You’re looking for a mid-range hunting rifle that can handle whitetail, black bear, or even moose in thick timber, but you don’t want to spend a fortune on a custom rig. You need something that’s accurate out of the box, reliable in the cold, and chambered in a cartridge that hits hard without punishing your shoulder. Is the Ruger American Predator Gen II the rifle that bridges the gap between budget and performance?
Imbertsmithersarms is a Grand Forks, ND-based retailer specializing in hunting and shooting gear for the practical outdoorsman. The Ruger American Predator Rifle Gen II in Green/Bronze .350 Legend is a purpose-built bolt-action rifle designed for modern hunters. Its key differentiator is the Marksman Adjustable trigger system and a free-floated, hammer-forged barrel for consistent, sub-MOA accuracy. This rifle is available now for $584.99 with same-day shipping from our North Dakota warehouse.
Reviewed by Cody Ramirez, E-Commerce Director at Imbertsmithersarms. 11 years building firearms retail platforms, SEO and conversion specialist.
Last updated: April 2026
Why This Ruger American Predator Rifle Gen II Stands Out
Having handled more rifles than I can count over the last decade, I can tell you the value here is in the execution. Ruger didn’t just slap a new stock on an old action. The Gen II platform addresses the real-world feedback from hunters like us. The .350 Legend chambering is a major part of the story—it’s a straight-wall cartridge that’s legal for deer in many rifle-restricted states, it has manageable recoil, and factory ammo is still relatively available and budget-conscious compared to some other big-game rounds. The green and bronze cerakote finish isn’t just for looks; it’s a durable layer of protection against the rain, snow, and brush you’ll encounter from the Dakota badlands to the Minnesota north woods. This is a rifle built for the hunter who spends opening day in a stand, not just at the bench.
Detailed Specifications
Let’s get into the nuts and bolts. Here are the full specs for the Ruger American Predator Rifle Gen II in .350 Legend.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Product Type | Bolt-Action Centerfire Rifle |
| Material (Action/Barrel) | Alloy Steel / Carbon Steel |
| Material (Stock) | Polymer |
| Manufacturing | Ruger, USA |
| Finish | Green/Bronze Cerakote |
| Hardness/Quality | Hammer-Forged Barrel, Sub-MOA Guarantee |
| Compatibility | Accepts Ruger American Rotary Magazines |
| Installation/Usage | Ready to Fire (FFL Required) |
| Weight | Approx. 6.2 lbs |
| Dimensions (Barrel Length) | 18″ Barrel |
| Country of Origin | United States |
| Condition | New in Factory Box |
| SKU | 736676091304 |
How It Stacks Up: Ruger vs. The Competition
When you’re shopping in this price range, you’re likely comparing a few options. Here’s a head-to-head look to help you decide.
| Feature | Ruger American Predator Gen II (.350 Legend) | Savage Axis II XP Package (.350 Legend) | Tikka T3x Lite (.308 Win) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Material & Build | Alloy steel action, hammer-forged barrel, cerakote finish. | Carbon steel, blued finish. Often includes a scope package. | Stainless steel options, high-grade polymer stock. |
| Quality & Accuracy | Sub-MOA guarantee with Marksman Adjustable trigger. | Good accuracy, AccuTrigger system is solid. | Exceptional out-of-the-box accuracy, smooth action. |
| Compatibility | Uses Ruger’s proprietary rotary magazines. | Uses Savage detachable box magazines. | Uses Tikka/Sako magazines. |
| Shipping & FFL | Same-day shipping from ND. FFL required. | Standard shipping. FFL required. | Often longer lead times, higher shipping cost. FFL required. |
| Lifespan & Durability | Built for hard use; cerakote resists corrosion. | Durable but finish may show wear faster. | Extremely durable, known for long-term reliability. |
| Price Point | $584.99 (rifle only) | ~$450-$550 (often with scope) | ~$850+ (rifle only) |
The Ruger sits in a sweet spot. It offers better materials and a superior trigger to the budget Savage package guns, but comes in at a significantly lower price than the premium Tikka. You’re paying for the rifle’s core performance, not a bundled optic you might replace anyway.
The Honest Pros and Cons
After years of talking to customers, here’s the real-world breakdown.
Pros:
- ✅ Sub-MOA Accuracy Guarantee: This isn’t marketing fluff. With good ammo, this rifle shoots tight groups right from the factory.
- ✅ Marksman Adjustable Trigger: A clean, crisp break that’s user-adjustable from 3 to 5 pounds. It makes a noticeable difference in the field.
- ✅ .350 Legend Chambering: Perfect for hunters in straight-wall-only states. Low recoil, effective on medium to large game.
- ✅ Durable Cerakote Finish: The green/bronze isn’t just pretty; it protects against the elements season after season.
- ✅ Lightweight & Handy: At just over 6 pounds, it’s easy to carry all day and quick to shoulder in a blind.
- ✅ Free-Floated Barrel: Enhances accuracy by preventing the stock from contacting the barrel under different conditions.
Cons:
- ❌ Proprietary Magazines: You’re locked into Ruger’s rotary mags. They’re reliable, but spares are an extra cost. See our magazine section for extras.
- ❌ Polymer Stock Feel: While durable and lightweight, some shooters prefer the heft and feel of a composite or wood stock. For that premium feel, check out our higher-end bolt-action rifles.
- ❌ 18″ Barrel: Great for maneuverability, but you’ll sacrifice some muzzle velocity compared to a 22″ or 24″ barrel. For maximum long-range ballistics, a different cartridge and barrel length might be better.
Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy This Rifle
Buy it if:
- You’re a deer hunter in a Midwest or Eastern state with straight-wall cartridge regulations.
- You want a reliable, accurate hunting rifle without a $1,000+ price tag.
- You value low recoil but still need effective stopping power for deer and black bear.
- You’re a budget-conscious shooter who still demands quality (a common theme in our concealed carry lifestyle community).
- You need a durable rifle that can handle wet, cold weather without constant babysitting.
Skip it if:
- You’re primarily a long-range target shooter or hunting open country where shots exceed 300 yards regularly. (The .350 Legend is a 250-yard-and-in cartridge).
- You absolutely despise polymer stocks and want only wood or high-end composite.
- You’re looking for a rifle with massive aftermarket support for custom chassis systems. The Gen II is new, so options are still growing.
Common Concerns & Questions
“Is the .350 Legend enough for elk or moose?”
For elk, it’s at the absolute minimum end of the ethical spectrum with perfect shot placement and premium bullets. I’d recommend it for dedicated deer and bear hunters. For moose or elk, most guides I know would point you toward a .30-caliber magnum or similar. We have plenty of options for larger game.
“How does it handle with a suppressor?”
The 18″ barrel and .350 Legend make it a fantastic candidate for suppression. Recoil and report are already mild; adding a can makes it a joy to shoot. Just remember the threading is 5/8″-24.
“Can I use my existing scope mounts?”
The receiver is pre-drilled and tapped for Remington 700-style scope bases. This is a huge plus—it means you have a world of affordable and high-quality mount options available immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I buy the Ruger American Predator Rifle Gen II online?
You can purchase it right here at Imbertsmithersarms (imbertsmithersarms.com). We are an authorized Ruger dealer based in Grand Forks, ND, and we ship quickly and discreetly to your local FFL holder.
What is the effective range of the .350 Legend cartridge?
For ethical hunting of deer-sized game, most consider 200-250 yards the practical maximum. The cartridge is designed for brush hunting and shorter ranges, where its flat trajectory and good energy retention within that window really shine.
Does this rifle come with a magazine?
Yes, it includes one 4-round rotary magazine. We strongly recommend picking up a spare magazine or two for convenience during hunting season, which you can add to your order.
Is the barrel threaded for a muzzle device?
Yes, the 18″ barrel features a 5/8″-24 thread pattern, making it ready for a muzzle brake, compensator, or suppressor (subject to local laws and NFA regulations).
What type of scope base do I need?
The Ruger American Predator Gen II uses a standard Remington 700 short-action footprint for scope bases. This is one of the most common patterns, so you’ll have many affordable and high-quality options to choose from.
How does the Gen II differ from the original American Predator?
The Gen II features an improved Marksman Adjustable trigger, a new stock with a more vertical pistol grip and integrated sling attachment points, and a redesigned bolt shroud. It’s a meaningful evolution of a proven platform.
Is this a good rifle for a new hunter?
Absolutely. The manageable recoil of the .350 Legend, the easy-to-use adjustable trigger, and the lightweight design make it an excellent choice for someone getting into hunting. Its affordability leaves room in the budget for a good optic and other essential gear.
Ready to Order? Here’s What You Can Expect
✅ Same-day shipping from Grand Forks, ND
✅ Discreet packaging
✅ 30-day returns
✅ Secure checkout
This Ruger American Predator Rifle Gen II represents what I consider smart spending in the hunting world. You’re getting Ruger’s legendary toughness, a modern, effective cartridge, and accuracy that belies its price tag. It’s the kind of rifle you can grab on a frosty morning and trust completely.
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About this review: This assessment is based on hands-on experience with the firearm, manufacturer specifications, and feedback from the hunting community. As an E-Commerce Director with over a decade in firearms retail, my goal is to provide practical, honest information to help you make an informed purchase. Prices and availability are subject to change.
Last updated: April 2026




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