Wild hogs are tough, unpredictable, and fast. Whether you’re hunting over a feeder in Texas, stalking through dense brush, or night hunting with thermal optics, your rifle needs to deliver quick, lethal shots with reliability. In this guide, we break down the best rifles for hog hunting in 2025—covering AR platforms, bolt-action options, calibers, and specialized features for day or night success.
What Makes a Great Hog Hunting Rifle?
Hog hunting rifles must be accurate, durable, and powerful enough to drop large pigs with a single shot.
Key traits to look for:
- Fast follow-up shots – ideal for group encounters
- Short to medium range accuracy – most hogs are shot within 50–150 yards
- Heavy-hitting calibers like .308, .300 BLK, or 6.5 Grendel
- Thermal/night optic compatibility
- Durability in wet, muddy, or brushy terrain
Top 8 Rifles for Hog Hunting in 2025
1. Daniel Defense DD5 V4 (.308 Winchester)
Best Overall for Day or Night Hunting
- Semi-auto AR-10 platform for fast shooting
- Chambered in .308 for big boars and long-range shots
- Cold hammer-forged barrel with superior accuracy
- M-LOK handguard for attaching thermal scopes and lights
2. Ruger SFAR (Small-Frame AR) (.308)
Lightweight .308 Option in AR Format
- Combines AR-10 power with AR-15 weight
- Adjustable gas block for suppressor use
- Highly customizable platform
3. PSA PA-15 (.300 Blackout)
Best Budget Rifle for Night Hog Hunts
- AR-15 platform chambered in subsonic-friendly .300 BLK
- Perfect for suppressed night hunting
- Affordable, yet reliable for high-volume hog hunters
4. Sig Sauer MCX Spear LT (.300 Blackout)
High-End Tactical Option
- Modern modular design with folding stock
- Incredible reliability and suppressor-ready
- Ideal for short-range thermal or NV hunting
5. Smith & Wesson M&P10 (.308)
Reliable and Affordable AR-10 Choice
- Chambered in .308 Win for power on big pigs
- Reliable gas-operated action
- Good value with premium performance
6. Wilson Combat Recon Tactical (6.8 SPC or 6.5 Grendel)
Precision and Stopping Power in One
- Custom-grade rifle built for tactical hunting
- Available in several hog-stopping calibers
- Excellent build quality and accuracy
7. Savage 110 Hog Hunter (.308 or .350 Legend)
Best Bolt-Action Hog Rifle
- Specifically designed for wild hogs
- Adjustable AccuTrigger and heavy barrel
- Threaded muzzle for suppressor or brake
8. Browning BAR Mark III (.308)
Classic Semi-Auto Powerhouse
- Reliable semi-automatic action
- Wood or composite stocks available
- Accurate and trusted for decades in the field
Best Calibers for Hog Hunting Rifles
| Caliber | Best Use | Why It Works |
|---|---|---|
| .223/5.56 | Small to medium hogs | Low recoil, fast follow-ups, great with AR-15s |
| .300 Blackout | Night hunting, suppressed use | Quiet, deadly at close range |
| .308 Winchester | Big hogs, longer distances | Powerful with strong terminal performance |
| 6.5 Grendel | All-purpose AR-15 hunting | Flatter shooting and better ballistics |
| .350 Legend | Brush country, straight-wall states | Big punch, legal in restrictive zones |
Best Rifle Features for Hog Hunting
- Semi-auto action: Great for groups of pigs and fast follow-ups
- Threaded barrel: Allows suppressor or muzzle brake use
- Rail system: Essential for thermal or night vision scopes
- Shorter barrel (16–18 inches): Ideal for maneuvering in tight brush
- Sling mounts: Useful for carrying through rough terrain
Thermal & Night Vision Compatibility
Most modern hog hunting rifles should be paired with thermal or NV gear for optimal night performance.
Top Scopes to Pair:
- ATN ThOR 5 Thermal Scope
- Pulsar Thermion 2 XP50 Pro
- AGM Rattler TS35-384
Make sure your rifle has the correct rail (Picatinny preferred) and enough weight balance to handle the optic’s size and weight.
Conclusion
Hogs are smart, fast, and built to take a hit. That’s why choosing the right rifle for hog hunting is critical to your success. Whether you prefer a semi-auto AR setup for night hunting or a rugged bolt-action for daylight stalking, the rifles listed above are proven performers for 2025. With the right caliber and optic, your hog hunts can be safer, cleaner, and more rewarding.
Planning your next hog hunt? Let us know which rifle setup you’re considering or already use, and we’ll help you fine-tune your gear for maximum results.