Bolt action. I have owned and shot many, many different rifles - all action types, most common brands, and across about 100 years of vintage.I prefer a bolt action because of the strength and relative simplicity of the action ... and I have yet to find an auto-loader, pumpor lever action that provides the combination of 300 yard accuracy + a possibility of a follow up shot as does any of my bolt actions. Admittedly, I seldom have been successful if I miss on my first shot, so the rapid follow-up offered by an autoloader, pump or lever does not appeal to me these days.

My first "deer rifle" was a Winchester Model 88 in 308 Win. It was stolenfrom me by two 14 year old victims of society. It was my only, therefore "favorite" rifle for more than 20 years.(By the way, both of the gentlemen are dead now, eachhavingbeen murdered while inprison.) These days, I don't have a so called favorite. I typically use one of 4 rifles I have, depending upon the circumstance.

My No.1 hunting rifle is a Styer Pro-Hunter "Mountian" in 308 Win. I will use it probably 90% of the time. Right behind it is a sported 1932 military version Mauser in 6.5x55 SE.This particular rifle has a unique legacy and is absolutely drop dead accurate. It is my No.1 "Lender". When I hunt where shots could easily be in the 400 + range, I have a custominzed Rem. 700 in 300 Win. Mag. For stalking pigs in the swamp where I sometimes hunt, I often use a Marlin "Guide" in 444 Marlin.