The Ruger American rifle series has earned a solid reputation among hunters and shooters for its blend of affordability, accuracy, and reliability. Within this lineup, the 7mm-08 chambering stands out as a particularly versatile and popular choice. This in-depth review will explore the Ruger American 7mm-08, examining its features, performance, suitability for various hunting applications, and overall value.
Why the 7mm-08 Caliber Shines
Before diving into the specifics of the Ruger American, let's understand why the 7mm-08 Remington cartridge itself is so highly regarded. This cartridge offers a superb balance of characteristics:
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Moderate Recoil: Compared to more powerful cartridges like the .30-06 Springfield or .300 Winchester Magnum, the 7mm-08 delivers significantly less recoil. This makes it ideal for new shooters, women, and younger hunters, promoting a more enjoyable shooting experience and better shot placement.
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Flat Trajectory: The 7mm-08 boasts a flatter trajectory than many other cartridges in its class, extending effective range and increasing the probability of accurate hits at longer distances. This is crucial for hunting in diverse terrains.
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Excellent Ballistic Coefficient: 7mm-08 bullets generally exhibit a high ballistic coefficient, meaning they retain velocity and energy over longer ranges, crucial for consistent performance in hunting situations.
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Versatility: This cartridge excels in a range of hunting applications, from deer and antelope to larger game like elk and black bear (with proper shot placement).
Ruger American 7mm-08: A Detailed Look
The Ruger American rifle platform provides an excellent foundation for the 7mm-08 cartridge. Key features that contribute to its popularity include:
Action and Reliability
The Ruger American features a controlled-round-feed action known for its smooth operation and reliable feeding. This action ensures consistent performance, even under challenging conditions.
Ergonomics and Handling
Ruger has prioritized ergonomics in the American's design. The stock is typically designed for a comfortable and secure grip, contributing to improved accuracy and shooter confidence. The inclusion of adjustable length of pull is another welcome feature that caters to a wider range of shooters.
Accuracy and Precision
Many Ruger American 7mm-08 owners report excellent accuracy out of the box. This is often attributed to the rifle's free-floating barrel, which minimizes contact between the barrel and the stock, contributing to better barrel harmonics and improved shot consistency.
Trigger
The Ruger American features a user-adjustable trigger, allowing shooters to fine-tune it to their personal preferences. This adjustable feature enhances the accuracy potential of the rifle and improves the overall shooting experience.
Suitable Hunting Applications
The Ruger American 7mm-08 is a highly versatile hunting rifle capable of handling a variety of game:
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Deer Hunting: This is arguably the most popular application for the 7mm-08. Its moderate recoil and excellent accuracy make it ideal for taking whitetail deer and mule deer.
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Antelope Hunting: The flat trajectory and retained energy of the 7mm-08 make it an excellent choice for hunting antelope in open country.
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Predator Hunting: The 7mm-08 can be effective against larger predators such as coyotes and wild hogs, though other calibers might be better suited for certain applications.
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Elk Hunting: While a more powerful cartridge might be preferred by some, the 7mm-08 is capable of taking elk with proper shot placement and bullet selection.
Conclusion: A Strong Contender in the Hunting Rifle Market
The Ruger American 7mm-08 offers a compelling combination of affordability, accuracy, reliability, and versatility. Its smooth action, comfortable ergonomics, and the inherent qualities of the 7mm-08 cartridge make it a top contender in the hunting rifle market. Whether you're a seasoned hunter or just beginning your journey, the Ruger American 7mm-08 deserves serious consideration. Its blend of performance and value positions it as a strong choice for a wide range of hunting scenarios.
