Ruger American Predator Rifle: Precision, Performance, and Unrivaled Versatility for the Left-Handed Shooter

For hunters and precision shooters who demand exceptional accuracy, reliable performance, and ergonomic design tailored for left-handed operation, the Ruger American Predator Rifle (Model 26916) in .243 Winchester stands out as a formidable contender. This full-size bolt-action rifle is engineered to deliver minute-of-angle (MOA) accuracy, making every shot count, whether you're pursuing whitetail deer, controlling varmint populations, or honing your skills at the range. It’s a rifle that answers the call for a high-performance, purpose-built firearm designed from the ground up to meet the unique needs of southpaw enthusiasts.

Unlocking Sub-MOA Accuracy: The Science Behind the Shot

What truly sets the Ruger American Predator apart is its unwavering commitment to precision. At its core, this rifle incorporates a suite of features meticulously designed to achieve and maintain exceptional accuracy:

• Patent-Pending Power Bedding Integral Bedding Block System: This innovative system is a cornerstone of the American Predator's accuracy. By positively locating the receiver and free-floating the barrel, the Power Bedding system eliminates any contact points that could introduce stress or inconsistencies, ensuring the barrel is allowed to vibrate uniformly with each shot. This results in superior barrel harmonics and, consequently, outstanding shot-to-shot consistency and tighter groups. For any shooter asking, "How does this rifle achieve such precision?" the Power Bedding system is a key part of the answer, providing a rock-solid foundation for repeatable accuracy.
• Cold Hammer-Forged Barrel: The 22-inch barrel, crafted from robust steel, undergoes a meticulous cold hammer-forging process. This manufacturing technique creates a barrel with ultra-precise rifling, superior concentricity, and exceptional durability. The cold forging compresses the steel, refining its grain structure and enhancing its strength and longevity, while also ensuring a smoother, more consistent bore. This process is critical for maintaining accuracy over thousands of rounds, making it an ideal choice for hunters who need to rely on their rifle season after season, or target shooters looking for consistent performance.
• Optimized Twist Rate (1:9" RH): The 1:9" right-hand twist rate is carefully chosen for the .243 Winchester caliber, providing optimal stabilization for a wide range of popular bullet weights commonly used in this cartridge. This ensures that bullets fly true, minimizing yaw and maximizing aerodynamic efficiency, which is crucial for achieving consistent precision at various distances.
• Threaded Muzzle (5/8"-24) with Thread Protector: The 22-inch barrel features a practical 5/8"-24 thread pattern at the muzzle, protected by a pre-installed thread protector. This feature directly addresses the growing demand for suppressor-ready firearms. For shooters considering, "Can I attach a suppressor to this rifle?" the answer is a definitive yes, making the American Predator an excellent choice for reducing noise and recoil, enhancing comfort during extended shooting sessions, and minimizing disturbance in the field.

Ergonomics and Handling: Crafted for the Left-Handed Hunter

The Ruger American Predator Rifle (Model 26916) is thoughtfully designed with the left-handed shooter in mind, ensuring natural and comfortable operation without compromise.

• Fixed Moss Green Synthetic Stock: The lightweight synthetic stock is not only durable and impervious to harsh weather conditions but also contoured for quick, easy handling. Its fixed design provides a stable shooting platform, while the moss green finish offers a subtle, field-appropriate aesthetic. The stock features a classic look blended with modern forend contouring and strategically placed grip serrations, providing a secure and comfortable hold in any condition, whether wet, cold, or gloved.
• Soft Rubber Buttpad: To enhance shooting comfort, especially during longer range sessions or with higher-recoil loads, the stock is fitted with a soft rubber buttpad. This effectively absorbs recoil, significantly reducing felt impact and allowing for more comfortable and sustained shooting. This feature is particularly appreciated by hunters who might take multiple shots during a hunt or spend extended periods zeroing their rifle.
• Left-Hand Specific Action: Unlike many "ambidextrous" rifles, the Ruger American Predator (Model 26916) is a true left-hand bolt-action rifle. This means the bolt is located on the left side of the receiver, and the ejection port is also on the left, ensuring seamless and intuitive operation for southpaw shooters. No more reaching over the receiver or dealing with spent casings ejecting across your line of sight. This dedicated left-hand design is a key selling point for those asking, "What's the best left-handed hunting rifle?"
• Optimal Dimensions: With an overall length of 42 inches and weighing a manageable 6.60 pounds, the rifle strikes an excellent balance between portability and stability. The length of pull (LOP) is a comfortable 13.75 inches, suitable for a wide range of shooters, providing an ergonomic fit that contributes to consistent accuracy and reduced fatigue.

Smooth and Reliable Operation: The Heart of the Rifle

The Ruger American Predator's action is engineered for unwavering reliability and smooth performance, critical attributes for any serious shooter.

• One-Piece, Three-Lug Bolt with 70-Degree Throw: The robust, full-diameter bolt body features a three-lug design, providing exceptional strength and rigidity. The compact 70-degree bolt throw offers ample scope clearance, allowing for lower scope mounting and quick, unobstructed cycling of the action. This short throw also means less movement required, facilitating faster follow-up shots.
• Dual Cocking Cams: The incorporation of dual cocking cams ensures remarkably smooth and effortless bolt manipulation, even under adverse conditions. This system distributes the force evenly, reducing friction and making cycling the action feel consistent and reliable every time. When seconds count in the field, a smooth and dependable action is paramount.
• Tang Safety: The rifle features an intuitive and easily accessible tang safety. Positioned conveniently on the tang of the receiver, it allows for quick and positive engagement or disengagement with the thumb, without requiring the shooter to break their grip or shift their focus from the target. This design provides an excellent safety mechanism while maintaining readiness.

The Ruger Marksman Adjustable Trigger: Precision at Your Fingertips

One of the standout features contributing to the rifle's accuracy is the user-adjustable Ruger Marksman Adjustable Trigger. This innovative trigger system allows shooters to customize the pull weight, offering a crisp, clean break that is essential for precise shot placement.

• Customizable Pull Weight: Shooters can easily adjust the trigger pull weight from 3 to 5 pounds using an included tool. This level of customization allows individuals to fine-tune the trigger to their specific preferences and shooting style, promoting greater consistency and confidence. For those wondering, "How can I improve my shooting accuracy?" a consistent and predictable trigger like the Marksman Adjustable Trigger is a foundational element.
• Clean, Crisp Break: The design ensures a minimal take-up and a very crisp, clean break, virtually eliminating any creep or overtravel. This predictable trigger pull helps prevent unintentional movement of the rifle at the moment of firing, leading to tighter shot groups.

Optics Ready: Integrated Picatinny Rail

The matte black steel receiver comes factory-equipped with a Picatinny rail. This integrated rail provides a robust and versatile mounting platform for optics. For shooters asking, "What kind of scope mount do I need for this rifle?" the answer is straightforward: any scope rings or mounts designed for a standard Picatinny rail will be compatible, offering a wide array of choices for various shooting applications, from high-magnification scopes for long-range precision to compact optics for quick target acquisition in dense cover. The Picatinny rail ensures a secure and repeatable mount, essential for maintaining zero.

The Versatility of .243 Winchester

The Ruger American Predator (Model 26916) is chambered in the highly versatile .243 Winchester cartridge. This popular caliber is celebrated for its flat trajectory, moderate recoil, and effectiveness across a broad spectrum of applications.

• Deer Hunting: The .243 Win is an excellent choice for deer hunting, particularly for smaller to medium-sized deer species. Its high velocity and energy delivery are sufficient for humane kills at ethical hunting ranges.
• Varmint Control: For shooters involved in varmint control, such as coyotes, prairie dogs, or groundhogs, the .243 Winchester shines. Its flat trajectory minimizes holdover at extended distances, and its effectiveness makes it a go-to cartridge for these purposes.
• Target Shooting: The relatively low recoil of the .243 makes it a comfortable cartridge for extended target shooting sessions, allowing shooters to focus on technique and build proficiency without fatigue. It's a great caliber for new shooters or those who are recoil-sensitive.

Additional Features for Enhanced Field Performance

• Includes Magazine and Sling Swivel Studs: The rifle comes complete with a durable magazine, ensuring you're ready to load and shoot right out of the box. Additionally, pre-installed sling swivel studs allow for easy attachment of a rifle sling, making transportation in the field more comfortable and secure. This attention to practical details reinforces the rifle’s readiness for real-world hunting scenarios.
• Field Application: Designed specifically for "Field" applications, this rifle is built to withstand the rigors of outdoor environments. Its robust construction and reliable mechanics ensure consistent performance, whether you're stalking game through dense woods or setting up for a long shot across an open field.

The Ruger American Predator Rifle (Model 26916) is more than just a firearm; it's a meticulously engineered tool for the dedicated left-handed hunter and precision shooter. It combines Ruger's legendary reliability with cutting-edge design, delivering a rifle that is accurate, comfortable, and ready for any challenge the field presents. Whether your question is "Which rifle offers sub-MOA accuracy?", "What's a durable and reliable left-handed hunting rifle?", or "Can I find a suppressor-ready rifle that's comfortable to shoot?", the American Predator 26916 is a resounding answer.

Specifications Table

Feature	Detail
Brand	Ruger
Model	American Predator
Caliber	243 Win
Capacity	4+1
Action	Bolt
Hand	Left Hand
Barrel Length	22"
Barrel Finish	Matte Black
Barrel Material	Cold Hammer Forged Steel
Muzzle	Thread Protector
Thread Pattern	5/8"x24
Twist Rate	1:9" RH
Grooves	5
Stock Material	Synthetic
Stock Finish	Moss Green
Stock Description	Fixed
Receiver Material	Steel
Receiver Finish	Matte Black
Receiver Rail	Picatinny Rail
Trigger	Ruger Marksman Adjustable
Safety	Tang
OAL	42"
Weight	6.60 lbs
Length of Pull	13.75"
Sights	None
Includes	Sling Swivel Studs
Application	Field
UPC	736676269167
MPN	26916