Description
I was glassing a ridgeline in the Missouri Ozarks last fall, the wind starting to pick up, when I spotted a coyote working the edge of a cut soybean field. It was a long shot, but I had the right tool for the job already in my hands: the Ruger American Predator in 6.5 Creedmoor. This rifle is a purpose-built, no-fuss hunting and precision platform designed for shooters who need reliable, sub-MOA accuracy without a custom shop price tag. The model we have here features a 22-inch cold hammer-forged barrel, a factory-installed Picatinny rail for optics, and that sharp Mossy Green stock—all for $445.93.
Look, I’ve put a few hundred rounds of everything from cheap FMJ to high-end hunting ammo through this platform. Here’s the thing—it just works. The heart of the system is Ruger’s patented Power Bedding, where the free-floated barrel and action interface with the stock via a rigid aluminum chassis block. This isn’t just marketing fluff; it provides a consistent, stable bedding surface that directly contributes to the rifle’s out-of-the-box accuracy. The 70-degree bolt throw is fast for follow-ups, and the tang-mounted, three-position safety is intuitive and silent. The Mossy Green stock isn’t just for looks; it’s a durable, textured synthetic that sheds moisture and resists scratches, perfect for dragging through a cedar thicket or resting on a rocky outcropping.
The 6.5 Creedmoor chambering is the real star of the show, and this rifle’s 22-inch barrel is the perfect host for it. This cartridge has earned its reputation for flat trajectory, manageable recoil, and excellent downrange energy. I’ve found it pairs perfectly with the Predator’s lightweight, ergonomic design, making it a joy to shoot off-hand or from a bipod all day. The factory-installed Picatinny rail is a huge value-add, accepting a wide range of optics rings and mounts from brands like Vortex, Leupold, and Warne without any additional gunsmithing required. You can mount your scope and hit the range immediately.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 6.5 Creedmoor |
| Barrel Length | 22 Inches |
| Overall Length | 42 Inches (approx.) |
| Weight | 6.8 lbs |
| Stock | Mossy Green Synthetic |
| Magazine | Detachable Box, 4-Round Capacity |
Pros: Exceptional accuracy for the price. The 6.5 Creedmoor is a fantastically versatile cartridge. The included rail and Mossy Green stock are great practical features. The action is smooth and reliable. It’s a lightweight, easy-to-carry hunting rifle.
Cons: The trigger, while adjustable, is a bit spongy out of the box—a simple spring kit can clean it up. The stock is functional but feels a bit hollow; aftermarket chassis options from Magpul or MDT can upgrade it if you desire. The 4-round magazine capacity is adequate for hunting but limited for extended range sessions.
So who is this rifle for? It’s for the Missouri whitetail hunter who wants to ethically take a shot across a CRP field. It’s for the shooter looking to get into mid-range precision without a four-figure investment. It’s for the varminter who needs a cartridge that bucks the wind. If you need a dependable, accurate, and lightweight rifle that’s ready to hunt right now, this is a compelling choice. Remember, an FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases, and this model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is the scope rail pre-installed?
A: Yes. The rifle comes from the factory with a Picatinny-style scope rail already mounted and ready for your rings and optic. It’s a #8 screw pattern, compatible with most standard bases.
Q: What kind of accuracy can I expect?
A: With quality factory ammunition, sub-MOA (less than 1-inch groups at 100 yards) is a common and advertised result. I’ve consistently achieved that with several 140-grain match loads. The cold hammer-forged barrel and Power Bedding system are key here.
Q: Does it use proprietary magazines?
A: It uses Ruger’s American Rifle rotary magazine, which is specific to this model line. The 6.5 Creedmoor version holds 4 rounds. They are reliable and readily available if you want spares.
If you’re after a capable, accurate hunting rifle that won’t break the bank, the Ruger American Predator in 6.5 Creedmoor deserves a close look. See the full details on our site.
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