Ruger’s Ranch Rifle has always been a practical pick, but the Gen 2 version tightens things up without pushing the price out of reach. It’s compact, easy to shoot, and chambered in calibers people actually use. For the money, it’s one of the most versatile rifles out there.
If you’re after a budget-friendly bolt gun that’s just as happy in the woods as it is in the back seat of a truck, this one’s worth a serious look.
Compact Size That Works Anywhere
The Gen 2 Ranch keeps the short 16-inch barrel, which makes it easy to carry, store, and maneuver. It’s one of those rifles that doesn’t feel like a burden—even when you’re dragging it through the brush.
For close-range hunting, ranch duty, or just a general-purpose beater rifle, that short length really makes a difference. It shoulders fast and doesn’t get in the way.
Threaded Barrel and Brake Included
Ruger added a radial muzzle brake and kept the threaded barrel standard on the Gen 2. It’s ready for a suppressor or flash hider right out of the box—no extra work needed.
The brake helps tame recoil a bit, especially in calibers like .350 Legend. And if you’d rather run it quiet, just spin on a suppressor and go.
Caliber Selection Still Makes Sense
The Ranch Gen 2 is available in practical chamberings like 5.56, .300 Blackout, 7.62×39, and .350 Legend. These aren’t just popular—they’re smart picks for hunting, homestead defense, or even plinking.
It’s nice having options that match ammo you might already stock, especially in rifles that could pull double-duty on the range or in the field.
Yes, It Still Takes AR Mags
The original Ranch already accepted AR mags in calibers like 5.56 and .300 BLK—and the Gen 2 sticks with that design. That’s a good thing. Mags are cheap, easy to find, and dead reliable.
It’s one of the Ranch Rifle’s most practical features, and Ruger was smart to keep it. If you’re already invested in AR gear, this makes things simple.
Improved Stock With Better Grip
The Gen 2 stock got a subtle but welcome facelift. It’s got better texturing, an adjustable length of pull, and feels a little more solid overall. Still lightweight, still synthetic—just done a little better.
For a rifle in this price range, the stock’s actually useful. It holds up in rough conditions and doesn’t feel like it’s going to flex or warp.
Surprisingly Fun to Shoot
The short length, low recoil, and solid ergonomics make this one of those rifles that’s just enjoyable to run. It’s not picky, doesn’t need pampering, and feels like something you can trust.
That’s what makes it easy to recommend. It’s not just affordable—it’s a rifle people want to shoot again.
Reliable in Rough Conditions
At the end of the day, this thing still wears the Ruger name. It feeds well, holds zero, and shrugs off the elements. You’re not getting a fancy finish or high-end extras, but you’re getting a gun that works.
It’s the kind of rifle that’ll get tossed in the truck, used hard, and still be ready for hunting season.
Suppressor-Ready from the Factory
Ruger kept the standard thread pattern—1/2×28 or 5/8×24 depending on caliber—which means you can run a can with no adapters or extra parts. It’s a great fit for .300 BLK especially, where suppressors are basically expected.
If you’re building a quiet, budget-friendly bolt gun, this is a solid starting point.
You’ll Actually Use It
Some rifles look great on paper but never leave the safe. This isn’t one of them. It’s simple, reliable, and accurate enough to trust on a hunt or at the range.
You don’t have to baby it. You don’t have to overthink it. It just works—and for under $600, that’s tough to beat right now.
*This article was developed with AI-powered tools and has been carefully reviewed by our editors.
