Ruger Scout HD setup

[1859sharps]

Bolt rifle is the last on my list of things to grab for HD purposes. So many better tools out there to efficiently repel boarders.

I find it interesting that people will nominate say a "m4" like AR for self/HD, but then discount a bolt rifle for the same exact environment. FeuerFrei, I know you didn't specifically mention ARs, but in may cases "better options" or "better tools" when asked for more leads to a suggestion of semi auto rifles

I think there are two reasons.

1. most people associate bolt rifles with the image of a typical 24inch barrel with 3x9 scope deer rifle. While I would agree is better than nothing, it isn't much better. But that isn't the only configuration we are limited to for bolt rifles.

2. thinking all self defense situations will have "hordes" of attackers, requires lots of fast shooting and "tac" reloads. which in a society at peace like we are, isn't very probable.


Question however was can a bolt action rifle make a good HD choice. I think with some thought and training the answer is yes.

Ruger GSR
Ruger American Ranch
Rem 700 sps compact threaded barrel (20" barrel)
Rem 7
Mossberg MVP
Howa mini action
CZ 527

The above are examples of bolt rifles that could out of the box or with simple modification lend them self to being a rifle for defense.

Yes, technically the bolt rifle is obsolete. But so is the revolver, and people still choose and successfully use resolvers for self defense.

It's that first shot that is sooooo critical. A semi auto will NOT help you make that shot quicker or more accurat, nor will a lever rifle or a pump shotgun. So, why wouldn't a bolt gun be a viable option?

[splithoof]

[1859sharps]

I actually have a very, vary rare copy of Richards book...numbered, but not signed. some how my copy got out without him signing it.

[splithoof]

I actually have a very, vary rare copy of Richards book...numbered, but not signed. some how my copy got out without him signing it.

PM inbound.

[elSquid]

you misunderstand. cost isn't not a factor in viability. again, something is viable or not it's not. Cost IS a factor in choice between two viable options.

Oh, I understood your point the first time that it was made.

It's that first shot that is sooooo critical. A semi auto will NOT help you make that shot quicker or more accurat, nor will a lever rifle or a pump shotgun. So, why wouldn't a bolt gun be a viable option?

With that logic, why wouldn't a single shot be just as viable an option as a bolt action rifle for inside the home?

A .223 single shot has the added bonuses of potentially being lighter and shorter ( since no long receiver is needed to feed cartridges from a magazine to the chamber ).

-- Michael

[Imageview]

A bolt action or even single shot is viable for home defense in the majority of cases where a home defense weapon could be needed. It puts more pressure on the shooter, but to paraphrase a famous photographer the best firearm is one you have with you. Home invasions are rare, ones that involve multiple offenders even more so.

I just don't think a lot of accessories are going to substantially improve its function. The longest possible shot in my home is maybe 10 yards. Now my place is small, but I don't think many of us are getting beyond 15. I don't really see the hipfire argument with a bolt gun and the laser. A light, sure. That makes the most sense.

But on the other hand if the op wants an optic, laser, light etc. it's all them. I just don't think the added weight and complications make it function better enough for this particular use to be worthwhile.

[W.R.Buchanan]

nice.

i have snap caps and planning on dry firing and running the bolt until they are chewed up beyond recognition, just like i do with every new gun.

out of curiosity, which rail did you install over the action, and has that affected anything?

It is an XS Scout Rail. It has a Peep Sight in the rear and attaches to that rear screw and two in the front. Works just fine.

Randy

[Yute]

For HD I think the 5.56 version is a better option. Shame they discontinued them.

[1859sharps]

I don't really see the hipfire argument with a bolt gun and the laser. A light, sure. That makes the most sense.

agreed.

firing from the hip is PURE Hollywood and anti gun* fantasy. even if you put a laser on the rifle, you still, if you are serious about doing it right and living, would want shoot properly. as in mount the rifle properly etc, etc.

when we shoot to save our lives, every bullet needs to be justified and accounted for. anything that risks the bullet not reaching a justified target (such as shooting from the hip) should be tossed on the garbage pile.

Remember, when shooting to end a threat/save a life, this is NOT the time for trick shooting. you will be under stress, you might even hesitate a little, maybe question just a little "is this really happening" etc... the last thing that should be added into this equation is "trick" shooting. Focus on the basics as well as sound rifle handling/shooting techniques that are known to get the job done quick, likely clean and successful as well as places the least risk to those not engaged.



*past pro ban arguments were that pistol grips made it easier to shoot from the hip.

[1859sharps]

For HD I think the 5.56 version is a better option. Shame they discontinued them.

I agree that inside the house/apartment/town home/condo in an urban or town environment a 5.56 rifle is probably the right cambering for HD rifle vs say 308.

Just because the Ruger GSR isn't offered in 5.56 anymore doesn't mean you are out of options.

Ruger American Ranch rifle, detachable AR magazine, 1 in 8 twist, 16 inch barrel red dot scope in would be a good alternate choice to the GSR no longer available.

If you live on a farm, ranch, more rural with more distance and obstacles between houses, a 308 would make a better choice due to versatility.

[W.R.Buchanan]

For HD I think the 5.56 version is a better option. Shame they discontinued them.

That is a nicely set up gun! I like the RMR Dot? I think there are still GSR's in .223 at big distributors. If they had all sold,, Ruger would make more.

Ruger is pretty attuned to public needs and wants and they do listen.

However they do have a pretty good Ruger American Rifle in .223 that uses P mags. Which is kind of the low cost version of the GSR .223. It is also much lighter which would be preferable in a gun that you'd to carry alot

I have a friend who has one and he brings it to our 3 gun shoots and lets others use it. It is a very good little rifle and completely usable in a Combat Scenario. You just have to adjust your technique and expectations. Once you learn the short comings of a bolt gun you can work around them quite easily. They did it for 2 World Wars, and right now the opponents you'd face are way less trained and competent than we are.

Randy

[splithoof]

They did it for 2 World Wars, and right now the opponents you'd face are way less trained and competent than we are.

Randy

True statement about bolt rifles. However, I would NEVER underestimate the potential for armed criminal adversaries to be highly trained, experienced, and motivated. I know for certain that one of the criminal participants in the famous 1986 FBI shootout in Miami had prior military experience. There have been others as well.

[200Apples]

For HD I think the 5.56 version is a better option. Shame they discontinued them.

Nice setup. Thanks for the photo.

I'm going to disagree with you here on 5.56 being a better HD option.

A subsonic, larger diameter projectile would be the way to go, hence the OP's .350 Legend inquiry a good one.

[Yute]

That is a nicely set up gun! I like the RMR Dot? I think there are still GSR's in .223 at big distributors. If they had all sold,, Ruger would make more.

I have had some issues with the RMR dot turning off when the barrel heats up with extended strings of fire (the scout mount gets hot fast), even with the RMR sealing plate. I'll likely be switching it out with an Aimpoint Micro.

I do think the GSR is heavier than it needs to be for its caliber. I have a Mossberg MVP Patrol as well and for some reason it feels lighter despite being the same weight.

I agree that COL Cooper would probably see a 5.56 Scout as an absolute abomination.

[elSquid]

I agree that COL Cooper would probably see a 5.56 Scout as an absolute abomination.

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