{"id":196851,"date":"2024-05-06T14:00:51","date_gmt":"2024-05-06T19:00:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/?p=196851"},"modified":"2025-11-12T11:47:05","modified_gmt":"2025-11-12T17:47:05","slug":"hunt365-field-tested-rugers-new-american-gen-2-rifle","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/hunt365-field-tested-rugers-new-american-gen-2-rifle\/","title":{"rendered":"Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-02-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Aoudad taken with Ruger American Gen 2 Rifle and Leupold VX-5HD scope.\" class=\"wp-image-196855\" title=\"3 - Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-02-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-02-400x300.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-02-150x113.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-02-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-02.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The author used Ruger&#8217;s new American Gen 2 Rifle, in 6.5 Creedmoor, to take this nice aoudad ram in remote west Texas.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"yoast-reading-time__wrapper\"><span class=\"yoast-reading-time__icon\"><svg aria-hidden=\"true\" focusable=\"false\" data-icon=\"clock\" width=\"20\" height=\"20\" fill=\"none\" stroke=\"currentColor\" style=\"display:inline-block;vertical-align:-0.1em\" role=\"img\" xmlns=\"http:\/\/www.w3.org\/2000\/svg\" viewBox=\"0 0 24 24\"><path stroke-linecap=\"round\" stroke-linejoin=\"round\" stroke-width=\"2\" d=\"M12 8v4l3 3m6-3a9 9 0 11-18 0 9 9 0 0118 0z\"><\/path><\/svg><\/span><span class=\"yoast-reading-time__spacer\" style=\"display:inline-block;width:1em\"><\/span><span class=\"yoast-reading-time__descriptive-text\">Estimated reading time: <\/span><span class=\"yoast-reading-time__reading-time\">22<\/span><span class=\"yoast-reading-time__time-unit\"> minutes<\/span><\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-yoast-seo-table-of-contents yoast-table-of-contents\"><h2>Table of contents<\/h2><ul><li><a href=\"#h-performance-in-the-field\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-field-tested-rugers-new-american-gen-2-rifle\" title=\"Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\" data-level=\"2\">Performance in the Field<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-upgraded-design-on-the-gen-2\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-field-tested-rugers-new-american-gen-2-rifle\" title=\"Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\" data-level=\"2\">Upgraded Design on the Gen 2<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-new-spiral-fluted-barrel\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-field-tested-rugers-new-american-gen-2-rifle\" title=\"Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\" data-level=\"2\">New Spiral-Fluted Barrel<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-new-modular-stock\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-field-tested-rugers-new-american-gen-2-rifle\" title=\"Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\" data-level=\"2\">New Modular Stock<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-adjustable-trigger\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-field-tested-rugers-new-american-gen-2-rifle\" title=\"Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\" data-level=\"2\">Adjustable Trigger<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-range-results\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-field-tested-rugers-new-american-gen-2-rifle\" title=\"Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\" data-level=\"2\">Range Results<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-final-thoughts-on-the-american-gen-2\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-field-tested-rugers-new-american-gen-2-rifle\" title=\"Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\" data-level=\"2\">Final Thoughts on the American Gen 2<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-accuracy-table\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-field-tested-rugers-new-american-gen-2-rifle\" title=\"Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\" data-level=\"2\">Accuracy Table<\/a><\/li><li><a href=\"#h-specifications-for-the-american-gen-2-rifle\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-field-tested-rugers-new-american-gen-2-rifle\" title=\"Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\" data-level=\"2\">Specifications for the American Gen 2 Rifle<\/a><\/li><\/ul><\/div>\n\n\n\n<p>The rugged desert mountains of west Texas are, as novelist Cormac McCarthy put it, no country for old men. I was often reminded of that during two and a half days of hunting for a free-ranging aoudad ram on a big, remote west Texas ranch. I was there to test the <a href=\"https:\/\/ruger.com\/index.html\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-field-tested-rugers-new-american-gen-2-rifle\" title=\"Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\">Ruger<\/a> American Gen 2 rifle, a newly updated and improved version of one of America\u2019s most popular affordable hunting rifles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Aoudad, or Barbary sheep, thrive in rough, rocky country. The habitat on the ranch I hunted consists of steep hills covered in cacti, Spanish daggers, tall grass, and even taller brush. Everything in that country stings, stabs or bites, and every step over loose rock is an ankle-twisting opportunity. That terrain makes it challenging to stalk quietly. Aoudad run in herds, have excellent senses and are quick to flee when they detect you. I had already attempted multiple stalks that ended nearly before they began.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-01-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Ruger American Gen 2 Rifle with Harris bipod, west Texas.\" class=\"wp-image-196856\" title=\"3 - Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-01-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-01-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-01-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-01-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-01.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The Ruger American Gen 2 rifle has an all-new look and many enhancements over the original American rifle.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-performance-in-the-field\">Performance in the Field<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Finally, after a one-mile stalk on day three, a nice ram stood broadside 200 yards away. I knew the rifle would do its part if I did mine \u2013 my last 100-yard zeroing shot had precisely centered the target bullseye. Tall brush dictated a standing shot, so I rested the forend of the American Gen 2, chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor, on shooting sticks. I whispered to Paul Pluff, of Ruger, to hand me his sticks, as well. I stuck those beneath the buttstock, dialed in a small amount of correction on a <a href=\"https:\/\/www.leupold.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-field-tested-rugers-new-american-gen-2-rifle\" title=\"Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\">Leupold<\/a> VX-5HD 3-15&#215;44 scope, and touched off a round.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The 143-gr. bullet was well-placed, but the ram didn\u2019t immediately go down. He meandered slowly in and out of the brush, bleeding heavily, as the other aoudad in his band fled. He clearly wasn\u2019t going anywhere, but he refused to drop, so I put a couple of more shots into him. The bullets impacted where they were supposed to, but the ram hadn\u2019t read the script. He finally laid down at 253 yards, and I rolled him with a final shot. Aoudad are impressively tough animals.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"689\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-04-1024x689.jpg\" alt=\"Rifle with Leupold VX-5HD scope.\" class=\"wp-image-196857\" title=\"3 - Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-04-1024x689.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-04-400x269.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-04-150x101.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-04-768x516.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-04.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">For range testing and a hunt, the author used a Leupold VX-5HD 3-15&#215;44 scope mounted in Talley rings on the factory-installed Picatinny rail.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-upgraded-design-on-the-gen-2\">Upgraded Design on the Gen 2<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>That hunt provided a good test of the American Gen 2 rifle. The gun looks considerably different than first-generation American rifles, but Ruger\u2019s improvements are more than skin-deep. The action, for example, still employs a one-piece, three-lug, CNC-machined stainless bolt, but it cycles more smoothly than bolts on first-generation rifles I\u2019ve shot. Gone is the characteristic \u201czip-zip\u201d sound the early bolts made when cycling. The bolt still has a short, 70-degree bolt throw to provide ample clearance for mounting scopes. It comes with a generously sized bolt knob, and the handle is threaded (5\/16-24) so you can easily replace the knob with one you prefer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ruger also upgraded the safety of the American Gen 2. Earlier models used a two-position safety that did not lock the bolt down. That could be an issue when moving through thick cover, as the bolt handle could snag and inadvertently open the action. The Gen 2 rifle sports a three-position, tang-mounted safety. In the middle position, you can safely cycle rounds through the action with the safety engaged. In the rearmost engaged position, the bolt locks down. Ruger makes it easy to see what position the safety is in thanks to two white lines ahead of the safety switch. If you see two lines, the safety is in the rearmost, locked-down position. One white line indicates it\u2019s the middle position. If no line is visible, the safety is off and the rifle is ready to fire.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-010-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Ruger American Gen 2 Rifle, spiral fluted barrel, removable radial muzzle brake.\" class=\"wp-image-196858\" title=\"3 - Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-010-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-010-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-010-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-010-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-010.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The new rifle has a cold hammer-forged, spiral-fluted barrel with a removable radial muzzle brake.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-new-spiral-fluted-barrel\">New Spiral-Fluted Barrel<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The American Gen 2 barreled action is still mated to the stock via Ruger\u2019s patented Power Bedding integral bedding block system, which free floats the barrel. The cold hammer-forged, medium-contour barrel measures 20 inches in length. Unlike original American rifles, the barrel is deeply spiral fluted to shed weight from the gun. Without <a href=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/accessories\/optics\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-field-tested-rugers-new-american-gen-2-rifle\" title=\"Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\">optics<\/a>, the rifle weighs just 6.5 pounds. With scope and rings installed, I measured the weight of my test rifle at 7 lbs., 13 oz., which is light enough for most hunting purposes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In 6.5 Creedmoor, the barrel\u2019s five-groove rifling has a 1:8 RH rate of twist. The muzzle is equipped with a radial muzzle brake that isn\u2019t needed for this chambering but is a welcome addition to rifles in chamberings that produce heavy recoil. The muzzle is threaded (5\/8-24) so you can add a suppressor or different muzzle brake. The barrel, muzzle brake, receiver and bolt handle are all protected from the elements with a gun metal gray Cerakote finish.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-09-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Ruger American Gen 2 Rifle, modular stock with replacable combs and spacers, rubber recoil pad.\" class=\"wp-image-196859\" title=\"3 - Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-09-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-09-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-09-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-09-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-09.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The new modular synthetic stock of the American Gen 2 rifle allows for a custom fit with a variety of comb risers and spacers.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-new-modular-stock\">New Modular Stock<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The American Gen 2 features an entirely new, modular synthetic stock design that I much prefer over the original. Deep inletting on the forend provides a solid grip with the fingers of the supporting hand. A low, removable black comb allows for proper eye alignment with a rifle scope. In addition to a generously sized and effective soft rubber recoil pad, the stock has a removable spacer to adjust the length of pull from 13.75 inches to 12 inches for a custom fit. Additional combs and spacers in varying sizes are available from <a href=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/brand\/ruger\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-field-tested-rugers-new-american-gen-2-rifle\" title=\"Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\">Ruger<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>The dark gray stock has a textured black-and-gray splatter finish that nicely complements the dark gray Cerakote finish on the barrel and action. It also provides a good grip in inclement weather. I found that the stock forend has a slight amount of flex, but it\u2019s stiffer than stocks found on many comparably priced rifles.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-011-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Ruger American Gen 2 Rifle with Marksman Adjustable trigger.\" class=\"wp-image-196860\" title=\"3 - Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-011-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-011-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-011-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-011-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-011.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The rifle is equipped with Ruger&#8217;s Marksman Adjustable trigger, which is adjustable within a range of 3-5 lbs.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-adjustable-trigger\">Adjustable Trigger<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The American Gen 2 comes with Ruger\u2019s Marksman Adjustable trigger, which is supposed to be adjustable within a range of 3-5 lbs. It\u2019s a pretty good trigger for a factory rifle in this price category, but in my experience, the trigger shows some slight variation from rifle to rifle. I have handled some that had a bit of creep, but the triggers on my test rifle and the rifle I used on the hunt did not. Both broke cleanly and crisply. The average trigger pull weight on the test gun was 3 lbs., 9 oz. That\u2019s not bad, but it\u2019s a little heavier than I prefer. Notably, some aftermarket trigger springs can drop the trigger pull weight down to about 2 lbs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Disassembling the rifle to adjust the trigger can be challenging depending on which rifle you get. Ruger says the guns initially shipped with two different versions of the AI-style magazine well. The early version, which I received, requires you to remove the magazine release latch to access the rear action screw. That can be a pain, so I left the trigger at its factory setting for testing. &nbsp;The latest version of the magazine well has a notch that allows you to access the rear action screw with a 3\/16-inch ball end hex wrench, simplifying the process.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>READ MORE: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/sig-sauer-romeo2-kit-receives-nsn-designation\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-field-tested-rugers-new-american-gen-2-rifle\" title=\"Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\">SIG SAUER ROMEO2 Kit Receives NSN Designation<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Magazine styles and capacities for American Gen 2 rifles vary by chambering. The polymer magazine for 6.5 Creedmoor-chambered rifles holds three rounds. Magazines for some chamberings will hold as many as 10 rounds.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-012-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"AI-style adjustable magazine, Federal Barnes TSX ammunition.\" class=\"wp-image-196861\" title=\"3 - Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-012-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-012-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-012-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-012-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-012.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Magazine styles and capacities vary by chambering. In 6.5 Creedmoor, the rifle comes with a three-round AI-style polymer magazine.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-range-results\">Range Results<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>When testing the American Gen 2 at the range, I mounted the same Leupold VX-5HD 3-15&#215;44 rifle scope model that I hunted with on the gun\u2019s factory-installed one-piece Picatinny rail using Talley scope rings. I measured the velocities of five different factory 6.5 Creedmoor loads using the new <a href=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/garmin-xero-c1-pro-the-new-king-of-chronographs\/\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-field-tested-rugers-new-american-gen-2-rifle\" title=\"Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\" data-wpil-monitor-id=\"1311\">Garmin Xero C1 Pro chronograph<\/a>, and the results were as expected. All loads ran a bit slower out of the rifle\u2019s 20-inch barrel, with variations from factory-stated numbers ranging from 109 fps to 170 fps slower.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>I have always found Ruger American rifles to be quite accurate, and the American Gen 2 was no exception. The rifle delivered good 100-yard accuracy results with four of the five tested loads. The sole exception was 125-grain copper load that the rifle did not like. That load printed 1.72-inch average groups. If you take that round out of the equation, average group size for the other four loads, using a variety of bullet weights, was 0.99 inches. A 127-grain Barnes Vor-Tx Long Range load turned in the best performance. It produced average groups measuring 0.75 inches and a best group of 0.61 inches. I\u2019m confident that groups would shrink a little more with a lighter trigger pull weight.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-08-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Ruger American Gen 2 Rifle with upgraded three-positiono safety.\" class=\"wp-image-196862\" title=\"3 - Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-08-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-08-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-08-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-08-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-08.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Ruger has upgraded the safety on the American Gen 2 rifle to a three-position safety that locks the bolt down in the rear position but allows you to safely cycle rounds through the action in the middle, engaged position.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-final-thoughts-on-the-american-gen-2\">Final Thoughts on the American Gen 2<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The American Gen 2 rifle was initially introduced in 6.5 Creedmoor and 308 Win. chamberings, but Ruger quickly added more choices to the lineup. These include 223 Rem., 204 Ruger, 243 Rem., 7mm-08 Rem. and 450 Bushmaster. Ruger says additional chamberings will join the lineup this year, including 350 Legend, 400 Legend, 6mm ARC, 6.5 Grendel, 6mm Creedmoor, <a href=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/search?keyword=30-06%20springfield\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-field-tested-rugers-new-american-gen-2-rifle\" title=\"Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\">30-06 Springfield<\/a>, 270 Win., 300 Win. Mag., 6.5 PRC, 7mm PRC and 22 ARC.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Ruger has delivered a lot of value for the money with the American Gen 2 rifle. The gun has an MSRP of just $729, which is considerably less than many similarly appointed rifles. That price tag is only $130 more than a standard first-generation American &#8212; and it\u2019s $60 less than a first-gen rifle with a Go Wild camo stock. Considering the features and accuracy you will get with the American Gen 2, that\u2019s a real bargain.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"683\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-07-1024x683.jpg\" alt=\"Ruger\u2019s American Gen 2 Rifle, oversized bolt handle with 70-degree throw.\" class=\"wp-image-196867\" title=\"3 - Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-07-1024x683.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-07-400x267.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-07-150x100.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-07-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-07.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The rifle&#8217;s bolt has an oversized bolt knob and a short, 70-degree throw that allows ample room for mounting scopes<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-accuracy-table\">Accuracy Table<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table><tbody><tr><td>MANUFACTURER&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;VELOCITY(fps)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; AVG. GTROUP (in)&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;BEST GROUP(in)<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Barnes Vor-Tx 127 gr. LR &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;  2716&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;0.75&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 0.61&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Federal Barnes&nbsp;TSX 130 gr.&nbsp;   2677&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;1.09&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;0.54&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Federal Fusion 140 gr.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;  2566&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;1.12&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;0.98<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Hornady PH 143 gr. ELD-X&nbsp;&nbsp;  2530&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 1.00&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;0.88<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Win Copper Impact 125 gr.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;2710&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; 1.72&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;1.62<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">Results are with three, three-shot groups at 100 yards. Velocities were measured with a Garmin Xero C1 Pro chronograph.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p><\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"669\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-013-1024x669.jpg\" alt=\"Zeroing shot before hunt with Hornady Precision Hunter 143 gr. ELD-X ammunition.\" class=\"wp-image-196864\" title=\"3 - Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-013-1024x669.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-013-400x261.jpg 400w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-013-150x98.jpg 150w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-013-768x502.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-013.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The author&#8217;s last 100-yard zeroing shot before his hunt demonstrates the accuracy potential of the rifle.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\" id=\"h-specifications-for-the-american-gen-2-rifle\">Specifications for the American Gen 2 Rifle<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Ruger American Gen 2 Rifle 6.5 Creedmoor<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Action: Push-feed bolt action<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Magazine: AI-style detachable<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Capacity: 3+1<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Barrel: 20 in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Finish: Gun Metal Gray Cerakote<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Rate of twist: 1:8 RH<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Stock: Gray synthetic modular, splatter finish<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Trigger: Marksman adjustable<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Weight: 6.5 lb.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Length: 41.25 in.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>MSRP: $729<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"686\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/www.gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-03-686x1024.jpg\" alt=\"Author hunting with Ruger American Gen 2 rifle in west Texas.\" class=\"wp-image-196865\" title=\"3 - Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\" srcset=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-03-686x1024.jpg 686w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-03-201x300.jpg 201w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-03-101x150.jpg 101w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-03-768x1146.jpg 768w, https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\/digest\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/01\/Gen-2-Cx-03.jpg 804w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 686px) 100vw, 686px\" \/><figcaption class=\"wp-element-caption\">The rifle&#8217;s 6.5 lb. weight made it easy to carry during three days of hunting in rugged terrain.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"has-text-align-left\" style=\"font-size:24px\"><strong><em>*** <a href=\"https:\/\/gunsamerica.com\" target=\"_blank\" class=\"clickTracking\" campaign=\"hunt365-field-tested-rugers-new-american-gen-2-rifle\" title=\"Field Tested: Ruger\u2019s New American Gen 2 Rifle\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Buy and Sell on GunsAmerica!<\/a> ***<\/em><\/strong><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Tall brush dictated a standing shot, so I rested the forend of the American Gen 2, chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor, on shooting sticks.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":102,"featured_media":196855,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_specdata_upc":"","_specdata_placement":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[1220,7,4321,1379,1223],"tags":[4023,1209,1263,320],"featured":[4079],"hunt365":[4089],"class_list":{"0":"post-196851","1":"post","2":"type-post","3":"status-publish","4":"format-standard","5":"has-post-thumbnail","7":"category-huntgear","8":"category-gunsamerica-authors","9":"category-guns","10":"category-mike-dickerson","11":"category-rifles","12":"tag-aoudad","13":"tag-hunt365","14":"tag-hunt365top1","15":"tag-texas","16":"featured-row1","17":"hunt365-hunting"},"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v27.3 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