T.R.
04-24-2006, 06:13 PM
http://i26.photobucket.com/albums/c146/rushmoreman/Ruger_96.jpg
I've read some unkind things about this little gem from Ruger. But its a genuine keeper! I clobbered this dandy 3X3 buck at about 80 yards or so with one shot through the chest. A long stalk along the Grande River in Perkins County. Hunted with Hornady Custom 240 grain XTP ammo. The bullet made a ghastly exit wound and was never recovered.
I owned a Marlin 1894 but it didn't shoot nearly as straight as this Ruger. Doesn't matter if the bullet is a sl-o-ow 44 Special or heavy 300 grain 44 MAG, this Ruger shoots small groups. This carbine seems to like 240 grain XTP best, perhaps because of the .430 diameter.
I carry this carbine on alll my backpack trips into the Bighorns for bear protection, although I've never actually had to use it that way. But it certainly feels right late at night when the wind howls down the canyon and makes its ominous moaning sound.
TR
I've read some unkind things about this little gem from Ruger. But its a genuine keeper! I clobbered this dandy 3X3 buck at about 80 yards or so with one shot through the chest. A long stalk along the Grande River in Perkins County. Hunted with Hornady Custom 240 grain XTP ammo. The bullet made a ghastly exit wound and was never recovered.
I owned a Marlin 1894 but it didn't shoot nearly as straight as this Ruger. Doesn't matter if the bullet is a sl-o-ow 44 Special or heavy 300 grain 44 MAG, this Ruger shoots small groups. This carbine seems to like 240 grain XTP best, perhaps because of the .430 diameter.
I carry this carbine on alll my backpack trips into the Bighorns for bear protection, although I've never actually had to use it that way. But it certainly feels right late at night when the wind howls down the canyon and makes its ominous moaning sound.
TR