The Ruger Precision Rifle is a very accurate and affordable rifle right out of the box. Advertising sub minute of angle accuracy from the factory cold hammer-forged 4140 chrome-moly steel barrel. Having shot almost 1000 rounds through the trusty steel barrel, I can concur with Rugers accuracy claims. Attending several long range shooting classes at Marksmanship Training Center in Lake City, Michigan, I’ve been able to hit steel silhouettes out to 1000 yards. In some unusually challenging conditions I might add. This past winter I published an article on replacing the RPR barrel with a Proof Research Carbon Fiber Barrel chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor.
Measuring the same 24″ in length as the factory steel barrel, the Proof barrel was almost a pound and a half lighter. Which is a good thing for me as I’m awaiting the NFA to approve my 14 oz Silencerco Omega suppressor. So adding the suppressor won’t increase the overall weight of the original rifle now. Although I’ve tinkered around and upgraded parts of this rifle, this is the first performance upgrade. The main reason for the Proof Research barrel was increased accuracy. And once I had the new barrel zeroed in and a little seasoned, I was able to produce 1/4 MOA 3 round groups at 100 yards.
Not having the patience to wait for winter to end, I ran out to MTC to see what I could do. Using a PhoneSkope adapter, I was able to record good bullet trace through a Vortex 20-60x80mm spotting scope. Being able to actually see the path of the bullet on its way to the target is not only fun but provides the shooter with valuable information. After collecting some data on the new barrel, I started calculating and shooting further out. Getting a little cocky, I attempted a head shot at 856 yards. And just missed by a whisker to the right. Maybe it was me, maybe some wind I missed. Either way, seeing the bullet pass the targets left ear, I knew I had the correct elevation and was able to make a quick adjustment on the follow up shot.
