Rifle Project: Ruger American 308

Published on December 14, 2019
Duration: 14:34

This project transforms a stock Ruger American .308 into a more capable precision tool. Key upgrades include a Magpul Hunter stock for improved ergonomics and a Bushnell Nitro scope for better long-range adjustments. Barrel modifications involved shortening it to 16.5 inches and threading for a Q Thunder Chicken suppressor, maintaining reasonable accuracy with match loads.

Quick Summary

The Ruger American .308 project upgraded the stock to a Magpul Hunter, replaced the optic with a Bushnell Nitro 4-16x, and shortened the barrel to 16.5 inches for suppressor use. Accuracy remained around 1-1.5 MOA with match loads.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Project Introduction: Ruger American .308 Build
  2. 00:24Initial Accuracy Testing of Stock Rifle
  3. 01:36Magpul Hunter Stock Installation & Benefits
  4. 03:40Bushnell Nitro Scope Upgrade
  5. 04:12Barrel Shortening & Threading for Suppressor
  6. 08:32Post-Modification Accuracy Testing
  7. 11:25Long Range Performance Test (400 Yards)
  8. 12:28Project Conclusion & Final Thoughts

Frequently Asked Questions

What were the main upgrades performed on the Ruger American .308 rifle?

The project involved upgrading the stock to a Magpul Hunter American for better ergonomics and magazine use, replacing the optic with a Bushnell Nitro 4-16x for improved long-range capability, and shortening/threading the barrel to 16.5 inches for suppressor compatibility.

How did the accuracy of the Ruger American .308 change after modifications?

Initially, the stock rifle shot around 1.55 MOA. After modifications, including barrel shortening, it maintained approximately 1-1.5 MOA accuracy with most match loads, proving effective for its intended purpose.

What suppressor was used with the modified Ruger American .308?

A Q Thunder Chicken suppressor was fitted to the rifle. A custom adapter was fabricated to ensure a proper and concentric fit with the newly threaded 16.5-inch barrel.

Is the modified Ruger American .308 considered a sub-MOA rifle?

The presenter notes that while the rifle is a highly functional and personalized tool, it's not a guaranteed sub-quarter MOA rifle. It achieves respectable 1-1.5 MOA accuracy with good ammunition after modifications.

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