The answer depends heavily on what you will be doing with the rifle, and even then, it's rare that there is a single "best" firearm. For instance, the best elk hunting rifle is not going to be the same as the best varmint hunting rifle, nor is the best rifle for a hunter in the plains of Kansas going to be ideal for dense Massachusetts woodlands.
When buying a hunting rifle, there are three main things you need to take into consideration: laws, game, and environment.
First, check your local hunting regulations. Many jurisdictions have specific restrictions on what calibers and types of firearms can be used to hunt certain animals. You don't want to buy a new hunting rifle only to find out that you can't use it for hunting.
Next, consider the game you're after. The caliber of your rifle should be matched to the animal you'll be hunting. Too small a round and you risk a wounding shot rather than a fatal one; too large, and you might be destroying meat unnecessarily.
Last, think about what kind of scenario you'll be hunting in. In open plains or tundra, animals may see you coming from farther off, necessitating a longer shot. For that, you'll want a rifle with a high-velocity cartridge to minimize drop and a powerful scope. Hunting in the brush, on the other hand, is often better served by iron sights, since shots are usually taken at short distances.
If you find yourself unsure about what rifle to buy for your environment or what cartridge is best for the game you're after, feel free to give us a call at 713-344-9600 or send us an email at info@primaryarms.com. Our highly experienced customer service team is happy to help.