New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

Looks like a cosmic abortion of epic proportion...

As much love as Colonel Cooper had for Bill Ruger, I expect he's turning high rpm's in his grave.
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

Like it or not, it has some features (iron sights, one piece bolt, AI(?) mags, mauser extractor and safety blocking the firing pin itself) that I wish other rifles had.

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Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

I can't understand the target market for this.
Is it a CQB rifle (short barrel)? Then it should be semi-auto.

Why a ten shot mag on a short barrel bolt action rifle? Whatcha gonna do with it?
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Prairie Dog Dundee</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Reinvented Enfield No 5 Jungle Carbine? </div></div>

That's what I was thinking.
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

I actually kinda like it.

The only changes i would have, would be to change the stock, move/merge the rail and rear sight together, toss the crap flash hider (still keep it threaded), and make the barrel profile a bit heavier.


Ruger is definitely moving in the right direction, they just have some bugs to work out.

EDIT: ^ DISREGARD ALL OF THAT


What the fuck Ruger? A plastic trigger guard. Really....
Read the features section on the site, and click also includes.

Plastic trigger housing...
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Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: glock24</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Looks like they ripped off Skunkworks.

http://www.undergroundsw.com/page3.php

</div></div>

Originally I wasnt going to go with a 308 but who knows in the end I still might. I am in love with this rifle! The Specter-BABR is a sweet looking gun that is for sure.
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Pointblank4445</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Hate to break it to ya, but this concept pre-dates Skunkworks. </div></div>

I'm sure it does, but I'm not interested in your history lesson.

Please find me another currently available setup like the Skunkworks, and now Ruger models.

 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Pointblank4445</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Hate to break it to ya, but this concept pre-dates Skunkworks.</div></div>
So what you are saying is that you are intimately familiar with how long Mike has been working on his Specter Babr? Seems to me that considering the fact that his came out first, along with the facts that he is the only guy at Skunkworks developing new gun concepts (no R & D team) all while designing a ton of kick-ass parts AND completing costumer's builds, maybe it doesn't pre-date after all. I'm just speculating here, but my guess is that Mike has been working on his variant for a few years. Either way, the Skunkworks rifle is well done, while the Ruger attempt is dreadfully lacking, at best.
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: J-Ham</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Pointblank4445</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Hate to break it to ya, but this concept pre-dates Skunkworks.</div></div>
So what you are saying is that you are intimately familiar with how long Mike has been working on his Specter Babr? Seems to me that considering the fact that his came out first, along with the facts that he is the only guy at Skunkworks developing new gun concepts (no R & D team) all while designing a ton of kick-ass parts AND completing costumer's builds, maybe it doesn't pre-date after all. I'm just speculating here, but my guess is that Mike has been working on his variant for a few years. Either way, the Skunkworks rifle is well done, while the Ruger attempt is dreadfully lacking, at best. </div></div>

No, I think what he's trying to say is that the 1940s Enfield #5 jungle carbine was the first bolt-rifle of this design, thus pre-dating Skunkworks and maybe even Jeff Cooper's Scout rifle. Again, I'm not interested in the history lesson, but rather what rifle options are currently avaialable to me. Besides this new Ruger, Skunkworks is the only other choice that I know of.
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

I think its a great scout rifle.

I think its a first, newer design to older rifles on the market.

If it was in left hand, I still would not buy it.

The semi-auto is a better buy for a scout rifle.

John
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: glock24</div><div class="ubbcode-body">No, I think what he's trying to say is that the 1940s Enfield #5 jungle carbine was the first bolt-rifle of this design, thus pre-dating Skunkworks and maybe even Jeff Cooper's Scout rifle. Again, I'm not interested in the history lesson, but rather what rifle options are currently avaialable to me. Besides this new Ruger, Skunkworks is the only other choice that I know of.</div></div>
Oh, I see. Guess I was a little off (which most will tell you is par for the course).
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

I have always subscribed to the "Scout Rifle" concept at least in theory and while I agree that: 1) its a Ruger (YUCK); and 2) it has some downsides...there aren't too many companies offering factory rifles in this class so the market is out there if Ruger does it right (only time will tell). To my knowledge, unless you go with a custom, the only factory "scout" rifles are the ridiculously priced Steyrs, and Savage.

As for the stupid flash hider...the barrel is threaded standard 5/8x24 so any normal .30 cal muzzle attachment (suppressor or otherwise) will work in place of the mini-14 birdcage.

The polymer TG/magwell is also nothing new...if its done right (tall order for Ruger), then there is nothing per se wrong with the polymer setup on this rifle. But I tend to agree...I would have preferred a lightweight alloy instead of polymer.

I would also like to have seen this available with a lightweight synthetic stock in place of the heavier, laminated wood stock. Again...the idea of "scout" is lightweight and highly portable. If you stick true to that concept, shedding some weight from this 7lb sucker would have been a welcome change.

The biggest problem I foresee for Ruger on this (other than it being a Ruger)...is the $1k pricetag!!
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Top Cat</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Just further proof that ownership of Ruger really is Anti-2A.

TC </div></div>

You do realize that Bill Ruger died a long time ago? Since then Ruger has been putting out "Saturday Night Specials", hi-cap mags, and even their own AR-15. I'm not excusing Bill's past indiscretions, but it's time to move on.

They almost got it with this rifle. A model in 7.62x39 that accepts AK mags would be a home run.
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

Hopefully they manage to put the threads on straight, not much barrel to work with to fix it if their not concentric (for suppressor use).

The weight is at 7#, much lighter than that, and it becomes difficult (for me at least) to shoot much due to recoil.

If this is typical Ruger, it will come in retail around $700 I would bet.

I would also like an 18 inch bbl, that extra inch and a half really quiets things down. I'll bet with that break, the rifle will be a real fire breather.

I like it, however, I would have to see it in person before I bought one.
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

I think they need a 10 round morta mag??Damn magazine looks longer than the barrel....Too bad they don't make a semi-auto .308 like they're mini-14....oh,wait,then that'd be an M1a,right,right......

~R
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

I had some time behind a M77 .243 a few years back. But 5 into a 3/4" group with winchester supreme. I am a fan of their pistols and revolvers. While I dont care for the Mini-14s that our department uses, I think that is mainly due to the lack of care. While this new rifle probably isnt worth a grand, it looks like it may be handy and as accurate as their other bolt rifles. I dont see how its a rip off of anything. That statement could lead you to say that Badger, Seekins, Leupold, EGW, and everyone else is a rip off of one another for making Picatinny rails. Combining a scope mount, and BUIS is not a new concept.
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

Think anyone would manufacture a bottom metal for this rather than the reinforced glass/plastic combo. Also is that stock specific to that rifle or is it a generic one that can be replaced?

The SPECTER is a million times better! I am currently saving for one.
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

It is not fair to compare this Ruger with the skunk works gun. I can't beleive the comparison is being made. 4k versus 1k pricepoint. You could not expect it to have many features of the 4k gun at a 1 k pricepoint, Its a good offering for those who want the concept of the 4k gun but ain't got 4 gorrillas. I'd rather a good laminate than a milk jug stock too, 18" barrel would be better If they make it to Australia they will sell to pig hunters etc. We cannot have semis here.
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: sgtlmj</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Top Cat</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Just further proof that ownership of Ruger really is Anti-2A.

TC </div></div>

You do realize that Bill Ruger died a long time ago? Since then Ruger has been putting out "Saturday Night Specials", hi-cap mags, and even their own AR-15. I'm not excusing Bill's past indiscretions, but it's time to move on. </div></div>

You may be right...the Scout could be just a simple cluster f*** with no hidden agenda. After all, there's no reason to speculate about complicated conspiracy theories when stupidity is a sufficient explanation all by itself.

TC
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

Shit, I almost want one. If they'd hired me to spec this thing it would have been a home run.
grin.gif


If I can find a used one eventually for $600 or less I'll buy it, assuming it takes AICS mags.
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: JFComfort</div><div class="ubbcode-body">$1k! Holy Hannah! The Skunk works is $4k! Anything else that lands in the middle? </div></div>

Most used Styer Scouts sell between $1.3-1.5k...
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

Ruger pretty much held to the basics of what a scout rifle is supposed to be: Bolt action, magazine fed, forward mounted optic, iron sight backups, and .308 caliber. They're pushing the limit on the stock and inherent weight though, especially after you add an optic and mount you're now pushing 8 1/2 pounds or more.

A scout is definitely a niche shooter class of rifle but there will still be some that it will fill the needs for. Likely Ruger is going to come out with more varieties of this rifle too, as Ruger always does. I'm sure a lot of ranchers/farmers, outdoor guides, backpackers, etc would like to see it with a synthetic stock and stainless barrel. Hunters down south in the thick brush will appreciate it too. Maybe even a .223 model, although that goes against what the scout rifle was designed to be.

I can't stand that rear sight though. A 5/64 allen wrench to adjust the sight? They really could have done better than that. AR/M14 style or something really would have beat the PITA they used. Hell, an M240 style with the elevation adjustment and a tough but adjustable front sight would have fit the bill too, but maybe I'm asking too much from what is supposed to be a backup sighting system anyhow...

I believe they're close on this one, but not fully there. The street value price better be a whole lot better than that too. I know companies jack up their MSRP so when you buy a $1000 MSRP gun for $695, you feel good about it that you got one heck of a deal. It just better be that way once it hits the streets or they're going to be collecting a lot of dust.
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

If it dosnt say Styer it shouldnt say Scout
wink.gif
I did like the Savage attempt not sure if they are still made or not.

As for the rifle in question...I think they should have ditched the Mini 14 sights and flash hider and come up with something cleaner and just a threadded barrel. The price is just silly.

Edit: Savage is still making a scout and its about 680.00 street price MAP 800ish
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: DrDeath</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I like the skunkworks scout rifle. Now does anyone know if they will do that work on a customers Rem700? </div></div>


Anyone?

Also, the ruger frontier was a great scout rifle.
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Texagator</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: greentimber</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Shit, I almost want one. If they'd hired me to spec this thing it would have been a home run.
grin.gif


If I can find a used one eventually for $600 or less I'll buy it, assuming it takes AICS mags.

</div></div>
I feel the same way. I've been thinking about converting an older Savage Scout to accept AICS mags but never really pursued it. </div></div>

i bet CDI's bottom metal would work. same action as a 10 or 11 isnt it?
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

First off, I'll probably buy one to see for myself.
That being said, I think that 10 round single stack extended magazine monopod combo shoots "handiness" right in the ass. And handiness is a chief attribute of Cooper's "Scout Rifle" concept.

A 10 round double stack magazine that extended no further than the bottom of the trigger guard might be OK.

Personally I do not understand the interest in high capacity magazines for bolt action rifles (other than the Viagra factor).
Several folks have tried M-14 magazine conversions with Remington 700, Ruger 77's and to my knowledge most end up with awkward bolt action rifles that have feeding problems.

Mike Fletcher
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: DrDeath</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: DrDeath</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I like the skunkworks scout rifle. Now does anyone know if they will do that work on a customers Rem700? </div></div>


Anyone?

Also, the ruger frontier was a great scout rifle. </div></div>

Negative. I spoke with Mike about this design, and he needs to use a special receiver which allows room for the rear folding sight. A regular R700 receiver won't work.
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: glock24</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: DrDeath</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: DrDeath</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I like the skunkworks scout rifle. Now does anyone know if they will do that work on a customers Rem700? </div></div>


Anyone?

Also, the ruger frontier was a great scout rifle. </div></div>

Negative. I spoke with Mike about this design, and he needs to use a special receiver which allows room for the rear folding sight. A regular R700 receiver won't work.

</div></div>

G24 is right. The SPECTER-BABR is built on the UGSW Model 911 "Military" action.

kc1vn.jpg


2w66zvq.jpg


The "Military" is machined to accomodate the rear sight (among other features) and there's not enough meat in the rear of the R700 to accomplish this. I can easily do a SCOUT Version of the SPECTER that allows the mounting of optics rearward on the rail, or forward on the SCOUT/NV Mount.

We also build a SCOUT package (that's as close to the contents of the stone tablets drafted by Col. Cooper as you're gonna get) under my other company (WildCall Custom Rifles). It weighs in at less than six pounds and it's what I've hunted with here in Montana for the last two seasons....The Steyr is a pretty cool package, but it's lacking in execution in numerous areas.
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Widowmaker0001</div><div class="ubbcode-body">I think they need a 10 round morta mag??Damn magazine looks longer than the barrel....Too bad they don't make a semi-auto .308 like they're mini-14....oh,wait,then that'd be an M1a,right,right......

~R

</div></div>

Bill Ruger did manufacture a semi-auto .308 circa 1985- called the XGI. Due to accuracy issues (please, Mini haters, I know it's tough to hold your tongue...) it was never put into full scale production.

I wish they'd just re-design the Mini-30 as a .308 semi-auto.
 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

Texagator said "I truly respect Jeff Cooper and agree with most of his writings. He did great things for the shooting sports and the development of reality-based defensive shooting concepts. There's a lot of very professional shooters who feel it's OK to to build on his concepts and move ahead with them rather than staying within the very narrow lanes he often set for others and which are still rabidly adhered to by his acolytes. "

I probably should have prefaced my post by opening with "for my purposes". For me the handiness requirement of a scout rifle exceeds high magazine capacity requirement.

I am all for improvements, as long as they "improve". I also understand that Ruger, Remington, Savage, Winchester have to deliver a product that works reasonably well, appeals to sufficient buyers at a certain price point. That being said I will buy one of the new Ruger Scouts and see for myself.

Mike Fletcher



 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

Its kind of a cool rifle..too bad its wasnt made by remmy or FN.. Pretty sure Col. Cooper based a lot of his scout rifle concept off the Lee Enfeild jungle carbine..Even the Germans made their own Mauser alpine rifles.
I could see the use as a survival/backcountry gun..but as a fighting gun in this day and age of kick ass autoloaders?
crazy.gif

 
Re: New from Ruger: Gunsite Scout Rifle

<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Skunkworks</div><div class="ubbcode-body">The Steyr is a pretty cool package, but it's lacking in execution in numerous areas. </div></div>

Which areas would those be?
Thanks.