The Ultimate Guide to the Ruger Precision Rimfire Rifle: Model 8402 in .17 HMR

For enthusiasts seeking unparalleled precision, modularity, and a truly engaging shooting experience in the rimfire category, the Ruger Precision Rimfire Model 8402 chambered in the potent .17 HMR stands out as a definitive choice. This rifle is engineered to meet the demanding needs of competitive shooters, meticulous varmint hunters, and those who simply crave the highest levels of accuracy from a rimfire platform. It addresses the common challenge of achieving consistent, repeatable results with small-caliber ammunition, providing a robust, adaptable, and highly accurate solution.

Are you asking yourself, "What is the best bolt-action rimfire rifle for target shooting?" or "Which .17 HMR rifle offers the most customization options?" The Ruger Precision Rimfire 8402 is specifically designed to answer these questions with a resounding affirmative. It merges the reliable mechanics of a bolt-action system with the ergonomic and accessory versatility typically found in centerfire precision rifles, making it an exceptional tool for refining shooting skills, participating in rimfire competitions, or engaging in accurate pest control.

Unpacking the Precision: Core Design and Performance

At its heart, the Ruger Precision Rimfire 8402 operates on a smooth, reliable bolt action mechanism. This traditional action type is renowned for its inherent accuracy, robust design, and consistent lock-up, minimizing variables that can affect shot placement. For shooters who prioritize precision, the simplicity and directness of a bolt action provide an undeniable advantage, allowing for deliberate and unhurried shot execution, critical for achieving tight groups downrange.

The rifle is chambered in .17 HMR (Hornady Magnum Rimfire), a caliber celebrated for its flat trajectory, high velocity, and surprising terminal performance for a rimfire cartridge. Compared to traditional .22 LR, the .17 HMR offers significantly reduced bullet drop over extended distances, making it an excellent choice for varmint hunting where shots might extend beyond 100 yards, or for rimfire precision competitions where hitting small targets at varying ranges is key. Its ballistic characteristics allow shooters to practice long-range fundamentals without the high cost or recoil associated with centerfire cartridges. This makes the .17 HMR an ideal caliber for skill development and sustained practice sessions.

A standout feature contributing directly to the rifle's namesake "Precision" is its 18-inch Target Barrel. This cold hammer-forged barrel is engineered for exceptional accuracy and longevity. The heavier profile and precise manufacturing process ensure minimal barrel harmonics and consistent bullet flight, crucial for maintaining tight groups. Furthermore, the barrel features a 1-in-9 rate-of-twist, optimized to stabilize a wide range of popular .17 HMR bullet weights, including 17-grain and 20-grain options. This specific twist rate ensures that the bullets exit the barrel with optimal rotational stability, leading to superior accuracy at various ranges. This attention to detail in barrel design is a primary reason why many users achieve sub-MOA (Minute of Angle) accuracy with this rifle, a remarkable feat for a factory rimfire.

Ergonomics, Adaptability, and Shooter Comfort

One of the most compelling aspects of the Ruger Precision Rimfire 8402 is its highly adaptable and user-centric design. The rifle features a collapsible/folding stock, which offers unprecedented flexibility. This allows for easy transportation and storage, especially when space is at a premium. More importantly, the stock is Ruger's Quick-Fit Precision Rimfire design, which provides a highly customizable length of pull and comb height. This adjustability is critical for shooters of all sizes and for optimizing eye relief with various optics. The ability to fine-tune the fit ensures maximum comfort and consistency in shooting posture, directly translating to improved accuracy and reduced fatigue during extended shooting sessions. This stock system is especially beneficial for competitive shooters who need to quickly adapt their setup or for younger shooters who are still growing.

Complementing the adjustable stock is the 15-inch Free-Float M-LOK Handguard. The M-LOK system is a modular attachment standard, allowing for quick and secure mounting of a vast array of accessories such as bipods, lights, lasers, and sling mounts. The "free-float" design ensures that the handguard does not make contact with the barrel, preventing any pressure points that could negatively impact barrel harmonics and accuracy. This extensive M-LOK real estate gives shooters unparalleled freedom to configure their rifle exactly to their needs, whether for competitive shooting where specific weight distribution or accessory placement is crucial, or for hunting scenarios requiring specific lighting or stabilization tools.

The rifle also incorporates a Reversible AR Style Selector safety. This familiar control layout mimics that of popular AR-platform rifles, providing an intuitive and quick safety manipulation for anyone accustomed to modern sporting rifles. The reversibility feature caters to both right-handed and left-handed shooters, further enhancing the rifle's universal appeal and ergonomic versatility.

Enhanced Features for Advanced Performance

For discerning shooters, the quality of a trigger can make or break a rifle's accuracy potential. The Ruger Precision Rimfire 8402 is equipped with the acclaimed Ruger Marksman Adjustable Trigger. This user-adjustable trigger allows for a pull weight range from 2.25 to 5 pounds, giving shooters the ability to fine-tune the trigger feel to their exact preference. A lighter, crisper trigger pull minimizes shooter-induced movement, leading to tighter groups and more confident shot placement. This feature alone elevates the rifle from a good plinking gun to a serious precision instrument.

Another vital feature for modern shooters is the threaded barrel model. The 1/2"-28 thread pitch on the muzzle allows for the easy attachment of suppressors or various muzzle devices. For hunters, a suppressor can significantly reduce noise, protecting hearing and minimizing disturbance to wildlife or surrounding areas. For target shooters, it enhances the shooting experience by reducing report, making range time more enjoyable and allowing for clearer communication with spotters or instructors. The ability to customize the muzzle device adds another layer of versatility to an already highly adaptable platform.

With a capacity of 15 + 1 rounds and coming standard with one BX-15 Magazine, the Ruger Precision Rimfire 8402 ensures ample firepower for extended shooting sessions or hunting expeditions without frequent reloads. The BX-15 magazine is a reliable, compact design that sits flush with the rifle's receiver, minimizing bulk. A significant advantage is that this rifle accepts Ruger Magnum RF Mags, providing cross-compatibility with other Ruger rimfire firearms and offering shooters flexibility in magazine choice and availability.

The rifle weighs in at a balanced 6.8 lbs, which is substantial enough to provide stability and absorb recoil (minimal as it is for .17 HMR), yet light enough for comfortable carry in the field or ease of manipulation in various shooting positions. Its overall length is adjustable from 35.13" to 38.63", offering compact transport and adaptability to different shooter sizes or shooting environments. The absence of built-in sights is a deliberate design choice, signaling that this rifle is intended to be paired with high-quality optics, such as riflescopes, to fully leverage its precision capabilities. The rifle comes ready for optic mounting, featuring an integrated Picatinny rail.

Who Benefits Most from the Ruger Precision Rimfire 8402?

• Competitive Rimfire Shooters: Its adjustable stock, match-grade barrel, and customizable trigger make it a formidable competitor in NRL22, PRS Rimfire, or other precision rimfire disciplines. The modularity allows for the addition of weights, barricade stops, and other competition-specific accessories.
• Varmint and Small Game Hunters: The flat trajectory and high velocity of the .17 HMR, combined with the rifle's inherent accuracy, make it exceptionally effective for humane pest control on animals like prairie dogs, squirrels, and rabbits out to extended ranges.
• Precision Target Shooters: Whether honing long-range fundamentals or simply enjoying the satisfaction of tiny groups, this rifle provides a cost-effective and low-recoil platform for serious accuracy work.
• New Shooters and Youth: While a precision rifle, its adjustability and mild recoil make it an excellent platform for learning marksmanship fundamentals in a comfortable and engaging manner.

Why Choose Ruger? A Legacy of Quality

Ruger is a name synonymous with reliability, innovation, and quality in the firearms industry. Their commitment to manufacturing durable, high-performing firearms is evident in every aspect of the Ruger Precision Rimfire 8402. When you choose a Ruger product, you are investing in a firearm backed by decades of engineering excellence and a reputation for standing behind their products. This rifle, specifically UPC 736676084029, exemplifies Ruger's dedication to providing top-tier solutions for diverse shooting needs. For those looking to acquire this exceptional rifle, it is widely available through trusted firearms retailers like DEGuns.com, ensuring you receive a genuine product with full manufacturer support.

Detailed Specifications: Ruger Precision Rimfire 8402

Feature	Specification
Action	Bolt Action
Finish	Hard Black Anodized
Stock/Frame	Collapsible / Folding Stock
Stock/Grips	Quick-Fit Precision Rimfire
Caliber/Gauge	.17 HMR
Capacity	15 + 1
Magazine Type	BX-15 (Accepts Ruger Magnum RF Mags)
Barrel Length	18" Target Barrel (Threaded)
Overall Length	35.13" - 38.63"
Weight	6.8 lbs.
Rate-of-Twist	1-in-9
Sights	None (Optic Ready)
Safety	Reversible AR Style Selector
Trigger	Ruger Marksman Adjustable Trigger
Handguard	15" Free-Float M-LOK Handguard
SKU	8402
UPC	736676084029