This story features excerpts from "Guns 2026" — written by Eve Flanigan — which originally appeared in SHOT Daily, Day 1, produced by COLE Publishing.
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ARTICLES
New Rifles to Watch in 2026
The new rifles slated for 2026 cover a wide range of designs, from carbon‑barreled mountain rifles to updated long range platforms built for consistency and control. Manufacturers are refining their flagship models while introducing fresh concepts that push the category forward. It’s a strong year for shooters looking for modern performance wrapped in precision engineering. Here are the standout new rifles set to shape the 2026 lineup.
Bergara
Built entirely with carbon technology through an advanced autoclave curing process that extends from the stock to the barrel, the Bergara Premier CIMA Pro achieves an exceptional balance between strength and weight, ensuring rigidity, consistency, and lasting reliability. Premium components, such as the TriggerTech trigger and the newly designed bidirectional muzzle brake, help CIMA PRO deliver precision and control with every shot. Other features include a sub-MOA guarantee, Cerakote finish over stainless steel, trigger guard with release button, adjustable L.O.P., fluted bolt, and integrated sling swivel mounts. The rifle is available in .223 Rem., 7mm Rem. Mag., 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Win., 6.5 PRC, .300 Win. Mag., .270 Win., .300 PRC, and 7mm PRC.
Browning
Browning’s AB3 Pro is a bolt‑action hunting rifle built around the company's AB3 platform, incorporating several updates for 2026. The rifle uses a free‑floated, spiral‑fluted sporter barrel and a bedded action, with a threaded muzzle for brakes or suppressors. A spiral‑fluted bolt body and teardrop bolt knob are included for improved handling.
The composite stock features textured grip areas and an Inflex recoil pad. The rifle maintains the AB3’s 60‑degree bolt lift, detachable box magazine and top‑tang safety. Barrel lengths range from 22 to 26 inches depending on chambering, which includes options from .243 Win. to .300 Win. Mag. SRP: $739.99.
CVA
The CVA Endura series is the next generation of muzzleloading performance, purpose-built for hunters who demand long-range accuracy, modern design, and versatility in the field. Both the Endura LRH and Endura Pro are CVA's first muzzleloaders rated for use with either Blackhorn 209 or specifically recommended modern smokeless rifle powders.
The Endura is outfitted with a tungsten-lined breech plug because of the additional pressures and higher burn rates that the rifle can accommodate. A magnetic bolt face consisting of five magnets helps retain the Variflame adapters, both before and after firing. (Variflame is CVA's ignition system that uses large-rifle primers that can either be placed on the bolt face or directly on the breech plug.) A large ejection port is specifically designed to deliver enough room to place the Variflame directly on the breech plug or bolt face. It is also large enough to remove the Variflame with or without a magnetic extractor tool. The barrel is fluted for weight reduction and threaded (to easily attach CVA's SP muzzle brake, which is sold separately).
Long-range stocks are another feature of this model. The Endura LRH is equipped with a stock that is rigid, adjustable, and well balanced. The Endura Pro sports a Grayboe Eagle Pro Stock that balances longrange features with a hunter-friendly design. Both the Endura LRH and Endura Pro include nitride and Cerakote treatments on the barreled actions, and both models include premium adjustable triggers that can be adjusted between two to four pounds. Each model is drilled and tapped for open sights and comes with CVA's accuracy and satisfaction guarantee.
The Cascade Rimfire is a Spanish-designed bolt-action .22 LR with an 18-inch threaded barrel (1⁄2×28). Each rifle also ships with an installed two-piece Picatinny rail and feeds from a CVA 10-round rotary magazine, compatible with standard 10/22 magazines. Three models are available. The Cascade Rimfire (base model) features a blued barrel with a color-molded gray stock. SRP: $429. The Cascade Rimfire XT features a fluted barrel with a tungsten Cerakote finish and a painted green stock with black fleck. SRP: $489. The Cascade Rimfire Classic combines traditional styling with performance, featuring a blued barreled action and a standard grade Turkish walnut stock.
FN
FN America introduces the next generation of the SCAR rifle family, bringing more than two dozen enhancements to the platform while maintaining its iconic silhouette and core performance. The updated models feature a lighter, hydraulically buffered two piece bolt carrier that reduces felt recoil and improves control, along with upgraded single stage and two stage triggers depending on the variant. The rifles incorporate an extended receiver with increased barrel and gas block coverage, a full M‑LOK rail system, ambidextrous and customizable controls, AR‑pattern pistol grip compatibility, improved sling mounts and fasteners and updated muzzle profiles to support the new forward‑venting FN QD556 and QD762 suppressors. Additional improvements include a refined short‑stroke gas piston system with a two position regulator, user changeable barrels and multiple stock options with configurations available in 5.56x45mm, 7.62x51mm, 6.5 Creedmoor, and .300 Blackout. SRP: $3,799 up to $4,499.
Franchi
Franchi has built a solid reputation in the bolt-action hunting world with its standout Momentum series. Adding to the several variations of the purpose-driven Momentum rifles is an all-new carbine series called the Momentum Utility Lite Elite, or simply "The M.U.L.E." Franchi bills this a workhorse of a rifle in the spirit of a go-anywhere, do-anything scout rifle. Offered in .308 Win. and .223 Rem., the new M.U.L.E. is a companion carbine
perfectly suited for the truck, UTV, everyday carry around the homestead, and home defense. Sporting a 16.25-inch barrel and dressed in VEIL TAC Black and Graphite Black Cerakote, the M.U.L.E. carries light at a little over 7 pounds and has an overall length of 38.35 inches. The rifle comes with flip-up adjustable sights for those who wish to keep weight down and hosts a threaded muzzle for easy suppressor or muzzle-device adaptation. Magazine capacity is 8+1 for the .308 Win. and 10+1 for the .223 Rem. SRP: $1,549.
Answering consumer demand for today's hottest new cartridges, Franchi is also adding two new chamberings to its Momentum-series bolt-action rifles. First up, the Momentum Elite (22-inch barrel) and the Momentum Carbine Elite (18-inch barrel) are now chambered for the up-and-coming .400 Legend straight wall cartridge. Aimed at Midwestern hunters hemmed in by cartridge restrictions, these two rifles carry the same premium features and quality construction that defines the Momentum series and are offered in optimally matched camo patterns-Franchi Biome, which favors thick, close-quarter situations, and Franchi Terra, perfect for more open country and tree or box stands. Next, the Momentum Elite Varmint is now available in .22 ARC. The Momentum Elite Varmint, with its 20-inch barrel and 1 MOA accuracy guarantee is the ideal platform for this spicy new round. Available in Franchi Verdant camo. SRP: $959 - $1,299.
Franklin Armory
Franklin Armory’s new Prevail rifle line is built around the all‑new Total Round Control (TRC) action, a design engineered to manage each cartridge through the entire feeding and extraction cycle so shooters no longer face the traditional push‑feed versus controlled‑round‑feed compromise. By maintaining full control of the round from magazine to chamber and back, the TRC system aims to give hunters and long‑range precision shooters the reliability of CRF with the smoothness of PF while avoiding the shortcomings found in legacy bolt‑action designs. The platform can be configured with either Fidelis Carbon‑Ceramic or fluted steel barrels, paired with a carbon‑fiber stock featuring custom V‑block bedding, a built‑in 20 MOA Picatinny optics rail, and compatibility with AICS‑pattern magazines. Offered as a complete rifle, a barreled action, or an action‑only option, the Prevail series is positioned as a modern, accuracy‑focused system built on mechanical consistency and premium components, with chambering options available in .308 WIN, 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5 PRC and .300 WSM.
Glenfield
Reintroduced by Ruger, the Glenfield Model A is a lightweight, American‑made bolt‑action rifle built around a smooth three‑lug, 70‑degree‑throw action and paired with a rugged Moss Green splatter‑finished synthetic stock, a threaded barrel and a user‑adjustable trigger, offering practical accuracy and dependable field performance. The Model A is available in many calibers, including .308 Win, .30-06 Springfield, 270 Win, 243 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor, 350 Legend and 450 Bushmaster. SRP $529.00
Gunwerks
Gunwerk’s Tiny A.F. is a limited run, ultra compact 6 ARC precision rifle built around an 11.25‑inch carbon wrapped barrel and a new carbon fiber folding stock hinge that keeps the platform rigid while collapsing to just 19.5 inches. Despite its size, it maintains true long‑range capability, pushing 105‑grain bullets to roughly 2300 fps and staying effective on game to 500 yards with consistent hits past 1,000. The package ships turnkey with a Leupold Mark 5HD 2‑10×30 optic, 6+ suppressor, magazines, ammo, and a fitted Pelican Air case. SRP: $14,750
Henry
Henry expands its lever‑action lineup for 2026 with two purpose‑built families: the Protector Carbines and the Provider Rifles, each designed to meet the needs of shooters who prioritize readiness or field performance.
The Provider Rifles focus on traditional hunting utility, pairing a 20‑inch non‑threaded blued steel barrel with extended tube magazines that hold up to 6 rounds in rifle calibers and 10 rounds in pistol calibers. Built around checkered American walnut pistol‑grip stocks, these rifles emphasize capacity, ergonomics, and season‑long durability. Chamberings include the H9 Provider in .30‑30 Win., .360 Buckhammer, .38‑55 Win., and .35 Rem.; the H10 Provider in .45‑70 Gov’t; and the H12 Provider in .357 Magnum/.38 Spl. and .44 Magnum/.44 Spl. All models feature fully adjustable sights and receivers drilled and tapped for optics. SRP: $1,135.
The Protector Carbines are compact, suppressor‑ready defensive lever guns built around 16.5‑inch threaded barrels for maneuverability and quiet operation. They share the same matte‑blued receivers, walnut pistol‑grip stocks, and sling swivel studs as the Provider line, but prioritize lighter weight and close‑at‑hand handling. Chamberings include the H9 Protector in .30‑30 Win. and .360 Buckhammer; the H10 Protector in .45‑70 Gov’t; and the H12 Protector in .357 Magnum/.38 Spl. and .44 Magnum/.44 Spl. SRP: $1,200.
Horizon Firearms
Horizon Firearms’ Vandal 2 pushes the ultralight hunting rifle concept further with a build designed for mobility without compromising precision. The rifle uses a lightweight stock and a refined action system to keep overall weight down while maintaining the rigidity needed for consistent long range performance. Its barrel profile and tuning emphasize repeatable accuracy, and the ergonomics are shaped for fast, stable shooting from field positions. The Vandal 2 is aimed at hunters who want a pack‑friendly rifle that still delivers the precision expected from a custom‑grade platform. Available calibers include 22 Creedmoor, 25 Creedmoor and 7 PRC, with a SRP of $2,299.
Ruger
Ruger’s American Generation II line has a new Patrol model. These bolt-action guns are currently available in three chamberings, including 5.56 NATO, 6mm ARC, and .308 Winchester. Others are in the works, specifically .338 ARC, .300 Win. Mag., and 7mm PRC. The gray splatter synthetic stock is made with desirable features like adjustable length of pull and comb height, sling studs, and a grippy texture. The action and 16.1-inch threaded bull barrel are Cerakoted for stealth and durability. A detachable magazine is included. This rifle makes for a modestly priced choice for hunting or department use. SRP: $729.
Savage Arms
Almost everyone appreciates the handiness of a .22 LR rifle, and Savage Arms has delivered more to love in their new RXR22. It’s a semi-auto with a modular twist. Accuracy is built in with a precision button-rifled 16.5-inch barrel with a recessed target crown and threaded muzzle. An integral Picatinny rail and metal sling swivel studs make accessorizing simple. Those who want to make the RXR22 theirs inside and out can opt to switch the drop-in trigger. Want convenience? The RXR22 accepts Ruger 10/22 10-round rotary mags (a stock mag is included). The factory mag holds the bolt open after the last round. Unlike the 10/22, it sports a cleaning port at the rear of the receiver, making maintenance a breeze. The synthetic stock, in FDE or gun metal gray, features a vertical pistol grip with customizable grip holds. With a modest $299 SRP, the RXR22 is bound to find friends young and old.
The Timber Tactical A Series is offered in .22 LR only, while the Timber Tactical B rifles include .22 LR, .22 WMR, and .17 HMR. They are easy on the eyes with green laminate stocks and heavy, spiral-fluted threaded barrels. They accept a 10-round rotary magazine. Range-to-field convenience is enhanced by dual sling studs on the forend. A hand grip and end hook aid in handling. These rifles are made for serious rimfire action. SRP: $599.
Seekins Precision
Seekins Precision introduces the SIC Modular Precision Rifle, a fully integrated system built around the Havak action and the company’s new monolithic chassis. The platform is designed for true cross‑compatibility, allowing shooters to interchange barrels, handguards, and accessories across the Seekins ecosystem with minimal tools. This modularity lets the SIC shift easily between hunting, competition, and long‑range roles while maintaining the rigidity and accuracy Seekins rifles are known for.
The chassis offers adjustable ergonomics, a free‑float handguard, and compatibility with AICS‑pattern magazines, paired with Seekins’ hand‑lapped barrels for consistent precision. The result is a lightweight, adaptable rifle that gives shooters a single platform capable of multiple configurations, and comes standard chambered in .300 Norma, .338 Norma and .339 Lapua. SRP: $8,900.
Spandau Arms
Turkish gunmaker Spandau Arms is represented in the USA by SDS Arms. Spandau’s latest addition to the rifle category is the RL Bolt Action, currently offered only in .308 Winchester. Built around a Remington 700 short action, the base model RL features a traditional Turkish Walnut and black oxy nitride finish steel. The barrel is 20 inches long with a 1:10 twist. An AICS-style detachable magazine is included. Convenient, premium features include an oversize bolt handle and Picatinny rail on the pre-drilled receiver. Length of pull comes in at 13.97 inches. The RL is easily customizable by the consumer, but many will not find the need to add anything but an optic to make a handy, affordable hunting rifle. SRP: $799.99.
Springfield Armory
Springfield Armory is launching new longer-barrel Model 2020 Heatseeker variants with 20- and and 22-inch barrels. The Model 2020 Heatseeker — originally launched last year with a 16-inch barrel — is a chassis-based rifle crafted for shooters who demand bolt-action precision and AR-style modularity in one uncompromising, suppressor-ready platform. Featuring a rugged Coyote Brown Cerakote finish, the bolt-action rifles are available in .308 Win. or 6.5 Creedmoor. The .308 Win. version is a 20-inch model; the 6.5 CM versions are offered in either 20- or 22-inch models.
All Heatseekers feature a Sharps Bros. Heatseeker chassis machined from a solid block of 6061-T6 billet aluminum for strength without bulk. The lightweight chassis includes a 14-inch free-float handguard that weighs just 10 ounces. M-LOK slots are located on all four sides of the handguard, with dual QD sling mounts on each side. In addition, the chassis is designed with AR-style features for maximum modularity. It’s outfitted with a buffer tube extension for mounting AR-pattern stocks and is designed to accept AR-pattern pistol grips. The Model 2020 Heatseeker comes outfitted with a B5 Systems Collapsible Precision Stock (CPS) that is adjustable for both length of pull and cheek height. It also comes with a matching CPS adjustable cheek piece. A B5 Systems P-Grip 23 is also included.
Underpinning the Model 2020 Heatseeker rifles is Springfield’s custom-grade Model 2020 stainless steel action. It features dual locking lugs, a fluted bolt, and EDM raceways. Mated to the action are free-floated, carbon-fiber-wrapped barrels with muzzles threaded 5⁄8×24 and featuring thread-protector muzzle caps. A TriggerTech Field Trigger, adjustable for a pull weight from 2.5 to 5 pounds, and a metal five-round AICS-pattern magazine round out the package. The result is a family of rifles featuring an impressive .75 MOA accuracy guarantee, making them ideal for demanding and serious shooters. SRP: $2,355.
Taylor’s & Co
The Taylor's & Co TC73 lever-action rifle, chambered in 9mm, is the first firearm manufactured completely in the USA by the company using only USA-made parts. The rifle boasts high-quality fit and finish, true case coloring, and smooth lines; it also features an improved carrier block design, lightened trigger pull, hardened screws, and fully machined internal parts. A rubber butt pad and white bead front sight with a semi-buckhorn rear sight complete the finishing touches. And for the modern sportsman there is even a 5⁄8×24 threaded barrel. SRP: $1,999.
Tristar Arms
TriStar offers up a new semi-auto .22 LR, called KR22. It cuts a dashing profile with a black synthetic keyhole stock, enough Picatinny rail to mount any scope, and a prominent, adjustable front sight post with a fiber optic. Handy features abound, including acceptance of 10/22 rotary magazines, an adjustable comb, sling swivel studs, and a reversible bolt. The 18.6-inch barrel is threaded. This well-appointed Turkish rifle is available to authorized TriStar retailers. SRP: $289.
Weatherby
Weatherby’s Mark V Backcountry Capra pushes the limits of ultralight mountain‑rifle design, coming in at just 4 pounds thanks to a titanium 6‑lug action and a thin‑contour barrel engineered to cut weight without giving up rigidity. The barrel’s double‑spiral fluting helps maintain sub‑MOA accuracy while keeping the rifle balanced for steep‑country shooting. A modified Peak 44 stock trims additional ounces yet preserves the ergonomics and recoil control needed for magnum‑class performance. With multiple chamberings and a durable Cerakote finish, the Capra is built for hunters who want maximum mobility in demanding terrain without compromising precision. Available calibers include .308 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor, 22 Creedmoor, 25 Creedmoor, 240 WBY Mag, 270 Win, 280 Ackley Improved, 6.5 WBY RPM and 25 WBY RPM. SRP: $3,499.
Winchester
Winchester showcases the Model 70 Featherweight, a rifle long admired for its balance, accuracy, and classic handling. This edition features an AA‑grade French maple stock with contrasting grain, detailed checkering, a Schnabel fore‑end, and a Pachmayr Decelerator recoil pad to soften recoil. The action retains the Pre‑’64 controlled‑round‑feed bolt with a claw extractor, paired with a jeweled bolt body, knurled handle, and the familiar three‑position safety.
Performance features include a free‑floating barrel, recessed target crown, and the M.O.A. Trigger System for a crisp, consistent break. A blade‑type ejector ensures positive extraction, while the rifle’s light weight and fast handling make it a dependable choice for deer, hogs, varmints, and general big‑game hunting. The Model 70 is available in many calibers, including 243 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor, 7mm-08 Rem, 6.5 PRC, 6.8 Western, 308 Win, 270 Win, 30-06 Sprg, 264 Win Mag, 7mm Rem Mag and 300 Win Mag. SRP: $1,979.99.
To see the latest and greatest handguns to hit the market this year, you can find more info here: For Plinking and Carry: Top Handguns Arriving in 2026
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