{ "apiVersion": 1, "kind": "work-order", "purpose": "Taking the firearm apart for a job such as refinishing, and putting it back together to specification.", "firearm": { "slug": "ruger-american-rifle", "name": "Ruger American Rifle", "manufacturer": { "id": "ruger", "name": "Sturm, Ruger & Co." }, "category": "rifle", "action": "bolt-action", "calibers": [ ".308 Winchester", "6.5 Creedmoor", ".223 Remington", ".450 Bushmaster" ], "alsoKnownAs": [ "American Predator", "American Ranch" ], "coversAlso": [ "Ruger American Predator", "Ruger American Ranch", "Ruger American Rifle Generation II" ], "page": "firearms/ruger-american-rifle.html", "bundle": "api/v1/firearms/ruger-american-rifle.json", "lastUpdated": "2026-10-29" }, "notices": [ "This work order is written for the Ruger American Rifle. It is reported to cover Ruger American Predator; Ruger American Ranch; Ruger American Rifle Generation II — if the firearm on the bench is one of those, check the torque notes: values do not always carry over." ], "disclaimer": { "headline": "Read this before you use anything here.", "points": [ "This is a guide, not an authority. Entries are compiled from manufacturer manuals, technical manuals, published references, and community knowledge. Some of it comes from sources that are not authoritative, and some of it may simply be wrong.", "Always consult the manufacturer's manual for your specific firearm and serial-number range. Manufacturers change designs mid-production without renaming the model. The manual that shipped with your firearm outranks anything on this site.", "Consult a licensed gunsmith for anything beyond routine field stripping and cleaning, for any firearm you are unsure about, and for any procedure marked as gunsmith-recommended here.", "Treat every firearm as loaded. Verify it is unloaded, with the magazine removed and the chamber physically and visually checked, before any procedure in this database. Point it in a safe direction the entire time.", "Disassembly can damage a firearm or injure you. Springs are under tension, parts can launch, and reassembling a firearm incorrectly can make it unsafe to fire in a way that is not obvious from the outside. If a reassembled firearm does not pass a function check, stop and see a gunsmith.", "Torque values are shown in two groups. Values from the manufacturer or the issuing military are shown as such, with the document they came from. Values reported by anyone else — parts makers, gunsmithing publishers, articles, forums — are shown separately with who said them, how reliable that source is, and their exact words. Those are not specifications. Confirm any torque value with the manufacturer or a licensed gunsmith before relying on it.", "Nothing here is legal advice. Firearms law varies by country, state, and city, and some modifications or configurations are regulated or prohibited. You are responsible for knowing and following the law where you are.", "No warranty of any kind. Contributors and maintainers accept no liability for damage, injury, or loss arising from use of this material." ], "page": "disclaimer.html", "legal": { "summary": "Legal notice: this material is third-party information compiled from sources of varying reliability and is provided for general informational and educational purposes only. It is not gunsmithing, technical, safety or legal advice, it is not verified or endorsed by any manufacturer, and it must not be taken as fact. Any work on a firearm beyond the routine field stripping described in its own owner's manual should be performed only by a licensed and insured gunsmith. You use this material entirely at your own risk. Fundamental Build LLC and the project's contributors make no warranty of any kind and accept no liability for death, injury, damage or loss arising from its use. Full terms: LEGAL.md.", "page": "legal.html", "notice": "https://github.com/Fundamental-build-LLC/Pew-Takedown/blob/main/LEGAL.md" } }, "sourcing": { "confidence": "high", "verification": "manufacturer-manual-verified" }, "manufacturerDisassembly": { "status": "published", "limit": null, "statement": "Ruger gives an owner procedure for removing the bolt, bolt sleeve and barreled action from the stock and for adjusting trigger pull. It says bolt removal is enough for routine cleaning but does not tell owners to stop there.", "source": { "title": "Instruction Manual for Ruger American Rifle", "publisher": "Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://ruger-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/_manuals/americanRifle.pdf", "page": "20", "pdfPage": 20, "pageUrl": "https://ruger-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/_manuals/americanRifle.pdf#page=20", "quote": "This is as far as you need to dismantle the rifle for a routine cleaning. It is rarely necessary to proceed further." } }, "recalls": [], "shopTier": { "tier": 1, "group": "rifle", "rating": "Pew-Takedown editorial rating (1 easy – 3 hardest), not the manufacturer's", "reason": "54 pieces, held by screws and pins, with a bolt that comes apart without a tool. The traps are small: the cocking piece falls off its cams if over-rotated, spring-loaded parts can jump, and the magazine latch goes back with a slave pin. None of it is timed.", "confidence": "high", "partCount": { "value": 50, "kind": "line-items", "covers": "Complete rifle (50 line items, keys 1–50)", "basis": "manufacturer-parts-list", "source": { "title": "Instruction Manual for Ruger American Rifle", "publisher": "Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://ruger-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/_manuals/americanRifle.pdf", "page": "32–33", "pdfPage": 32, "pageUrl": "https://ruger-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/_manuals/americanRifle.pdf#page=32", "quote": "50 Magazine Latch Pin" } }, "painPoints": [ { "issue": "Over-rotating the cocking piece when the bolt sleeve comes off drops it to the bottom of the dual cocking cams. Getting it back can take tools and real effort.", "during": "both", "source": { "title": "Instruction Manual for Ruger American Rifle", "publisher": "Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://ruger-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/_manuals/americanRifle.pdf", "page": null, "pdfPage": null, "pageUrl": null, "quote": "If the cocking piece is turned too far in either direction, it will “fall down” to the bottom of the cocking cams. It will take significant effort, and possibly the use of hand tools or a gripping aid, to return the cocking piece to the correct cam notches." } }, { "issue": "The safety selector, bolt stop and trigger are spring-and-plunger parts that jump when removed. Ruger forbids substitute springs if one is lost.", "during": "disassembly", "source": { "title": "Instruction Manual for Ruger American Rifle", "publisher": "Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://ruger-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/_manuals/americanRifle.pdf", "page": null, "pdfPage": null, "pageUrl": null, "quote": "If a part is under spring tension (such as the Safety Selector, Bolt Stop, Trigger) remove it cautiously and anticipate the direction the spring and plunger are most likely to “jump.”" } }, { "issue": "The magazine latch and spring are reinstalled on a slave pin and assembly tool, which the pin then pushes out.", "during": "reassembly", "source": { "title": "Instruction Manual for Ruger American Rifle", "publisher": "Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://ruger-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/_manuals/americanRifle.pdf", "page": null, "pdfPage": null, "pageUrl": null, "quote": "The slave pin and assembly tool will drop free after the magazine latch pin has been installed." } } ], "minutes": { "strip": 30, "rebuild": 45, "basis": "estimated", "note": "Stock, bolt (sleeve, cocking piece, firing pin), bottom metal, magazine latch (slave pin), bolt stop and safety.", "source": null }, "stripScope": [ { "assembly": "Stock / bottom metal", "removes": [ "action screws", "trigger guard / floorplate", "magazine box, spring, follower", "swivel studs", "recoil pad or butt plate" ] }, { "assembly": "Bolt", "removes": [ "firing pin assembly (shroud, cocking piece, mainspring)", "extractor", "ejector and spring", "bolt sleeve / cocking piece" ] }, { "assembly": "Receiver", "removes": [ "trigger assembly (as a unit)", "bolt stop and spring", "safety (if receiver-mounted)", "scope bases / iron sights" ] }, { "assembly": "Magazine latch", "removes": [ "magazine latch pin, latch, spring" ], "tools": [ "slave pin and assembly tool (Ruger)" ] } ], "hardware": { "pins": 18, "springs": 8, "detents": 2, "basis": "counted from the manufacturer's parts list (one per key number unless a quantity is given)" }, "specialTools": [ { "tool": "slave pin / assembly tool", "usedFor": "Magazine latch reinstall" }, { "tool": "1/8 in punch", "usedFor": "Magazine latch pin" }, { "tool": "torque driver", "usedFor": "Action screws" } ], "fitOnRebuild": [ { "check": "Cocking piece in correct cam notch", "why": "If it has dropped, the bolt will not cock or assemble.", "source": { "title": "Instruction Manual for Ruger American Rifle", "publisher": "Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://ruger-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/_manuals/americanRifle.pdf", "page": null, "pdfPage": null, "pageUrl": null, "quote": "Please note that the cocking piece will only rotate clockwise, relative to the bolt body (when viewed from the rear of the bolt)." } }, { "check": "Action screw torque", "why": "Affects zero.", "source": null }, { "check": "Re-zero sights or scope", "why": "Sights and optics come off for coating, and point of impact must be re-confirmed. This is a standard check, so no source.", "source": null } ], "assessed": "2026-10-29" }, "videos": [ { "title": "Tech Tip - Ruger American® Rifle Disassembly & Reassembly", "url": "https://www.ruger.com/videos.html", "platform": "vimeo", "embedUrl": "https://player.vimeo.com/video/131272101", "shows": [ "field-strip", "reassembly" ], "appliesTo": "Ruger American Rifle (original/Gen I, standard magazine well)", "published": "2015-06-20", "note": null, "channel": { "id": "vimeo:ruger", "name": "Ruger Firearms", "url": "https://vimeo.com/ruger", "owner": "Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc." }, "accessed": "2026-10-15" }, { "title": "Disassembly of a Ruger® American® Rifle with an AI/AR mag well Tech Tip", "url": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r8OaJWV9RcQ", "platform": "youtube", "embedUrl": null, "shows": [ "field-strip" ], "appliesTo": "Ruger American Rifle with AI/AR-style magazine well (per description)", "published": "2021-11-22", "note": null, "channel": { "id": "UC9Ge9rpeTPQxnjlMH0VDwIA", "name": "RugerFirearms", "url": "https://www.youtube.com/@RugerFirearms", "owner": "Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc." }, "accessed": "2026-10-15" }, { "title": "Reassembly of the Ruger® American® Rifle with an AI/AR mag well Tech Tip", "url": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Oneh75_6VI", "platform": "youtube", "embedUrl": null, "shows": [ "reassembly" ], "appliesTo": "Ruger American Rifle with AI/AR-style magazine well (per description)", "published": "2021-11-22", "note": null, "channel": { "id": "UC9Ge9rpeTPQxnjlMH0VDwIA", "name": "RugerFirearms", "url": "https://www.youtube.com/@RugerFirearms", "owner": "Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc." }, "accessed": "2026-10-15" }, { "title": "Ruger American® Rifle Generation II Disassembly Tech Tip", "url": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6foD6g8g0I", "platform": "youtube", "embedUrl": null, "shows": [ "field-strip", "detail-strip" ], "appliesTo": "Ruger American Rifle Generation II (per description)", "published": "2023-12-20", "note": null, "channel": { "id": "UC9Ge9rpeTPQxnjlMH0VDwIA", "name": "RugerFirearms", "url": "https://www.youtube.com/@RugerFirearms", "owner": "Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc." }, "accessed": "2026-10-15" }, { "title": "The Ruger American® Rifle Generation II Reassembly Tech Tips", "url": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=24ePPpTpay4", "platform": "youtube", "embedUrl": null, "shows": [ "reassembly" ], "appliesTo": "Ruger American Rifle Generation II (per description)", "published": "2023-12-20", "note": null, "channel": { "id": "UC9Ge9rpeTPQxnjlMH0VDwIA", "name": "RugerFirearms", "url": "https://www.youtube.com/@RugerFirearms", "owner": "Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc." }, "accessed": "2026-10-15" }, { "title": "The Ruger American® Rifle Generation II Length of Pull Tech Tips", "url": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dzNNBT_y-IA", "platform": "youtube", "embedUrl": null, "shows": [ "adjustment" ], "appliesTo": "Ruger American Rifle Generation II (per description)", "published": "2023-12-20", "note": null, "channel": { "id": "UC9Ge9rpeTPQxnjlMH0VDwIA", "name": "RugerFirearms", "url": "https://www.youtube.com/@RugerFirearms", "owner": "Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc." }, "accessed": "2026-10-15" } ], "configurations": [], "tools": [ { "name": "Bore guide", "required": true, "usedFor": "Cleaning from the breech without damaging the throat or the crown.", "substitute": "There is no good substitute. A rod run into an unguided chamber scrapes the throat." }, { "name": "Hex key or screwdriver matching the action screws", "required": false, "usedFor": "Removing the barrelled action from the stock. Not needed for routine cleaning." }, { "name": "Torque wrench", "required": false, "usedFor": "Reinstalling action screws to a consistent value, which is an accuracy variable on every bolt rifle." } ], "phases": [ { "id": "clear", "title": "Clear and make safe", "steps": [ { "n": 1, "instruction": "Point the muzzle in a safe direction and keep your finger off the trigger." }, { "n": 2, "instruction": "Place the safety in the on position." }, { "n": 3, "instruction": "Lift the bolt handle and draw the bolt fully rearward, extracting and ejecting any chambered round." }, { "n": 4, "instruction": "Remove the detachable magazine.", "partsFreed": [ "Magazine contents" ] }, { "n": 5, "instruction": "Inspect the chamber and magazine well with a light and physically confirm the chamber is empty.", "warning": "Look and feel. Both, every time." }, { "n": 6, "instruction": "Remove all live ammunition from the work area." } ], "videos": [] }, { "id": "disassemble", "title": "Disassemble", "videos": [ { "title": "Tech Tip - Ruger American® Rifle Disassembly & Reassembly", "url": "https://www.ruger.com/videos.html", "platform": "vimeo", "embedUrl": "https://player.vimeo.com/video/131272101", "shows": [ "field-strip", "reassembly" ], "appliesTo": "Ruger American Rifle (original/Gen I, standard magazine well)", "published": "2015-06-20", "note": null, "channel": { "id": "vimeo:ruger", "name": "Ruger Firearms", "url": "https://vimeo.com/ruger", "owner": "Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc." }, "accessed": "2026-10-15" }, { "title": "Disassembly of a Ruger® American® Rifle with an AI/AR mag well Tech Tip", "url": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r8OaJWV9RcQ", "platform": "youtube", "embedUrl": null, "shows": [ "field-strip" ], "appliesTo": "Ruger American Rifle with AI/AR-style magazine well (per description)", "published": "2021-11-22", "note": null, "channel": { "id": "UC9Ge9rpeTPQxnjlMH0VDwIA", "name": "RugerFirearms", "url": "https://www.youtube.com/@RugerFirearms", "owner": "Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc." }, "accessed": "2026-10-15" }, { "title": "Ruger American® Rifle Generation II Disassembly Tech Tip", "url": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B6foD6g8g0I", "platform": "youtube", "embedUrl": null, "shows": [ "field-strip", "detail-strip" ], "appliesTo": "Ruger American Rifle Generation II (per description)", "published": "2023-12-20", "note": null, "channel": { "id": "UC9Ge9rpeTPQxnjlMH0VDwIA", "name": "RugerFirearms", "url": "https://www.youtube.com/@RugerFirearms", "owner": "Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc." }, "accessed": "2026-10-15" } ], "procedures": [ { "procedure": "field-strip", "title": "Field Strip", "level": "field-strip", "configuration": false, "steps": [ { "n": 1, "instruction": "Complete the Clear and Make Safe procedure. Confirm the chamber and magazine are empty and remove the magazine." }, { "n": 2, "instruction": "If the firing pin is cocked, put the safety in the SAFE position.", "tip": "Note the direction: Ruger wants the safety ON for this, not off. Bolt rifles differ on this point and guessing is how people end up forcing a bolt that is simply locked." }, { "n": 3, "instruction": "Open the bolt and pull it to the rear while pressing on the rear of the bolt stop.", "tip": "The bolt stop is on the left side of the receiver on right-handed rifles and on the right side on left-handed ones.", "partsFreed": [ "Bolt" ] }, { "n": 4, "instruction": "Clean the bore from the breech using a bore guide, and clean the bolt face, lugs, and chamber." } ] }, { "procedure": "stock-removal", "title": "Remove the Barrelled Action from the Stock", "level": "detail-strip", "configuration": false, "steps": [ { "n": 1, "instruction": "Read this before touching the cocking piece: if it is rotated too far in either direction it will fall to the bottom of the cocking cams, and getting it back into the correct cam notches takes significant effort and possibly tools.", "warning": "This is the one place on this rifle where a careless quarter-turn creates a real job.", "tip": "The cocking piece only rotates clockwise relative to the bolt body, viewed from the rear. There are dual cocking cams, so you may need to rotate it up the cams twice to return it to position." }, { "n": 2, "instruction": "Remove the bolt as described in the field strip." }, { "n": 3, "instruction": "Grasp the outside of the bolt shroud and cocking piece and rotate approximately 30 degrees, so the cocking piece lobe aligns with the cam notch, following the manual's figures rather than feel." } ] } ] }, { "id": "refinish", "title": "Refinish", "components": [ { "name": "Bolt", "procedure": "field-strip", "level": "field-strip", "step": 3 } ], "manufacturerPartsList": { "parts": 50, "scope": "Ruger American Rifle. Exploded views on pp. 34–38" }, "partsDiagrams": [], "materials": [ { "component": "Receiver", "material": "Alloy Steel", "finish": null, "appliesTo": "Model 46902 (.308 Win) — 'Material' is the sheet's general material line", "note": null, "source": { "title": "Ruger American Rifle Generation II Standard Bolt-Action Rifle — Specifications (model 46902)", "publisher": "Sturm, Ruger & Co.", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://ruger.com/products/americanRifleGenII/specSheets/46902.html", "page": null, "pdfPage": null, "pageUrl": null, "quote": "Material Alloy Steel" } }, { "component": "Barrel", "material": "Alloy Steel", "finish": "Gun Metal Gray Cerakote", "appliesTo": "Model 46902", "note": null, "source": { "title": "Ruger American Rifle Generation II Standard Bolt-Action Rifle — Specifications (model 46902)", "publisher": "Sturm, Ruger & Co.", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://ruger.com/products/americanRifleGenII/specSheets/46902.html", "page": null, "pdfPage": null, "pageUrl": null, "quote": "Material Alloy Steel … Barrel Finish Gun Metal Gray Cerakote" } }, { "component": "Receiver", "material": null, "finish": "Cerakote", "appliesTo": "Model 46902", "note": null, "source": { "title": "Ruger American Rifle Generation II Standard Bolt-Action Rifle — Specifications (model 46902)", "publisher": "Sturm, Ruger & Co.", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://ruger.com/products/americanRifleGenII/specSheets/46902.html", "page": null, "pdfPage": null, "pageUrl": null, "quote": "Professionally applied Cerakote coating on barrel, muzzle brake, receiver and bolt handle results in a durable, easy-to-maintain finish." } }, { "component": "Bolt", "material": "stainless steel", "finish": null, "appliesTo": "Gen II", "note": null, "source": { "title": "Ruger American Rifle Generation II Standard Bolt-Action Rifle — Specifications (model 46902)", "publisher": "Sturm, Ruger & Co.", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://ruger.com/products/americanRifleGenII/specSheets/46902.html", "page": null, "pdfPage": null, "pageUrl": null, "quote": "The one-piece bolt is CNC machined from stainless steel for smooth operation and the familiar three-lug design with 70° throw provides ample scope clearance." } }, { "component": "Stock", "material": null, "finish": "Splatter", "appliesTo": "Model 46902", "note": null, "source": { "title": "Ruger American Rifle Generation II Standard Bolt-Action Rifle — Specifications (model 46902)", "publisher": "Sturm, Ruger & Co.", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://ruger.com/products/americanRifleGenII/specSheets/46902.html", "page": null, "pdfPage": null, "pageUrl": null, "quote": "Stock Gray Splatter Gen II American … Splatter finished stock provides excellent grip without being too sharp or abrasive." } } ], "note": "The components the procedures above separate. Coating, masking and cure are outside this database; follow your coating system's instructions. A part the manufacturer marks \"factory fit\" should not be swapped or reworked." }, { "id": "reassemble", "title": "Reassemble", "videos": [ { "title": "Tech Tip - Ruger American® Rifle Disassembly & Reassembly", "url": "https://www.ruger.com/videos.html", "platform": "vimeo", "embedUrl": "https://player.vimeo.com/video/131272101", "shows": [ "field-strip", "reassembly" ], "appliesTo": "Ruger American Rifle (original/Gen I, standard magazine well)", "published": "2015-06-20", "note": null, "channel": { "id": "vimeo:ruger", "name": "Ruger Firearms", "url": "https://vimeo.com/ruger", "owner": "Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc." }, "accessed": "2026-10-15" }, { "title": "Reassembly of the Ruger® American® Rifle with an AI/AR mag well Tech Tip", "url": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5Oneh75_6VI", "platform": "youtube", "embedUrl": null, "shows": [ "reassembly" ], "appliesTo": "Ruger American Rifle with AI/AR-style magazine well (per description)", "published": "2021-11-22", "note": null, "channel": { "id": "UC9Ge9rpeTPQxnjlMH0VDwIA", "name": "RugerFirearms", "url": "https://www.youtube.com/@RugerFirearms", "owner": "Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc." }, "accessed": "2026-10-15" }, { "title": "The Ruger American® Rifle Generation II Reassembly Tech Tips", "url": "https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=24ePPpTpay4", "platform": "youtube", "embedUrl": null, "shows": [ "reassembly" ], "appliesTo": "Ruger American Rifle Generation II (per description)", "published": "2023-12-20", "note": null, "channel": { "id": "UC9Ge9rpeTPQxnjlMH0VDwIA", "name": "RugerFirearms", "url": "https://www.youtube.com/@RugerFirearms", "owner": "Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc." }, "accessed": "2026-10-15" } ], "procedures": [ { "procedure": "stock-removal", "title": "Remove the Barrelled Action from the Stock", "configuration": false, "steps": [ { "n": 4, "instruction": "Reverse the sequence to reassemble, checking the cocking piece lobe is seated in its notch before the bolt goes back in the rifle." } ], "instruction": null }, { "procedure": "reassembly", "title": "Reassembly", "configuration": false, "steps": [ { "n": 1, "instruction": "Confirm the bolt is correctly assembled and the bolt head is properly oriented." }, { "n": 2, "instruction": "Align the bolt with the receiver raceway and slide it forward into the action." }, { "n": 3, "instruction": "Close the bolt handle and cycle the bolt several times to confirm smooth travel and correct cocking." }, { "n": 4, "instruction": "Confirm the bolt release retains the bolt when the action is opened fully." }, { "n": 5, "instruction": "Perform the function check." } ], "instruction": null } ] }, { "id": "torque", "title": "Torque", "coverage": "sourced", "manufacturer": [ { "fastener": "Bedding (action) screws (2)", "appliesTo": "Original Ruger American Rifle (before Generation II)", "qualifier": "range", "value": 60, "valueMax": 80, "unit": "in-lb", "converted": { "value": { "N-m": 6.8, "in-lb": 60, "ft-lb": 5 }, "valueMax": { "N-m": 9, "in-lb": 80, "ft-lb": 6.7 } }, "sequence": "Loosely fit both screws first. Do not tighten one all the way and then the other: alternate, a partial turn at a time, so both come up equally. On modular stocks, refit the magazine well into the stock before the screws.", "threadlocker": null, "source": { "title": "Instruction Manual for Ruger American Rifle", "publisher": "Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://ruger-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/_manuals/americanRifle.pdf", "page": "24", "pdfPage": 24, "pageUrl": "https://ruger-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/_manuals/americanRifle.pdf#page=24", "quote": "Instead, alternately tighten each one – a partial turn at a time – so that the screws will be tightened equally until both are snugly tightened to 60-80 in-lbs." } }, { "fastener": "Bedding (action) screws (2)", "appliesTo": "Ruger American Rifle Generation II (modular stocks with removable magazine well; the same value is repeated for AI-style-magazine stocks)", "qualifier": "range", "value": 60, "valueMax": 80, "unit": "in-lb", "converted": { "value": { "N-m": 6.8, "in-lb": 60, "ft-lb": 5 }, "valueMax": { "N-m": 9, "in-lb": 80, "ft-lb": 6.7 } }, "sequence": "Seat the barreled action so the two angled bedding blocks in the stock fit the receiver grooves; insert the magazine well; push the latch forward with a ball-end Allen wrench to reach the rear screw; loosely install both screws; do not tighten one all the way and then the other — alternately tighten each a partial turn at a time so both come up equally.", "threadlocker": null, "source": { "title": "Instruction Manual for Ruger American Rifle Generation II", "publisher": "Sturm, Ruger & Co.", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://ruger-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/_manuals/RAR-GenerationII.pdf", "page": "28", "pdfPage": 27, "pageUrl": "https://ruger-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/_manuals/RAR-GenerationII.pdf#page=27", "quote": "alternately tighten each one – a partial turn at a time – so that the screws will be tightened equally until both are snugly tightened to 60-80 in-lbs." } }, { "fastener": "Factory Picatinny scope base screws (4, #6-48)", "appliesTo": "Ruger American Rifle Generation II (receiver fitted with Picatinny base at the factory)", "qualifier": "exact", "value": 18, "valueMax": null, "unit": "in-lb", "converted": { "value": { "N-m": 2, "in-lb": 18, "ft-lb": 1.5 }, "valueMax": null }, "sequence": "T-10 Torx driver.", "threadlocker": null, "source": { "title": "Instruction Manual for Ruger American Rifle Generation II", "publisher": "Sturm, Ruger & Co.", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://ruger-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/_manuals/RAR-GenerationII.pdf", "page": "43", "pdfPage": 42, "pageUrl": "https://ruger-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/_manuals/RAR-GenerationII.pdf#page=42", "quote": "Factory hardware to mount the scope base is (4) #6-48 screws. Torque to 18 in-lb with a T-10 Torx® driver." } } ], "reported": [ { "fastener": "Action screws (2), 1/4-28 socket head cap screws", "appliesTo": "Ruger American short action in a Magpul Hunter American stock (MAG931 / MAG1207)", "qualifier": "range", "value": 60, "valueMax": 80, "unit": "in-lb", "converted": { "value": { "N-m": 6.8, "in-lb": 60, "ft-lb": 5 }, "valueMax": { "N-m": 9, "in-lb": 80, "ft-lb": 6.7 } }, "sequence": "Place the two Mounting Blocks into the Bedding Block, seat the receiver on them with the screw path aligned, insert the screws and tighten with a 3/16\" hex. 'Caution: DO NOT overtighten the action screws as this may cause damage to the action and/or the stock.'", "threadlocker": null, "source": { "title": "Hunter American Stock (MAG931 / MAG1207) Installation Instructions, 072-0126-B", "publisher": "Magpul Industries", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://magpul.com/media/wysiwyg/Instructions/MAG931-MAG1207_Hunter_American_Stock_INSRT.pdf", "page": "PDF p. 1", "pdfPage": 1, "pageUrl": "https://magpul.com/media/wysiwyg/Instructions/MAG931-MAG1207_Hunter_American_Stock_INSRT.pdf#page=1", "quote": "using a 3/16” hex wrench, tighten to the rifle manufacturer’s specification of 60-80 in-lbs. (Ruger specification)." } }, { "fastener": "Take down bolts (action screws), front and rear", "appliesTo": "Ruger American Centerfire in a Boyds stock", "qualifier": "range", "value": 30, "valueMax": 35, "unit": "in-lb", "converted": { "value": { "N-m": 3.4, "in-lb": 30, "ft-lb": 2.5 }, "valueMax": { "N-m": 4, "in-lb": 35, "ft-lb": 2.9 } }, "sequence": "Verify the action and barrel are centered in the inlet with barrel clearance; tighten starting with the rear screw (F) and then the front screw (E), alternating back and forth evenly until both reach 30-35 inch pounds. Boyds requires bedding the front and rear lugs during final assembly.", "threadlocker": null, "source": { "title": "Assembly Instructions for ONLY Ruger American Centerfire Boyds Stocks", "publisher": "Boyds Gunstocks", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://www.boydsgunstocks.com/docs/default-source/default-document-library/assembly-instructions-ruger-american-series.pdf?sfvrsn=2ea2656d_2", "page": "PDF p. 4", "pdfPage": 4, "pageUrl": "https://www.boydsgunstocks.com/docs/default-source/default-document-library/assembly-instructions-ruger-american-series.pdf?sfvrsn=2ea2656d_2#page=4", "quote": "Tighten the take down bolts to 30 – 35 inch pounds, starting with the rear screw (F) and then the front screw (E) and alternate back and forth evenly until both are at the recommended 30-35 inch pounds)." } }, { "fastener": "Take down screws (with AI-style floor plate kit)", "appliesTo": "Ruger American Centerfire short action in a Boyds stock retro-fitted with the AI-style floor plate (kit PN A09158)", "qualifier": "range", "value": 30, "valueMax": 35, "unit": "in-lb", "converted": { "value": { "N-m": 3.4, "in-lb": 30, "ft-lb": 2.5 }, "valueMax": { "N-m": 4, "in-lb": 35, "ft-lb": 2.9 } }, "sequence": null, "threadlocker": null, "source": { "title": "Addendum (6/24/19) to Instructions for Ruger American Centerfire Boyds Stocks with AI Style floor plate", "publisher": "Boyds Gunstocks", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://www.boydsgunstocks.com/docs/default-source/default-document-library/assembly-instructions-ruger-acf-ai-style.pdf?sfvrsn=c1a2656d_0", "page": "PDF p. 1", "pdfPage": 1, "pageUrl": "https://www.boydsgunstocks.com/docs/default-source/default-document-library/assembly-instructions-ruger-acf-ai-style.pdf?sfvrsn=c1a2656d_0#page=1", "quote": "Insert and torque the take down screws 30-35 inch pounds." } }, { "fastener": "Action screws", "appliesTo": "Ruger American Rifle", "qualifier": "range", "value": 60, "valueMax": 80, "unit": "in-lb", "converted": { "value": { "N-m": 6.8, "in-lb": 60, "ft-lb": 5 }, "valueMax": { "N-m": 9, "in-lb": 80, "ft-lb": 6.7 } }, "sequence": null, "threadlocker": null, "source": { "title": "Torque Specs (Torque Specs by Brand — Ruger American Rifle)", "publisher": "Fix It Sticks (compiled reference list)", "reliability": "tertiary", "url": "https://store.fixitsticks.com/pages/torque-specs", "page": null, "pdfPage": null, "pageUrl": null, "quote": "Action screws: 60-80 in-lbs" } }, { "fastener": "Action screws (front and rear)", "appliesTo": "Ruger American SA/LA in an MDT Oryx chassis (replace bolt stop pin with supplied 20 mm pin first)", "qualifier": "range", "value": 60, "valueMax": 65, "unit": "in-lb", "converted": { "value": { "N-m": 6.8, "in-lb": 60, "ft-lb": 5 }, "valueMax": { "N-m": 7.3, "in-lb": 65, "ft-lb": 5.4 } }, "sequence": "Push the action rearward against the recoil lug and torque the front action screw first, then the rear (manual p. 1: 'first torquing the front then the rear action screw').", "threadlocker": null, "source": { "title": "MDT Oryx Chassis System — User Manual (13694, Version 07.14.26), attached to MDT help-centre article 'ORYX Chassis Installation Guides'", "publisher": "MDT Sporting Goods Ltd. (Modular Driven Technologies, MDT)", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://support.mdttac.com/hc/article_attachments/51468856863892", "page": "PDF p. 2 (inlet-specific torque table)", "pdfPage": 2, "pageUrl": "https://support.mdttac.com/hc/article_attachments/51468856863892#page=2", "quote": "Ruger American SA/LA — 3/16” Hex Wrench — 60-65 inch-pounds" } }, { "fastener": "Action screws (1/4-28 FHCS front, 1/4-28 BHCS rear)", "appliesTo": "Ruger American Short Action with MDT Core Bottom Metal in an MDT TIMBR Core stock", "qualifier": "exact", "value": 65, "valueMax": null, "unit": "in-lb", "converted": { "value": { "N-m": 7.3, "in-lb": 65, "ft-lb": 5.4 }, "valueMax": null }, "sequence": "Fit spacers in the action-screw holes; push the bottom metal forward for alignment before torquing.", "threadlocker": null, "source": { "title": "MDT TIMBR Core & Core Bottom Metal — Ruger American Short Action — User Manual (Version 04.28.25), attached to MDT help-centre article 'Core Bottom Metal Installation'", "publisher": "MDT Sporting Goods Ltd. (Modular Driven Technologies, MDT)", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://support.mdttac.com/hc/article_attachments/47356433181076", "page": "PDF p. 1, step 7", "pdfPage": 1, "pageUrl": "https://support.mdttac.com/hc/article_attachments/47356433181076#page=1", "quote": "7. Tighten the action screws using a 5/32” Hex Key or Torque wrench with a 5/32” Hex Bit (Torque to 65 inch-pounds)." } }, { "fastener": "Bottom metal retaining screw (#8-15 x 0.5” flat head thread-forming screw)", "appliesTo": "Ruger American Short Action with MDT Core Bottom Metal in an MDT TIMBR Core stock", "qualifier": "exact", "value": 15, "valueMax": null, "unit": "in-lb", "converted": { "value": { "N-m": 1.7, "in-lb": 15, "ft-lb": 1.2 }, "valueMax": null }, "sequence": "Only torque once you have confirmed a magazine can be inserted. Maker also allows 'hand tight'.", "threadlocker": null, "source": { "title": "MDT TIMBR Core & Core Bottom Metal — Ruger American Short Action — User Manual (Version 04.28.25), attached to MDT help-centre article 'Core Bottom Metal Installation'", "publisher": "MDT Sporting Goods Ltd. (Modular Driven Technologies, MDT)", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://support.mdttac.com/hc/article_attachments/47356433181076", "page": "PDF p. 1, step 9", "pdfPage": 1, "pageUrl": "https://support.mdttac.com/hc/article_attachments/47356433181076#page=1", "quote": "9. Use a phillips screws driver to install the bottom metal retaining screw (#8-15 x 0.5” FHTFS) Hand tight or torque to 15 inch-pounds." } }, { "fastener": "Action screws (front and rear)", "appliesTo": "Ruger American in a KRG Ruger American Bravo chassis", "qualifier": "exact", "value": 65, "valueMax": null, "unit": "in-lb", "converted": { "value": { "N-m": 7.3, "in-lb": 65, "ft-lb": 5.4 }, "valueMax": null }, "sequence": "Tighten alternately front/rear in increments until full torque is reached.", "threadlocker": null, "source": { "title": "KRG Ruger American Bravo Chassis — Installation Instructions (INST-BRV-RUG)", "publisher": "Kinetic Research Group (KRG)", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://kineticresearchgroup.com/download/67002/", "page": "PDF p. 2", "pdfPage": 2, "pageUrl": "https://kineticresearchgroup.com/download/67002/#page=2", "quote": "Step 5: Torque both screws to 65 in-lbs of torque in an incremental manner, moving back and forth between the two screws until full torque is reached." } }, { "fastener": "Action screws (barreled action to UMC)", "appliesTo": "Ruger American (Gen 2 and most Gen 1) in a Grayboe stock with Universal Mini Chassis (UMC)", "qualifier": "exact", "value": 45, "valueMax": null, "unit": "in-lb", "converted": { "value": { "N-m": 5.1, "in-lb": 45, "ft-lb": 3.7 }, "valueMax": null }, "sequence": "For Ruger American the barreled action goes into the UMC first, then the trigger bow, then the UMC into the stock (UMC-to-stock screws 60 in-lb).", "threadlocker": null, "source": { "title": "Grayboe — UMC (Universal Mini Chassis) Installation Instructions (web page)", "publisher": "Grayboe", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://www.grayboe.com/pages/umc-installation-instructions", "page": "Section 'Ruger American', Step 2", "pdfPage": null, "pageUrl": null, "quote": "Set the barreled action into the mini chassis. Install the two supplied action screws (same length front and rear). Torque both screws to 45 inch-pounds." } }, { "fastener": "Rear trigger guard woodscrew (L, PN 100-923)", "appliesTo": "Ruger American / Ranch / Predator centerfire short action in a Boyds stock with Boyds AR-style magazine conversion floorplate", "qualifier": "exact", "value": 30, "valueMax": null, "unit": "in-lb", "converted": { "value": { "N-m": 3.4, "in-lb": 30, "ft-lb": 2.5 }, "valueMax": null }, "sequence": "Install the assembled magazine conversion floorplate, then the rear woodscrew; take-down bolts are then alternated to 30-35 in-lb (already recorded).", "threadlocker": null, "source": { "title": "Boyds — Ruger American Centerfire Boyds Stocks with AR style floor plate — assembly instructions", "publisher": "Boyds Gunstocks", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://www.boydsgunstocks.com/docs/default-source/default-document-library/ruger-acf-predator-ranch-ar-mag-assembly.pdf?sfvrsn=7c1b2f6a_2", "page": "PDF p. 4", "pdfPage": 4, "pageUrl": "https://www.boydsgunstocks.com/docs/default-source/default-document-library/ruger-acf-predator-ranch-ar-mag-assembly.pdf?sfvrsn=7c1b2f6a_2#page=4", "quote": "Install the assembled magazine conversion floorplate (I), Then rear Woodscrew (L) torque to 30 Inch lbs." } } ], "notes": "The original Ruger American Rifle manual and the Generation II manual both give 60–80 in-lb for the bedding screws; both are shown, each with the manual it came from. The scope-base value is from the Generation II manual. Ruger also lists the bedding screws first among its accuracy checks, before cleaning the bore or checking scope mounts." }, { "id": "function-check", "title": "Function check", "checks": [ "Verify the rifle is unloaded and the magazine is empty before each check.", "Cycle the bolt and confirm it cocks and closes fully into battery.", "With the action cocked, engage the safety and press the trigger. The firing pin must not release.", "Disengage the safety without touching the trigger. The firing pin must not release.", "Press the trigger and confirm the firing pin releases cleanly.", "Confirm the bolt release retains the bolt.", "Load dummy rounds and confirm they feed from the magazine and eject cleanly." ], "videos": [] } ], "troubleshooting": [ { "symptom": "The bolt will not come out of the receiver.", "cause": "The safety is off. Ruger specifies the safety ON if the firing pin is cocked.", "fix": "Put the safety in the SAFE position, open the bolt, and press the rear of the bolt stop — on the left of the receiver for a right-handed rifle, the right for a left-handed one." } ], "sources": [ { "n": 1, "id": "ruger-american-manual", "title": "Instruction Manual for Ruger American Rifle", "publisher": "Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://ruger-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/_manuals/americanRifle.pdf", "accessed": "2026-09-14" }, { "n": 2, "id": "sturm-ruger-co-87ce0f", "title": "Instruction Manual for Ruger American Rifle Generation II", "publisher": "Sturm, Ruger & Co.", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://ruger-docs.s3.amazonaws.com/_manuals/RAR-GenerationII.pdf", "accessed": "2026-09-27" }, { "n": 3, "id": "magpul-industries-76012a", "title": "Hunter American Stock (MAG931 / MAG1207) Installation Instructions, 072-0126-B", "publisher": "Magpul Industries", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://magpul.com/media/wysiwyg/Instructions/MAG931-MAG1207_Hunter_American_Stock_INSRT.pdf", "accessed": "2026-09-27" }, { "n": 4, "id": "boyds-gunstocks-3bc240", "title": "Assembly Instructions for ONLY Ruger American Centerfire Boyds Stocks", "publisher": "Boyds Gunstocks", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://www.boydsgunstocks.com/docs/default-source/default-document-library/assembly-instructions-ruger-american-series.pdf?sfvrsn=2ea2656d_2", "accessed": "2026-09-27" }, { "n": 5, "id": "boyds-gunstocks-85a10b", "title": "Addendum (6/24/19) to Instructions for Ruger American Centerfire Boyds Stocks with AI Style floor plate", "publisher": "Boyds Gunstocks", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://www.boydsgunstocks.com/docs/default-source/default-document-library/assembly-instructions-ruger-acf-ai-style.pdf?sfvrsn=c1a2656d_0", "accessed": "2026-09-27" }, { "n": 6, "id": "fix-it-sticks-compiled-reference-lis-f5c37b", "title": "Torque Specs (Torque Specs by Brand — Ruger American Rifle)", "publisher": "Fix It Sticks (compiled reference list)", "reliability": "tertiary", "url": "https://store.fixitsticks.com/pages/torque-specs", "accessed": "2026-09-27" }, { "n": 7, "id": "ruger-specs-4fb3d1", "title": "Ruger American Rifle Generation II Standard Bolt-Action Rifle — Specifications (model 46902)", "publisher": "Sturm, Ruger & Co.", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://ruger.com/products/americanRifleGenII/specSheets/46902.html", "accessed": "2026-10-03" }, { "n": 8, "id": "mdt-sporting-goods-ltd-modular-drive-9d8d3c", "title": "MDT Oryx Chassis System — User Manual (13694, Version 07.14.26), attached to MDT help-centre article 'ORYX Chassis Installation Guides'", "publisher": "MDT Sporting Goods Ltd. (Modular Driven Technologies, MDT)", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://support.mdttac.com/hc/article_attachments/51468856863892", "accessed": "2026-10-11" }, { "n": 9, "id": "mdt-sporting-goods-ltd-modular-drive-1085d0", "title": "MDT TIMBR Core & Core Bottom Metal — Ruger American Short Action — User Manual (Version 04.28.25), attached to MDT help-centre article 'Core Bottom Metal Installation'", "publisher": "MDT Sporting Goods Ltd. (Modular Driven Technologies, MDT)", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://support.mdttac.com/hc/article_attachments/47356433181076", "accessed": "2026-10-11" }, { "n": 10, "id": "kinetic-research-group-krg-6e4efe", "title": "KRG Ruger American Bravo Chassis — Installation Instructions (INST-BRV-RUG)", "publisher": "Kinetic Research Group (KRG)", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://kineticresearchgroup.com/download/67002/", "accessed": "2026-10-11" }, { "n": 11, "id": "grayboe-634c39", "title": "Grayboe — UMC (Universal Mini Chassis) Installation Instructions (web page)", "publisher": "Grayboe", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://www.grayboe.com/pages/umc-installation-instructions", "accessed": "2026-10-11" }, { "n": 12, "id": "boyds-gunstocks-0a0493", "title": "Boyds — Ruger American Centerfire Boyds Stocks with AR style floor plate — assembly instructions", "publisher": "Boyds Gunstocks", "reliability": "secondary", "url": "https://www.boydsgunstocks.com/docs/default-source/default-document-library/ruger-acf-predator-ranch-ar-mag-assembly.pdf?sfvrsn=7c1b2f6a_2", "accessed": "2026-10-11" }, { "n": 13, "id": "pat-sturm-ruger-co-inc-015c0e", "title": "Ruger Patents", "publisher": "Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.", "reliability": "primary", "url": "https://ruger.com/micros/Patents/index.html", "accessed": "2026-10-13" } ] }