First Look: Ruger Hawkeye Hunter

Ruger has announced its new Hawkeye Hunter bolt-action rifle chambered in a number of short- and long-action calibers. Based on the company's popular Hawkeye Standard, the Hawkeye Hunter features a stainless-steel action and factory-threaded barrel, which pairs well with its traditional American-walnut stock.

Atop its action sits a 20-MOA Picatinny rail, making the mounting of optics quick and easy. Within, a Mauser-style claw extractor pulls loose spent shells, while a three-position safety allows the user to lock the bolt, or load and unload the rifle with the safety engaged. When the safety is disengaged, a Ruger LC6 trigger has been installed to send shots downrange.

The stock comes standard with sling swivel studs and a recoil pad, while a hinged, solid-steel floorplate is set within for easy unloading. The floorplate latch rides flush with the trigger guard to avoid any inadvertent unloading.

With an MSRP of $1,099, the Hawkeye Hunter is initially being offered chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield and .300 Winchester Magnum. The .300 Win. Mag. version features a removable Ruger radial-port muzzle brake to significantly reduce felt recoil. For more information, visit ruger.com.

Additional Reading:
• Hardware: Ruger Hawkeye Predator FTW Rifle
• Review: Ruger Hawkeye Predator FTW
• Guns and Gear for an Alaska Brown Bear Hunt
• Ruger M77 Hawkeye Alaskan