The Best Rifles for Long-Distance Target Shooting Beyond 0.5 Miles

For those seeking the ultimate in precision and range, the choice of rifle for long-distance target shooting beyond 0.5 miles, or 880 yards, is a key consideration. Commonly, the 6.5 Creedmoor tops the charts as the current champion in short action rifles. However, for even greater distances, rifles like the 408 Cheytac can hold their own, boasting the current long-range record of 5280 yards (3 miles).

Choosing a Rifle for Long-Distance Shooting

When considering rifles for long-distance target shooting, there are no one-size-fits-all answers. Factors such as caliber, intended use, and budget all play a significant role. A 1/2 mile (880 yards) is within the capabilities of a decent quarter-inch or 0.30 caliber rifle, provided the shooter has excellent skills in wind reading and consistent ammunition.

Popular Rifle Options

Here are some popular rifle options for long-distance shooting:

6.5 Creedmoor: With its high ballistic coefficient and decent velocity, the 6.5 Creedmoor can stay supersonic out to 1600 yards (0.9 miles). Handloads with a slightly hotter charge can extend this range further. 6.5 Grendel: For the AR-15 platform, the 6.5 Grendel offers a smaller, more manageable option that is still capable of hitting targets at extended ranges. 224 Valkyrie: This new round designed for the AR-15 platform provides enhanced performance and versatility for long-distance target shooting. 408 Cheytac: This is the current champion in long-range shooting, capable of hitting targets at 5280 yards (3 miles).

The Role of the Shooter and Rifle

The success of long-distance shooting is a collaborative effort between the shooter and the rifle. A bolt-action rifle in a suitable caliber with a free-floated barrel and good ammunition is a solid choice. Variations on the type of action and ergonomics can still achieve sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) groups. However, a critical factor is the shooter's ability to read the wind and maintain consistent performance from the rifle.

My Personal Experience

I use Tikka and Ruger factory rifles in 6.5 Creedmoor and .308 Winchester, respectively, for long-distance shooting. The only modifications are rail on the Tikka and glass on the rifle. My custom builds include Remington and AR-10/15 actions, also in the same calibers, designed for sub-MOA accuracy.

While shooting at these distances presents a significant challenge, the key to success lies in the shooter's skills rather than the rifle alone. Connecting a target at 400 yards is very different from hitting the same target at 800 yards. Consistency and accurate wind reading are paramount.

Descending Technical and Budget Considerations

The choice of rifle also depends on budget and desired capabilities. Inexpensive sporting rifles can perform admirably in this range, often costing just a few hundred dollars. However, for serious competitive shooting, a custom-built rifle, such as a single-shot tube gun for F Class and equivalent slow-fire shooting, offers the best performance. Such a rifle, however, can cost upwards of $2000 for the gun alone, not including optics or accessories like Vickers glass.

Final Thoughts

While there is no single "best" rifle for long-distance target shooting, there are certainly optimal choices based on budget and specific needs. The 6.5 Creedmoor, 408 Cheytac, and 224 Valkyrie are standout options, as are various custom-builds tailored to the shooter's discipline. The key is finding the right balance between performance and cost, with a focus on the shooter's skills and the equipment's capabilities.