The Ruger American 22-250 with a heavy barrel is a popular choice among long-range shooters and varmint hunters. Its combination of accuracy, reliability, and affordability makes it a strong contender in its class. This in-depth review will explore the features, performance, and overall suitability of this rifle, helping you decide if it's the right fit for your needs.
Understanding the Ruger American Platform
Before diving into the specifics of the 22-250 variant, let's touch upon the Ruger American rifle platform's strengths. Known for its user-friendly design and robust construction, the Ruger American series offers several key features:
- Lightweight yet Durable: The stock, typically made of synthetic material, is both lightweight and durable, making it ideal for extended hunting trips or range sessions.
- Ergonomic Design: The pistol grip and overall design are comfortable to hold and easy to handle, even for extended periods.
- Reliable Action: The bolt action is smooth and reliable, contributing to consistent accuracy.
- User-Friendly Features: The rifle incorporates features like a three-position safety and a readily accessible magazine release for quick reloading.
The 22-250 Cartridge: A Versatile Choice
The .22-250 Remington cartridge is a favorite among varmint hunters and long-range enthusiasts. Its flat trajectory, high velocity, and relatively low recoil make it a versatile round suitable for a wide range of applications. Its exceptional accuracy at extended ranges allows for precise shots on smaller targets.
Advantages of the .22-250:
- Long Range Accuracy: The flat trajectory allows for precise shots at longer ranges, minimizing bullet drop compensation.
- High Velocity: The high velocity delivers impressive stopping power on varmints.
- Low Recoil: Relatively low recoil promotes comfortable shooting and quicker follow-up shots.
- Availability: .22-250 ammunition is widely available and relatively affordable.
The Benefits of a Heavy Barrel
The heavy barrel on the Ruger American 22-250 offers several key advantages:
- Improved Accuracy: The heavier barrel helps to dissipate heat more efficiently, leading to improved accuracy, especially during rapid fire or extended shooting sessions. Heat buildup is a common cause of accuracy degradation in lighter barrels.
- Reduced Recoil: While not as significant as the cartridge's inherently low recoil, the added weight of the heavy barrel helps mitigate felt recoil slightly.
- Enhanced Stability: The increased weight provides improved stability, making it easier to maintain a steady aim.
Performance and Practical Considerations
The Ruger American 22-250 heavy barrel generally delivers excellent accuracy, often sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) with quality ammunition and proper technique. This makes it a suitable rifle for both hunting and target shooting.
However, the added weight of the heavy barrel makes it slightly less maneuverable than its lighter-barreled counterparts. This is a trade-off many shooters are willing to accept for the improved accuracy.
Who is the Ruger American 22-250 Heavy Barrel For?
This rifle is an excellent choice for:
- Varmint Hunters: The .22-250's capabilities are perfect for taking down prairie dogs, coyotes, and other varmints at extended ranges.
- Long-Range Shooters: The accuracy and flat trajectory of the .22-250, combined with the stability of the heavy barrel, make it ideal for long-range target practice.
- Precision Shooters: The Ruger American's inherent accuracy, combined with the heavy barrel's ability to maintain accuracy under heat, makes it a suitable choice for precision shooting.
Conclusion: A Solid Choice for Precision and Performance
The Ruger American 22-250 heavy barrel offers a compelling combination of accuracy, reliability, and affordability. While the added weight might be a drawback for some, the significant improvements in accuracy and stability make it a worthwhile investment for those prioritizing precision and long-range performance. Its versatility makes it a suitable choice for various shooting disciplines, from hunting to target shooting. For those seeking a reliable and accurate rifle in this popular caliber, the Ruger American with a heavy barrel is certainly worth serious consideration.
