the weakness of mankind; but irrespective of human misgivings, these rifles will remain the finest weapons ever made for deer and big game hunting in general.
Semi-automatic rifles have a valid place in the hunting world, and are much faster and easier to use than other types of rifles. I've spent a significant number of years of deer hunting using a semi-auto, and in doing so I learned just how good and reliable an automatic deer rifle can be. The reduced recoil helps; too, you need try one for yourself to see how.
Ruger Model 44 (44 Carbine)
This little gem tops my list because I used it almost exclusively as my deer hunting rifle for about two decades. Although this model is no longer being manufactured, I just had to include it because of my long and pleasant history with this rifle. With its handy carbine length and the hard-hitting 44 Rem Mag cartridge, this is an excellent gun for brush use at ranges out to 100 yards or so.
Remington Model 750
Remington semi-autos are probably the most popular big game rifles of their kind. Long the most affordable semi-auto deer rifle, they have held their ground through various Models such as the 74, 740, 742, and 7400. While I'm not a big fan of Remington center fire auto-loaders, a lot of hunters are, and they have taken a lot of game over the years.
Browning BAR
Since its introduction in 1967, the Browning Automatic Rifle (BAR) has set the standard for auto loading center fire hunting rifles. Known for excellent accuracy and dependability, the BAR also lives up to Browning's reputation for high quality and usability. For decades, it was the only commercial auto chambered for magnum cartridges. Long Trac and Short Trac versions signify a newer generation rifle, which bears little resemblance to the original. The BAR is available in calibers from 243 through 338 Win Mag.
Ruger Model 99/44 Deerfield
When Ruger discontinued the Model 44 in 1986, it left a vacuum in the rifle world. No rifle compared with the Model 44 Carbine as a fast, hard-hitting brush gun. Fourteen years later, Ruger again produced a semi-auto carbine in 44 Rem Mag, though of an entirely new design. Similar in looks and size, the action is different and not as scope-friendly, but it will hit 'em just as hard. (Sadly, the model 99 has now been discontinued.)
Benelli R1
The Benelli R1 semi-automatic rifle was introduced in 2003. I haven't heard a lot about it from hunters yet, but Benelli is a respected name, well-known for their excellent auto loading shotguns. Early reviews of this odd-looking rifle sounded promising. The R1 is available in 30-06 and 300 Win Mag.
