Whether you’re just getting into firearms or you’re needing (or wanting) to expand your collection, a bolt-action rifle is a popular choice among hunters and target shooters. With that being the case, there are a huge number of different models to pick from just in the bolt-action rifle category, and that’s before you start looking into different options to decide between that are available on each model.
But if you’re starting out or on a budget, you may not want to go the way of the expensive custom rifle with all of the bells and whistles. Especially if you can get one that has nice features at a budget-friendly price.
And that’s what one manufacturer seems to have tried to do with their second generation of a bolt-action model that they offer. Rob Garrett writes,
In 2011, Ruger introduced the American bolt action rifle that was designed to be a budget-minded hunting gun. It features a great synthetic stock, Ruger’s excellent Marksman adjustable trigger, and a cold hammer-forged barrel. It is a durable hard-use rifle that became an immediate success. It was fitting that Ruger used a rotary-style magazine for the American.
When it was introduced, the MSRP was under $550 making it a great trial, truck, and hunting rifle. If I remember correctly, the American was initially offered in .308 Winchester, .243, and .300 Blackout. As the rifle’s popularity grew, other calibers were added, increasing the versatility.
In late 2023, Ruger announced the launch of the American II. The American II offered great new upgrades while only increasing the MSRP $130.00 over the original model. When I saw the new model, I reached out to Ruger. I requested a Ranch model, chambered in .300 BKL with the flat dark earth Splatter stock.
The new rifle features an improved synthetic stock with a radiused rubber recoil pad and spacers that adjust the length of pull from 13.75” to 12”. The Splatter finish provides a texture that allows for a positive purchase in all conditions, without being overly aggressive. A raised comb provides improved alignment with the shooter’s preferred optic. The stock’s forend features grip reliefs in a tapered channel on each side. Ruger’s patented Power Bedding system consists of an integral bedding block that anchors the receiver and free-floats the barrel. Swivel studs are included for use with a bipod or a sling.
Garrett summarizes:
So, what would I set up my American II for? For general hunting, where sound is not an issue, I would choose the Lehigh 125-grain Controlled Chaos. For inside 200 yards, this is an ideal round for most game found in the southeast. If I were doing a hog eradication, or hunting other predators, where sound might be an issue, and most shots were inside 75 yards, the Lehigh 198 grain CF is ideal. Such a wide variety of loads makes the .300 BLK so versatile.
All-in-all, it sounds like Garrett is pretty satisfied with the American II, especially at its price point.
You can see the rifle in more detail in the video below.
And if you don’t already have a hunting rifle and experience hunting, this may be a great time to get this rifle (or something similar) so that you can ideally be able to feed your family in what appears to be continuing inflation making the grocery store expensive.
Or you can simply get one of these to have some enjoyable target shooting at your local range.
Either way, if you’re in the market for a bolt-action rifle that doesn’t break the bank, the Ruger American II may be one to consider.
