Description
Picture this: you’re scanning a Missouri CRP field at last light, the wind is down, and you spot the tell-tale flicker of a prairie dog at 200 yards. You need a rifle that’s steady, precise, and won’t break the bank. That’s the exact scenario the Ruger American Predator Rifle .204 Ruger 22″ Barrel Vortex Crossfire II 4-12x44mm Riflescope Moss Green Composite Stock 5 Round is built for. It’s a purpose-built varminting package that delivers serious capability without a serious price tag.
Answer Capsule: The Ruger American Predator in .204 Ruger is a bolt-action rifle designed for precision varmint and predator hunting. This package includes a factory-mounted Vortex Crossfire II 4-12x44mm scope, a 22-inch barrel, a moss green composite stock, and a 5-round rotary magazine. Priced at $559.76, it’s a ready-to-hunt combo offering exceptional value for long-range, small-caliber shooting.
Let’s break down why this package is such a compelling deal. First, you’re getting two major brands known for reliability: Ruger and Vortex. Buying them separately would cost you more, and you’d still need to pay for mounting and zeroing. Here, it’s all done for you. The rifle fits out of the box and is ready for your local range or field after the mandatory FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. The heart of the system is the flat-shooting .204 Ruger cartridge. It’s a laser beam—minimal drop, devastating on small pests, and with very light recoil. That 22-inch barrel is the sweet spot for balancing velocity and maneuverability.
The included Vortex Crossfire II 4-12x44mm scope is the real value-adder. Vortex optics are known for their clarity, durability, and lifetime warranty. The 4-12x magnification is perfect for stretching out to those longer prairie dog or crow shots, while the 44mm objective lens gathers plenty of light for dawn and dusk. It’s mounted on Ruger’s proprietary scope base, which is integrated into the receiver for a solid, repeatable platform. The moss green composite stock isn’t just for looks; it’s weather-resistant and stable, with a textured finish that provides a solid grip in all conditions. The rifle features Ruger’s Marksman Adjustable trigger, which is user-adjustable from 3 to 5 pounds—a feature you typically don’t find on budget rifles.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .204 Ruger |
| Barrel Length | 22 Inches |
| Overall Length | 42.25 Inches |
| Weight | Approx. 6.8 lbs (scoped) |
| Magazine Capacity | 5 Rounds (Rotary Mag) |
| Stock Material | Moss Green Composite |
| Scope | Vortex Crossfire II 4-12x44mm |
Pros & Cons
The pros are clear: you get a complete, optics-ready system for under $600. The accuracy potential of the Ruger American action paired with a quality Vortex scope is significant. The .204 Ruger is highly effective for its intended use and is easy on the shoulder. The adjustable trigger is a major plus. So, what’s the trade-off? The .204 Ruger is a niche caliber—ammo isn’t as ubiquitous as .223 Remington, and it can be slightly more expensive per box. The composite stock is functional but lacks the premium feel of a laminate or fiberglass option. That said, for the price, these are practical compromises that focus your dollars on performance where it counts.
Who It’s For
This rifle is for the budget-conscious varminter, the farmer needing a reliable coyote rifle, or the shooter wanting a precise, low-recoil platform for target shooting. If your primary goal is dispatching pests from ground squirrels up to foxes at extended ranges, this package eliminates the guesswork. It’s also a fantastic first dedicated varmint rifle for a younger shooter due to its mild recoil. This package is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide to compliant states.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the scope already mounted and bore-sighted?
A: Yes. The Vortex Crossfire II scope comes mounted on the integrated Ruger scope base and is factory bore-sighted. You will still need to finalize your zero at the range with your chosen ammunition, but it should be on paper right away.
Q: What kind of accuracy can I expect from this rifle?
A: With its free-floated barrel, adjustable trigger, and solid scope, the Ruger American Predator is capable of sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) accuracy with quality factory ammunition. Many users report consistent 0.75 to 1.0 inch groups at 100 yards, which is more than enough for precision varmint hunting.
Q: Can I use other calibers’ magazines with this .204 Ruger model?
A: No. The rotary magazine is caliber-specific. This rifle uses the proprietary Ruger American rotary magazine designed for the .204 Ruger cartridge. Magazines for the .223 Remington or .22-250 versions will not function correctly.
If you’re looking for a no-fuss, high-value entry into serious varmint hunting, this Ruger American Predator package with the Vortex scope deserves a close look. Check availability and start the simple process to have it shipped to your local FFL.
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