The Ruger American in .308 Winchester is a popular choice for hunters and shooters alike, praised for its affordability and reliability. But how accurate is it really? This isn't a simple yes or no answer. The Ruger American's accuracy is heavily influenced by several factors, and understanding these is key to unlocking its full potential. Let's delve into the details.
Factors Affecting Ruger American 308 Accuracy
Several variables contribute to the overall accuracy of any rifle, and the Ruger American is no exception. These include:
1. The Rifle Itself: Manufacturing Tolerances and Individual Variation
Even within the same model, individual rifles will exhibit slight variations in manufacturing tolerances. This means one Ruger American might shoot slightly better than another, even with the same ammunition. There's inherent variability in any mass-produced firearm.
2. Ammunition: The Heart of the Matter
Ammunition selection is paramount. Different manufacturers produce .308 Winchester rounds with varying degrees of precision and consistency. Premium match-grade ammunition will generally yield superior accuracy compared to cheaper, mass-produced rounds. Experimentation is key to finding the best ammunition for your specific rifle. Note that even within a brand, different lot numbers can exhibit variations in performance.
3. Barrel Break-in: A Necessary Process
A new Ruger American .308 barrel needs a break-in period. This involves firing a specific number of rounds (usually around 50-100) following a specific cleaning regimen (often just a good cleaning after the first 20 rounds). This process helps seat the bullet properly and improves accuracy. Ignoring the break-in period can lead to inconsistent results.
4. Scope Mounting and Zeroing: Precise Alignment is Crucial
An improperly mounted scope or an inaccurate zero will significantly impact accuracy. Ensure your scope is securely mounted using quality rings and bases, and take the time for careful zeroing at your preferred distance. Consider professional assistance for optimal results.
5. Shooter Technique: Consistency is Key
Even the finest rifle will produce poor results in the hands of an unskilled shooter. Proper shooting technique, including consistent grip, stance, and trigger control, is vital for achieving accuracy. Practice makes perfect.
6. Environmental Factors: Wind, Temperature, and Humidity
External conditions can significantly influence shot placement. Wind is the most prominent factor, affecting bullet trajectory. Temperature and humidity can also play a role, though often to a lesser extent. Understanding and accounting for these factors is crucial for long-range shooting.
Achieving Optimal Accuracy with Your Ruger American 308
Several steps can be taken to enhance the accuracy of your Ruger American .308:
1. Experiment with Ammunition: Find Your Rifle's Sweet Spot
Test various brands and types of ammunition to identify the loads that yield the best groups in your rifle. Keep meticulous records of your results.
2. Proper Cleaning and Maintenance: Keeping it Pristine
Regular cleaning and maintenance are vital. A dirty barrel will affect accuracy and potentially damage the rifle.
3. Consider Upgrades: Enhancing Performance
While the Ruger American is a capable rifle out of the box, some shooters choose to upgrade components, such as the trigger or stock, to further improve accuracy. These upgrades can be costly but may significantly impact performance.
Conclusion: Real-World Expectations
While the Ruger American .308 isn't known for sub-MOA accuracy out-of-the-box for every rifle, many shooters report 1-1.5 MOA accuracy with proper ammunition and technique. With careful attention to the factors discussed above, you can significantly enhance the accuracy of your Ruger American .308 and enjoy a reliable and precise shooting experience. Remember that consistency and proper technique are just as important as the rifle itself.
