Best Hog Hunting Guns in 2025

When it comes to pursuing wild hogs, having the right firearm can make all the difference between a successful hunt and a frustrating experience. Choosing the best hog hunting guns depends on a variety of factors, including your hunting style, the terrain you’ll be covering, and the size of the hogs you expect to encounter. With the right equipment, hunting wild hogs can be an exhilarating experience, but safety and responsible hunting practices should always be a priority. It is essential to choose a gun that provides ample stopping power while maintaining comfort and ease of handling, especially in challenging hunting conditions.

This article will delve into the specifics of selecting the appropriate firearm for hog hunting, exploring a range of options from powerful rifles to versatile shotguns. We’ll examine popular calibers, action types, and key features that contribute to a firearm’s effectiveness in the field. Whether you’re a seasoned hog hunter or just starting out, understanding the nuances of different firearms will help you make an informed decision and increase your chances of a successful and enjoyable hunt. We will cover many aspects of hog hunting, from weapon types, to bullet types and best practices.

Best Hog Hunting Guns

1 Ruger American Ranch 6.5 Grendel Bolt Action Rifle: A Budget-Friendly Hog Hammer

The Ruger American Ranch 6.5 Grendel is a compact and affordable bolt-action rifle that packs a surprising punch, making it a strong contender in the world of hog hunting. This rifle combines the proven reliability of the Ruger American platform with the efficient and effective 6.5 Grendel cartridge, resulting in a lightweight and maneuverable firearm that’s well-suited for taking down feral hogs.

Notable Features:

• 6.5 Grendel Cartridge: Offers excellent accuracy and stopping power at moderate ranges, ideal for hog hunting.
• 16.1-inch Cold Hammer-Forged Barrel: Provides durability and accuracy.
• AR-Style Magazine: Allows for quick and efficient reloading, crucial when dealing with multiple hogs.
• Adjustable Ruger Marksman Trigger: Enables customization of the trigger pull weight for improved accuracy and shooting comfort.
• Lightweight Design (6.1 lbs): Reduces fatigue during long hunts.
• Threaded Barrel: Accepts suppressors or muzzle brakes for enhanced performance and reduced recoil.
• Flat Dark Earth Synthetic Stock: Durable, weather-resistant, and lightweight.

The Ruger American Ranch in 6.5 Grendel offers a compelling blend of performance and affordability for hog hunting. Its lightweight design, effective cartridge, and adjustable trigger make it a practical and efficient tool. While some users report minor feeding issues, these are often easily mitigated with proper bolt manipulation. For budget-conscious hunters seeking a reliable and accurate rifle, the Ruger American Ranch is a strong contender. However, potential buyers should be aware of the potential for feeding issues and the possibility of upgrading the trigger for optimal performance. Thorough practice and familiarity with the firearm are essential for safe and effective hunting.

2 Savage Axis II XP Hardwood Bolt 308 Winchester: A Solid Choice for Hog Hunting

The Savage Axis II XP Hardwood Bolt-Action Rifle chambered in .308 Winchester is a popular choice among hunters, and for good reason. It offers a blend of accuracy, reliability, and affordability that makes it a strong contender for taking down tough game like feral hogs. This rifle package also includes a factory-mounted and bore-sighted Bushnell® 3-9x40mm scope, making it ready to hunt straight out of the box.

Notable Features:

• Sleek, Modern Hardwood Stock: Provides a classic look and comfortable feel.
• Blued Button-Rifled Barrel: Known for delivering consistent accuracy.
• Bushnell 3-9x40mm Scope: A versatile optic suitable for various hunting ranges, offering clear views in most lighting conditions.
• Detachable 4-Round Box Magazine: Allows for quick and easy reloading.
• Adjustable AccuTrigger™: Enables users to customize the trigger pull to their preference, enhancing accuracy.
• .308 Winchester Caliber: A powerful and proven round capable of ethically harvesting hogs of all sizes.
• Silky-Smooth Bolt Action: Ensures reliable cycling and quick follow-up shots.

The Savage Axis II XP Hardwood Bolt-Action Rifle in .308 Winchester is a reliable and accurate option for hog hunting. Its affordability, combined with the included scope and the powerful .308 cartridge, makes it a great choice for both novice and experienced hunters. While the included scope might not satisfy the most discerning users, the rifle’s overall performance and value make it a worthy addition to any hog hunter’s arsenal.

3 Mossberg & Sons 500 All Purpose Field Black/Wood 12 Gauge Shotgun: A Classic Choice for Hog Hunters

The Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field shotgun is a legendary firearm renowned for its reliability, affordability, and versatility. While not specifically designed for hog hunting, its robust nature and adaptability make it a viable option for hunters seeking a dependable shotgun for various hunting scenarios, including taking down wild boars.

Notable Features:

• Pump-Action Reliability: The Mossberg 500’s pump-action mechanism is known for its smooth operation and ability to cycle various loads reliably, even in adverse conditions.
• 12 Gauge Power: The 12 gauge chambering provides ample stopping power for hogs, especially when using appropriate buckshot or slug loads.
• Durable Construction: Featuring a black anodized aluminum receiver and wood stock, this shotgun can withstand the elements and rough handling often encountered during hog hunts.
• Interchangeable Barrels: One of the biggest advantages of the Mossberg 500 is its interchangeable barrels, allowing hunters to adapt the shotgun to different hunting situations easily.
• Affordability: The Mossberg 500 is generally more affordable than many other purpose-built hog hunting shotguns, making it an attractive option for budget-conscious hunters.
• Ambidextrous Safety: The top-mounted safety is easily accessible for both right- and left-handed shooters.

The Mossberg 500 All Purpose Field shotgun is a solid and dependable choice for hog hunting, especially for those seeking an affordable and versatile firearm. While it may not have all the specialized features of some dedicated hog hunting guns, its proven reliability, 12 gauge power, and adaptability with different barrels make it a worthy contender. However, potential buyers should be aware of the recoil and consider whether a shorter barrel or specialized sights might be preferable for their specific hog hunting needs. Also, they should verify availability and access to detailed product information in their region before making a purchase.

Buying Guide: Choosing the Best Hog Hunting Gun

Selecting the right gun for hog hunting is a crucial decision that impacts your success and safety in the field. This guide breaks down the essential factors to consider, ensuring you choose a firearm that suits your needs and enhances your hunting experience.

1. Understanding Caliber and Cartridge Choices

The caliber of your rifle plays a pivotal role in effectively taking down a hog. Caliber refers to the diameter of the bullet, while the cartridge is the complete ammunition unit. For hog hunting, adequate stopping power is essential. Popular and effective choices include:

• .308 Winchester: A versatile and widely available cartridge known for its excellent balance of power, range, and manageable recoil. It’s a favorite among hog hunters for its proven effectiveness.
• .270 Winchester: Another popular choice, offering a slightly flatter trajectory than the .308, making it suitable for longer-range shots. It delivers ample energy for humane kills.
• 6.5 Creedmoor: Gaining popularity for its exceptional accuracy and long-range capabilities. While slightly less powerful than the .308, its precision makes it a viable option for experienced hunters.
• .30-06 Springfield: A classic cartridge with a long history of hunting success. It packs a significant punch, making it suitable for larger hogs and varied hunting conditions.
• 7.62x39mm: Often found in semi-automatic rifles like the AK-47, this cartridge provides good stopping power at closer ranges and allows for quick follow-up shots.
• 6.5 Grendel: This intermediate cartridge offers a good balance of power, accuracy, and manageable recoil, making it a viable option for hog hunting at medium ranges.

Larger calibers like the .300 Winchester Magnum or .338 Lapua Magnum can also be used, but their powerful recoil might be excessive for some hunters. Consider your comfort level and shooting experience when selecting a caliber.

2. Rifle Action Types: Finding Your Fit

Rifles come in various action types, each offering distinct advantages and disadvantages for hog hunting:

• Bolt-Action: Known for their reliability, accuracy, and simplicity. They are often favored for their robust construction and ability to handle powerful cartridges. Bolt-action rifles are ideal for precise shots at varying ranges.
• Lever-Action: A classic design that offers faster follow-up shots than bolt-actions. They are typically chambered in cartridges like .30-30 Winchester or .45-70 Government, which are effective at closer ranges. Lever-action rifles are a good choice for hunting in dense brush.
• Semi-Automatic: These rifles allow for rapid follow-up shots, which can be advantageous when dealing with multiple hogs or a charging animal. Popular platforms include the AR-15 and AR-10, chambered in various calibers suitable for hog hunting. The AR-10 is chambered for cartridges like the .308, and the AR-15 is available in .223 and similar cartridges. Semi-automatic rifles are versatile and effective in various hunting scenarios.

Your choice of action type depends on your hunting style and preferences. If you prioritize accuracy and long-range shots, a bolt-action might be ideal. For faster follow-up shots in closer quarters, a lever-action or semi-automatic could be a better fit.

3. Shotguns for Hog Hunting: When and Why

Shotguns can be effective for hog hunting, particularly at close ranges and in dense vegetation. When using a shotgun, it’s crucial to use slugs rather than birdshot. Slugs are solid projectiles that deliver significant impact, ensuring a humane kill. Popular shotgun gauges for hog hunting include:

• 12 Gauge: The most common and versatile choice, offering a wide range of slug options and substantial stopping power.
• 20 Gauge: A lighter option with less recoil than the 12 gauge, making it suitable for smaller-framed hunters or those sensitive to recoil.

Shotguns are generally used at distances under 50 yards. Their effectiveness diminishes rapidly beyond that range. If you anticipate hunting in thick brush or expect close encounters, a shotgun can be a viable option.

4. Key Features to Consider

Beyond caliber and action type, several other features influence a firearm’s suitability for hog hunting:

• Barrel Length: Longer barrels generally offer higher bullet velocity and improved accuracy, especially at longer ranges. Shorter barrels are more maneuverable in dense brush. For hog hunting, a barrel length between 18 and 24 inches is a good compromise.
• Weight: A lighter rifle is easier to carry for extended periods, but it might have more felt recoil. A heavier rifle can be more stable for long-range shots but can be tiring to carry. Find a balance that suits your physical capabilities and hunting style.
• Optics: A good quality scope can significantly enhance your accuracy, especially at longer ranges. Consider a scope with variable magnification, allowing you to adjust for different distances. Red dot sights are also a great choice for faster target acquisition at closer ranges.
• Durability: Hog hunting can be tough on equipment. Choose a firearm built to withstand the elements and the rigors of the field. Look for durable materials and finishes that resist rust and corrosion.

5. Budget and Value

Hog hunting guns are available at various price points. Determine your budget beforehand and look for a firearm that offers the best value within your range. Remember that quality optics and ammunition are also essential investments.

This buying guide provides a comprehensive overview of the factors to consider when choosing a hog hunting gun. Remember to prioritize safety, practice regularly, and adhere to ethical hunting practices. With the right firearm and preparation, you can enjoy a successful and rewarding hog hunting experience.

Conclusion

Choosing the best hog hunting gun comes down to personal preference and the specific demands of your hunt. However, after considering the options, the Ruger American Ranch 6.5 Grendel Bolt Action Rifle stands out as an excellent choice for many hunters. Its combination of accuracy, manageable recoil, and the stopping power of the 6.5 Grendel cartridge makes it highly effective for taking down hogs at various ranges. This rifle’s compact design also lends itself well to the often dense and unpredictable environments where hogs are found. I would recommend this gun for your first purchase.

While the Ruger is a top pick, the Savage Axis II XP Hardwood Bolt 308 Winchester and the Mossberg & Sons 500 All Purpose Field 12 Gauge Shotgun also offer compelling features that may better suit some hunters. Ultimately, the key is to select a firearm that you are comfortable handling and confident in its ability to deliver a clean, ethical kill. Remember to prioritize safety, practice regularly, and familiarize yourself with local hunting regulations before heading out into the field. With the right preparation and the right gun, your hog hunting adventures can be both successful and rewarding. Happy hunting!