Best Rifle for Varmint and Predator Hunting

The 204 Ruger, developed by Hornaday & Ruger in 2004, offers the second highest muzzle velocity (4200fps) available on the AR15 platform. The 204 Ruger cartridge is very accurate and efficient, producing consistent 1/2 MOA groups at 100 yards, and a 270 yard point blank range. The small caliber, light projectile, and low recoil make the 204 Ruger an ideal varmint round.

Let’s note that there are many different great options when it comes to good Varmint Rifles, we are just here to help you navigate which choice fits your mission.

When it comes to varmint hunting, the most important characteristics your rifle must have are accuracy, speed, and distance. Not only are you most likely aiming for a significantly smaller animal, these little creatures are notorious for being much quicker and harder to get in your line of sight.

And although the AR can be denied as a hunting rifle for big game by some users, it absolutely shines in predator hunting.

So what cartridge is best to use for predator hunting?

It’s important that you’re using a cartridge known for its precision, like the .204 Ruger.

The .204 Ruger, along with the .17 Remington, .223 Remington, the .224 Valkyrie, 6.5 Grendel, and the 6.8 SPC, are amongst the most popular cartridges for varmint and predator hunting. The .204 Ruger, while being a relatively new cartridge, has gained much popularity across the country because of it’s lightweight bullets and superior velocity.

Traditional hunters have stated that the .204 Ruger is not very effective for larger predators, however, many argue it is perfect as long as the hunter places the bullet where it needs to go.

In fact, according to an www.ar15.com forum, the .204 Ruger can be described as “lightning fast, explodes anything it touches, and works like a regular AR.”

The rifle has also been said to accurately send a 32-grain bullet over 4,200 fps and is perfectly capable for fox, coyote, and groundhog hunting.

What is the best barrel length for a .204 Ruger?

While barrel length is usually up to one's preference, most forum’s would advise using the 24 inch. This is pretty standard for speed and accuracy, but shorter barrels are usually lighter and much easier to carry around.

It depends on what’s most important to you. If you’re using the rifle for accuracy and precision, it’s always safe to have a longer barrel length. If you’re looking for mobility, and want something that’s easier to walk around with, you’re best looking at a shorter barrel.

Where can I find quality complete Uppers and Barrels for .204 Ruger?

If you are a first timer in building your own AR, you’ve landed in the right place. At AR15 Parts, we pride ourselves in providing quality parts sourced from some of the top US manufacturers. We also offer muzzle devices, rails, BCG’s, Magazines, and Charging Handles to make your .204 Ruger upper assembly turn key.