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Quick Look
The Ruger 204 is a centerfire rifle cartridge introduced by Sturm, Ruger & Co. in 2004. Designed for flat shooting and low recoil, it thrives in varmint hunting and target shooting. The cartridge enjoys moderate popularity among precision shooters and hunters seeking fast, accurate rounds.
Why It's a Top Choice
- High velocity with minimal recoil
- Flat trajectory ideal for varmint hunting
- Wide availability for rifles and ammo
- Good barrel life compared to similar calibers
- Suitable for both target shooting and hunting
Key Variants
Ruger 204 Rifle
Precision rifle chambered for the 204 Ruger cartridge, favored for varmint hunters and marksmen.
Competitor Comparison Table
| Feature | 204 Ruger | 22-250 Remington | 223 Remington |
|---|---|---|---|
| MSRP | $1,200–1,500 (rifle vary) | Approx. $1,000–1,400 | Approx. $700–1,200 |
| Capacity/Size | Short magnum case, 40 grains powder capacity | Longer case, approx. 52 grains powder capacity | Smaller case, approx. 28 grains powder capacity |
| Weight | Typical rifle weight 7.5–8 lbs | 7–8 lbs | 6–7.5 lbs |
| Optics-Ready | Yes, common on models | Yes | Yes |
| Trigger Type | Bolt action typical | Bolt action | Bolt or semi-auto |
| Notable Pro | Low recoil, flat trajectory | Proven varmint round with heavy bullet options | Versatile, widely available |
| Notable Con | Less common ammo than 223 or 22-250 | Higher recoil | Less flat trajectory at longer ranges |
Best Use Cases
- Varmint and predator hunting
- Long-range target shooting
- Plinking and recreational shooting
- Lightweight hunting rifles
- Precision shooting competitions
FAQs
Can I use 204 Ruger ammo in a Ruger 204 rifle?
Yes, the Ruger 204 rifle is specifically chambered for 204 Ruger ammunition and operates reliably with factory and handloaded ammo.
What is the typical muzzle velocity of 204 Ruger rounds?
Factory 204 Ruger loads commonly achieve muzzle velocities around 4,000 feet per second with 32-grain bullets.
How does 204 Ruger compare to 223 Remington for hunting?
204 Ruger has a flatter trajectory and higher velocity, making it better for small game and varmints at longer ranges than 223 Remington.
