Description
Picture this: you’re at the range, the sun’s out, and you’re looking to tighten your groups without emptying your wallet. You want a rifle that feels like an extension of your aim, not a toy. That’s the niche the Ruger American Rimfire Target, .22 LR, 18″, 10rd, Thumbhole Stock, Stainless Steel fills perfectly. It’s a purpose-built .22 LR bolt-action rifle designed for precision shooting on a budget, offering serious ergonomics and reliable performance right out of the box.
Here’s the thing—for just $503.64, you get a feature set that challenges rifles costing hundreds more. The foundation is Ruger’s proven American Rimfire action, known for its crisp trigger and reliable feeding. But the Target model isn’t your standard plinker. It’s been upgraded where it counts for the shooter who values consistency and comfort during long sessions. The 18-inch cold hammer-forged barrel provides a solid sight radius and optimal balance, weighing in at a manageable 6.2 pounds for steady offhand or benchrest shooting.
The star of the show is undoubtedly the laminated hardwood thumbhole stock. This isn’t just for looks. It forces a consistent, ergonomic grip that naturally aligns your hand with the trigger, reducing muscle fatigue and promoting better trigger control. The comb height is designed for use with optics, so you can mount a scope and get a proper cheek weld without needing aftermarket risers. It’s drop-in ready for a quality scope, making setup a breeze. The stock also features a wide, beavertail forend that sits rock-steady on sandbags or a bipod, a critical detail for precision work.
Ruger didn’t stop at the stock. The stainless steel barrel and receiver offer superior corrosion resistance, which is a practical advantage for outdoor use in Missouri’s variable humidity. The 10-round rotary magazine is a Ruger hallmark—it feeds smoothly and sits flush with the stock for a clean profile. A major value-add is its magazine compatibility; it uses the same magazines as the iconic Ruger 10/22, one of the most popular .22 rifles ever made. That means spare mags are affordable and ubiquitous.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .22 Long Rifle |
| Barrel Length | 18 Inches |
| Overall Length | 38.5 Inches |
| Weight | 6.2 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 Rounds |
| Stock Material | Laminated Hardwood Thumbhole |
| Finish | Stainless Steel |
Pros: The thumbhole stock provides exceptional ergonomics and stability for the price. Stainless steel construction offers great durability with minimal maintenance. Uses affordable, widely available Ruger 10/22 magazines. The adjustable trigger is a standout feature in this price range. The rifle is optics-ready with a proper comb height.
Cons: The laminated stock adds weight compared to synthetic options—great for the bench, less ideal for long carry times. As a target-focused model, it lacks iron sights, requiring an optic purchase upfront. The thumbhole design may not suit every shooter’s preferred grip style.
So who is this rifle for? It’s ideal for the new shooter wanting to learn precision fundamentals without a centerfire’s cost and recoil. It’s for the seasoned marksman seeking an affordable, low-recoil trainer to maintain skills. It’s a perfect match for the Missouri squirrel hunter who also enjoys ringing steel at 100 yards on the weekend. This rifle is about getting more bang-for-your-buck in performance, not just making noise.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Does this rifle come with iron sights or a scope?
A: No, it does not. The Ruger American Rimfire Target is designed from the ground up for use with a telescopic sight or other optics. The stock’s comb height is specifically shaped to give you a proper cheek weld when using a scope. You’ll need to budget for a quality .22-rated optic to complete your setup.
Q: What kind of accuracy can I expect from this rifle?
A: With its free-floated, cold hammer-forged barrel and crisp, adjustable trigger, this rifle is capable of sub-MOA accuracy with match-grade ammunition. That means it can consistently group shots under an inch at 100 yards with the right ammo and shooter. It’s significantly more accurate than most standard .22 LR sporter rifles right from the factory.
Q: Is the thumbhole stock adjustable?
A: The thumbhole stock itself is not adjustable for length of pull or comb height. However, its dimensions are designed to fit a wide range of adult shooters comfortably. The real benefit is the fixed, ergonomic geometry that promotes a repeatable shooting position—a key to consistent accuracy. For a budget-friendly target rifle, a fully adjustable stock would push the price much higher.
If you’re looking for a .22 that bridges the gap between a basic plinker and a high-end competition gun, the Ruger American Rimfire Target makes a compelling case. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. See the full details on our site.
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