Modern .308 Hunting Rifle on a Budget

Ever wondered what happens when you combine precision engineering, whisper-quiet technology, crystal-clear optics, and cutting-edge ammunition? Well, strap in, because we’re about to find out! We’re talking about the Ruger American Predator 18″ in .308 Winchester, paired with the game-changing Banish Backcountry suppressor, the razor-sharp Arken EPL 4-16×44 scope, and four modern hunting rounds that’ll make your grandpa’s old 180-grain soft points look like musket balls.

Did you know this setup can consistently ring steel at 750 yards while keeping your shot as quiet as a .22LR rifle? That’s right, we’re talking long-range precision with stealth mode engaged. Whether you’re after whitetails in the back forty or elk in the high country, this rig is ready to revolutionize your hunting game. So, let’s break down this package of hunting perfection and see why it’s becoming the holy grail for tech-savvy hunters in 2024.

The Ruger American Predator 18″ .308: A Modern Marvel
Let’s kick things off with the heart of our setup – the Ruger American Predator. This isn’t just another budget-friendly bolt gun; it’s a precision instrument masquerading as an everyman’s rifle.

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty of this modern marvel, let’s take a quick stroll down memory lane. Ruger has been a household name in the hunting world for decades, but the American Predator series? That’s a whole new ball game. Launched in the early 2010s, the Ruger American line was Ruger’s answer to the demand for an affordable, accurate, and reliable hunting rifle. But they didn’t stop there. They took it up a notch with the Predator model, designed specifically for hunters who demand a bit more from their firearm.

The 18″ barrel is the Goldilocks of barrel lengths – not too long, not too short, but just right. It offers the perfect balance between maneuverability in tight spaces and the velocity needed for ethical, long-range shots. Despite the shorter barrel, the .308 Winchester cartridge paired with modern ammunition retains sufficient energy for ethical harvests of deer and other large game within practical hunting ranges. The cold hammer-forged barrel ensures durability and consistent accuracy, shot after shot.

But what really sets this rifle apart is its user-friendly features. The adjustable Ruger Marksman trigger can be fine-tuned from 3 to 5 pounds, allowing you to customize your pull weight to your preferences. The one-piece, three-lug bolt provides smooth, fast cycling, while the free-floated barrel ensures that your point of impact stays consistent, regardless of temperature or pressure on the stock. And let’s not forget the threaded muzzle, which makes attaching the Banish Backcountry suppressor a breeze. All of this comes in a package that won’t break the bank, proving that you don’t need to take out a second mortgage to get a high-performance hunting rifle. 

Arken EPL 4-16×44 Scope: Crystal Clear Precision
Now, let’s talk about the eyes of our hunting rig – the Arken EPL 4-16×44 scope. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill hunting scope; it’s a precision optic that punches way above its weight class. With its 4-16x magnification range, this scope is versatile enough for everything from close-range brush hunting to long-range precision shots. It’s like having a Swiss Army knife for your eyes. The 44mm objective lens strikes a perfect balance between light gathering capability and keeping the scope’s profile low on your rifle.

But what really sets the Arken EPL apart is its Japanese glass quality and reticle. We’re talking edge-to-edge clarity that’ll have you wondering if you’re looking through a scope or a spotting scope. The VHR MIL reticle provides a clean sight picture for close shots while offering precise holdover and windage references for reaching out to extended ranges. It even includes an illuminated crosshair for shots at last light.

The zero-stop turrets allow for quick and precise adjustments, letting you dial for those long shots with confidence. And with 80 MOA of both windage and elevation adjustment, you’ve got plenty of room to stretch the legs of your .308. In short, the Arken EPL 4-16×44 is the perfect match for the precision potential of the Ruger Predator. It’s like giving eagle eyes to a rifle that already shoots like a laser beam.

Banish Backcountry Suppressor: Silence is Golden
Now, let’s talk about the Banish Backcountry suppressor. This isn’t just any old can; it’s a technological marvel designed specifically for hunters who demand the best.

Weighing in at a mere 7.8 ounces and measuring just 5.5 inches long, the Banish Backcountry is like the featherweight champion of the suppressor world. But don’t let its small size fool you – this little guy packs a serious punch when it comes to noise reduction.

Constructed from titanium, the Banish Backcountry offers an impressive 30-33 dB sound reduction. That’s like turning your .308’s bark into a polite cough! This level of suppression not only protects your hearing but also reduces the chance of spooking game after your first shot. It’s like having a verbal “do-over” in the hunting world!

But the benefits don’t stop at noise reduction. The Banish Backcountry also significantly reduces felt recoil, making follow-up shots quicker and more accurate. And thanks to its lightweight design, it doesn’t throw off the balance of your Ruger Predator. It’s like adding a silencer to your rifle without adding a boat anchor to the end of it!

Modern Ammunition: The Holy Trinity of Hunting Rounds
Now, let’s load up this silent precision machine with some truly remarkable ammunition. We’re focusing on three top-tier options that cover a wide range of hunting scenarios:

1. Barnes 130 grain TTSX: This all-copper bullet is a marvel of modern ammunition engineering. The polymer tip initiates rapid expansion, while the grooved bullet body reduces pressure and improves accuracy. It’s like having a tiny, precisely machined wrecking ball in your cartridge! The lighter 130-grain weight means higher velocities of 2,950 fps and flatter trajectories, making it ideal for medium-sized game and longer shots. Basically, this ammo provides 6.5 Creedmoor performance out to 500 yards in a shorty .308 rifle.
2. Federal Fusion 150 grain: The Fusion line is all about controlled expansion and weight retention for more traditional hunting scenarios. The molecularly fused jacket and core ensure the bullet stays together even on tough, quartering shots. It’s like the bullet equivalent of a faithful hunting dog – reliable, effective, and always gets the job done. The 150-grain weight offers a great balance of velocity and energy, making it a versatile choice for medium game.
3. Federal Terminal Ascent 175 grain: This is the heavyweight champion of our ammo lineup. The Terminal Ascent combines the best features of match-grade target bullets with the terminal performance needed for ethical hunting. The AccuChannel groove technology reduces drag and improves accuracy, while the Slipstream polymer tip initiates expansion even at lower velocities. It’s like having a long-range precision bullet that transforms into a expand-on-impact powerhouse when it reaches the target. The 175-grain weight is perfect for larger game such as elk and longer shots where energy retention is crucial.
4. Winchester Super Suppressed 168 grain: For hunters who prioritize noise reduction, subsonic ammunition can be used in conjunction with a suppressor to create an incredibly quiet shooting experience. However, it’s important to note that subsonic ammunition typically has significantly reduced ballistic and terminal performance. This ammunition is best used on coyotes and smaller varmints at 100 yards or less.

This variety of ammunition allows you to tailor your loads to your specific hunting situation. It’s like having a golf bag full of clubs – you’ve got the right tool for every shot!

Performance in the Field: Where the Magic Happens
So, how does this trifecta of rifle, suppressor, and ammo perform when the rubber meets the road? Or rather, when the boots hit the trail? Let’s break it down:

Accuracy: With this setup, sub-MOA groups aren’t just possible; they’re expected. The free-floated barrel of the Ruger Predator, combined with the precision manufacturing of our selected ammunition, creates a synergy of accuracy. The Banish Backcountry, despite its lightweight design, doesn’t negatively impact accuracy. In fact, by reducing felt recoil, it can actually help you stay on target for follow-up shots.

Note: Add Ammo Groups and my testing out to 750 yards (limiting hunting distances to 500 yards or less)

Stealth: This is where the Banish Backcountry really shines. The significant sound reduction means you’re less likely to spook nearby game after taking a shot. It’s like having a “quiet mode” for your hunting rifle. This can be particularly advantageous when hunting predators or in areas where multiple tags are allowed.

Versatility: With four distinct ammunition choices, this setup is ready for anything from coyotes to elk. The Barnes 130 grain TTSX offers flat trajectories for longer shots on smaller to medium-sized game. The Federal Fusion 150 grain is your go-to for traditional hunting distances and woods hunting for medium-sized game like deer. When you need to bring down larger game or shoot at extended ranges, the Federal Terminal Ascent 175 grain has you covered. And when you need to dispatch a coyote discretely on your property, the 168-grain Winchester Super Suppressed subsonic ammunition is the specialized card to play.

Ergonomics: The 18″ barrel makes this rifle a joy to handle in tight spaces. Whether you’re navigating thick brush or climbing into a tree stand, you’ll appreciate the maneuverability. The synthetic stock is comfortable to shoulder, and the overall balance is just right. It’s like the rifle equivalent of your favorite pair of broken-in boots.

Long-Range Capability: Don’t let the shorter barrel fool you. This rifle is more than capable of reaching out to 300 yards and beyond with the right optics and ammunition. It’s like having a sniper rifle that doesn’t mind getting its hands dirty in close-quarter brush hunting. I ran this setup out to 750 yards on steel targets with relative ease and impressive accuracy.

A Perfect Combination
And there you have it, the ultimate 21st-century hunting setup for 2024. The Ruger American Predator 18″ in .308 Winchester, paired with the Banish Backcountry suppressor, Arken EPL 4-16×44 scope, and modern ammunition, offers a level of performance and versatility that hunters of yesteryear could only dream of. It’s a setup that can grow with your skills, taking you from novice hunter to long-range marksman without needing to change your equipment.

Whether you’re a seasoned pro looking to up your game or a newcomer seeking a setup that will serve you well for years to come, this quad-threat deserves a serious look. So get out there, give it a try, and experience for yourself why more and more hunters are embracing this high-tech approach to a time-honored tradition. Happy hunting, and may your freezer be full and your hunting stories be memorable..