The EGW Ruger American Short Action 20 MOA scope base gives you a solid, precision-machined foundation for mounting optics on your Ruger American rifle without any gunsmithing. This one-piece Picatinny rail bolts directly to your receiver using the factory scope mount holes, and the 20 MOA cant built into the base gives long-range shooters the extra elevation adjustment they need for reaching distant targets. Whether you're running a hunting scope, a precision optic, or switching between multiple setups, the standard Picatinny slot-and-rail pattern gives you complete flexibility in eye relief and ring choice—it accepts both Picatinny and Weaver scope rings.
Built from 7075 T6 aluminum, this is heavy-duty gear machined to rigid tolerances. The cross-slots are gauged to military standard 1913 specifications within +/-.002 inches, so your rings will sit square and true every time you mount them. EGW machines these bases from extruded aluminum stock, which means superior rigidity compared to castings, and the one-piece design eliminates the weak points that separate two-piece bases can introduce.
Installation is straightforward: the base uses the Ruger American's existing receiver holes, so no drilling or tapping required. EGW includes socket head Torx screws and the wrench to install them. The company recommends 20 inch-pounds of torque and a small drop of blue Loctite during assembly—a smart move for a permanent connection that won't shift zero.
Key Features
- One-piece 20 MOA Picatinny rail for Ruger American short action
- Uses factory receiver holes—no drilling or tapping
- Machined from rigid 7075 T6 extruded aluminum
- Accepts Picatinny or Weaver scope rings
- MIL-STD 1913 cross-slots gauged to +/-.002" tolerance
- Includes Torx socket head screws and installation wrench
Specifications
| Brand | EGW |
| Fit | Ruger American Short Action |
| Rail Type | Picatinny (MIL-STD 1913) |
| MOA Cant | 20 MOA |
| Material | 7075 T6 Aluminum (Extruded) |
| Ring Compatibility | Picatinny or Weaver |
| Installation | Factory receiver holes |
| Torque Spec | 20 inch-pounds (with blue Loctite) |
Frequently Asked Questions
Will this base fit my Ruger American rifle?
Yes, this base is designed for the Ruger American short action and mounts directly to the factory scope mount holes on the receiver without modification.
What does the 20 MOA cant do for me?
The 20 MOA angle tilts the optic slightly forward, increasing your scope's upward adjustment range. This lets you dial in shots at longer distances without running out of elevation knobs, and it keeps your shooting geometry more efficient across the entire dial.
Can I use any scope rings with this base?
The base accepts both Picatinny and Weaver scope rings. The Picatinny slots are machined to MIL-STD 1913 specifications, so any rings rated for those standards will fit securely and reliably.
What comes in the box?
You get the one-piece Picatinny base, socket head Torx screws for mounting, and an installation wrench. EGW recommends using 20 inch-pounds of torque and blue Loctite (not included) during assembly.

