Update:
I picked up my Ruger American Rimfire Predator in 17HMR yesterday. Overall, its a good package.
Bolt fit is good and throw is smooth, metal fit and finish is good. The installed scope rail is torqued properly, magazine drops free and inserts without binding.
I give the gun 4 out of 5 stars on the Richard scale.
The only complaint is the stock. Ruger really went cheap and cheesy on the stock. From the action back, its nice. The changeable butt/cheek piece is a nice addition. Allowing someone to adjust LOP and comb hight without the expense of a moveable system is a good addition.
The problem is the Forend. Its about as stiff as a wet noodle. Right out of the box the left side and bottom of the stock was in contact with the barrel...not good. As i rested the gun on a sandbag rest that contact became worse.
Groups suffered as a result of this (uneven) contact. With a noticeable horizontal spread.
I understand Rugers thought was to keep the price down, by providing a "useable" stock at a good price point.
Unfortunately, the stock is NOT usable as is. A larger barrel channel is the only way i see to "fix" this stock. Mr. Dremel is not usually a guns friend, but im going to try to hog out the stock from the action forward to give me some barrel clearance.
Worst case is the removal of material makes the stock MORE flimsy and i have to order an aftermarket stock.
The options in aftermarket stocks is pretty limited right now. Im only finding 1 company that offers anything. Boyds makes a wood laminate for under $100. Id rather not spend $100 on a gun that cost under $300, but if the factory stock cant be brought into line, i dont see an option.