The Ruger American Ranch in .450 Bushmaster has quickly become a popular choice for hunters and home defense enthusiasts. This review delves into its performance, features, and overall value, offering an in-depth look at what makes this rifle stand out.
Performance: Hard-Hitting and Accurate
The .450 Bushmaster cartridge is renowned for its hard-hitting power, and the Ruger American Ranch delivers it effectively. This rifle's accuracy is surprisingly good for a short-barreled platform. While you won't achieve extreme long-range precision, its accuracy at typical hunting and self-defense ranges (under 200 yards) is more than sufficient. Many users report sub-MOA accuracy with quality ammunition. The potent round offers exceptional stopping power on medium-sized game, making it suitable for deer hunting within its effective range.
Recoil Management: Manageable, But Noticeable
The .450 Bushmaster is a powerful cartridge, and the recoil is noticeable. However, Ruger has incorporated features to mitigate the felt recoil. The rifle's weight and stock design contribute to managing recoil effectively, making it manageable even for those with less experience with powerful calibers. While it's not a lightweight rifle, the manageable recoil enhances control and follow-up shots.
Features: A Blend of Practicality and User-Friendliness
The Ruger American Ranch boasts several features contributing to its popularity:
Robust Construction: Built to Last
Ruger's reputation for building durable firearms is well-deserved. The American Ranch .450 Bushmaster is constructed with a solid, reliable design that can withstand the rigors of hunting and frequent use. The action is smooth, and the overall feel is one of quality and robustness.
Versatile Stock: Adaptable to Various Shooting Styles
The stock is ergonomically designed for comfortable shooting. Its design allows for a solid cheek weld and comfortable shoulder placement. This contributes to better accuracy and recoil management. The adjustable length of pull is a significant advantage, allowing shooters of different sizes to customize their fit.
User-Friendly Controls: Intuitive Operation
The controls are intuitive and easy to operate, even for novice shooters. The safety is easily accessible and positively clicks into place, and the bolt action is smooth and reliable. This user-friendly design enhances the overall shooting experience.
Magazine Capacity: Ample for Hunting and Self-Defense
The standard magazine capacity is sufficient for most hunting and home defense scenarios. While the specific capacity varies by region and local regulations, the ease of reloading makes up for any limitations.
Value: A Competitive Contender
The Ruger American Ranch .450 Bushmaster offers excellent value for its price point. It delivers powerful performance, reliable construction, and user-friendly features, all at a competitive price compared to other rifles in its class. The overall quality and performance justify the investment for those seeking a capable and versatile short-range rifle.
Conclusion: A Solid Choice for Short-Range Performance
The Ruger American Ranch in .450 Bushmaster is a highly capable and versatile rifle. Its powerful cartridge, accurate performance, and user-friendly design make it a strong contender for hunters and home defense enthusiasts alike. While the recoil is noticeable, it remains manageable, and the rifle's overall construction and features make it a worthy addition to any firearm collection. The strong balance of performance, features, and value makes this a rifle deserving of serious consideration.
