Ruger American: One of 2020's Best-Selling Bolt-Actions

Ruger introduced its American Rimfire rifle in 2013 and the bolt-actions include many of the features that made its center-fire American Rifle so popular. Both continue to be top sellers for those looking for budget-friendly options that perform.

American Rimfires chamber .17 HMR, .22 LR or .22 WMR, depending on the version selected. There’s plenty to choose from, with five distinct model lines for the rifle, and variations within each. 

The Standard models all come with a polymer stock, in either black, camouflage options and or distributor-exclusive finishes. It is available in all three chamberings and comes in 16", 18" and 22" barrels, depending on model. Rate of rifling varies by cartridge, as does the rotary magazine capacity. It uses the same magazines as Ruger 10/22s.

Barrels are threaded 1/2"x28 TPI for muzzle devices, many include a receiver mounted rail for optics and those that don’t have a fiber-optic up front and the rear is adjustable (and those guns are tapped for mounting scope bases). The rifles also come with the Ruger Marksman Adjustable trigger. Add sling swivels with a 60-degree bolt throw and you have a great rifle with MSRPs that run from $359 to $469.

The company also offers a Compact line, Target, Long-Range Target and Wood Stock model for a more traditional look. Some come with spacers for adjusting length of pull and an adjustable comb. Add a generous recoil pad and the company’s Patented Power Bedding and it’s hard to go wrong with Ruger’s American Rimfire. There are even wood laminated stock versions available, some thumbhole style.

Splurge and the most expensive model, the head-turning Long-Range Target, will set you back $599. With all these features, at this price, it’s little wonder the Ruger American Rimfire claimed second place among bolt actions sold on Gunbroker.com last year.