Ruger Deerfield 44mag carbine

[Varmint Hunter]

I just bought a new Deerfield 44mag carbine to replace my vintage Ruger Deerstalker carbine. I noticed a few things that really didn't make me happy

The comb is much too high to use the factory sights but that's ok because I planned on using  a scope anyway.
The factory rings are "high" rings which are apparently necessary to facilitate ejection. The scope looks lousey sitting that high.
The rifle comes with a vinyl/velcro scope protector to protect the scope from flying cases and burning gases :eek:
According to the manual, the rifle is only intended for use with 215-255gr ammo. It figures because I normally only shoot 300gr bullets.

I probably should have kept the old gun :roll:

Does anyone have any experience with this rifle :? ??
VH

[myronman3]

my shooting pal has one and it is a real hoot.   he loves it;   and i have shot it quite a bit.   i cant say i found anything i didnt like on it.   neat little rifle.  the only gripe i have is i dont like the look of the cheap stock they come with.   functionally;  it is flawless.

[Varmint Hunter]

Despite Rugers position on shooting bullets between 215gr - 255gr, I really had no problem shooting Hornady 300gr XTP bullets that were seated to the foward cannalure. The load that shot great in my older Deerstalker proved to be just a little hot in this new rifle.
Cases ejected fine and did not appear to be hitting the scope, which is good because the scope protector that was provided would not fit on my scope with the turrets slid foward against the front ring.
That's it for now.
VH

[targshooter]

I have had very good field service from my Deerfield using the Speer 270 grain Gold Dot load. Flawless performance and good accuracy from the rifle, good game performance from the cartridge. Both shots were close. Both deer killed with 1 well placed shot, both complete penetration. I do not use the scope protector when hunting, and have found that the ejected brass does hit the scope ( 2 3/4 Burris) by not using the cover during sight in at the range. There is no serious damage, in fact, the marks are almost not discernible, and are on the very end of the adjustment cap. I do routinely use the cover for target sight in, however.

[ingwenya]

If I'm not mistaken, the gun utilizes high rings for two purposes. First it does facilitate ejection. Secondly it allows you to use the iron sights at close range. Mind you thats just speculation.