Understanding the Ruger American Rifle
Features and Specifications
The Ruger American rifle series has quickly become a mainstay in the hunting community, and for good reason. Ruger built this platform on the core tenets of accuracy, affordability, and reliability. The 7mm Remington Magnum cartridge, on the other hand, is a storied round, celebrated for its versatility, flat trajectory, and impressive power. Combining these two elements results in a hunting rifle that is both accessible and capable of taking down a wide range of game animals at considerable distances. This review aims to give you a complete picture of what the **Ruger American 7mm Rem Mag** offers.
Action and Construction
At its heart, the Ruger American is a bolt-action rifle, a design known for its simplicity, durability, and accuracy potential. The rifle is built around a robust, one-piece receiver that provides a solid foundation for accuracy. Typically, the barrel is cold hammer-forged, a process that contributes to a high degree of precision and consistent performance shot after shot. This process also gives the rifle a longer barrel life and enhanced durability. The **Ruger American 7mm Rem Mag** specifically features a barrel designed to handle the high pressures generated by this magnum cartridge.
The Trigger and Magazine
One of the standout features of the Ruger American is the Ruger Marksman Adjustable Trigger. This trigger is a significant improvement over many factory triggers found on rifles in this price range. It is user-adjustable, allowing shooters to fine-tune the pull weight to their preference. This level of customization is a great benefit for maximizing accuracy, allowing for cleaner and more consistent shot placement.
The magazine system is another well-considered aspect of the Ruger American. Usually, it utilizes a rotary-style magazine that feeds rounds smoothly and reliably. The capacity of the magazine depends on the specific model, but generally provides a sufficient number of rounds for hunting situations. This feature makes for easy reloading and consistent feeding, two essential elements of a well-functioning hunting rifle.
Ergonomics and Design
From an ergonomic perspective, the Ruger American is designed with the shooter in mind. The stock is often constructed from a synthetic material, making it weather-resistant and durable. The design is generally straightforward and easy to handle, with a comfortable pistol grip and a textured forend for a secure hold. This combination contributes to a comfortable shooting experience, even when wearing gloves or in adverse weather conditions.
The 7mm Remington Magnum: A Powerful Cartridge
History and Development
To understand the power of the **Ruger American 7mm Rem Mag**, it is essential to explore the 7mm Remington Magnum cartridge itself. Developed in the early 1960s by Remington, the 7mm Rem Mag quickly gained popularity as a versatile hunting round. It offers a superb balance of velocity, trajectory, and energy on target, making it effective for a wide range of game animals at various distances.
Ballistics and Performance
The 7mm Rem Mag is based on the larger .375 H&H Magnum case, necked down to accept a 7mm (.284 inch) bullet. This design allows for a high propellant capacity, which, in turn, translates to impressive muzzle velocities. The cartridge’s popularity is due to its flat trajectory. It makes for accurate long-range shots because bullets reach their target with minimal drop. This reduced bullet drop is a huge benefit for hunters, and it increases the likelihood of a clean, ethical kill.
The cartridge’s ballistic performance is impressive. Muzzle velocities can range from 3,000 feet per second (FPS) to over 3,200 FPS, depending on the bullet weight and powder charge. With this level of velocity, the **Ruger American 7mm Rem Mag** can reach out and touch targets at extended ranges. The energy on target is also substantial, providing ample stopping power for medium to large game animals. It provides a high level of energy on target to drop the target animal.
Advantages of the 7mm Rem Mag
A significant advantage of the 7mm Rem Mag is its versatility. It is suitable for hunting a wide array of animals, from deer and antelope to elk, black bear, and even some of the larger North American game species. The cartridge’s inherent accuracy and flat trajectory make it a good choice for long-range shooting. It enables hunters to make accurate shots at distances where other cartridges might struggle.
A Deep Dive into the Ruger American 7mm Rem Mag
Accuracy and Performance
When you pair the Ruger American platform with the 7mm Rem Mag cartridge, the results are impressive. The rifle’s inherent accuracy potential, combined with the flat-shooting characteristics of the 7mm Rem Mag, creates a highly effective hunting package.
The accuracy of the **Ruger American 7mm Rem Mag** is, in general, quite good. Many owners report achieving sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) groups with proper ammunition and a skilled shooter. This level of accuracy is more than sufficient for most hunting situations and provides the confidence to make ethical shots at longer distances. However, accuracy, of course, depends on the shooter, the scope, the ammunition, and environmental conditions, such as wind.
Recoil Considerations
Recoil, it must be mentioned, is something to be aware of. The 7mm Rem Mag is a powerful cartridge, and the Ruger American is a relatively lightweight rifle. This combination leads to a noticeable amount of recoil. While not necessarily punishing, it’s something that potential buyers need to consider, especially those new to magnum cartridges. Proper technique, including a good stance and shoulder placement, can help manage recoil effectively.
Field Performance
In the field, the **Ruger American 7mm Rem Mag** shines. Its flat trajectory and high energy transfer make it a formidable hunting tool. It’s well-suited for hunting medium to large game at moderate to long ranges. The power of the 7mm Rem Mag allows for humane kills. The rifle’s reliability and ease of use make it a practical choice for various hunting scenarios.
Practical Applications for the Ruger American 7mm Rem Mag
The **Ruger American 7mm Rem Mag** is a solid choice for many hunting applications. It’s particularly well-suited for open country hunting where shots can be longer. Its flat trajectory and energy on target make it an excellent choice for hunting animals like elk, mule deer, and pronghorn.
Beyond Hunting
Beyond hunting, the rifle is also useful for long-range target shooting. The cartridge’s inherent accuracy and flat trajectory enable shooters to reach targets at considerable distances. While not specifically designed for target shooting, the accuracy potential of the Ruger American, coupled with the 7mm Rem Mag’s ballistic performance, makes it a capable performer in this context.
Weighing the Pros and Cons
Advantages
As with any hunting rifle, the **Ruger American 7mm Rem Mag** has its strengths and weaknesses. Weighing these aspects can help you determine if it is the right choice.
- The rifle’s accuracy potential.
- The power and range of the 7mm Rem Mag cartridge.
- The affordability of the rifle itself.
- The rifle’s dependability and reliability.
Disadvantages
- Recoil, which, as mentioned, can be significant.
- Barrel wear, which is a common characteristic of magnum cartridges, though this is not excessive.
- Ammunition cost.
- Ammunition availability can be an issue in certain areas.
Who Should Consider the Ruger American 7mm Rem Mag?
The **Ruger American 7mm Rem Mag** is a great choice for several types of shooters and hunters. It is a great option for experienced hunters who want a powerful, accurate, and affordable rifle for taking down a range of game at various distances. It is also an excellent choice for long-range shooting enthusiasts who appreciate the ballistic performance of the 7mm Rem Mag.
Things to Consider Before Purchasing
Before investing in a **Ruger American 7mm Rem Mag**, there are several factors to consider:
- Your intended use. What do you plan to hunt? And at what distances?
- Your experience level with magnum cartridges and recoil.
- Your budget. The rifle itself is relatively affordable, but factor in the cost of optics, ammunition, and other accessories.
- Potential alternatives. Compare it to other rifles and cartridges that meet your needs.
Optics and Accessories
Optics are a critical consideration when purchasing a rifle like the **Ruger American 7mm Rem Mag**. A high-quality scope is essential for maximizing the rifle’s accuracy and range. Look for a scope with sufficient magnification for your intended hunting distances. The choice of scope will depend on your budget and preferences, but consider scopes with good low-light performance and durable construction.
The Final Word
The **Ruger American 7mm Rem Mag** presents a compelling package for hunters and shooters seeking a powerful, accurate, and affordable rifle. The combination of the Ruger American’s reliability and accuracy, coupled with the 7mm Rem Mag’s impressive ballistics, makes for a versatile hunting platform. It is a solid choice for various hunting scenarios and can be a great tool in the hands of an experienced shooter.
Ultimately, the **Ruger American 7mm Rem Mag** delivers on its promises. It is a well-designed, accurate, and reliable rifle. While it may not be the perfect choice for every hunter, it provides excellent value and performance for those who appreciate the power and versatility of the 7mm Rem Mag cartridge. It is, without question, a worthy addition to any hunter’s arsenal.
If you are searching for a powerful, accurate, and affordable hunting rifle, the **Ruger American 7mm Rem Mag** should be at the top of your list. We recommend visiting your local gun store to handle the rifle and talk to experienced gun owners to learn more about this versatile rifle and cartridge combination. Researching different ammunition options and scope choices will make your experience more enjoyable.
