The Ruger American Gen II bolt is CNC machined from stainless steel for smooth operation and the familiar three-lug design with a 70 degree throw provides ample scope clearance. Features a splatter finished stock that provides excellent grip without being too sharp or abrasive; installed spacer allows for length of pull to be adjusted; low comb improves sight alignment when using optics; medium contour, spiral fluted, threaded barrel; factory-installed radial port muzzle brake; 3-position tang safety; Ruger Marksman Adjustable trigger and Picatinny rail. Includes one magazine and steel sling swivel studs.
This rifle sighted in easily using Winchester 215-grain Power Point. Unfortunately, the Deer Season XP 190-grain wasn’t available while sighting in for deer season. On the first day in the woods, I took my first shot with the 400 Legend and harvested an 8-pointer at 105 yards—it dropped right where it stood. I’ve owned a 450 Bushmaster and still own a 350 Legend, and I can definitely feel the difference in recoil between each one. Everything about this rifle seems well thought out. The only improvement I could see would be offering a 3-shot flush magazine. I would definitely buy another one.
I think Ruger may have knocked it out of the park with their version of the .400 Legend. Bear with me, I don't do a lot of reviews. Out of the box, I was impressed with the overall look and feel of the rifle. The grey Cerakote is amazing. The grey splatter on the synthetic stock really looks good to me. The stock also has a rough feel to it, allowing you to maintain grip in less than good weather. I mounted a 50mm straight-wall scope with low scope mounts; it fits perfectly. Now, the good stuff: I shot under a MOA group 4 out of 4 times, shooting 3-shot groups twice, and 5-shot groups twice, allowing the rifle to cool. I shot right at a 1-inch MOA at 200 yards twice with 3-shot groups, and a 1 1/2-inch group once at 200 yards. Cons: Picky recoil pad is a little hard in the middle and stiff on the ends. Would like to have a choice of AR-style or flat magazine. Pros: Cerakote finish, rough stock for grip but not uncomfortable, 3-position safety, no zipper sound when sliding the bolt. Overall, I give this rifle a 5 out of 5. Some will say that the few additions are not enough to make it a new generation; I believe it does. The 3-position safety and no zipper bolt are enough in my opinion. Throw in the cheek rest and adjustable length of pull, and yes, it's the next gen. The price was $579 at the time of purchase, which I think is definitely worth it. When you factor in the Accu-Trigger, muzzle brake, 3-pos safety, and adjustable LOP, it's definitely worth it. I will try to come back and update my review after hunting with it this season. I definitely recommend it because now I also want the 16-inch barrel version with the fluted barrel.