Top 5 Rifles You Need In 2025
Semi-auto rifles offer a compelling balance of firepower and ballistic performance, with plenty of quality options to choose from in 2025. That's why the Classic Firearms team is highlighting some of the most popular rifles that released this year, as well as a few sleeper hits that may have flown under your radar.
Our picks will also include PCCs and large frame pistols that can accept a brace (or stock, with proper NFA documents). More shooters will be able to afford to legally convert these items to short barrel rifles (SBRs) after the $200 NFA tax stamp ends on January 1, 2026, so they're fair game for this list.
Century AP51 / AP53
Based on the iconic Heckler & Koch HK51 and HK53 respectively, the Century AP51 and AP53 both utilize a roller delayed action and feed from HK-pattern magazines. These compact pistol variants retain most other features of their classic PDW counterparts, save for the select-fire functionality.
The AP51 and AP53 can accept a stabilizing pistol brace or can be SBR'd to allow for the installation of a stock. Moreover, each model ships with a threaded barrel for mounting a suppressor, something many shooters prefer as 5.56 NATO and .308 Win / 7.62 NATO can be quite loud in shorter platforms.
For fans of retro rifles, it doesn't get much better than the AP51 and AP53. Either model will run flawlessly and stand out in any firearms collection.
Shop Accessories For The AP51 / AP53
IWI Zion-25
The IWI Zion-15 is one of the best value AR-15 rifles on the market, so naturally we were excited when the Zion-25 was announced at SHOT Show earlier this year. This big bore variant is available in .308 Win / 7.62 NATO as well as 6.5 Creedmoor and with a 16", 18", or 22" barrel.
Much like its 5.56 NATO counterpart, the Zion-25 is packed full of features you'd expect from a much more expensive rifle. These include a Timney two-stage trigger, a chrome moly vanadium barrel, and an adjustable gas block for enhanced reliability whether shooting suppressed or unsuppressed.
The Zion-25 is an excellent choice for a battle rifle or a dedicated DMR platform, with tons of customization options and aftermarket support. And best of all, it's available at a relatively affordable price point compared to most large frame .308 Win platforms on the market.
Shop Accessories For The Zion-25
Red Star Ordnance BSR-47
Classic Firearms is proud to be the exclusive retailer for Red Star Ordnance BSR-47 rifles. These Bulgarian AKs are built on stamped receiver and feature a forged trunnion, 16.3" hammer forged barrel, and adjustable sights. Simply put, the BSR-47 is a solid AK-47 that punches above its weight class.
Available with red wood or polymer furniture, this rifle is perfect for those seeking a traditional AKM-platform rifle with modern improvements. Each BSR-47 ships with a 30-round Magpul PMAG and is ready to shoot right out of the box.
The Red Star Ordnance BSR-47 is as collectible as it is practical, combining stunning looks with famous AK reliability you can count on. We have a limited number available, so grab one while they last!
Shop Accessories For The BSR-47
Heckler & Koch MR556 A4
One of the most reliable AR-platform rifles in the world, the MR556 A4 is as close as civilians can get to owning an HK416. This semi-auto short-stroke gas piston design requires less maintenance and lasts longer in the field compared to direct-impingement ARs, plus it's lighter and slimmer.
The MR556 A4 is the latest variant and features fully ambidextrous controls as well as an adjustable gas regulator, allowing the shooter to tune the action for suppressed or unsuppressed fire. It is on the pricey side, but on the other hand, few rifles are as adaptable and resilient as the MR556 A4.
In our opinion, this is one of the best rifles to release in 2025 because it further improves on a proven platform, meaning that buyers know they're getting their money's worth and then some.
Shop Accessories For The MR556 A4
-
Bravo Company MFG Gunfighter Vertical Grip Mod-3 - Black - VGMCMRMOD3BK
See Price In Cart
Springfield Kuna
By far the hottest release of 2025, the Springfield Kuna has quickly become one of the most popular PCCs on the market. The compelling sub-$1K price point and desirable features helped the platform stand out from other more expensive offerings, plus the potential to SBR the Kuna saw many shooters clamoring to get their hands on one of these at launch.
The Kuna features a monolithic upper and a roller-delayed action that reduces felt recoil, allowing for rapid follow-up shots. Each Kuna also ships with a 1/2x28 threaded barrel for mounting a suppressor. All in all, this is an incredibly soft shooting gun that is ideal for CQB, home defense, or backpack duty.
For the money, you'd be hard pressed to find a better PCC with more features. Consider the Kuna if you're looking for a well-rounded PDW-style firearm that you can customize for your specific needs.
Springfield Armory Kuna 9mm Semi-Auto Pistol, Roller Delayed Blowback, w/ Strike Industries Folding Brace, Hybrid Flip Up Sights, (2) 30rd Magazines - KN9069B-FSA
Shop Accessories For The Springfield Kuna
-
Swampfox Optics Raider 1x20 Micro Prism 6 MOA Red Dot Sight - RMPS120-R6
See Price In Cart
Even More Guns That Released In 2025
Of course, there were many more handguns and long guns released over the course of this year. Watch our video with Kaya for even more of the best firearms that released in 2025!
Loading...