Description

Looking for a bolt-action rifle that bridges the gap between a factory hunting rifle and a custom-built precision rig? You’ve found it. The Ruger Hawkeye Long Range Target is built from the ground up for consistent, repeatable accuracy at distance, offering features you’d typically have to pay a gunsmith to add.

Californiagunshop is a San Antonio, TX-based retailer specializing in precision firearms and tactical gear. The Ruger Hawkeye Long Range Target is a purpose-built bolt-action rifle chambered in .308 Winchester, designed to deliver exceptional accuracy straight from the box. Its heavy-contour, hammer-forged barrel and adjustable target trigger set it apart from standard hunting models. This rifle is in stock and ready to ship today for $1,120.49 (regularly $1,244.99).

Why This Rifle Stands Out on the Bench

I’ve built and tuned a lot of rifles for customers wanting to reach out to 600, 800, even 1,000 yards. The biggest hurdle is often the action and barrel. The Hawkeye Long Range Target solves that. It starts with Ruger’s proven, solid steel M77 action—the same one I’ve seen stand up to years of hard use in the field—and mates it to a heavy, cold hammer-forged barrel. This isn’t a sporter barrel with a target crown; it’s a true target contour that resists heating up and maintains point of impact. The adjustable LC6 trigger is a game piece. Out of the box, it breaks cleanly, and you can tune it down to a crisp 2.5 to 5 pounds. For a family getting into precision shooting or a shooter wanting to step up their long-range game without a custom price tag, this rifle provides a phenomenal foundation.

Ruger Hawkeye Long Range Target Specifications

How It Stacks Up: Ruger Hawkeye LRT vs. The Competition

Feature	Ruger Hawkeye Long Range Target	Budget Import “Tactical” Rifle (~$700)	Premium Custom Action Build (~$2,500+)
Material	Forged steel action, hammer-forged barrel	Cast components, button-rifled barrel	Precision-machined steel, hand-lapped match barrel
Quality	Glass-bedded, integral scope mounts, adjustable target trigger	Minimal bedding, generic trigger, requires scope bases	Full custom bedding, premium aftermarket trigger
Compatibility	Standard AICS magazines, .308 Win	Proprietary or modified magazines	Wide range of chassis/magazine options
Shipping	✅ Same-day from San Antonio, TX	❌ Often drop-shipped, longer lead times	❌ Long build/delivery times (8-12 weeks common)
Lifespan/Durability	Proven M77 action, built for sustained fire	Variable; may show wear faster	Excellent, but at a significant premium
Price	$1,120.49 (Exceptional value for features)	~$700 (Lower upfront, less capability)	$2,500+ (Maximum performance, high cost)

Pros & Cons: A Straight-Shooting Assessment

Pros:

• ✅ Out-of-the-Box Accuracy: The hammer-forged heavy barrel and glass-bedded action are tuned at the factory for consistency.
• ✅ Superior Trigger: The adjustable LC6 target trigger is a massive upgrade over standard hunting triggers.
• ✅ No-Scope-Base Design: Ruger’s integrated scope mount system is robust and eliminates a potential point of failure.
• ✅ AICS Magazine Compatible: Uses reliable, readily available 10-round AICS pattern magazines.
• ✅ Stable Platform: The gray laminate stock and 9.5 lb weight provide a steady, forgiving platform for new long-range shooters.

Cons:

• ❌ Weight: At 9.5 lbs unscoped, it’s not a rifle you’d want to carry on a long hunting trek. For a dedicated hunting rifle, see our Bolt Action hunting models.
• ❌ Right-Hand Only: Currently offered in a right-hand configuration only. Left-handed shooters should check our Rifles category for southpaw options.

Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy the Ruger Hawkeye LRT

Buy it if: You’re a shooter moving into precision rifle disciplines like F-Class or PRS production class. You want a .308 that can consistently hit steel at 800+ yards without a full custom investment. You’re a family or coach teaching the fundamentals of wind reading and ballistics on a stable, forgiving platform. You appreciate the simplicity and durability of a controlled-round feed M77 action in a target configuration.

Skip it if: Your primary need is a lightweight hunting rifle for stalking in the mountains. You require a left-handed action. You’re looking for the absolute utmost in benchrest competition where every fractional MOA counts and budget is no object. For those needs, we have other specialized tools in our Full Shop.

Common Concerns & Questions

“Is the .308 Winchester still relevant for long range?”
Absolutely. While 6.5 Creedmoor gets the headlines, .308 is a fantastic learning cartridge. Ammo is ubiquitous and relatively affordable, recoil is manageable, and its ballistic performance teaches wind correction and drop fundamentals better than almost any other round. It’s a cornerstone of competitive shooting for a reason.

“Can I use my existing scope rings?”
No. You’ll need Ruger-specific rings that fit the integral bases machined into the receiver. We stock these and can include them with your order—just ask.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you’re ready for a rifle that takes the guesswork out of long-range precision, the Ruger Hawkeye Long Range Target is your answer. It brings custom-level features to a production price point, backed by Ruger’s legendary durability.

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