Description
Picture this: you’re at the range, the wind’s a bit gusty, and you need to reach out and touch a target at 150 yards with precision that doesn’t cost a dollar per shot. You want a rifle that’s accurate enough for serious target work, versatile enough for small game, and priced so you can afford to feed it. That’s the exact scenario where the Ruger American Target Rifle 22 Win Mag 18″ Threaded Barrel 10rd Mag shines. It’s a purpose-built, value-focused platform that delivers serious performance without the serious price tag.
The Ruger American Target Rifle in 22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (22 WMR) is a bolt-action rifle featuring an 18-inch threaded barrel, a 10-round rotary magazine, and Ruger’s Marksman Adjustable trigger. It’s designed for enhanced accuracy at longer ranges than standard .22 LR, offering a cost-effective step up for target shooters and hunters. Starting at $469.90, it bridges the gap between plinking fun and serious rimfire precision. Look, most shooters know the .22 LR’s limitations in the wind and at distance. The 22 WMR cartridge solves that with more velocity and energy, and Ruger built this rifle to harness it all. The best part? It’s drop-in ready for a suppressor or muzzle device, requiring no gunsmithing to get started.
Let’s talk about the core of this rifle: the 22 Win Mag cartridge itself. This isn’t your average rimfire. With muzzle velocities often exceeding 2000 fps, it flattens trajectory and bucks the wind better than a .22 LR, making those 100-150 yard shots more consistent. You get noticeably more reach without jumping to the cost and report of a centerfire. The cold hammer-forged, 18-inch barrel is capped with a 1/2″-28 threaded muzzle, a welcome feature that’s becoming standard on serious rimfires. It’s the perfect host for popular rimfire suppressors from brands like SilencerCo’s Sparrow or Dead Air’s Mask.
The heart of its accuracy lies in the Ruger Marksman Adjustable trigger. You can tune the pull weight to your preference, a feature usually reserved for more expensive guns. It breaks cleanly, and that alone can shave points off your group size. The rifle also uses a free-floated barrel, where the barrel channel is cut away so the wood doesn’t contact the barrel under varying conditions. This prevents point-of-impact shifts from pressure on the barrel, a key detail for repeatable accuracy. The overall weight sits at a manageable 6.2 pounds, making it steady off the bench but still handy in the field.
It feeds from a reliable, flush-fitting 10-round rotary magazine. This design is proven and keeps the profile sleek. The stock is a classic American hardwood, offering a solid feel and a traditional look that many shooters prefer over synthetic. The 13.75-inch length of pull accommodates most adult shooters comfortably. Is it a lightweight mountain rifle? No. But that extra heft in the stock helps steady your aim for target work. That said, the tradeoff for the wood stock at this price is that it’s not weatherproof like a synthetic—something to consider for all-conditions use.
Specifications
| Caliber | 22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire (22 WMR) |
| Barrel Length | 18 Inches |
| Barrel Type | Threaded (1/2″-28), Cold Hammer-Forged |
| Magazine Capacity | 10 Rounds |
| Trigger | Ruger Marksman Adjustable |
| Overall Weight | 6.2 lbs |
| Stock Material | American Hardwood |
Pros: Excellent out-of-the-box accuracy potential for the price. The adjustable trigger is a huge value-add. Threaded barrel is ready for a suppressor. The 22 WMR cartridge offers superior ballistics to .22 LR. Ruger’s reliability and customer service are well-established. Cons: Ammunition is more expensive than .22 LR. The hardwood stock, while attractive, is susceptible to moisture and dings compared to synthetic. It’s a bit heavier than some polymer-stocked alternatives.
So who is this rifle for? It’s ideal for the budget-conscious shooter who wants to stretch their rimfire range for target practice, varmint control, or small game hunting. It’s a fantastic “next step” rifle for someone who has mastered a .22 LR and wants more capability without the recoil and cost of a centerfire. It’s also a great option for Missouri hunters pursuing raccoons, foxes, or coyotes at moderate ranges where a centerfire is overkill. This model is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide where compliant.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: How does the 22 WMR compare to .17 HMR?
A: Both are step-up rimfire cartridges. The .17 HMR is extremely fast and flat-shooting but can be more affected by wind and is often more expensive. The 22 WMR hits harder with a heavier bullet, is better in wind at typical ranges, and ammo can be slightly easier to find. It’s largely a preference based on your primary use.
Q: Is the barrel truly free-floated?
A: Yes. The barrel channel in the hardwood stock is intentionally cut wider than the barrel’s diameter, so from the receiver forward, the barrel does not touch the stock. This prevents pressure points from altering the barrel’s harmonic vibration, which is critical for consistent accuracy shot-to-shot.
Q: Can I use .22 Long Rifle ammunition in this rifle?
A: Absolutely not. The 22 WMR chamber is longer and specifically sized for the larger, more powerful 22 Magnum cartridge. Firing a .22 LR in a 22 WMR chamber is unsafe and can cause catastrophic failure. Only use 22 Winchester Magnum Rimfire ammunition.
If you’re looking for a capable, accurate, and versatile rimfire that punches above its weight class without punching a hole in your wallet, the Ruger American Target Rifle in 22 WMR deserves a close look. See the full details on our site.
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