The Ruger American Predator in .308 Winchester is a popular choice for hunters and long-range shooters alike, prized for its accuracy and affordability. But the rifle's performance is only as good as its magazine. Understanding the nuances of Ruger American Predator 308 magazines is crucial for ensuring reliable feeding and maximizing your shooting experience. This comprehensive guide explores everything you need to know about these magazines, covering capacity, compatibility, aftermarket options, and troubleshooting common issues.
Ruger American Predator 308 Magazine Capacity
The standard Ruger American Predator .308 magazine holds 4 rounds. While this might seem limiting compared to some hunting rifles, it's important to consider the context. Many hunters and precision shooters value accuracy and controlled shot placement over sheer magazine capacity. Moreover, the compact design of the 4-round magazine aids in maintaining a manageable rifle profile, particularly important when navigating dense terrain.
However, Ruger also offers extended magazines. While not officially labeled as "extended" by Ruger themselves, aftermarket options significantly increase capacity. These aftermarket magazines are readily available and offer variations beyond the standard 4-round capacity, often holding upwards of 10 rounds. Remember to always check compatibility before purchasing.
Ruger American Predator 308 Magazine Compatibility
It's crucial to use only magazines designed specifically for the Ruger American Predator in .308 Winchester. Using an incompatible magazine can lead to malfunctions, including feeding problems, jams, and even potential damage to the rifle. While some aftermarket magazines claim compatibility, always verify this information with the manufacturer before purchasing and test thoroughly at the range.
Compatibility issues can stem from:
- Magazine body dimensions: Slight variations in the magazine's dimensions can prevent proper seating in the rifle's magazine well.
- Follower design: The follower is the part of the magazine that pushes rounds up to the chamber. A poorly designed follower can interfere with feeding.
- Feed lips: The feed lips guide the rounds into the chamber. Inaccurate feed lips can cause misalignment and jams.
Aftermarket Ruger American Predator 308 Magazines: Exploring Your Options
The aftermarket offers a variety of options for Ruger American Predator .308 magazines, often providing increased capacity and sometimes enhanced features such as improved follower designs for smoother feeding. However, it's imperative to research thoroughly before purchasing an aftermarket magazine. Look for reviews from reputable sources, focusing on user feedback regarding reliability and compatibility.
Troubleshooting Common Ruger American Predator 308 Magazine Problems
Despite their reputation for reliability, issues can sometimes arise with Ruger American Predator .308 magazines. Common problems include:
Feeding Issues:
- Rounds jamming: This can be due to a damaged magazine, dirty magazine, improper ammunition, or a problem with the rifle's action. Cleaning the magazine and inspecting the rounds for damage are good first steps.
- Failure to feed: This is often related to a damaged follower or feed lips, or an improperly seated magazine.
Magazine Release Issues:
- Difficulty releasing the magazine: This could be caused by dirt, debris, or wear and tear. Cleaning and lubrication may resolve this.
Maintaining Your Ruger American Predator 308 Magazine
Regular cleaning and maintenance are crucial for ensuring the longevity and reliability of your magazine. Keep it clean and free of debris, and consider lightly lubricating the follower and feed lips with a gun-specific lubricant.
Remember always to handle firearms safely.
This guide provides a comprehensive overview of Ruger American Predator 308 magazines. Always prioritize safety and reliability when choosing and maintaining your magazines. Remember to consult your firearm's manual for specific instructions and recommendations.
