Ruger Gunsite Scout Rifle...hunting rifle?

**PLMarais** · 20-05-2013, 06:01

Please let me know what you guys think of the following rifle as a hunting. The adds read: "if you could only have one rifle...this should be the one".

http://www.ruger.com/products/gunsiteScoutRifle/models.html

First concern for almost any person I talk to is the barrel length...!
Second concern is the magazine.

What I would like to get here are your opinions and if you can motivate them. Taking in consideration the BARREL length.
I have already decided the caliber in .308.
I want to buy this rifle as a hunting rifle

**Skaaphaas** · 20-05-2013, 06:11

http://www.gunsite.co.za/forums/show...-Gunsite-Scout

http://www.gunsite.co.za/forums/show...703#post437703

http://www.gunsite.co.za/forums/show...-a-Scout-Rifle

**Pirate** · 20-05-2013, 06:54

Added mainly to score a hattrick for the clan....

the barrel length would cut a bit into the bullet speed, but the effect is not that great (about 25ft/s per inch). Personally I'd be more worried to lose the magazine... and the scout scope setup looks funny...

I think the rifle will make a completely acceptable bushveld rifle, but I personally think it's a bit limited to that application.

:- P

**Jo Toast** · 20-05-2013, 18:34

Yip, apparently you don't sacrifice accuracy with the shorter barrel - only a bit of speed. And it's not designed to be a bench rest target gun - it's an all rounder that is tough, handles easily and is a breeze to carry around in the veld. It also has some self defence applications.

You get the 16.5" and a 18" barrel (not sure about SA though).

I'm very interested in this rifle, but it will be my 2nd rifle for shorter shots, quick shots and moving targets. Might also use it when backing up a mate on a hunt. My trusty .270 will remain my primary hunting rifle.

So I think if you're looking for a dedicated hunting rifle, you're better of with something more traditional. If you're looking for an all rounder - this will do.

**Jo Toast** · 20-05-2013, 18:36

Oh, and I would definately get my hands on some 5 round polymer magazines. That 10 round box looks like it's gonna get in the way.

**Skaaphaas** · 20-05-2013, 18:57

Originally Posted by Pirate

Added mainly to score a hattrick for the clan....
:- P

It started with a PL Marais, then a P Marais, and then L Marais.

**Pirate** · 20-05-2013, 20:07

Originally Posted by Skaaphaas

It started with a PL Marais, then a P Marais, and then L Marais.

hehehehe didn't even notice that in my befuddled state this morning....

**PLMarais** · 22-05-2013, 22:39

No...still PLMarais.

They have a polymer magazine available about half the size that takes 10 rounds, completed with dust caps and all!

Anyway...I'm completely new to owning a rifle. I like the Remington 700 tactical 20" barrel.
Do you think one can get a mag for that, I like the mag idea.

The synthetic stock rifle is light and plastic compared to a laminated stock.

**Skaaphaas** · 23-05-2013, 07:12

Originally Posted by PLMarais

No...still PLMarais.

Sigh... You are dragging the surname through the mud.

**Toxxyc** · 23-05-2013, 08:08

Originally Posted by Jo Toast

Yip, apparently you don't sacrifice accuracy with the shorter barrel - only a bit of speed.

I read a cool book (Wat maak 'n jaggeweer akkuraat?) where the writer (Fanus Venter, weaponsmith) argued that a shorter barrel is actually supposed to be more accurate than a longer one due to less flex in the barrel over it's length. This is all very theoretical of course, bull barrels and that limits it as well and so forth. I for one wouldn't be bothered by a shorter barrel - if you reload your own round the velocity issue can be overcome or limited with proper loads.