The Firing Line Forums - View Single Post - Durability of budget bolt-action rifles

jmr40 · July 21, 2014, 06:47 AM

I own a couple of Ruger American's and consider them the best of the lot. I have no illusions that they will be as durable long term as a Ruger Hawkeye or Winchester 70.

But I bought 2 for less than 1 of the others cost and they are plenty accurate. I wouldn't want to have any of the budget guns in my hand if my life depended on it working though. I bought them to keep in the truck or ATV. If one gets stolen or falls off the ATV I won't worry about losing or damaging a $1,000 rifle.

13 months is way too soon to make any judgements as to durability. Get back with us in 13 years and we'll have some idea then.

July 21, 2014, 06:47 AM	#4
jmr40 Senior Member Join Date: June 15, 2008 Location: Georgia Posts: 10,809	I own a couple of Ruger American's and consider them the best of the lot. I have no illusions that they will be as durable long term as a Ruger Hawkeye or Winchester 70. But I bought 2 for less than 1 of the others cost and they are plenty accurate. I wouldn't want to have any of the budget guns in my hand if my life depended on it working though. I bought them to keep in the truck or ATV. If one gets stolen or falls off the ATV I won't worry about losing or damaging a $1,000 rifle. 13 months is way too soon to make any judgements as to durability. Get back with us in 13 years and we'll have some idea then.