The Ruger American rifle platform has consistently earned a reputation for reliability, accuracy, and value. Its adaptability to various calibers makes it a popular choice among hunters and target shooters alike. This deep dive focuses specifically on the Ruger American in 350 Legend with a 22-inch barrel, examining its strengths, weaknesses, and overall suitability for different applications.
Why Choose the 350 Legend?
The 350 Legend cartridge itself is a key element to understand. Developed as a relatively low-recoil, deer-hunting round, it's gaining popularity for several reasons:
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Reduced Recoil: Compared to more powerful calibers like 30-30 Winchester, the 350 Legend boasts significantly less recoil, making it friendlier for new shooters and those sensitive to recoil. This advantage translates to faster follow-up shots and improved accuracy, especially in rapid-fire situations.
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Flatter Trajectory: The 350 Legend's trajectory is notably flatter than some older deer hunting cartridges, simplifying aiming at longer ranges. This is particularly beneficial in situations where precise shot placement is crucial.
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Affordable Ammunition: While ammunition prices fluctuate, the 350 Legend generally remains more affordable than many other hunting calibers, enhancing its accessibility for a broader range of shooters.
The 22" Barrel Advantage
The 22-inch barrel on the Ruger American 350 Legend is a key differentiator. This length offers a sweet spot for balancing accuracy and maneuverability:
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Improved Velocity: A longer barrel allows for more complete powder burn, resulting in a slightly higher muzzle velocity compared to shorter-barreled versions. This translates to increased range and energy on target.
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Enhanced Accuracy: The longer barrel contributes to a more stable platform, enhancing accuracy and precision, especially at longer ranges.
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Weight Considerations: While longer barrels add some weight, the overall weight of the Ruger American remains manageable for most hunters and shooters.
Ruger American Rifle Platform Strengths
Beyond the cartridge and barrel length, the Ruger American rifle itself brings several advantages to the table:
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Lightweight Design: The Ruger American is renowned for its lightweight design, making it comfortable to carry during extended hunting trips.
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Ergonomic Stock: The stock is designed with ergonomics in mind, providing a comfortable and secure shooting experience.
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Reliable Action: Ruger's reputation for reliability extends to the American rifle's action, ensuring smooth operation in various conditions.
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Accuracy: The Ruger American platform has consistently shown excellent accuracy potential, often exceeding expectations for a rifle in its price range.
Potential Drawbacks
While the Ruger American 350 Legend with a 22" barrel offers many benefits, it's essential to acknowledge potential drawbacks:
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Range Limitations: Even with the 22-inch barrel, the 350 Legend's range is still shorter than some higher-powered cartridges. Ethical shot placement becomes more challenging at longer distances.
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Ammunition Availability: Although generally affordable, ammunition availability can sometimes vary depending on location and demand.
Conclusion: Is the Ruger American 350 Legend 22" Right for You?
The Ruger American 350 Legend with its 22-inch barrel presents a compelling option for hunters seeking a lightweight, accurate, and manageable rifle for deer hunting within moderate ranges. Its low recoil makes it suitable for new shooters while the longer barrel contributes to enhanced accuracy and velocity. However, those requiring extreme range or hunting larger game at considerable distances might consider other calibers. Ultimately, the best rifle depends on individual needs and preferences. Consider your hunting style, the terrain you'll be hunting in, and your comfort level with recoil before making a decision.
