Ruger Laminate Compact

[2Lloyd]

This rifle comes in two calibers of interest to me, the .308 and the 7mm-08, but I have two concerns, velocity loss in the short (16 1/2 ") barrel, and a even greater concern about the very short stock (12 1/2" length of pull).

The Ruger Scout model has a similar barrel and stock length, but the stock is adjustable with fillers. The Scouts clip and muzzle hardware doesn't appeal to me. I know from being next to it on a range it would be very hard on the unprotected ears.

Perhaps the Compact magnum ( in .308) )would suit be better, but I've not been able to hold one. I like its longer (20") barrel and stock, but it doesn't come in a laminate stock, which I do like.

Looking for comments on velocity loss, adjusting the stock, and perhaps getting a different stock for the laminate compact magnum.

 

[RJ556]

Loyd, I used to shoot pistols in 308 Win with 14" and 16" Barrels and I was suprised at how close the velocities were to rifle velocities. I would not let the 16.5" barrel concern me at all. However, very light, short carbines can be a challenge to shoot accutately. I can shoot a 7.5 pound rifle much more accurately than I can a 6.5 pound rifle. I am a stainless steel rifle freak, but I would go for the Compact magnum in a heart beat. It is such a beautiful, well proportioned rifle and has factory iron sights to boot.

 

[Kanook]

What clothing do you where when you hunt?

The reason I ask is this, I use a compact 308, 6.8spc, and my wifes uses a 260. When we hunt we have on a thick hunting jacket. Your fit changes because of the jacket.

My LOP is 15". put on the jacket that is 2" thick and now I should be using a 13" LOP stock.

I am not concerned about the noise or report of the rifle because we use electronic muffs. And with any luck this year we will be using electronic ear plugs.

 

[2Lloyd]

to RJ556 ... I too like a heavier rifle. I sure would like to hold a compact magnum, but not yet found one in the gunshops of three states. Last week I visited a Cabelas in Hartfort Conn and a Bass Pro Shop in Auburn NY and no compact magnums. However, I don't expect to buy until after this deer season as I have a model 71 Winchester that I hope to make one kill with first.

to Kanook ... Deer hunting in upstate New York requires more than a tee shirt for sure. The easily adjustable system the scout has would be useful. I use muffs at the range, but while hunting my very expensive hearing aids will be in place ..

 

[pcgod]

You will lose velocity. I own a compact in 308 and have found a significant decrease. Here is some data that gives you an idea:

150 gr: start = 44 Varget for 2522 fps, max = 47 Varget for 2675 fps

165 gr: start = 42 Varget for 2384 fps, max = 46 Varget for 2576 fps

180 gr: start = 41 Varget for 2274 fps, max = 45 Varget for 2480 fps

This is Hodgdon data for a 15" encore in 308. I have found this to be pretty close for the compact.

The length of pull is a simple fix. I started with a slip on limbsaver recoil pad. Then if you are hunting in the winter with heavy clothes take it off.
Recently I have taken it off and just shoot it without. That does take a little practice but it works. I am 6 ft so even larger folks can do this

 

[RJ556]

pcgod, I mostly shot 150 grain loads in my 308 pistols. I suppose there is more velocity loss with the heavier bullets, but a deer will never know the difference, under 300 yards.

 

[pcgod]

pcgod, I mostly shot 150 grain loads in my 308 pistols. I suppose there is more velocity loss with the heavier bullets, but a deer will never know the difference, under 300 yards.

You are, of course, correct. I consider these rifles a 200 yd gun, however you would be ok out to 300 I'm sure. They fit my style of hunting and are accurate enough for me.

 

[kooz]

I have one in .308 and love it. By the time I get some hunting clothes on the LOP is just right. They are a joy to carry and quick to get on target. I killed a young bull elk a couple years ago and two antelope last week with it so far, first antelope was at 210yds and the second at 425yds, neither of them seemed to notice a velocity loss and now reside in my freezer. Great guns and very accurate. Good luck with your decision, the compact magnum is a nice looking gun, but I wish it was available in stainless for the .308.

 

[Trey Whitley]

We've got a Frontier in 7mm-08. Basically a Compact with a rib. One of our absolute favorite rifles.

No doubt it loses velocity compared to a longer barrel but I really couldn't care because it is accurate & very handy. The 12.5" LOP is a little short in some circumstances but not a big deal. Easiest fix if you don't like it is to add a 1-inch Pachmayr (or similar) recoil pad.

I'll also add that since buying this rifle I've developed tremendous respect for the 7mm-08 cartridge.