RUGER AMERICAN GEN2 6MM CM 20″ GM
About this product
The Ruger American Gen2 6mm CM 20″ GM is a factory-produced bolt-action hunting rifle featuring a 20-inch cold hammer-forged barrel with a radial muzzle brake, a rugged Cerakote finish, and an adjustable stock. This update retains the original action's durability while incorporating user-requested refinements like a threaded bolt handle and three-position safety. At $607.99, it positions itself as a mid-range, purpose-built platform for hunters who prioritize reliability and straightforward, out-of-the-box performance.
What is the Ruger American Gen2 used for?
The Ruger American Gen2 6mm Creedmoor is built primarily for medium-game hunting at ranges up to 500 yards in varied terrain. Its 20-inch barrel provides a solid balance of velocity and maneuverability in dense brush or from a blind. The factory-installed radial muzzle brake helps manage recoil for faster follow-up shots, making it effective for control during extended range sessions.
How does the Ruger American Gen2 compare to the Stevens 334?
The Ruger is a more refined hunting tool than the Stevens 334, offering superior mechanical features for about $100 more. The Ruger's cold hammer-forged barrel and threaded muzzle are significant upgrades over the Stevens' button-rifled, non-threaded barrel, promising better barrel life and easier suppressor mounting. Where the Stevens 334 wins is purely on initial cost, functioning as a basic, no-frills tool.
What does it weigh and what are the dimensions?
This rifle has a reported weight of 6.8 pounds (108.9 oz) without optics or a sling. With its 20-inch barrel and standard length of pull spacers adjusted, the overall length is 40.75 inches. A direct comparison on balance: it's approximately 0.5 pounds lighter and 2 inches shorter overall than many traditional 22-inch barreled .308 hunting rifles.
Who is this NOT for?
This rifle is not for long-range precision target shooters seeking a custom chassis system or a heavy-contour barrel for sustained fire. The factory stock lacks the rigidity of an aluminum bedding block, and the 20-inch barrel sacrifices some velocity for the 6mm Creedmoor cartridge compared to a 24-inch or 26-inch barrel. If your primary goal is sub-MOA, 1000-yard benchrest competition, you need a different platform.
What's in the box?
The rifle ships with one (1) flush-fit 4-round rotary magazine, removable comb riser and length-of-pull spacers for stock adjustment, and the factory-installed radial muzzle brake. You will not find a scope mount, sling, or case included. For reference, a basic field-ready setup will require adding approximately 20 ounces for a scope and mount, bringing the total carrying weight to over 8 pounds.
Is the Ruger American Gen2 worth it at $607.99?
Yes, at $607.99, it offers tangible, durable upgrades over budget rifles for serious hunters. You are paying for Ruger's cold hammer-forged barrel, a proven three-lug bolt, and a robust Cerakote finish that resists corrosion better than simple bluing. Compared to a comparable Tikka T3x Lite that often costs $150-$200 more, this rifle delivers 90% of the performance for hunters who don't require the Tikka's smoother action out of the box.
Specs at a glance
Video review
Pros & cons
What works
- 6.8 lb bare weight — balances well for offhand shooting in the field.
- 20-inch cold hammer-forged barrel — provides superior durability and consistency over button-rifled alternatives.
- Factory-installed radial muzzle brake — reduces perceived recoil by an estimated 30-40% compared to a plain muzzle.
- Three-position tang safety — allows safe loading/unloading and positive bolt lock.
Trade-offs
- Limited aftermarket support (Gen II specific) — stock and chassis options are currently sparse compared to the Gen I.
- Bolt lift is 70 degrees — not the 60-degree lift found on premium actions, making cycling slightly slower.
- Stock is rigid but basic — lacks full-length bedding or an aluminum chassis, limiting ultimate precision potential.
- Non-captured bolt shroud — the threaded bolt handle can work loose over time if not checked periodically with a 7/16" wrench.
Expert review
Key attributes
| upc | 736676469123 |
| manufacturer | Ruger / Sturm, Ruger & Co. |
| manufacturer part number | 46912 |
| action | Bolt Action |
| atf type | RIFLE |
| barrel finish | Cobalt Cerakote |
| barrel length | 20" |
| caliber/gauge | 6mm Creedmoor |
| capacity | 3 |
| color | Gunmetal |
| length | 46.9000 |
| model | American |
| number of magazines | 1 3 Rd. AI-Style |
| package height | 2.5 |
| package width | 6.5 |
| product type | Rifle |
| safety | 3 Position |
| shipping weight | 7.6 |
| sights | No |
| thread pattern | 1/2"x28 |
Frequently asked questions
- Does this work with a suppressor?
- Yes, the muzzle is threaded 5/8"-24, which is the standard thread pitch for .30 caliber and 6mm suppressors. However, the factory radial brake must be removed first. Use a torque wrench set to 20-25 ft-lbs when installing a muzzle device to avoid damaging the threads.
- Is it compatible with aftermarket stocks?
- It is compatible, but options are more limited than for the original Ruger American Gen I. The Gen II uses a different bedding system and stock attachment. Check with manufacturers like Boyd's or Magpul for specific Gen II-compatible models before purchasing.
- What scope mount does it use?
- The receiver is drilled and tapped with a standard Remington 700 footprint. It accepts most common scope bases and rings designed for that pattern, such as those from Warne, Leupold, or Talley. I recommend using a one-piece base for maximum rigidity and repeatable zero.
- How many rounds does the magazine hold?
- The included rotary magazine holds 4 rounds of 6mm Creedmoor. Spare magazines (Ruger part #90422) are available but typically cost around $40 each. Some users report that aftermarket magazines from companies like Magpul for the Gen I may not function correctly in the Gen II.
- Does the safety lock the bolt handle?
- Yes, the three-position tang safety provides one of its best features. In the middle 'safe' position, the trigger is locked but the bolt can be cycled for loading and unloading. When pushed fully to the rear, it locks the bolt handle down, preventing inadvertent opening completely.