To answer a few comments, I bought this gun with my own money. I don’t even know a single employee at Ruger. I've never even had contact with anyone at Ruger's marketing department. But, a few words about how I do work with companies. I have the same deal with all gun companies. Sometimes I buy guns shown on the channel, other times they are sent to me. I appreciate it when companies send me guns because it helps me to be able to make content for you. If they send one, it means I'm going to show it on the channel, but I tell them clearly up front that it may or may not be positive. As you can see in literally every gun review I've ever done, I talk about the positives AND the negatives--just like in this video. Gun companies do not ever PAY me for reviews. All they can do is provide guns for me to evaluate.
Did your ruger come with a complementary case of Bud Light and 1 year membership to BLM, complements of Target?? Yes, Ruger is that woke... this isn't a joke, and I'm not just "busting your stones". I have the emails, from ruger, to prove it.
I got a Ruger American predator (gen 1), and the trigger is an easy fix, just dropped a $12 mcarbo trigger spring in it and it took the trigger pull down to 2 lbs, if the gen 2 has the same trigger it’s a 5-10 minute fix tops once you get the spring.
A set of side cutters and some emery cloth did wonders on mine, did spring work and you could literally feel the machine marks on it, polished that up and its amazing.
I’ve always loved that you and your wife run the whole show. Nothing but respect and admiration for the two of you; y’all are amazing and have a beautiful family, my brother.
Bought the Ruger American Gen 2 in 308 which is my first long rifle after watching tons of comparison videos and this video really sold me on it. Couldn’t be happier with my choice. Thanks to @Backfire for these in depth reviews and giving us the good and bad. Subscribed!
I will add that the cerakote on the barrel could have been put on a little more thick. The rifle in 308 configuration comes with a factory muzzle break. When removing to add my suppressor I noticed the cerakote chipping a bit which was a little disappointing. BUT this is a sub $600 gun at least in my area so I can’t be too upset.
I'm actually looking to get my first rifle for first time deer hunting this year. Been looking at this one for about a week now. Would you recommend this in a 308 for a first timer?
FYI, I spent 20 bucks for two part "Glaze Coat" bar top finish. I filled the hex's in my Hogue overmolded stock and it fixed what travel the stock had. Its now stiff a a board. Worth a try if that (or any other) polymer stock is giving you trouble. Great video as usual, Guys!
@everettbrown2501 remove the one piece plastic stock/forend and you will see the "hex" compartments hes talking about. Fill em up with epoxy and you're all set
Great review. I'm not surprised, as my Gen 1 Ruger American in 6.5 CM consistently shoots .30 MOA with the right factory ammunition. It will start to string out after 10 rounds, so not great for PRS-style competition but more than enough for any hunting application. I bought it for $300 back in the day and had to add a $50 cheek riser. The cheap plastic stock sucks, but there are plenty of aftermarket options available if you like. Great to see Ruger up their game with the Gen 2.
Bell and Carlson makes a stock that fits the Ruger American. I bought one for my son and it has a blind magazine and an aluminum trigger guard. So no feeding problems and the stock has an aluminum channel in the forearm. My son loves it. He picked the design texture of the stock. The All Weather stainless steel 22 inch barrel 7mm-08 is his favorite rifle.
My Ruger in 6.5 CM has a feeding problem. After a month the mag broke and the replacement is supposed to fit the 308 and the 6.5. The replacement just doesn't feed. Ruger will not sell a new mag like the original one.
Mine in .30-06 doesn't have an issue feeding either. A bolt lock would have been nice. Missed a deer once due to the bolt handle getting bumped when I went prone.
@@Magoo.Rivero I wouldn't suggest it for a 12 year old. If she is confident shooing at least 3in shells out of a 12ga then maybe it would work for her. You are probably more likely to scare her with it than have her like it.
@@ndwhitlow thank you for the response. She has shot her entire life and can shoot a 12g. I have never had her shoot my 30.06 but I was wondering how much the muzzle brake on this decreased the recoil.
Emily hollering "take it back", Jim laughing uncontrollably, while running away, Emily chasing...absolute GOLD! Thanks guys for the hardcore belly laugh, love it!
There’s a company called AD Arms Custom Rifles that you can send your bolt to. He cleans it up, flutes it and puts a micro slick on it. It gets completely rid of the zipper sounds and it’s really smooth, I’ve sent my ruger American bolt to him and my savage bolt, he does an amazing job.
The "Zipper" sound pretty much goes away with merely oiling the bolt AND SHOOTING IT a few hundred rounds. My 2014 made .308 has the rotary mag, feeds perfectly and after oiling tge bolt and shooting it about 300 rounds it is smooth as glass.
For some reason it’s not letting me put in a link but if you just google AD Arms Custom Rifles it pulls right up. Anyways it’s $90 for the fluting and microslick. If you want the upgraded pin back with the fluting and microslick it’s $145 this option is the one with the picture RPR bolt. The different designs of fluting have a drop down menu where you can select your type of bolt. The pictures don’t only correspond with that type of bolt. Whatever design you want it has a dropdown menu and you can find your type of bolt.
Had a gen 1 in 450 bushblaster, 200+ yrds easy peasey all day Ammo got $$$, sold it ,now 350 legend, it’s a shooter too👍🏻 that one will shoot too! For sure They won’t be able to make them fast enough Happy New Year!
That 3 stage safety is a game changer for me. I’ve wished my older model rifle had that. So many times I’ve been beating around the mtns threw thick brush or what not and had my bolt open and garbage getting in it.
I just ordered a Ruger American 30-06 in the Go Wild Model. I have an American Ruger in 6mm Creedmoor and absolutely love it. I can't wait to get my Go Wild Camo with Cerakot and factory Muzzle Break. Love you video. Thanks for your information. 😊
@@bluepunk182 Because he’s got to have at least 2-3 negative and nit picky things to say about anything. Like with the “it doesn’t have QD flush cups or an arca rail!” something most people buying this rifle as a casual shooter do not care about or would even use IMO.
Great video! I’ve had a Ruger American in 308 with the “go wild” stock and bronze cerakote, for a while and love it. I’ve never had feeding problems, ever, and no zipper sound. The only complaint I have had is the break blows the gasses back towards me too much. It was a lot more then the plain ones you reviewed previously, closer to the price of the one in this video, but I’m just a poor ol boy living in the woods.
Great review, accuracy+, magazine feeding+, top 2 things to address. 3 lug bolt +, 3 position safety+, way to change cheek height and length of pull+, threaded barrel+, pretty light weight+, safe and halfway decent trigger+, improved bolt operation+, reasonable price, What were the minuses???
@@spamusapan was there any adjustment done to the trigger? He shot a above par group with a a sub par trigger? Some people like prone position. I am not too fond of laying in the dirt, mud, or snow. Or laying prone when you cannot see above the vegetation. Which turns out to be 100% of the time for me. Larger butt pads increase surface area which means fewer pounds per square inch of force. So I like oversized butt pad and prefer a rounded sporting clays type butt pad that does not get hung up in you clothing when trying to get a shot.
Just picked up a ruger gen 2 predator in 6.5 grendel. It has exceeded my expectations. Also i wanted to say that I've been watching you for awhile now. I love the show, content and valuable insight on top contending firearms. I personally value the unbiased information and wanted to say thanks and keep it up.
The bolt has been upgraded to stainless steel and altered to add a third locking of the bolt option with the safe option and bolt on safe option that can still cycle.
I emailed Ruger, the Gen2 does fit Gen1 stocks. So if you want to pop it in a nice chassis stock. Larger calibers are threaded 5/8-24. I want a new 6.5CM, but I’m torn now of 1 of these & put it in a Krg Bravo stock or a Bergara Wilderness Ridge…
Skip the Bravo stock. It's nice and all but the mixture of PLASTIC and aluminum internal frame still allows for WAY TO MUCH flex and twisting torque. In the prone on Bipods the Bravo stock allows way to much twisting when you lay your head on the cheek-weld. So much so, that it will push your bubble out of level. The Plastic of the stock still has WAY TO MUCH flex even though it has an internal aluminum frame.
Bergara owner in KRG bravo. Phenomenal rifle. Mine is 6.5 Creed. I am intrigued by the Gen II Rugers. Think I may pick one up when they are more available and depending how I like them maybe a few more. Wasn’t a huge fan of the Gen 1 so we’ll see. Not sure how much money im willing to spend on a cheap rifle with chasis…triggers..etc.
@@Rico11bI’ve not shot in the prone much mine but regardless I have no idea what flex you are talking about. I experience literally zero flex and can’t possibly see how the chasis would flex. It’s extremely rigid and the aluminum backbone is built like a tank.
Today I walked into Bass Pro Shop looking for my first long rifle other than my AR15. I’m looking at the Savage 110 Tactical 6.5 CM, and I had my mind set on that because it is on sale for $699 and the great review you gave it. Then the sales person showed me this Ruger American Gen II in 18in, 20in & 22in and I loved it!But now watching your video I’m still trying to make sure I purchase the right long rifle for my first one! I’m only going to shoot paper for now, or zombies if it comes to it! Lol Now I need some time to think about this, thanks for the review and I love watching & sharing your videos!! 🙌🏻
I think .223s in any model are going to feed better than the rest. It’s just smaller than anything else and the feeding problems start as the cartridge gets bigger (just my opinion). You should talk to WTW, if you haven’t already. He picked up a 7mm-08 and had similar comments about the trigger, magazine and such. Though, in the middle of his initial run the feeding jammed. Thanks for doing what you do. I’m always happy to see you guys review products that most of us (shooters/hunters) are interested in. You’re not only entertaining us, you’re providing a very appreciated service. Happy New Year!
@@Mike-xi4zt consistency and quality control produce the most accurate barrels regardless of method. Ruger making barrels in-house gives them complete control of that.
@@jacktrout5807 yes I see your point but Hammer forged are not the very best consistency or accuracy. They can be very good for accuracy and are normally very long lasting and work hardened. They are beating and smashing the hell out of the steel. The operation is introducing chaos to the metal, and is difficult to control, the finished final product.
@@Mike-xi4zt sure but at the same time you could have a superior method but if quality and consistency are not achieved you don't have an accurate barrel. The other thing is if we are talking about factory rifles of a certain price point the ruger is tough to beat as far as accuracy is concerned. I hate the stocks, magazines and not super fond of the actions on the Americans but they shoot. I have one I paid 175 bucks for "used" It was really early in the 6mm creedmoor and I doubt it had been shot at all because ammo for it was basically unobtanium. But with my hand loads it's the most accurate rifle in my safe. And that's saying something because I have some rifles with carbon fiber ( proof research) and some pacmore barreled custom rifles.
@@jacktrout5807 I'm not saying Ruger Americans are junk. I don't own one but they look good there's a lot of things I like, especially on the generation 2. The very most absolute precision accurate barrels are not Hammer forged. I was getting ready to buy a Tikka but held off after I saw the generation 2 ruger Americans. I have remington, savage, sako, and a couple others. I have put custom barrels, stocks, parts, on most those to make them usable. It looks like from the factory the Ruger American 2 is completely superior to the Remington 700 and any Savage factory rifle.
Yeah, taking the flex out of the forend would've been really nice. Maybe a modular grip like Tikka, also. Looks interesting, but it's going to be tempting to swap it right into another stock or chassis.
@@dustinpomeroy8817that depends on what your after, there are many stock and chassis offerings only available in the aftermarket. You could argue buying a barreled action would be the way to go then but a Ruger American is still cheaper then most barreled action options.
The Gen. 1 American ALSO did not have a BOLT LOCK! After losing 2 cartridges in 2 days on a Nevada deer hunt I sold my 6.5 Creedmoor American (with my Timing trigger) and got a Browning X-Bolt in 6.5 PRC. LOVE IT. Howsomever... This RUGER has ALL the features I want. Put a nice BOYD'S laminated stock on it and a Timney trigger and WOW! a hot looking rifle that is INTERESTING. (Remember, the only interesting rifles are accurate rifles..)
I lost a couple 30-06 in the snow as well. Now running a Weatherby Vanguard II with a 3 position safety and .99 MOA guarantee. This Ruger American gen II might be the next one.
Love these Rugers, great user guns! One thing I would absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE to see is a seekins precision reviewed here. USA made here in Idaho with a warranty second to none. I think theres a good chance Seekins rifles will end up being one of your favorites. (No affiliation BTW, just a fan)
When you talk about excessive trigger travel on the Ruger rifles, we (son & I) have noted the same on the Ruger pistols. Especially the semi-autos. This is the main reason I have never owned a Ruger. I do, however have a Ruger 10-22 that is probably close to 60 years old. I did re-barrel it with a threaded barrel for use of a silencer. Because it sat for many years before I got it the action was extremely dirty. Both barrels are very accurate and after some deep cleaning the rifle is very dependable once again.
My first Ruger American in 6.5 CM with the rotary magazine didn’t feed well either. I bought a single stack magazine intended for the 450 Bushmaster cartridge remedying the feeding issue. I have a Gen 1 Ranch in 6.5 Grendel which feeds from an AR mag with no feeding issues.
Literally as I am watching this I got handed my Backfire butt-pad for my Tikka T3x lite 300 win mag. As I clicked on the video I wondered how long it would take to get. Totally funny how I got it while watching your video. Now as far as the Ruger. I picked up the Gen 1 ranch (556) and am pretty impressed. I didn't like how they had the mag release. I see that hasn't changed in the new one. Mine uses the AR mags and feeds fine though. So far so good its going to be my go to coyote rifle for a while.
I have the Predator model in the original but it has the AICS magazine which eliminates the feeding issues. In 6.5 Creedmore it’s a tack driver. Other than the flimsy stock I love it.
1/2-28 threads are the ideal thread for a .223 / 556 caliber rifle since it opens up your options of muzzle devices to the massive array of options available for the AR platform. I was honestly shocked that Ruger did not offer the Ranch version in .308 / 7.62 or even have it as one of the planned caliber offerings for the Ranch version. And the .308 & 6.5 Creedmoor in the Standard version uses AI-style mags instead of AR Style mags. That's very disappointing to me.
Been a big fan of Ruger for about 5 decades, rifles and pistols. I've got 2 Gen 1 Predator model's in 223 and 243 and I recently picked up 2 Gen 2's in 223 and 204. I strictly varmint hunt with mine and have yet to shoot any of them prone. I've put a lot of rounds through the Gen 1's and agree completely with it's faults. My only complaint with the Gen 2's is the muzzle brake, a very loud unnecessary piece of equipment. When I'm calling Predators I can't wear ear protection and that brake will ring your ears bad. Good thing is a buddy sent me a couple of bronze thread protectors and I replaced the brakes. Catch the show CARNIVORE and you'll see my old setup with the 243 and next season you'll see my new one with the 204. The Burnham Brothers crew come up and hunt on the ranch a few times a year, here in West Texas. Ruger should offer the brake as a accessory.
If any of the "Ruger salesmen" among the youtube channels wants to convince me that these rifles really are so accurate I have to know WHY they're so accurate and so cheap. What have they changed about the rifle making art? HOW are they making barrels so much better than they did even ten years ago? HOW are they chambering so much more precisely? There needs to be a Ruger factory tour, where we learn something about how they build them so well and so cheaply....
my 762x39 also has an amazing trugger and no zipper sound when cycling but my 6.5cm has alot of travel and creep. bolt does the zipper thing. not sure why they are so different 🤔
The feeding issues often mentioned are a problem with the rotary mags that were first supplied with the rifles. The AR, AICS, and mimni 30 mag fed models have all been super reliable in my experience. Please let me know if your experience differs.
Well, back to the ol gun store. Between my brother and I we have owned 5 different Ruger American. I think we have 1 left. Just got tired of the feeding issue. Not once did we have an accuracy issue, which was a good thing, cause that second cartridge wasn’t coming. Very excited about this new rifle. Thanks Jim for putting in the work.
First time watching and I'm usually a critical bastard. Fun to watch and hit all the points necessary info wise to help a guy make an informed decision. So that being said subscribed. Keep up good work
Do NOT worry about the stock. Boyd's can make a great replacement for a good price point. You should have stuck with the 6.5 CM since you've done SO MANY tests with that caliber to establish a baseline. I'm thinking the 6.5 CM won't group that well.
@@lucass4758 I guess you can't read. I said the Bravo stock was very good. Also the Boyd's stock is stiffer and resists twisting torque better an a Bravo stock, even with an internal aluminum frame. ONLY because the Bravo is mostly plastic. Fail...
Americans shoot amazing even the old ones 1/2” out of most of the ones I’ve shot with at least one kind of factory ammo worst groups I’ve got were 1.5” which for the worst still isn’t that bad
This doesn’t have to do with this video but I’d be interested if you’d do a review on a browning AB3 and X-bolt. I love all your videos and just how in depth you are when it comes to testing. You’re the only one I watch. Keep up the great videos and testing! Thanks!!
Not worried about the stock. When I get a 6.5 Grendel Ranch Rifle I’ll be dropping it into a Magpul stock, like I did with my RA .223 rifle. You can’t beat that stock, at the price. And I’d advise everyone here to read Kurt Schlichter’s new book The Attack.
My only question is, why the detachable magazine with a 3 round capacity? I feel like they could shave some weight, if even a few ounces, and maintain an internal mag with a hinged floor plate. Seems like a bit of a waste.
So I have a gen 1 ruger in 270win and have never had a feeding issue. Before and after with old plastic stock and my boyds. I am looking forward for Gen 2 in 6mm ARC.
Rivers best bolt actions are the Hawkeyes hands down.. you just can’t beat that Mauser style action. Sure it’s around $500-600 more than the predator but you will not have any feeding issues. I’ve heard about the feeding “problems” with people using the predator but I believe that’s more user error and inexperience than the actual rifle.
They may one day lol, but you know Ruger always limits the calibers they release in the #LeftHand models. They probably won't release the Ranch model in Left Hand at all just like they didn't in the Gen 1's.
About the 'Trigger', we have to agree, if you don't have a quality trigger, the rifle fails, including pistols, but that's what keeps trigger manufactures in business. That said, better to spend a little more to get a more rounded rifle with an adjustable trigger. That's my two cents worth anyway. 🙂
I never watched a review on it. I haven’t even watched this one. What I can tell you, the original American shoots good but had some issues, Ruger listened to us. Soon as I pulled the bolt back on this Gen II I knew it was coming home with me. No zipper bolt, much better magazine, three position safety are enough to justify the extra $100 expense of this new Gen II rifle. The rest of the new features are the icing. Mine is a .308. Have not shot it yet but these Ruger American rifles have always shot great. I will probably post something about mine too.
If this was the first video I ever saw of this channel, I would have probably skipped after the giggle fest at the opening, and thought that this was too unserious. I came for the review on the Gen 2. But, having already seen a bunch of backfire videos, I appreciated the "Not another gun" skit, the review, and I'm in a better mood now. Thanks.
I have a remington model 710 in 30-06 with a 770 stock and it drives tacks with winchester xp3 180gr ammo. Not a big fan of the rifle but picked it up years ago from a guy that needed money, but man its accurate.
I started buying Ruger American after getting a “cheap” 22-250 so my wife wouldn’t notice the costs. Was supposed to just get a Pulsar thermal. Own 5 different calibers now with cans, 4 with Vortex glass. The 300BLK has the Pulsar. All my Gucci rifles w/ Swarovski glass stay in the safe so they don’t get scratched up. I use the gen 1 22-250 more than anything. Stock triggers on all. Great American rifles.
I have several 1st gen Ruger American rifles, the only one that doesn’t feed that smoothly is the 7.62x39 ranch rifle, my Predator .308 with a Ruger “AI mag” conversion feeds really smoothly. As far as aesthetics , stock design , you’re never gonna please everyone, even if you offered a half dozen options….
I have the 7.62x39 ranch rifle also. Rounds are really hard to push out of the magazines, particularly steel cased. They feed well, just a lot of friction from the magazine. Any ammo loaded by Barnaul is extremely accurate in the Ruger.
You “kids” are cute together! I can call you “kids” cuz I’m 63. One of my FAV gun channels in the whole wide world. I’m considering Ruger’s gen II in 308 Win Left Handed so a huge thx for the Vid!
@@gregdamitz9381 maybe they don’t. I settled on Bear Creek Arsenal BC-15 | 7.62x39 Right Side Charging Rifle | 18" Parkerized Heavy Barrel | 1:10 Twist | Mid-Length Gas System | 15" MLOK! I love this rifle!!!
I just purchased in a 350 legend. Needed a straight wall cartridge gun and this is what was in sock. I am very happy with the purchase. It seems like it has very little recoil and shoots really good.
I am tall (6'4") and I LOVE a monte carlo stock. My family loves their brownings but I struggle to shoot them in any other position other than bench or prone because the stocks are so sleek. I personally am a Weatherby fan because of the stocks fit me and are so well made.
I’m 6’3” and I fully agree with statement. The size of a shooter makes a huge difference in rifle choices. A lot of the ones that many folks recommend are entirely too small for me and the stocks often don’t have enough LOP which requires an aftermarket stock.
Would like your impression of the noise level of the safety? The first Gen is as you describe, but I'll add one more criticism of the first Gen of the American Predator version's safety being so loud it will cause issues when it is game time on a stand. Is this new 3 position safety as loud as the Gen 1? Happy New Year & Best Wishes for 2024!
Was getting ready to pull the trigger on the purchase of my first hunting rifle and had been leaning towards the CVA Cascade (over a Ruger American Predator or GoWild), then I saw the Gen 2 coming out and held off waiting to see some reviews, especially Backfires. So the ultimate, $1M question is...does it unseat the CVA Cascade as the best budget rifle?!?!
Not trying to confuse you but honestly if you can afford it go with a tikka if they have the caliber you are interested in. They are more expensive now but well worth the money. Stainless steel so you don’t have to worry about the weather as much.
yea, I have looked at those (and weatherby's) but I just can't justify the cost, especially with also needed to purchase a scope as well. Maybe the next one...appreciate the suggestion though.@@JSJTOUTDOORS
I’ve been a lefty for 47 years now , and the one thing I’ve learned over the years especially with firearms is that lefties are left out . Hopefully they come out with one soon.
I’m waiting for the same, my family and I don’t buy right handed rifles. So we’re waiting in hopes of a #Lefthand #RugerAmericanGen2 but until then, I’ll keep buying them from other companies that do.
For the accuracy that rifle delivers...the complaints cant be THAT bad. Its a hunting rifle...will a 3/4 flyer due to stock flex really matter on a huge Elk?
Three position safety’s are a must. I had a ND years ago while coyote hunting because of my own inattention, but it would have been prevented by a three position safety. I got to my position and went to put a round in the chamber of my bolt gun. I didn’t notice that a fold on the bottom of my glove had found its way into the trigger guard and as I closed the bolt, the fold of my glove pressed on the trigger and the gun fired. I should have been watching more carefully as I closed the bolt, but a three position safety that allowed me to manipulate the bolt while the gun was on safe would also have prevented the ND. Since then, all my bolt guns have a three position safety.
Yep I just took Ruger American to shoot at the range and after about 12 rounds it started to have trouble feeding. I took some Rem oil and put it on the bolt and any moving parts and It started to feed better.
Kick ass workhorse rifle. The flaw is that it used to be $360 and now it's $560. Calling a $600 rifle "cheap" is not working towards the interests of the public, but rather towards the interests of the companies.
Everything is more expensive and no matter what it will keep going that way. Besides even when it was 360 every other gun at that time was trash in that category So now everything it at least okay but it’s a couple hundreds bucks more.
I have the gen 1 in 7.62x39 added the RUK AK Magwell so I can use my ak mags with it. This rifle has been awesome haven’t had any feed issues with it. Definitely want to pick up a gen 2.
I have a Gen one in 7 mm 08. Fixed most of my problems with the Boyds stock. It’s just my opinion but the Ruger American still has the worst extractorr in the industry. Instead of offering parts replacements, I don’t know how it is now, but Ruger required you to send the rifle back to them to fix it. Fixed the bolt noise with Mothers.
They didn't make the 7mag in the gen 1 either. 7mag is likely going to be phased out by the PRC for a lot of companies unfortunately, but the PRC is a little better and it's not belted.
I still won’t waste my money on them. As a mechanical engineer with over a decade of experience manufacturing firearms for multiple different companies, the Ruger American is the cheapest to manufacture rifle I have ever seen and there is absolutely no reason why the Ruger should cost more than a savage axis or a Remington 783.
Mine feeds fine. The bolt handle ball falls off. Hopefully thread locker will fix that. My accuracy with three different bullet weights was never better than 2inches
To answer a few comments, I bought this gun with my own money. I don’t even know a single employee at Ruger. I've never even had contact with anyone at Ruger's marketing department.
But, a few words about how I do work with companies. I have the same deal with all gun companies. Sometimes I buy guns shown on the channel, other times they are sent to me. I appreciate it when companies send me guns because it helps me to be able to make content for you. If they send one, it means I'm going to show it on the channel, but I tell them clearly up front that it may or may not be positive. As you can see in literally every gun review I've ever done, I talk about the positives AND the negatives--just like in this video. Gun companies do not ever PAY me for reviews. All they can do is provide guns for me to evaluate.
I own 2 gen 1 ruger american rifles and they both shoot consistently 1 moa or less at 100 yards. And the new gen 2 in 450 bushmaster.
This is flawless for the money 🖖
Did your ruger come with a complementary case of Bud Light and 1 year membership to BLM, complements of Target??
Yes, Ruger is that woke... this isn't a joke, and I'm not just "busting your stones". I have the emails, from ruger, to prove it.
It would be interesting to compare the reliability a Gen 1 rotary magazine to the Gen 2’s AICS mag. Hopefully that is planned for a future video!
Hey jim will you ever review the Weatherby 307?
I got a Ruger American predator (gen 1), and the trigger is an easy fix, just dropped a $12 mcarbo trigger spring in it and it took the trigger pull down to 2 lbs, if the gen 2 has the same trigger it’s a 5-10 minute fix tops once you get the spring.
A set of side cutters and some emery cloth did wonders on mine, did spring work and you could literally feel the machine marks on it, polished that up and its amazing.
I used a spring from a ball point pen
I found a different spring in a bag of misc gun springs and made mine about 2.25 pounds
I got my custom spring from a pen for 2c.
Do they make a gen 2 predator? The difference is the threaded barrel right?
I’ve always loved that you and your wife run the whole show.
Nothing but respect and admiration for the two of you; y’all are amazing and have a beautiful family, my brother.
Thank you for the kind comment. We work really really hard to do our best for the audience.
@@backfire it shows! Cheers!
Sempre amo seus videos. Parabéns
We need a Ruger Gen 2 7 PRC vs CVA Cascade XT 7 PRC showdown. That's where Im at when it comes to a 7PRC budget rifle.
Agreed 100%
Good news Ruger American Gen II is coming Q1 2024! I’m excited to see it come out, I might have to grab one as well!
Bought the Ruger American Gen 2 in 308 which is my first long rifle after watching tons of comparison videos and this video really sold me on it. Couldn’t be happier with my choice. Thanks to @Backfire for these in depth reviews and giving us the good and bad. Subscribed!
I will add that the cerakote on the barrel could have been put on a little more thick. The rifle in 308 configuration comes with a factory muzzle break. When removing to add my suppressor I noticed the cerakote chipping a bit which was a little disappointing. BUT this is a sub $600 gun at least in my area so I can’t be too upset.
What scope did you end up using with 308. I just bought new gen 2 in 308 and need help deciding on what scope to buy. Thanks
I'm actually looking to get my first rifle for first time deer hunting this year. Been looking at this one for about a week now. Would you recommend this in a 308 for a first timer?
@@user-tt4cq6ju9nI bought edenberg 3x12x44 waiting on it to come in I’ll let ya know
What ammo are you using ?
Industry standard is 1/2-28 on 20 and 22 caliber rifles. 5/8-24 is standard on 243/6mm to 30 cal.
FYI, I spent 20 bucks for two part "Glaze Coat" bar top finish. I filled the hex's in my Hogue overmolded stock and it fixed what travel the stock had. Its now stiff a a board. Worth a try if that (or any other) polymer stock is giving you trouble. Great video as usual, Guys!
Where do you do this at?
@everettbrown2501 remove the one piece plastic stock/forend and you will see the "hex" compartments hes talking about. Fill em up with epoxy and you're all set
I did that on a savage axis. Great little trick.
Great review. I'm not surprised, as my Gen 1 Ruger American in 6.5 CM consistently shoots .30 MOA with the right factory ammunition. It will start to string out after 10 rounds, so not great for PRS-style competition but more than enough for any hunting application. I bought it for $300 back in the day and had to add a $50 cheek riser. The cheap plastic stock sucks, but there are plenty of aftermarket options available if you like. Great to see Ruger up their game with the Gen 2.
Bell and Carlson makes a stock that fits the Ruger American. I bought one for my son and it has a blind magazine and an aluminum trigger guard. So no feeding problems and the stock has an aluminum channel in the forearm. My son loves it. He picked the design texture of the stock. The All Weather stainless steel 22 inch barrel 7mm-08 is his favorite rifle.
I wish the gen 2 was 20-22” w/o the muzzle brake. Gen II 20” length includes the muzzle brake.
@@hse785 yeah it's unfortunate, I'm a crackhead for long barrel lengths. I wish they made a 24" barrel lol.
Bro didn’t even relize y’all were at 850k I remember when you guys when under 10 loved the videos back then still love them now
I have 2 Ruger Americans and had a 3rd for a while. Mine shoot great as well and I’ve never had any feeding issues!
My Ruger in 6.5 CM has a feeding problem. After a month the mag broke and the replacement is supposed to fit the 308 and the 6.5. The replacement just doesn't feed. Ruger will not sell a new mag like the original one.
Mine in .30-06 doesn't have an issue feeding either. A bolt lock would have been nice. Missed a deer once due to the bolt handle getting bumped when I went prone.
@@ndwhitlowhow is the recoil? Wonder if my 12 year old daughter could shoot it?
@@Magoo.Rivero I wouldn't suggest it for a 12 year old. If she is confident shooing at least 3in shells out of a 12ga then maybe it would work for her. You are probably more likely to scare her with it than have her like it.
@@ndwhitlow thank you for the response. She has shot her entire life and can shoot a 12g. I have never had her shoot my 30.06 but I was wondering how much the muzzle brake on this decreased the recoil.
Emily hollering "take it back", Jim laughing uncontrollably, while running away, Emily chasing...absolute GOLD! Thanks guys for the hardcore belly laugh, love it!
There’s a company called AD Arms Custom Rifles that you can send your bolt to. He cleans it up, flutes it and puts a micro slick on it. It gets completely rid of the zipper sounds and it’s really smooth, I’ve sent my ruger American bolt to him and my savage bolt, he does an amazing job.
Link to a website?
The "Zipper" sound pretty much goes away with merely oiling the bolt AND SHOOTING IT a few hundred rounds. My 2014 made .308 has the rotary mag, feeds perfectly and after oiling tge bolt and shooting it about 300 rounds it is smooth as glass.
How much do they charge for that work?
I founds the website, so about $120-$145 for that.
For some reason it’s not letting me put in a link but if you just google AD Arms Custom Rifles it pulls right up. Anyways it’s $90 for the fluting and microslick. If you want the upgraded pin back with the fluting and microslick it’s $145 this option is the one with the picture RPR bolt. The different designs of fluting have a drop down menu where you can select your type of bolt. The pictures don’t only correspond with that type of bolt. Whatever design you want it has a dropdown menu and you can find your type of bolt.
Had a gen 1 in 450 bushblaster, 200+ yrds easy peasey all day
Ammo got $$$, sold it ,now 350 legend, it’s a shooter too👍🏻 that one will shoot too! For sure
They won’t be able to make them fast enough
Happy New Year!
That 3 stage safety is a game changer for me. I’ve wished my older model rifle had that. So many times I’ve been beating around the mtns threw thick brush or what not and had my bolt open and garbage getting in it.
Agreed. That's why I ended up using a Model 70, the lockable bolt and 3 position safety is the cat's meow.
I just ordered a Ruger American 30-06 in the Go Wild Model. I have an American Ruger in 6mm Creedmoor and absolutely love it. I can't wait to get my Go Wild Camo with Cerakot and factory Muzzle Break. Love you video. Thanks for your information. 😊
barrel thread is definitely because of the caliber, larger calibers have the right threading, nice review
Yep. Checked the 6.5 Creedmoor spec sheet.
Thank you. Not sure why Jim was complaining that a .223 was 1/2x28...That's almost a given for over a decade now.
@@bluepunk182 Because he’s got to have at least 2-3 negative and nit picky things to say about anything. Like with the “it doesn’t have QD flush cups or an arca rail!” something most people buying this rifle as a casual shooter do not care about or would even use IMO.
Great video! I’ve had a Ruger American in 308 with the “go wild” stock and bronze cerakote, for a while and love it. I’ve never had feeding problems, ever, and no zipper sound. The only complaint I have had is the break blows the gasses back towards me too much. It was a lot more then the plain ones you reviewed previously, closer to the price of the one in this video, but I’m just a poor ol boy living in the woods.
Great review, accuracy+, magazine feeding+, top 2 things to address. 3 lug bolt +, 3 position safety+, way to change cheek height and length of pull+, threaded barrel+, pretty light weight+, safe and halfway decent trigger+, improved bolt operation+, reasonable price, What were the minuses???
Recoil pad and stock position in prone he said were bad, and trigger sub par
@@spamusapan was there any adjustment done to the trigger? He shot a above par group with a a sub par trigger? Some people like prone position. I am not too fond of laying in the dirt, mud, or snow. Or laying prone when you cannot see above the vegetation. Which turns out to be 100% of the time for me. Larger butt pads increase surface area which means fewer pounds per square inch of force. So I like oversized butt pad and prefer a rounded sporting clays type butt pad that does not get hung up in you clothing when trying to get a shot.
Just picked up a ruger gen 2 predator in 6.5 grendel. It has exceeded my expectations. Also i wanted to say that I've been watching you for awhile now. I love the show, content and valuable insight on top contending firearms. I personally value the unbiased information and wanted to say thanks and keep it up.
The bolt has been upgraded to stainless steel and altered to add a third locking of the bolt option with the safe option and bolt on safe option that can still cycle.
I've heard about changes to the extractor design as well
I emailed Ruger, the Gen2 does fit Gen1 stocks. So if you want to pop it in a nice chassis stock. Larger calibers are threaded 5/8-24. I want a new 6.5CM, but I’m torn now of 1 of these & put it in a Krg Bravo stock or a Bergara Wilderness Ridge…
Oooh. That's good to know.
Just put mine In an mdt field stock, shoots excellent
Skip the Bravo stock. It's nice and all but the mixture of PLASTIC and aluminum internal frame still allows for WAY TO MUCH flex and twisting torque. In the prone on Bipods the Bravo stock allows way to much twisting when you lay your head on the cheek-weld. So much so, that it will push your bubble out of level. The Plastic of the stock still has WAY TO MUCH flex even though it has an internal aluminum frame.
Bergara owner in KRG bravo. Phenomenal rifle. Mine is 6.5 Creed. I am intrigued by the Gen II Rugers. Think I may pick one up when they are more available and depending how I like them maybe a few more. Wasn’t a huge fan of the Gen 1 so we’ll see. Not sure how much money im willing to spend on a cheap rifle with chasis…triggers..etc.
@@Rico11bI’ve not shot in the prone much mine but regardless I have no idea what flex you are talking about. I experience literally zero flex and can’t possibly see how the chasis would flex. It’s extremely rigid and the aluminum backbone is built like a tank.
Just curious why you went with a 223. Wouldn't you want a bigger caliber to test how effective the new butt pad will be?
I'd also like to say I installed my Backstop on my bergara hmr pro 300prc while watching this video. Fit is excellent, can't wait to try it out
Sweet! You'll love it. REALLY appreciate your support of Backfire. Means a lot to me.
@@backfirewhat did you think of the eye relief of the Vector Optics Scope?
Nice to see budget rifles performing well. Your right 1k-2k guns will have their hands full.
Im still sticking with custom or tikka bergara. Amazing rifle no optic 1500 action 800 barrel 300 stock optic vortex razor lht
Today I walked into Bass Pro Shop looking for my first long rifle other than my AR15. I’m looking at the Savage 110 Tactical 6.5 CM, and I had my mind set on that because it is on sale for $699 and the great review you gave it.
Then the sales person showed me this Ruger American Gen II in 18in, 20in & 22in and I loved it!But now watching your video I’m still trying to make sure I purchase the right long rifle for my first one! I’m only going to shoot paper for now, or zombies if it comes to it! Lol
Now I need some time to think about this, thanks for the review and I love watching & sharing your videos!! 🙌🏻
If you haven’t bought anything yet, tikka & bergara are the best sub $800 rifles you can buy. Weatherby is 3rd
Life is too short to buy an ugly rifle. Go with the Ruger.
I think .223s in any model are going to feed better than the rest. It’s just smaller than anything else and the feeding problems start as the cartridge gets bigger (just my opinion).
You should talk to WTW, if you haven’t already. He picked up a 7mm-08 and had similar comments about the trigger, magazine and such. Though, in the middle of his initial run the feeding jammed.
Thanks for doing what you do. I’m always happy to see you guys review products that most of us (shooters/hunters) are interested in. You’re not only entertaining us, you’re providing a very appreciated service.
Happy New Year!
The best thing about the rugers are the barrels. Ruger hammer forged thier own barrels now. That's why they are so accurate.
Hammer forged are not the most accurate. Hammer forging produces more durable surface hardened barrels.
@@Mike-xi4zt consistency and quality control produce the most accurate barrels regardless of method. Ruger making barrels in-house gives them complete control of that.
@@jacktrout5807 yes I see your point but Hammer forged are not the very best consistency or accuracy. They can be very good for accuracy and are normally very long lasting and work hardened. They are beating and smashing the hell out of the steel. The operation is introducing chaos to the metal, and is difficult to control, the finished final product.
@@Mike-xi4zt sure but at the same time you could have a superior method but if quality and consistency are not achieved you don't have an accurate barrel.
The other thing is if we are talking about factory rifles of a certain price point the ruger is tough to beat as far as accuracy is concerned.
I hate the stocks, magazines and not super fond of the actions on the Americans but they shoot. I have one I paid 175 bucks for "used" It was really early in the 6mm creedmoor and I doubt it had been shot at all because ammo for it was basically unobtanium. But with my hand loads it's the most accurate rifle in my safe. And that's saying something because I have some rifles with carbon fiber ( proof research) and some pacmore barreled custom rifles.
@@jacktrout5807 I'm not saying Ruger Americans are junk. I don't own one but they look good there's a lot of things I like, especially on the generation 2. The very most absolute precision accurate barrels are not Hammer forged. I was getting ready to buy a Tikka but held off after I saw the generation 2 ruger Americans. I have remington, savage, sako, and a couple others. I have put custom barrels, stocks, parts, on most those to make them usable. It looks like from the factory the Ruger American 2 is completely superior to the Remington 700 and any Savage factory rifle.
Yeah, taking the flex out of the forend would've been really nice.
Maybe a modular grip like Tikka, also.
Looks interesting, but it's going to be tempting to swap it right into another stock or chassis.
I mean, kind of unrealistic to expect a premium stock/chassis at that price point though.
You might as well just buy a better gun at that point
@@dustinpomeroy8817that depends on what your after, there are many stock and chassis offerings only available in the aftermarket. You could argue buying a barreled action would be the way to go then but a Ruger American is still cheaper then most barreled action options.
I have the gen 1 that takes AR mags. Had zero feeding issues with any AR mags. Love it.
The Gen. 1 American ALSO did not have a BOLT LOCK! After losing 2 cartridges in 2 days on a Nevada deer hunt I sold my 6.5 Creedmoor American (with my Timing trigger) and got a Browning X-Bolt in 6.5 PRC. LOVE IT.
Howsomever... This RUGER has ALL the features I want. Put a nice BOYD'S laminated stock on it and a Timney trigger and WOW! a hot looking rifle that is INTERESTING. (Remember, the only interesting rifles are accurate rifles..)
I lost a couple 30-06 in the snow as well. Now running a Weatherby Vanguard II with a 3 position safety and .99 MOA guarantee. This Ruger American gen II might be the next one.
WhoTeeWho just did a review and accuracy test with the same RA2 in 7mm-08. Worth watching
And did have some problems with feeding 😕
Love these Rugers, great user guns!
One thing I would absolutely LOVE LOVE LOVE to see is a seekins precision reviewed here. USA made here in Idaho with a warranty second to none. I think theres a good chance Seekins rifles will end up being one of your favorites. (No affiliation BTW, just a fan)
When you talk about excessive trigger travel on the Ruger rifles, we (son & I) have noted the same on the Ruger pistols. Especially the semi-autos. This is the main reason I have never owned a Ruger. I do, however have a Ruger 10-22 that is probably close to 60 years old. I did re-barrel it with a threaded barrel for use of a silencer. Because it sat for many years before I got it the action was extremely dirty. Both barrels are very accurate and after some deep cleaning the rifle is very dependable once again.
My first Ruger American in 6.5 CM with the rotary magazine didn’t feed well either. I bought a single stack magazine intended for the 450 Bushmaster cartridge remedying the feeding issue.
I have a Gen 1 Ranch in 6.5 Grendel which feeds from an AR mag with no feeding issues.
that mag in the gen two is ugly i have a gen one and it is a nicer gun than the gen 2
Literally as I am watching this I got handed my Backfire butt-pad for my Tikka T3x lite 300 win mag. As I clicked on the video I wondered how long it would take to get. Totally funny how I got it while watching your video. Now as far as the Ruger. I picked up the Gen 1 ranch (556) and am pretty impressed. I didn't like how they had the mag release. I see that hasn't changed in the new one. Mine uses the AR mags and feeds fine though. So far so good its going to be my go to coyote rifle for a while.
I have the Predator model in the original but it has the AICS magazine which eliminates the feeding issues. In 6.5 Creedmore it’s a tack driver. Other than the flimsy stock I love it.
If you epoxy or fibreglass resin the stock it eliminates all movement.
Define tack driver, my definition is .3-.5 moa, yours could be 1moa or .1 moa.
I think sub moa is tack driver for general population.
@@merkel2750
@backfire can’t wait to see you review the Savage 110 Trail Hunter! Love your channel my friend. Keep up the great work
1/2-28 threads are the ideal thread for a .223 / 556 caliber rifle since it opens up your options of muzzle devices to the massive array of options available for the AR platform. I was honestly shocked that Ruger did not offer the Ranch version in .308 / 7.62 or even have it as one of the planned caliber offerings for the Ranch version. And the .308 & 6.5 Creedmoor in the Standard version uses AI-style mags instead of AR Style mags. That's very disappointing to me.
Been a big fan of Ruger for about 5 decades, rifles and pistols. I've got 2 Gen 1 Predator model's in 223 and 243 and I recently picked up 2 Gen 2's in 223 and 204. I strictly varmint hunt with mine and have yet to shoot any of them prone. I've put a lot of rounds through the Gen 1's and agree completely with it's faults. My only complaint with the Gen 2's is the muzzle brake, a very loud unnecessary piece of equipment. When I'm calling Predators I can't wear ear protection and that brake will ring your ears bad. Good thing is a buddy sent me a couple of bronze thread protectors and I replaced the brakes. Catch the show CARNIVORE and you'll see my old setup with the 243 and next season you'll see my new one with the 204. The Burnham Brothers crew come up and hunt on the ranch a few times a year, here in West Texas. Ruger should offer the brake as a accessory.
If any of the "Ruger salesmen" among the youtube channels wants to convince me that these rifles really are so accurate I have to know WHY they're so accurate and so cheap. What have they changed about the rifle making art? HOW are they making barrels so much better than they did even ten years ago? HOW are they chambering so much more precisely? There needs to be a Ruger factory tour, where we learn something about how they build them so well and so cheaply....
Laser machining allows much tighter tolerances, more exacting measurements. That's what I've been told.
Ancient Chinese secret.
Maybe the other companies are just marking up prices for better profits. I still prefer my tikkas though.
@@kennethgoin628 You mean they don't drill barrels with a drill anymore?
The barrels are now CHF, which helps.
My gen 1, 308 go wild first time out after sighting in, 7 holes touching at 100 yards.
First hunt dropped a Nilgai in his tracks.
Happy owner here.
You mentioned the long pull on the trigger. I have a 1st gen Ranch rifle in 7.62x39. There is no take up, very crisp break. Its trigger is excellent.
my 762x39 also has an amazing trugger and no zipper sound when cycling but my 6.5cm has alot of travel and creep. bolt does the zipper thing. not sure why they are so different 🤔
The feeding issues often mentioned are a problem with the rotary mags that were first supplied with the rifles.
The AR, AICS, and mimni 30 mag fed models have all been super reliable in my experience.
Please let me know if your experience differs.
Well, back to the ol gun store. Between my brother and I we have owned 5 different Ruger American. I think we have 1 left. Just got tired of the feeding issue. Not once did we have an accuracy issue, which was a good thing, cause that second cartridge wasn’t coming. Very excited about this new rifle. Thanks Jim for putting in the work.
The length of pull is adjustable. That’s why the slant is on the back of the stock.
First time watching and I'm usually a critical bastard. Fun to watch and hit all the points necessary info wise to help a guy make an informed decision. So that being said subscribed. Keep up good work
I’ve adopted your resourceful target stands 👌🏾
Really enjoy your channel. Keep up the awesome edits✌🏾
Do NOT worry about the stock. Boyd's can make a great replacement for a good price point. You should have stuck with the 6.5 CM since you've done SO MANY tests with that caliber to establish a baseline. I'm thinking the 6.5 CM won't group that well.
everyone i've seen shoot it is getting .7 and under.
yes take a budget rifle add stock, bi pod . recoil pad, mounts and scope and blue print and mega dollars
You say that the KRG Bravo isn’t a good stock and then turn around and call Boyds a “great replacement”?
@@lucass4758 I guess you can't read. I said the Bravo stock was very good. Also the Boyd's stock is stiffer and resists twisting torque better an a Bravo stock, even with an internal aluminum frame. ONLY because the Bravo is mostly plastic. Fail...
Americans shoot amazing even the old ones 1/2” out of most of the ones I’ve shot with at least one kind of factory ammo worst groups I’ve got were 1.5” which for the worst still isn’t that bad
I just want to say THANKS for the reviews. I read the comments and see soooo many whiners. I couldn't do it. Keep up the good work.
This doesn’t have to do with this video but I’d be interested if you’d do a review on a browning AB3 and X-bolt. I love all your videos and just how in depth you are when it comes to testing. You’re the only one I watch. Keep up the great videos and testing! Thanks!!
Not worried about the stock. When I get a 6.5 Grendel Ranch Rifle I’ll be dropping it into a Magpul stock, like I did with my RA .223 rifle. You can’t beat that stock, at the price.
And I’d advise everyone here to read Kurt Schlichter’s new book The Attack.
Jim. Could you borescope the barrel for us and let us see the rifling??? That would be a great addition to your reviews.
My only question is, why the detachable magazine with a 3 round capacity? I feel like they could shave some weight, if even a few ounces, and maintain an internal mag with a hinged floor plate. Seems like a bit of a waste.
So I have a gen 1 ruger in 270win and have never had a feeding issue. Before and after with old plastic stock and my boyds. I am looking forward for Gen 2 in 6mm ARC.
Rivers best bolt actions are the Hawkeyes hands down.. you just can’t beat that Mauser style action. Sure it’s around $500-600 more than the predator but you will not have any feeding issues. I’ve heard about the feeding “problems” with people using the predator but I believe that’s more user error and inexperience than the actual rifle.
If you don’t handle the bolt with e high force it won’t feed but otherwise it will
I just picked up my ruger American G2 in 7mm08. Love it. As to you question in the video. The larger calibers do come thread in the 5/8 vs the 1/2
I hope they come out with some gen 2 options that come with a left handed option like the gen 1 did
They may one day lol, but you know Ruger always limits the calibers they release in the #LeftHand models. They probably won't release the Ranch model in Left Hand at all just like they didn't in the Gen 1's.
About the 'Trigger', we have to agree, if you don't have a quality trigger, the rifle fails, including pistols, but that's what keeps trigger manufactures in business. That said, better to spend a little more to get a more rounded rifle with an adjustable trigger.
That's my two cents worth anyway. 🙂
I love the vibe of these videos.
Yes looking at Ruger website other larger calibers are threaded 5/8"-24, so its definetly barrel specific.
Never clicked so fast😂 wanted to hear your opinion on it
I never watched a review on it. I haven’t even watched this one. What I can tell you, the original American shoots good but had some issues, Ruger listened to us. Soon as I pulled the bolt back on this Gen II I knew it was coming home with me.
No zipper bolt, much better magazine, three position safety are enough to justify the extra $100 expense of this new Gen II rifle. The rest of the new features are the icing. Mine is a .308.
Have not shot it yet but these Ruger American rifles have always shot great. I will probably post something about mine too.
You always mention feeding reliability with the gen 1 and I've never had any issues with mine in 30-06.
If this was the first video I ever saw of this channel, I would have probably skipped after the giggle fest at the opening, and thought that this was too unserious. I came for the review on the Gen 2. But, having already seen a bunch of backfire videos, I appreciated the "Not another gun" skit, the review, and I'm in a better mood now. Thanks.
Ive had the ranch gen 2 in 556 for a couple weeks now these are truly great rifles
I have a remington model 710 in 30-06 with a 770 stock and it drives tacks with winchester xp3 180gr ammo. Not a big fan of the rifle but picked it up years ago from a guy that needed money, but man its accurate.
Very well done and a helpful review. Thanks for making and posting this video.
I started buying Ruger American after getting a “cheap” 22-250 so my wife wouldn’t notice the costs. Was supposed to just get a Pulsar thermal. Own 5 different calibers now with cans, 4 with Vortex glass. The 300BLK has the Pulsar. All my Gucci rifles w/ Swarovski glass stay in the safe so they don’t get scratched up. I use the gen 1 22-250 more than anything. Stock triggers on all. Great American rifles.
I have several 1st gen Ruger American rifles, the only one that doesn’t feed that smoothly is the 7.62x39 ranch rifle, my Predator .308 with a Ruger “AI mag” conversion feeds really smoothly. As far as aesthetics , stock design , you’re never gonna please everyone, even if you offered a half dozen options….
I have the 7.62x39 ranch rifle also. Rounds are really hard to push out of the magazines, particularly steel cased. They feed well, just a lot of friction from the magazine. Any ammo loaded by Barnaul is extremely accurate in the Ruger.
That's my experience, never tried a polymer mag, gonna give promag a try, i'm hoping it will feed better@@davidfrye7713
As a lefty, it would be really nice to know whether a particular model was available in a LH configuration.
You “kids” are cute together! I can call you “kids” cuz I’m 63. One of my FAV gun channels in the whole wide world. I’m considering Ruger’s gen II in 308 Win Left Handed so a huge thx for the Vid!
I can't find where they offer left handed
@@gregdamitz9381 maybe they don’t. I settled on Bear Creek Arsenal BC-15 | 7.62x39 Right Side Charging Rifle | 18" Parkerized Heavy Barrel | 1:10 Twist | Mid-Length Gas System | 15" MLOK! I love this rifle!!!
I just purchased in a 350 legend. Needed a straight wall cartridge gun and this is what was in sock. I am very happy with the purchase. It seems like it has very little recoil and shoots really good.
Sure hope they come out with a left handed version! I like this rifle
To be happy is to be able to become aware of oneself without fright.
I am tall (6'4") and I LOVE a monte carlo stock. My family loves their brownings but I struggle to shoot them in any other position other than bench or prone because the stocks are so sleek. I personally am a Weatherby fan because of the stocks fit me and are so well made.
I’m 6’3” and I fully agree with statement. The size of a shooter makes a huge difference in rifle choices. A lot of the ones that many folks recommend are entirely too small for me and the stocks often don’t have enough LOP which requires an aftermarket stock.
Would like your impression of the noise level of the safety? The first Gen is as you describe, but I'll add one more criticism of the first Gen of the American Predator version's safety being so loud it will cause issues when it is game time on a stand. Is this new 3 position safety as loud as the Gen 1?
Happy New Year & Best Wishes for 2024!
Instantly buying the 6 ARC as soon as it hits shelves
I will definitely be adding this to my ruger collection when it comes out in 308. Thx
Was getting ready to pull the trigger on the purchase of my first hunting rifle and had been leaning towards the CVA Cascade (over a Ruger American Predator or GoWild), then I saw the Gen 2 coming out and held off waiting to see some reviews, especially Backfires.
So the ultimate, $1M question is...does it unseat the CVA Cascade as the best budget rifle?!?!
I think it does
CVA is the choice.
Not trying to confuse you but honestly if you can afford it go with a tikka if they have the caliber you are interested in. They are more expensive now but well worth the money. Stainless steel so you don’t have to worry about the weather as much.
@@JSJTOUTDOORS Tikkas are nice, but are a level up. A stainless Tikka will be close to $800 store price, so about $200 more than the Ruger or CVA.
yea, I have looked at those (and weatherby's) but I just can't justify the cost, especially with also needed to purchase a scope as well. Maybe the next one...appreciate the suggestion though.@@JSJTOUTDOORS
It’s not that budget guns can’t shoot, they all can… but the more expensive guns generally come more refined and with better features.
I can't find a CVA Cascade XT or the Ruger American Gen 2 in left handed. Am i missing something?
I’ve been a lefty for 47 years now , and the one thing I’ve learned over the years especially with firearms is that lefties are left out . Hopefully they come out with one soon.
I’m waiting for the same, my family and I don’t buy right handed rifles. So we’re waiting in hopes of a #Lefthand #RugerAmericanGen2 but until then, I’ll keep buying them from other companies that do.
If Ruger comes out with a left handed version I’ll be all over it! Thanks for the video!
You still need to test out the cz alpha.
For the accuracy that rifle delivers...the complaints cant be THAT bad.
Its a hunting rifle...will a 3/4 flyer due to stock flex really matter on a huge Elk?
Great review. Well done. Thank you.
Of course it is threaded like that, just like pretty much every other .224 and pretty much any suppressor or other attachement for .224.
Ruger is going hard into marketing this thing.
Surprises me that after talking about Ruger so many times on this channel, I've NEVER ONCE heard a word from anyone at Ruger.
What model is the vector scope?
@@williamkantzler1619 Probably the Veyron
Three position safety’s are a must. I had a ND years ago while coyote hunting because of my own inattention, but it would have been prevented by a three position safety. I got to my position and went to put a round in the chamber of my bolt gun. I didn’t notice that a fold on the bottom of my glove had found its way into the trigger guard and as I closed the bolt, the fold of my glove pressed on the trigger and the gun fired. I should have been watching more carefully as I closed the bolt, but a three position safety that allowed me to manipulate the bolt while the gun was on safe would also have prevented the ND. Since then, all my bolt guns have a three position safety.
No 300 black out on the cartridge list?
I noticed the same thing. I have a Gen 1 300 BLK and think it's pretty slick. Surprised they didn't continue it
@@JamesMoore-q1u right wtf? Lol
That's only in the ranch size (who wants a 20" 300blk?😉)
@@k3vlar82 we want a 10.5 charger type rifle with the ruger american action if that makes sense
@ChrisEdling with you on that, a ruger American sbr would be awesome
Yep I just took Ruger American to shoot at the range and after about 12 rounds it started to have trouble feeding. I took some Rem oil and put it on the bolt and any moving parts and It started to feed better.
Kick ass workhorse rifle. The flaw is that it used to be $360 and now it's $560. Calling a $600 rifle "cheap" is not working towards the interests of the public, but rather towards the interests of the companies.
Everything is more expensive and no matter what it will keep going that way. Besides even when it was 360 every other gun at that time was trash in that category So now everything it at least okay but it’s a couple hundreds bucks more.
@@CCH-R You 're right.
I have the gen 1 in 7.62x39 added the RUK AK Magwell so I can use my ak mags with it. This rifle has been awesome haven’t had any feed issues with it. Definitely want to pick up a gen 2.
Ah man 556 bolt action 😢😢😢
308 should be standard or Atleast full powered rounds
I have a Gen one in 7 mm 08. Fixed most of my problems with the Boyds stock. It’s just my opinion but the Ruger American still has the worst extractorr in the industry. Instead of offering parts replacements, I don’t know how it is now, but Ruger required you to send the rifle back to them to fix it. Fixed the bolt noise with Mothers.
NO 7 MAG? I’m PO’d!👹👹
They didn't make the 7mag in the gen 1 either. 7mag is likely going to be phased out by the PRC for a lot of companies unfortunately, but the PRC is a little better and it's not belted.
I still won’t waste my money on them. As a mechanical engineer with over a decade of experience manufacturing firearms for multiple different companies, the Ruger American is the cheapest to manufacture rifle I have ever seen and there is absolutely no reason why the Ruger should cost more than a savage axis or a Remington 783.
Want to trade wive's? Mine is 367 lbs, a great cook, and dosent like guns. Let me know if interested. Thanks.
I wish I was younger. This sounds like a job and an adventure.
👍👍💥💥💥
Mine feeds fine. The bolt handle ball falls off. Hopefully thread locker will fix that. My accuracy with three different bullet weights was never better than 2inches