I've got an 18.7" Ruger Scout in a Ruger synthetic stock. It's a bit heavy but damn sure robust IMO, & handles well.
I smeared the bolt with 800 grit lapping compound cycled it several times. A hundred?
Cleaned it up, lubed it & it feels & cycles really great. The center feed AICS type mag helps with the smoothness & it doesn't scratch & gouge my brass like some do.
Has become a great grab & go rifle. The, IMO, dumb birdcage flash hider is in the parts bin. It's scoped conventionally, & the rear sight is in a stock pouch along with a loaded extra mag.
