The most important quality in a hunting rifle is that it functions as intended in your hands and is built to withstand the rigors of your hunting style. This means that the action should run smoothly from your shoulder and all the controls, like the safety and magazine release, should be easy and intuitive to manipulate. The rifle should be easy to load and unload, whether it has an internal magazine or a detachable box magazine. The trigger should have a crisp, consistent break that is no more than 3 pounds for a bolt gun and 6 pounds for a lever action. The stock and metalwork should have a durable finish that can withstand the elements.