Description
Picture this: you’re at the range, the wind is a non-issue, and your target is a crisp 100 yards out. You need a rifle that’s more than a plinker but won’t break the bank. That’s where the Ruger American Rimfire Target, .22 WMR, 18″, 9rd, Laminate Black Stock carves its niche. It’s a purpose-built, value-focused platform for the shooter who demands precision from a rimfire without the centerfire price tag.
The Ruger American Rimfire Target is a bolt-action rifle chambered in .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR). It features an 18-inch heavy, threaded barrel, a 9-round rotary magazine, and a laminate black stock with an adjustable comb and buttpad, all designed for enhanced accuracy right out of the box.
Let’s talk about the foundation of its accuracy: that 18-inch heavy barrel. It’s not just for looks—the added mass reduces vibration and barrel whip, promoting consistent shot placement. The barrel is also threaded, a feature you often pay extra for on other models. This means you can attach a muzzle brake or suppressor (where legal) without needing a gunsmith. The rifle is drop-in ready for optics, too, thanks to its integrated scope bases that accept standard Ruger rings, the same ones used on many of their centerfire American rifles. That’s a smart bit of cross-compatibility that saves you money and hassle.
The laminate stock is where this model separates itself from the standard American Rimfire. Laminate is more stable than standard synthetic or wood, resisting warping from moisture and temperature shifts. The adjustable comb lets you get a perfect cheek weld for your scope, and the length-of-pull spacers ensure the rifle fits you. This level of user-adjustability is typically found on rifles costing hundreds more. At a price of $479.01, the value proposition becomes clear when you compare it to target rifles from CZ or Bergara, which often start in a higher bracket.
Here’s the thing—the heart of the system is Ruger’s reliable rotary magazine. It feeds .22 WMR smoothly and is famously durable. The 9-round capacity gives you plenty of shots before a reload, and spare magazines are affordable and easy to find. The tang safety is intuitive and easily accessible, a hallmark of the American series design. Weighing in at approximately 6.5 lbs, it has a solid, planted feel on the bench that aids stability.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR) |
| Barrel Length | 18″ Heavy, Threaded (1/2″-28) |
| Magazine Capacity | 9 Rounds (Rotary Mag) |
| Stock | Laminate Black, Adjustable Comb & LOP |
| Action | Bolt-Action |
| Overall Length | Approx. 38.5″ |
Pros: Outstanding accuracy potential for the price. The adjustable laminate stock is a huge upgrade. Threaded barrel is included. Uses proven, reliable Ruger rotary magazines. Excellent platform for learning precision shooting fundamentals.
Cons: .22 WMR ammo is more expensive than .22 LR. The rifle is heavier than a standard sporter, by design. The bolt throw is functional but not as butter-smooth as some higher-end competitors.
So who is this rifle for? It’s ideal for the budget-conscious precision enthusiast, the small-game hunter who takes long shots, or the shooter wanting a dedicated, low-recoil practice rifle that mimics the feel of a larger caliber target gun. It’s also a fantastic choice for a new shooter being introduced to scoped, precision rifle shooting without the noise and cost of a centerfire.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use .22 Long Rifle ammunition in this rifle?
A: No. This model is specifically chambered for .22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (.22 WMR). It is not safe to fire .22 LR, .22 Short, or .22 Long in this firearm. Always use the correct ammunition as marked on the barrel.
Q: What scope rings does it use?
A: The receiver has integrated Picatinny-style scope bases. It uses standard Ruger scope rings (#4 and #6, or equivalent aftermarket rings designed for Ruger American bases). This is the same system used on the Ruger American Rifle centerfire models, so ring options are plentiful.
Q: Is the magazine interchangeable with other Ruger .22 models?
A: Yes, the rotary magazine is compatible with other Ruger American Rimfire models chambered in .22 WMR. It is not compatible with magazines for the 10/22 or with .22 LR versions of the American Rimfire.
This Ruger American Rimfire Target represents a serious value for a dedicated small-caliber precision platform. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. FFL transfer required for firearm purchases.
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