Fired a American in 3006 it surprised me

[kmoore]

A novice shooting friend wanted help with his American in 3006 it's about 7 years old, with a 4x12 bushnell, unknown model scope on it. Factory Remington 180 grain core locks for ammo. He was having trouble shooting a group to make any adjustments from. I dry fired it 2 times then shot 2 rounds that were touching each other. I made adjustments on scope for 1.5 inchs left and 2 inchs high from my rounds. I fired a round about 1/4 inch left of center and 1.5 inchs high. At 100 yards. The goal was 2 inch high, centered. Dam good in by book. We were shooting from a bench with a support under the forend.
He continued shooting groups in the 3 inch range around the target center. But, he started the day over 3 feet right and 6 inchs high. He learned why he missed a deer last year.
I really never gave those rifles a second look due to the low price tag.

 

[41-44-45-48]

Don't let the price tag fool you, they're for real! Ruger didn't skimp on the barrel and that's the main thing that matters in rifle accuracy. The stocks are a cheap piece of ugly plastic but the bedding system is very innovative in that it works well yet is cheap to mass produce. Beyond that money is saved with an ugly matte finish and plastic parts wherever possible.

But as you found, they will certainly shoot.

 

[teuthis]

I could not care less about how a weapon looks, as long as it works. And the Ruger American rifles work! The "ugly" stock is light and weather proof. The stainless parts resist corrosion and weather. And, mine is accurate, and reliable, as you found too.

 

[Dumbear]

I just started load development with a new RAR I recently got on on special at Cabelas. Its a copper colored stock version in 270 Win. I'm starting out with the Speer 150 gr Hot core and yesterday I put 3 into .566 @ 100 yds chronoed at 2940 w/RL 22. Rifle was $249.00,needles to say these rifles will shoot. Have a RAP in 6 Creed coming.

 

[pisgah]

Never assume. The American is generally a very accurate rifle, as is the even less expensive Savage Axis. Especially these days, price is absolutely no predictor of accuracy.

 

[Heliman]

A few years ago I purchased a Ruger American chambered in 22-250. This rifle shoots 3/4" groups consistenly. Short bolt throw, adjustable crisp trigger and tang safety are all plusses. It out shoots my 77 MKII and weighs a lot less and costs half as much.

This platform reminds me of the inexpensive Remington 788 vs the 700. Bigger bang for the buck.

As a result of my experience with the 22-250 I picked up a NIB 30-06 American. It was no surprise to me that it too shoots sub-moa groups. I think the American is the best low cost option and is even better than most higher priced options. Rugers answer to the 788.

Dave

 

[22/45 Fan]

My stainless left-handed American in .223Rem is also a true 1 MOA rifle. These days, price and performance are almost independent of each other.

 

[RFF]

I recently picked up an American Rifle in 7mm-08. A sweet shooting rifle! Great price. Love the trigger! I know some don't like the stocks on them. I don't think they are ugly. They also have very nice and effective pads on them to.

 

[MalteseHoss]

My American in 30-06 is extremely accurate. I got on paper using CMP Greek ammo that was probably older than I am. I then tried Core Locks, Federal and Hornady American Whitetail and they all grouped well. The Hornady seemed to shoot the best if I remember right. Recoil was surprisingly well handled with this gun too. Overall I am very happy with the gun for the little rifle hunting I actually do. My father in law shot it and plans on getting one now as well.

 

[kmoore]

I told the story to a friend who works at a gun shop. So, this is 3rd hand information but, I was told by him. The Ruger rep. came by to the store. He explained that the American was built on the idea of less cost rifle with good accuracy. Ruger placed their R&D dept. into making a better bedding, bore/rifle the barrel for a better rifle and used the lighter weight trigger. The rest of the rifle was built to save costs.
After never giving them a 2nd look, I changed my mind. If I find a nice used one at a low price in a caliber I like. It will go into my gun safe.

 

[steveodtw]

Go for it! The most accurate rifle I own, with a great trigger. I bought it as a lightweight alternative to my No.1B deer rifle. (both .270 Win.). You can always make it more expensive with a Boyds stock.