The Ruger American Rifle Gen 2 has quickly become a popular choice for hunters and shooters alike, and for good reason. This review delves deep into the performance, features, and overall value of the .308 Winchester variant, offering an in-depth perspective beyond typical online summaries. We'll explore its strengths and weaknesses to help you determine if it's the right rifle for your needs.
Ergonomics and Handling: A Comfortable and Controllable Rifle
One of the Ruger American's standout features is its ergonomics. The stock, while relatively basic, is surprisingly comfortable for extended shooting sessions. The pistol grip is well-designed, fitting a wide range of hand sizes, and the overall balance feels natural. The inclusion of a noticeably improved adjustable length of pull is a significant upgrade from the original Gen 1. This adjustable feature allows for a customized fit, maximizing comfort and accuracy. The textured grip provides a secure hold, even in wet or adverse conditions. The safety is easy to manipulate, and the bolt action is smooth and reliable.
Accuracy and Precision: Meeting Expectations in the Field
The Ruger American Gen 2 in .308 Winchester consistently delivers respectable accuracy. While not a precision benchrest rifle, it's more than capable of fulfilling its role in hunting and target shooting applications. With quality ammunition, sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) groups are achievable at 100 yards for many shooters. This level of accuracy is perfectly suitable for most hunting scenarios and recreational target practice. The free-floating barrel contributes to improved consistency, minimizing the impact of hand pressure on the accuracy.
Barrel and Action: Reliable Performance in Varied Conditions
The cold hammer-forged barrel ensures durability and longevity. This manufacturing process enhances the barrel's lifespan and contributes to consistent accuracy over time. The bolt action, known for its smooth operation, allows for quick and reliable follow-up shots. The bolt itself is well-made and exhibits minimal friction.
Features and Upgrades: Practical Improvements for Enhanced Use
The Ruger American Gen 2 boasts several notable features:
- Adjustable Length of Pull: Already mentioned, this feature significantly improves the rifle's adaptability to different shooters.
- Three-Position Safety: Allows for safe handling and quick transitions between safe, fire, and bolt operation.
- Lightweight Design: Makes it ideal for carrying during extended hunting trips.
- Blued Barrel: Offers good corrosion resistance.
- Integral Picatinny Rail: Facilitates easy mounting of scopes and other accessories.
Ammunition Performance: Optimizing for Best Results
The .308 Winchester round is a versatile and widely available cartridge, making ammunition selection relatively simple. Experimenting with different brands and grain weights is crucial to identify the ammunition your specific rifle performs best with. This is a common step in optimizing any rifle for accuracy.
Price and Value: A Competitive Offering in the Market
The Ruger American Gen 2 in .308 Winchester offers excellent value for its price point. It's a competitively priced rifle that doesn't compromise significantly on performance or features. Considering its accuracy, reliability, and ergonomic design, it represents a solid investment for both novice and experienced shooters.
Conclusion: A Solid Choice for Hunters and Shooters
The Ruger American Rifle Gen 2 in .308 Winchester is a well-rounded rifle that delivers on its promises. Its comfortable ergonomics, respectable accuracy, and practical features make it a solid choice for hunting, target shooting, and general recreational use. While it may not be the ultimate precision rifle, it’s a reliable and versatile firearm that offers excellent value for the money. If you're looking for a reliable, accurate, and user-friendly .308 rifle, the Ruger American Gen 2 is definitely worth considering.
