Ruger vs Browning

[younghunter12]

I've been looking at the ruger compact and the browing a bolt micro hunter. Which one has better quality? Is the accuracy better on one model than the other? Is the action better on one model than the other. Thanks. Alec.

[3DTESTIFY]

Younghunter, I've looked at both before making a purchase. Both are quality mass produced rifles. Accuracy, the A-bolt gets a slight nod due to factory glass bedded recoil lug & barrel length; 20"- 22" vs Rugers 16.5" Action types are worlds apart. Ruger has traditional Mauser type 2 lug, 90 deg. bolt with control round feed, claw extractor & 3 pos. safety. the A-bolt has a modern 3 lug, 60 deg. bolt lift, push feed & 2 pos. tang safety. Browning also has a neat detachable magazine on the hinged floorplate. With all that said, it is a tough decision. I like features on both rifles. For pure hunting, I ended up with the Ruger & haven't regreted the decision. It's a durable, rugged hunter. If you are younger & want a deer rifle, get the 7mm-08.

[azmike]

Of the two you mention, I have a Ruger (full size), my Dad uses the A-Bolt (also full size).  In and apples to apples comparison, I will say that I wish I had spent the extra cash and bought a Browning instead.  The fit, finish, trigger, and smoothness of the action of my Dad's A-Bolt is superior to my Ruger.  The only negative I could see with the Browning is that it felt a little light at the muzzle to me, and I like a somewhat heavier rifle.  My Ruger feels steadier when I'm getting on target.

I don't know if the quality of these two particular rifles is indicative of the entire Ruger and Browning lines, but I only have my limited experience to go with.  Between the two, I would buy an A-bolt.  The Ruger has worked well for me, and is a good quality product, but IMO there are higher quality products out there.

Good luck with your decision, and +1 on the suggestion to go 7mm-08.

Regards,

AZMike

[Old Griz]

:cb2: The 7mm-08 is a good choice for us banged-up old farts, too!  

[K.K]

I like both rifles.  That said, there are features of the Browning that I like on a hunting rifle.  I like the tang safety for still-hunting.  My Browning have been more accurate out of the box.  

Rugers are great too.  The only gripe is that the triggers are very heavy.  It would serve you well to have a trigger job or an aftermarket trigger, such as a Timney installed, and then it may be a toss-up.

PS- Although the gloss finish on the Browning is nice to look at, it is very shiny and may make you stick out to game.