The Ruger Predator is one of the Ruger rifles of the Ruger American series and in my opinion one of the best “Bangs for the Bucks” available to the hunter today. I have one in 243 Winchester caliber and it has everything most hunters want in a hunting rifle for varmints to medium-sized game. The Predator has a little heavier barrel than the standard rifle and sports a threaded barrel for a suppressor.
I added a Leupold VX-R Patrol 4x12x40 Firedot-G scope with green firedot and TMR Tactical Milling Reticle to the Ruger American Predator 243. The combination is hard to beat for everything from varmints to whitetails. I zeroed with 95-grain ammo at 200 yds and it is deadly accurate with handloaded Nosler Ballistic Tips or Federal Fusion factory ammo, both shooting groups under an inch at 100 yds. The Leupold Patrol has CDS type dials marked in Mils. Zeroed at 200 yards you just come up 7 clicks (.7 mils) for 300 yards or 15 clicks (1.5 mils) for 400 yards. The dials are marked in .1 mil clicks with and numbered every .5 mils for easy adjustments. The green firedot is great for day or night hunting. The reticle is also marked in .5 mil hash marks.More info about the Leupold VX-R Patrol 4x12x40 Firedot-G scope here.
Leupold VX-R Patrol 4x12x40 Firedot-G Scope
If you are wondering how well the 243 handles larger game, one 95 gn Nosler Ballistic Tip behind the shoulder of a 300 lb boar put him down in 15 yards. Just about DRT. I have yet to try what I think will be the perfect whitetail ammo, Federal Fusion with 95 gn bullet. It has a fused or bonded bullet that is made specifically for deer for the 243. No blowups at close range and full penetration for good blood trails. That is what I am looking for and hope it delivers as promised. It shoots one hole, 100-yard groups from the Predator so it is extremely accurate in my rifle.
Even though the Fusion ammo is very accurate, the velocity is not as advertised. It clocked 2775 over the Oehler P35, about 200 fps slower than the advertised 2980 fps.
After testing the Fusion velocity, I decided to stay with my favorite handload for the 243 Winchester, a Nosler 95gn Ballistic Tip clocked at 2950 fps. On the last day of season I took a really nice doe at 200 yards with the Ruger Predator. It was just before dark and the green firedot in the Leupold really stood out in the low light making the shot easy from my favorite stand on Hill 99. No trailing necessary as the doe piled up at the edge of the food plot.
Now it is varmint season, and the Ruger Predator and I will soon be off again for coyotes and wild hogs.
Ruger describes the rifle as;
Ergonomic, lightweight synthetic stock with modern forend contouring and grip serrations.
Ruger Marksman Adjustable™ trigger user adjustable between 3 and 5 pounds.
The one-piece, three-lug bolt with 70° throw dual cocking cams for smooth, easy cycling from the shoulder.
Patent-pending Power Bedding®, integral bedding block system
Offers minute-of-angle accuracy
Heavier tapered, threaded barrel is cold hammer-forged, resulting in ultra-precise rifling that provides exceptional accuracy, longevity and easy cleaning.
Features a visible, accessible and easy-to-actuate tang safety that provides instant security.
Soft rubber butt pad is crafted for maximum recoil reduction.
Factory-Installed One-Piece Aluminum Scope Rail
Also includes – magazine; sling swivel studs.
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In the realm of precision shooting and hunting, the Ruger Predator Rifle has emerged as a formidable contender. Combining accuracy, versatility, and affordability, this rifle has garnered a reputation as a reliable companion for avid shooters and hunters alike. Whether you’re an experienced marksman or a beginner looking to explore the world of long-range shooting, the Ruger Predator Rifle offers an impressive array of features that make it a compelling choice. In this blog post, we will delve into the key characteristics that set this rifle apart and discuss why it has become a favorite among enthusiasts.
- Accuracy at Its Core:
At the heart of the Ruger Predator Rifle lies its exceptional accuracy. Chambered in popular calibers like .223 Remington, .308 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, and more, it provides a wide range of options for various shooting applications. Ruger’s meticulous attention to detail ensures that each rifle is built with a precision barrel, delivering consistent shot placement and minimal bullet dispersion. The free-floating barrel design reduces unwanted interference and enables enhanced accuracy, making it an ideal choice for precision shooting and hunting scenarios.
- Ergonomics and Versatility:
The Ruger Predator Rifle boasts an ergonomic design that prioritizes user comfort and adaptability. The rifle features a modular stock system, allowing shooters to adjust the length of pull and comb height for a personalized fit. This feature is especially valuable when considering different shooting positions or when accommodating shooters of various sizes. Additionally, the rifle’s lightweight construction and balanced design make it easy to handle, reducing fatigue during extended shooting sessions or when navigating rugged terrains.
- Enhanced Performance Features:
a. Adjustable Trigger: The Ruger Predator Rifle incorporates an adjustable trigger mechanism, allowing shooters to customize the trigger pull to suit their preferences. A crisp and clean trigger break enhances shooting accuracy and overall shooting experience.
b. Detachable Box Magazine: The rifle comes equipped with a detachable box magazine, enabling swift and hassle-free reloading. This feature proves advantageous during high-stakes situations, competitions, or when engaging multiple targets in quick succession.
c. Threaded Barrel: Many models of the Ruger Predator Rifle are equipped with a threaded barrel, allowing shooters to attach muzzle devices such as suppressors or compensators. This feature reduces recoil, muzzle rise, and noise, enhancing shooting comfort and control.
- Value for Money:
One of the standout features of the Ruger Predator Rifle is its affordability without compromising quality. Ruger is known for producing firearms that offer excellent performance at a reasonable price point, and the Predator Rifle is no exception. For shooters seeking a reliable and accurate rifle without breaking the bank, the Ruger Predator is a highly attractive option.
Conclusion:
The Ruger Predator Rifle has established itself as a remarkable firearm, delivering outstanding accuracy, versatility, and value for money. Whether you’re a hunter looking for precise shot placement or a shooter eager to explore the art of long-range marksmanship, this rifle offers a compelling package. Ruger’s commitment to quality craftsmanship and attention to detail ensures that the Predator Rifle meets the needs of discerning shooters. With its ergonomic design, adjustable features, and exceptional performance, the Ruger Predator Rifle is a reliable and capable companion for anyone seeking to unleash precision and power in their shooting endeavors.
