The Ruger American made this list for a specific reason: it represents today’s budget-priced hunting rifles, built using innovative methods to keep costs down and performance high. Though made primarily from investment cast steel and synthetic parts, the American is an accurate and useful tool for putting meat on the table. I’ve tested two examples and ended-up buying one of them. Two of the keys to the American’s performance are the three-lug bolt and v-block bedding arrangement, both of which contribute to its accuracy. Available in several different configurations and chambered in everything from .223 to 30-06, there’s an American for everyone’s needs.