"Marksmanship – the practice of putting a projectile, on a target, within a given group size, at a given range… consistently."

When putting a projectile on an intended target, there are a few considerations to be taken into account:

The rifle.

The ammunition.

The sights or scope.

The shooter.

While "All Of The Above" are a factor, the most important factor is the shooter.

In the past, a truly accurate rifle would cost thousands of dollars from the manufacturer, or require a custom build by a gunsmith. As of the past decade or so, accurate MOA or even sub-MOA rifles have come down in cost – even below the thousand dollar price point. I have an FNH Patrol Bolt Rifle I bought back in 2008. It shoots sub-MOA with match ammo if I do my part. The cost was $800.

Match-grade ammunition has become more widely available at lower costs. Although during the Great Ammunition Shortage of 2020-21 (2022??), finding ammunition of any caliber was as rare as hens' teeth, with the exception of some really obscure calibers, availability has come back in recent months. Quality hand loads are another option.

Scopes still remain expensive, but there are imports at a lower price out there. Some are questionable in quality, while others have been surprisingly good. Removing features you may not use can bring down the price while maintaining quality.