Bought a Ruger Gunsite Scout Rifle today!

I went to my favorite gun store this morning to trade for a new Ruger Gunsite Scout Rifle (GSR hereafter) after a lot of research and consideration.

In addition to my new GSR I currently also own a DSA FAL, DSA FAL Para, and Springfield Armory M1A.

The reasons I wanted the GSR include (since I already had three other 7.62x51mm rifles):

1) I've always been a fan of the Scout concept, but very much disliked the weight and poor balance of the SAI M1A Scout and SAI M1A Socom16 I had a few years ago. In fact, the handling characteristics of those rifles were so bad I only kept them for a few months.

2) The merits of the 7.62x51mm cartridge has been beat to death. I own 22LR, 5.56x45mm, and 7.62x39mm rifles too, but the virtues of the 308Win are alluring.

3) All of the other centerfire rifles I currently own are detachable box magazine feed semi-autos. I wanted to put a quality purpose built bolt action back in my Survival Battery. Since 1984 I've owned a fair share of 308Win rifles including various: HK91's, Springfield SAR8's, FAL's, PTR91's, Springfield Armory M1A's, Century CETME's, Remington 700's, etc. but thought it was time to put a simple and rugged bolt action back into my collection. As with most preparedness minded people, my "survival gear & philosophy" has been a constant state of evolution. Over the past year my focus has been on simplifying and picking up more durable kit. The GSR fits into this idea well, but there will be more on this later.

Before I talk about how the GSR fits into my current survival mindset, I'd like to briefly table-top review the rifle (as if this hasn't been a million times already):

THE GOOD

The fit & finish are very good and quite acceptable for this type of weapon. I would have preferred an all stainless model but as they aren't available I bought the standard matte blue version. The matte finish is very uniform, and completely glare resistant. Again, at least a chrome-lined bore would have been nice.

The trigger is crisp and while it seemed heavy at first I tried it against several other quality rifles (BCM MidLength, Colt 6920, M1A with a tuned trigger, etc) and found the Ruger's trigger is actually LIGHTER. For those who follow Ruger products - this will be a surprise.

The back up sights are quite usable, and give a nice sight picture. I like the design of a ringed rear aperture, and the M14 style winged front sight is fast to pick up.

The section of "scout rail" is actually long enough to use with a variety of optics (SAI I'm looking at you). In addition to the rail, the rifle came with a set of Ruger's traditional (and proprietary) rings. The rings even came with an extra set of screws - this is a very nice touch.

The flash suppressor seems short for a 308, but I've not yet fired the rifle (let alone at night). I've read the threading is 5/8x24 which is the same for other 308 rifles meaning the FS could be replaced with an excellent Phantom, etc.

The stock checkering is sharp and gives good purchase.

The rifle is fairly well balanced (at about the magazine with a loaded mag in place), but will be better balanced when I mount a Scout Scope on it. I like really short LOP so I removed the factory installed 1/2" spacer (these come with three 1/2" spacers for those with long arms).

In spite of being a "modified control feed" bolt, I had to hold the rifle upside down with a round "under the extractor" while shaking it VIGOROUSLY to get the round to drop out of the action. This was a relief as I was concerned it would be more "push-feed" than "CRF".

THE BAD

As previously stated, I would prefer a stainless model or chrome-lined bore on the carbon steel model.

The bolt travel is a little gravely, but has already started to smooth out just from me playing with it today. I suspect the bolt will smooth out nicely over time, and perhaps with a little polishing.

The plastic trigger guard / magazine well housing is ...well...plastic! I would have traded a few ounces for aluminum here.

THE UGLY

The magazine. Everyone complains that Ruger didn't design this around a M14, FAL, or G3 magazine. That doesn't bother me. The PRICE of additional magazines does bother me. More over, the fact that the mag fits very loose in the "mag well" is disconcerting.

Now that I've restated everything everyone else has said about the design and quality of manufacture I'd like to briefly explain the WHEN, WHERE, WHY and HOW this fits into my preparedness planning.

WHEN would I use this over my AK, AR, FAL, or M1A? Well, our plan is to BUG IN until our house becomes untenable. The box magazine feed semi's will be used to defend the homestead against hordes of looters, zombies (the popular thing right now), whatever. We already live in a rural woodland area so if we had to BUG OUT I'd strongly consider the advantages of having a rugged, accurate (assuming the hype is verified at the range), and potent bolt gun.

WHERE would I use this? If we have to bug-out our route will take us through various agricultural (open) areas and woodland (timber forested) areas. This mixed terrain lends itself to the power of a 308 and accuracy of a bolt gun. As much as I love my FAL's - they are "combat accurate" and not "match accurate". I don't expect the 16" GSR to be "match grade", but from the reports I've heard (as well as the ease of mounting a scope to one) - they will outperform my FALs.

WHY would I chose a slow to reload bolt gun over a "battle proven" semi auto??? Well, I've been doing this survivalist thing for 27 years and the days of idolizing Red Dawn scenarios are long over for me. My goal is to keep my head down and avoid contact. This reduces the need for a semi-auto, and increases the need for a heavier caliber / more accurate rifle. The exact "purpose" for the scout design. Also, as anyone who has been to a "combat style" class or competition can attest - you'll be surprised how quickly you'll run through ammo in a semi-auto when the stress is on. A bolt gun causes you to slow down. This ammo conservation obviously is hugely beneficial to the already overloaded survivalist.

HOW does this fit into my overall planning? The GSR will be an option. If it proves itself at the range, then it will be integrated into my planning as a long-term / TEOTWAWKI weapon option. Depending on the calamity that befalls us, this might be the weapon I choose. Additionally, as my mindset shifts further away from a "run and gun" and more toward a "frontiersman" ideology the simple, reliable, durable bolt gun starts to look more appealing.

Obligatory pics:

The handgun, hat, and knife are just "props" to make the picture more interesting.



Onto my questions….

A) I'm interested in mounting a very high quality "scout type" scope on this rifle. I stuck my LaRue mounted Trijicon TR21 on it, and the eye relief is about 6" too short. Does anyone know of a mounting system that would make using a Trijicon 1.25x4 or 1x4 feasible? Has anyone seen a GSR with a Trijicon on it?

B) As a tie-on question for "A" above - does anyone have a XS full rail on their GSR? I don't like the idea of adding weight, but this is an option.

C) Last optic question: has anyone used a Leupold 2.5 IER Scout on a GSR? Do you have any other scout scope experience that would be pertinent here?

D) Where is the best place to buy extra magazines, and what can I expect to pay for them?

Congratulations for your new baby. It's a very Nice Looking rifle and i bet it's practical too. The mag is ugly but you can't always have everything like you would want to.

Nice score! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/thumbup.gif" alt="" />

Thanks - I'm pretty excited about this rifle. I've been wanting to add a "simple but purpose built" survival bolt action to my collection for quite some time. This Ruger comes as close as possible to fulfilling my requirements.

Hopefully Ruger will release a stainless steel version and perhaps an 18" barrel option. Other that that - this rifle is infectious. I was up till 2am playing with it, and the more I handle it / examine it the more I like it!

Thanks for the review. I've been hearing good things abt this rifle.

Architect are you sure the metal parts are blued? Didn't find info, matte black was only thing I found. If it's parkerized it should hold up just about anything. I trust your expertise though. Just asking.

t1m0,

The finish looks similar to Springfield Armory's phosphate conversion (parkerization), but is more smooth and more uniform. This is why I've ruled out 'black oxide' (like a Remington 870 Express). Its the same finish (no surprise) that Ruger uses on their 10/22 barrels now.

Some parts are clearly blued (small bolt components), and the bolt is obviously bare stainless steel.

Regarding the metal finish and/or material in general....

My role for this rifle is the proverbial "if you can only take one rifle when TEOTWAWKI". As such, it could be subjected to years of neglect if the world does truly end.

Therefore, a chrome-lined-bore or stainless barrel would be a welcome "product improvement".

Arch,
Good idea on the GSR. The other day I picked one up and held it for a second and third time-----anyone that knows me well knows that means I am impressed to the point that I start thinking about something serious.

Like your observations I have to wonder about the use of plastic for key parts, at least for a longevity standpoint. I know that Ruger makes good products but I am not sure on this.

On the magazine situation, why could Ruger not make it work with a FAL mag. Ok, that is a wish since I have FAL mags LOL. I have nor done much reading on the GSR but the magazine kinda has a AI look to it---has you looked at that option?

On optics, I think that the GSR was designed with the idea of a 2.5x optic or Aimpoint/Eotech out front AND then a more traditional optic mounted further rear. Why else would Ruger send the rings instead of using a full XS rail?

Let us know on the accuracy. I am looking forward to the evolution of your GSR.

Jeff,

After complaining about the plastic trigger guard (zytel polymer according to Ruger) I started thinking about the trigger guard on my favorite handgun....a Glock. The Glock trigger guard would be subjected to more abuse than the GSR's, because the GSR's mag sticks way past the guard and therefore protects it. However, this is all probably a moot arguement, because history has demonstrated that good polymer is a good weapon material (pains me to admit this).

At first I was upset that the rifle wasn't made to work with FAL or M1A mags, because they are still fairly cheap. Why not a G3 mag, because they're about $2 each? However, Ruger has repeatedly stated that the Mauser claw did not work reliably with an "alternate side feeding magazine" (ie a staggered column mag like the FAL, G3, M14).

You are correct. The mag is a AI based design, but contrary to popular internet conjecture - they are made in the U.S. by Accurate Magazines (not Accuracy International).

The cost (internet price of about $50) is STEEP, but for this type of rifle you only need three. My rifle was $719.99 plus tax so if you have to spend $100 on a couple of spare mags then the total is $819.99 + tax.

I only suggest a couple of spare magazines, because this rifle isn't designed for combat. Its designed for survivalists (and hunters). As such, 11 rounds on board with a couple of 10 round reloads will be sufficient as long as you do your part to be mature and avoid hazardous situations.

One of the added APPEALS of this gun was the LACK of concern with having a dozen mags in my Bug Out Gear. This rifle will be feed from a couple of spare mags, but the balance of my survival ammo will be vacuum sealed loose ammo (probably 31 rounds per vacuum seal bag). FAL mags are heavy. M1A mags are HEAVIER! As such, the weight not spent on mags = more ammo.

Additionally, the GSR is a 7 pound rifle. My FAL is 9.5 pounds. That's another 2.5 pounds of food or ammo.

I really want to find a way to mount my Trijicon 1-4x30 Accupoint on it. However, the eye relief is too long (rifle / not scope). I'm thinking about turning my LaRue mount around backwards (so it cantilevers over the action) to see if this will work.

It will be a while before I can range the rifle. Starting Wednesday I'll be on medical rest / surgical rehab. However, I'll keep this thread alive because this rifle has real potential!

Here is the scope I want to use on the GSR (Trijicon TR24G in a LaRue SPR mount)....



The problems with this:

1) EYE RELIEF! The eye relief is way off. This could be remedied by dismounting the optic from the mount, and spinning the mount around backwards (cantilever TOWARD the shooter) and then remounting the scope. However, this solution doesn't fix Problem No. 2:

2) HEIGHT! The LaRue mount positions the TR24G way too high above the bore axis, and also requires a "chin weld" instead of a "cheek weld".

I'm going to look at LaRue's other mounting options for the Accupoints.

Great information! If I'm ever going to buy a gun I'll ask you first.

Sumo will probably know what's the finish on Finnish assault rifles (matte black) that finish is really strong. I never saw rust on them.

Gary, I'm gonna show my ignorance here, but couldn't you just use the included Ruger rings or just mount the rings to the rail directly on the rifle? I know that would remove your quick disconnect feature, but it would get the scope down lower? Which is more important scope height or quick removal? And you just said it is gonna be a slow burn rifle.

Gary,
Thanks for the update.

I thought about mentioning turning the mount around as I have seen that done on other platforms. As to the cheek weld you can get a cheek riser from one of the manufacturers like BH or a place of your choice.

Since you mentioned the Ruger plastic I started thinking about the plastic guns they make--I may not like the ergo's of them but I have never seen one busted. So, I bet your thoughts are founded in actual proof.

To the extra mags, I see what you are saying only only needing three mags. It would be interesting to see if one of the mag loaders can be used or adapted to speed load the mag from M14/FAL chargers.

I had plan to do more reading and messing with this platform but when I ran across a Enfield Jungle Carbine I kinda lost interest. I may still get motivated to look deeper. I do know one thing is that if I ended up with one of the GSR I would be looking at a can for it too. With a can, it is a total system in my opinion.

The Valmet series used a park solution. Very durable as the park crystals hold oil. Matte black generally means a blasted surface is blued, it will hold oil but the bluing is still a rust process even if it is controlled.

I am not going to speak for Gary but this is my thought. The GSR is a scout carbine so BUIS is a must. If you use the supplied rings then you loose the use of the rear BUIS. It would be nice to keep the BUIS and have a magnification too.

bUIS built in iron sights?

Back Up Iron Sights

<img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/doh.gif" alt="" /> OK! Reckon I don't do to well with acronyms! OK, it makes sense now.

Randy - Jeff is correct. I don't want to loose my rear BUIS. In my opinion, ALL primary rifles should have BUIS. The GSR's rear sight is mounted in Ruger's integral rear scope ring notch. I also like a forward mounted scope because they can be used in a "both eyes open" fashion. This means you have 100% greater situational awareness, and can "snap shoot" with the magnified optic.

Jeff - I'll probably end up with a set of quick-detach rings. I think the eye relief can be achieved this way.

That is a cool rifle! .308 is my favorite rifle round...then .22lr.

Thanks. I really like it so far. As soon as I saw the first advertisement...I mean gun magazine article...I was instantly interested.

I've considered a Savage Scout for years, but didn't like the magazine capacity, synthetic stock, or push-feed action. The GSR addresses all of these issues in spades!

I agree Gary. I think that ALL rifles should have iron sights on them. A scope or DOT sight is just icing on the cake!

Hum... I wonder how I could trade a Remington 700 VLS HBar for one of those Rugers?

Only thing wrong with the Remmy is it weighs 10 Pounds! Oh and It has a 26 inch bull barrel to boot.

My 600 Mohawk is MUCH better to tote around.

Since my GSR is slated to be a "bug-out rifle" I want to keep it as light as possible. I just investigated the weight differences between the pictured Trijicon and Leupold's excellent "2.5x Scout" scope.

Leupold = 7.5 oz
Trijicon = 14.4 oz

The Leupold will only require lightweight quick-detach rings.
The Trijicon will require a rear-facing cantilever rail (to correct the eye relief issue) and rings.

The Trijicon is already 6.9 oz heavier, and the rail/mount will probably add another 6-8ozs (as an example, LaRue's products are HEAVY).

As a result of these facts, I think this rifle is going to get a Leupold 2.5x IER Scout Scope!

Sure is a great looking rifle, Gary! I can't wait to see it once you get it configured the way you want it.

I had never even heard of this rifle, now all of a sudden I feel like I need one!

Very nice Gary. I have been looking into getting a new bolt-action rifle for a while now and i want .308 because i already own a FAL in that calibur. I have narrowed it down to the Ruger Gunsite Scout and the Remington Model 700. Did you consider the Remmy's and why did you choose the scout over the Remmy tactical's, etc.?

Thanks for the review on the rifle!

SP - I wanted one as soon as I read about it, but resisted as long as I could. I traded my NIB Sig P220 SAO Elite Compact with Night Sights and $114 for the rifle. My view of survivalism is maturing, and this rifle definitely fits in.

KS - I've owned around ten different 700's over the years, and one Model 7. The 700's included: ADL wood stock, ADL synthetic stock, a couple of BDL's, PSS (Police Model), and a Sendero in 300 Win Mag. The 700 is a push-feed rifle, and I do NOT like that feed method. I'm old fashioned, and like the "Mauser Claw". I would take a Ruger 77 action (GSR), Kimber 84, Mauser 98 or Winchester 70 (Pre-64 / Classic) over ANY push-feed system. Additionally, the other features I prefer on the GSR include: longer iron sight radius, better iron sights, detachable 10rd magazine, flash suppressor, and scout scope mount.

Awesome! Thanks Gary. I forgot to mention that my main reason for wanting this rifle is for hunting...I currently only own assault rifles and a Ruger 10/22 so I want something I can legally take hunting.

Thanks again for the review and the response. <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/smile.gif" alt="" />

KS - you can probably hunt with the FAL if you only have a 5rd magazine with you. At least that is the case in the states I'm familiar with.

Gary, looks like the 2.5x is in for the win. You are talking some weight difference by the time it is all weighed in.

I keep trying to in this thread but it keeps becoming a long string of random thoughts about the roll this rifle would play for me.

I was thinking that I would like to have a Mini-30 (also was considering an AK) and a Reminton 700SPS at some point. The more I look at this rifle the more I think that I could use in the place of those 2 rifles. Granted I may still consider buying an AK down the road at some point just to have something to kick up a lot of dust.

So now im thinking rifle line up could be. already own ones with *...
1) SA M1A *
2) Ruger GSR
3) Marlin 1894 in .357
4) KelTec Sub2000 .40cal* ...thinking about a 9mm rifle maybe.
5) Ruger 10/22 *

These are just rifles to connect dots between hunting, defense, SHTF, and plinking fun. I would like to get these roles suitably covered first and hopefully buy whatever else when i can. So I'm just thinking out loud right now but I wonder if the GSR could cover the roles of a Mini-30 and 700. Maybe the GSR could fill the hole just enougn to save me some hassle and money. I don't think I would miss the semi-auto and extra mag capacity and would already prefer to not add any extra round to my lineup. If I fill I'm missing anything I guess I could probably see reason to get an AK or or even a better bolt rifle when the funds allow.

Arch covered most of my opinions in his review so I'm thinking this maybe the list. Until.. You know...

But now I'm really interested in what kind of accuracy this rifle is capable of. I'm sure its fine for it's design purposes but if it's better than fine then I'll be really excited about this one. If was to get ammo my M1A doesn't like then maybe I can still have something I can shove it in.

Got my attentionon this on again... Thanks for the review Arch.

It was on the cover of American Rifleman May edition. According to their tests, the rifle shot .85" to 1.8" groups at 100 yards. Obviously, the ammo used made a difference.

Cool... Thanks!

Looking like a good choice.

Yeah, I think its a good choice. I will most likely pick one up this Summer.

Lazi - regarding your list of rifles and thoughts...

M1A = increased firepower and ammo compatibility with the GSR. This could fill in for the AK you mentioned.

AK = Redundant item? The M1A and GSR can do everything an AK can except high-volume CQB type work. However, if you want "high capacity CQB" ability then an AK is hard to beat. The more I shoot my AK's the more I prefer them to my AR's. I do have concerns about the availability of 7.62x39mm ammo after combloc imports stop. Therefore consider a 5.56x45mm variant.

Pistol Caliber Carbine Notes:

1) I typically do not endorse pistol caliber carbines, because you can have full power rifle cartridges in the same size package.
2) I only endorse pistol caliber carbines when a "companion handgun" is involved.

Marlin 94 (357Mag) = If you have a 357Mag handgun this could be the companion carbine I would select. Overall, however, this rifle would be bested by the GSR (similar size with greater accuracy, reliability/durability, power, and firepower) and/or AK (greater reliability, power, and firepower).

KelTec Sub2k Notes:

1) Again, I don't like pistol caliber carbines, but understand the companion role.
2) The KelTec is handy because it folds in half and can be stuck in a backpack thereby fulfilling a "discrete purpose". However, folding stock AK's are just barely larger and more reliable, powerful, and have higher magazine capacity.

KelTec Sub2000 (40SW) = If you have a Glock 22 or 23 this is the companion carbine for it.

KelTec Sub2000 (9mm) = If you have a Glock 17 or 19 this is the companion carbine for it.

Ruger 10/22 = Must have. A quality 22LR rifle is a mandatory item, and the Ruger is as good of a choice as there is. I have a couple, and my wife's Bug-Out Gun is a 10/22.

Regarding the GSR's accuracy:

I've read 50+ pages of internet reporting on the rifle's accuracy. Excluding one poster (who took off the flash suppressor and monkeyed with the barrel) everyone is getting 1" or better at 100 yards. Obviously the quality of ammunition and iron vs scout vs traditional scope makes a difference here, but several handloaders are getting MUCH better than 1". In my opinion, the 1MOA issue is overrated and doesn't take "field condition shooting" into account. Just because a 15 pound bench rest gun will shoot 1/2MOA doesn't mean that its worth a crap for those of us that actually FIELD our weapons. The GSR's light weight, good balance, and short length combined with the 1MOA (off a bench) ability means that you'll have a 7 pound (or 7.5 pound with a Leupold 2.5x Scout Scope) 7.62x51mm (308Win) rifle capable of dropping a man dead in his tracks at 300+ yards from a decent field position. I cannot ask for more from a "survivalist inspired" firearm.

Accuracy Side Notes: From what I've read...

1) Since the GSR has a fairly heavy barrel (it steps down in front of the scout mount, but is still "medium weight" all the way out to the muzzle) - the rifle doesn't start "stringing" shots when the barrel heats up. Since a prudent survivalist isn't going to be running through 30 round strings this might not be an issue. However, preparedness is about covering all of the bases so knowing the rifle will stay on POA after being "used heavily" is a good thing.

2) The GSR barrel rifling is 1 in 10" which means it will favor heavier bullets (1/11 favors 150gr or lighter).

Hunting Side Notes:

1) 308Win is capable of killing anything I'd care to hunt especially considering the 1/10 twist means I can use 180gr bullets.
2) The data I've read shows the little 16.5" barrel yielding 2500fps with 168gr bullets. This is good ballistic performance.
3) 1MOA with the right ammo. Means 300yd ability. I question the ethics of hunting beyond 400yds anyway.
4) Light and short = easier to hump around all day.
5) Quality back up sights, two scope mounting options (it comes with traditional rings and the scout mount).
6) Durable stock.

What's not to like? Its an ideal hunting rifle IMHO!

Hey Gary, do you know if you can get 5 round mags for the Ruger scout?

OUCH! I just found the magazines on Ruger's site. $64 for a 5 rd. mag and $70 for a 10 rd. mag. THAT IS INSANE! <img src="/ubbthreads/images/graemlins/laugh.gif" alt="" />

ahhhhh crap why did I have to see this post. I have been eye balling one of these for a bit now.

They did some testing on the new Ruger 10-22 trigger housing as compared to the old aluminum housing. This test can be found on You Tube. The end result the polymer used in the trigger housing out performs the aluminum. I have a 10-22 and researched this because I had the same feeling about the housing. After watching this test, I was sold on polymer.

SF - I recanted on my polymer complaint because I'm a dyed in the wool Glock proponent. If a Glock frame can take the abuse I've witnessed - then a trigger guard (protected by a magazine) on a rifle can too!

while reading various forum threads I've seen some guys say they found ten rounders for around $50 AR some places. One guy used a discount included with the rifle to buy a mag from Ruger. Probably like a 10% off coupon when you register or something.

There's also a "c-mag" product available but I have seen a few complaints and even a post saying flat out not to buy them. apparently not as reliable as the others.

I wonder if the magazines can be topped off (ammo added) while the mag is still inserted in the rifle? Also how hard is it to feed a single round with or without the magazine? With the length of the cartridge I would think it might be fairly easy to slip a round in the chamber and close the bolt to feed single rounds.

I've been considering the GSR for some time now, for many of the same reasons as you Gary. Ever since I gave my trusty 18" Sako "Handy" in .308 to my son in law for Christmas, I have been lacking a .308 bolt gun.
My question that hasn't been addressed by the magazines is how does it carry in the hand? Where is the balance point if you want to grab it up at the middle and go for a walk? Have you seen the 5 rounder and does it fit close to flush for an easier carry when hunting? And last is it set up with sling options that would accomadate a patrol carry or maybe a ching sling.

I always liked the Scout Rifle concept. I already have a Tikka t3 in 308 that I love, but this one has me thinking.

I messed with one at the store again today. I have to say the trigger was really nice and the carbine balanced very well. The ballance reminds me of a Enfield Jungle Carbine.

Lazi - I've had problems with CProducts AR15 magazines, and wouldn't waste money trying one of their GSR mags. Ruger gives a 10% discount (in their online store) when you register your rifle online. This means $14 off their $70 mag price. I feel this is a "three mag rifle". I've found the mags online for $46 each + shipping. Therefore, plan on adding $100 to your total cost (to include 2 spare mags).

The magazines cannot be topped off in the rifle. They are a "load from the front design" meaning the feed lips are not far enough apart for a round to be loaded from the top. The ammunition is inserted from the front of the magazine and pushed toward the rear and slightly downward. This is a good design from the standpoint of magazine reliability and the fact that rounds won't pop out of the spare mags, but it makes loading them more difficult.

Contrary to some reports, the rifle can be loaded without a magazine. In fact, the manual describes the procedure. "Drop round in chamber, close bolt". This was a relief to me, because I didn't want to get stuck with a really heavy and expensive oar if I lost or damaged the mags.

Hooker - the balance is about where the magazine is. However, once I add a scout scope I think the balance will be right in front of the magazine (which is ideal for me).

Jeff - the trigger in my rifle is CRISP. I mean MATCH CRISP. I was very surprised that Ruger (who has warning labels on their warning labels) made a rifle with a light and crisp trigger. This is sad to say, but the death of Bill Ruger gave the company the freedom it needed to bring good products to market.

Gary,
I would have to agree with your statement about Ruger moving in the right direction since Bill Ruger passed on.

I have an issue of American Rifleman with an article on the rifle if you are interested in I'd be glad to send your way. It must be from 2006ish.

That is one awesome rifle. I hope to build one or buy one really soon.

FYI all- I found out today that if your mag runs dry you can just throw a single round in the action about anyway as long as the bullet is facing forward and close the bolt. It works just fine. I was a little concerned you would have to monkey with it to get it to feed once your mag went dry but you do not. Think ill order a scout scope and rings today. This rifle is awesome.

I have been sitting on this idea for a while now but I'm thinking the GSR is maybe the perfect rifle for this...

I had been thinking of picking up a cheap .308 bolt rifle at some point to use with the mcace chamber inserts at some point. no particular reason for me except I like to tinker around and figured it would be a cool thing to do for ~$350. Well after looking at this rifle Im thinking even for a serious TEOTWAWKI rifle it would be good to have a set of the chamber adapters if you are going to roll out with any .308 rifle. but the problem i saw with other bolt rifle is that most required a scope be mounted on the receiver and over the chamber. The setup of the GSR means you can use iron sights or a forward mounted scope and still be able to hold the rifle down and toss single rounds into the chamber without much hassle. this would be cool if one wanted to turn the GSR into a single shot 7.62x39 bolt rifle and save your .308 ammo for more important stuff. It would also allow you to use .32acp as a quiet game getter type setup. .32acp isn't super cheap but 50 rounds of quiet ammo that takes up less space than .308 might be handy at some point.

I had been at the chamber adapters for almost a couple years now and I have done a bit of reading and haven't seen any issues with shooting .308 and/or .32 acp in a .308. From what I read on various onlinf forums the poa ans poi change as can be expected but other than that I haven't seen online speak of any faults to using them. .308 is a heavy round and if one was going to run of the house with only 100 rounds in a TEOTWAWKI world I'm thinking being able to use a another fiarly common type lf ammo every now an then would be a good option to have. A handful of .32acp might keep you from attracting unwanted attention and provide a stew or two without adding too much weight.

Just my thoughts on another reason this rifle on the top of my rifle want list...

I wouldn't do it. You focus on high value steel, yet you'd go on the cheap for a rifle. Doesn't add up for me. Ruger can keep it... You don't need CRF, even for defensive situations. Get a good rifle that you can learn, establish your dope..and rock on.

I would get something more along the lines of a Rem 700 (or clone) and change out the bottom metal to allow use of AICS / AW mags, and a good trigger.

Architect-You get yours scoped yet?

Without side tracking this too much, c products apparently breached a contract with a supplier, lost a lawsuit and had their tooling and supplies seized by the supplier. I never heard of these mags but they struggled with qc issues with their other mags. Larry and Chad have some new business but the name escapes me.