Ruger M77 Zytel, Skeleton, Boat Paddle Stock... Great Hunting Rifles

[@undercovercop2000]

It’s very refreshing to find a relaxing, calm, and well thought out video on this platform.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Thanks, I really appreciate that!

[@wigglemonkey958]

Just bought my first rifle and decided to go with a 1987 M77. Drove 10 hrs through the night to pick it up, just getting out to the woods and it’s pouring rain! I LOVE IT !!! Couldn’t have asked for a better first day to get to know my new old lady !

[@FloridaSaltwaterLife]

I have one in .270, it's been my go to rifle for the past 30 years, from Florida to Alaska, Connecticut to Colorado, the thing has never let me down. I have all the faith in the world in it to get the job done every time.

[@tyrondeau8621]

I remember looking at that very rifle new in the 90's. I decided on the laminate brown stock instead in the 270 caliber. I love this gun. I've taken many deer with it in Michigan and Wisconsin. A good friend, who has since passed, had one in the synthetic in 270 as well. I had used a 30.06 for many years, but didn't think I needed the extra recoil, and knew I shot better with less recoil. So, thank you for the rundown on this action, and the story behind it. I appreciate it even more. Cheers!!! From a big Ruger fan.

[@alaskajohn5695]

Mr. Tom, I bought my first M77 Boat Paddle .22-Magnum in 1991. Since then, I own several in different caliber’s. Personally, my experience living on the coast of Alaska (Salt Breeze) Conditions. The rifle is basically indestructible with average care, extremely accurate in all conditions. I have some amazing shot stories, to many to tell. In conclusion, I rate that rifle my Go-To-Rifle in all conditions. New Subscriber, learned a lot, excellent job…

[@mikebraun9673]

I have the same 77/22 in 22 mag and it is a real shooter... Check GunBroker and see what the current value is for a Boat Paddle .22 mag... you will be shocked at asking $$

[@gary30427]

@@mikebraun9673I just picked up a 77/22 mag skeleton stock all weather in a local pawn shop for 400, I was shocked when I checked the value on Gunbroker.

[@213bunch]

I have one in .270 with a stainless scope! I've had it over 25 years and have harvested a variety of big game with it! Love my Ruger..still use to this day!

[@bobsmith-ru7xp]

I've got one of these in .308 and a stainless laminate 7mm Rem mag, probably my two favorite rifles.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

And this one is quickly becoming one of my favorites!

[@ronaldbowen4760]

I have one M77 Mark II in a 280 Rem. I have a 44 Mag Simon scope on it and love it. It shoots great.

[@davidbaker4838]

I bought my 30.06 new when Ruger came out with the M77 Mk11 boat paddle stock. In order to shoot accurately I did replace the trigger with a Timney trigger, bedded the action and free floated the stock. I also use Barnes TTX 165 gr bullet with RL19 powder using Barnes recommenced max load. Since this rifle kicks like a mule and I'm approaching 70, I am installing a removable muzzle brake. I also mounted a good quality Vortex scope. I love this gun as well as my kids and grand kids. Shoots sub MOA and extremely accurate out to 300 yards (need that in New Mexico. If you ever want to sell your gun let me know, i will not hesitate taking it off you hands.

[@wcjames1189]

You hit every point! Mauser action, 3 way safety off the tang, low cheek, and absolutely indestructable. Mine's a 30-06, and ive dropped deer at 400 yards in the open, and 30 yards through heavy brush. And easy to carry at the ready while driving or posting at the transitions. All these reasons are why I chose this for whitetail hunting up in Northern Wisconsin in starting in 1991 . When conditions in deer camp swing from 45 degrees and sleeting to 10 below zero, to blinding whiteout snowstorms this rifle simply WILL NOT fail you! Ive used it every year since and continue to do so to this day. Mr. River, I am in awe of how well you covered the attributes of this indestructible workhorse of a rifle. Absolutely brilliant work-Kudos!

[@darrelldickerson9696]

Thanks for this video. It's nice to see an appreciation for the older models. I have one in 270 with the wood inserts. I have always been drawn to this model. Thanks again.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I'm glad you liked it. And to be honest I've always thought the wood inserts looked the best!

[@chevysilver-ray-dough6328]

Those wood insert stocks are, in my opinion, some of the best looking rifles ever made.

[@darrelldickerson9696]

@@chevysilver-ray-dough6328 agree

[@tonypurton3135]

Really appreciate your presentation style and the honesty and integrity that you deliver in your analysis mate !! Terrific work from a 30 year Ruger fan who’s always respected the genius of Bill himself Thank you for your efforts Subscribed and looking forward to seeing your further reviews ...........so genuine and refreshing and truthful from a bloke with deep hunting roots and heritage Best to you from sunny Tasmania Australia 🇦🇺

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I truly appreciate your comments.

[@kirklogeston5935]

I bought one of these rifles in 270 Winchester when they first came out. The Rifle is Great! This rifle has always been my go to rifle.

[@raycapps118]

I have this rifle in .270 and 7mm08, both with zytel stocks. Both extremely accurate. I’ve watched your video on this several times. Great job and I’ll probably watch it several more times. Thank you sir

[@brandon12681]

My dad bought one chambered in .300 win mag back in I guess late 90's. I got it from him around 2000 I'm guessing as my first hunting rifle. I still use it today. I've always loved the all weather aspect of it. My only complaint is it kicks like a mule! I've never done any research on it til now, so I love your video sir. Thanks for all the info, and God bless.

[@rtmdlawncare5774]

I remember the day my dad bought this brand new. 1989. Black with green inserts. Scoped and zeroed it in when I got home from army training. It’s dead on and I’ve got to say when he passed I pulled that out of the safe a cried. We shot a lot of varmints with it. It looks brand new today. He knew quality when he saw it. Best $250 bucks he ever spent.

[@ianhindmarsh7373]

Love my Rugers 25 06 and 338 Winchester Mag. beautiful hunting rifles.

[@AnthonyHawks-gk5dd]

I have this exact same rifle. Stainless in .270 with the same stock. It is my go to rifle for deer and my absolute favorite all weather rifle. I purchased mine new and have no plans to ever let this one go. Loved watching your review of it.

[@lowhydrogen7018a1]

I wanted a Ruger FTW rifle but refused to spend the 1200$ they were selling for. One day I saw them for 500$ online because Ruger discontinued them in certain cartridges. I picked up a 7 mag and love it. It will definitely last me a lifetime. Awesome video!

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

A lot of people could learn something from what you just wrote here, and that's the value patience! Well done.

[@bryanhanson5743]

Enjoyed your video. Learned some things that I did not know about the history of the rifle. I bought one of these new back in the early 1990s in 300. Win. I think it was featured in Gun Digest that year. Been using it ever since. It is absolutely indestructible. Any large scratches can be sanded out of the stock and some fine steel wool or polishing cloth touches up the barrel. The only two things I didnt like about the rifle were the ribbed butt pad and the rattle of the integral sling brackets. I replaced the butt pad with a smooth recoil pad that does not catch on your clothes. Mine has proven very accurate with hand loads. Have used it much more than some of my “prettier” guns!

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I'm glad you enjoyed it. And I have to say the more I use mine the more I like it. It's quickly becoming my go to rifle. The accuracy right now is 1 MOA with hand loads and I've only tried 2 loads in it so far. It handles great and like you said it's indestructible. And I suspect I'll be taking it with me this afternoon on a kayak access hunt just because I know it can take the abuse. BTW, that was a good idea changing the recoil pad. I'm ok with the recoil pad on mine. I haven't had any issues with it catching on my cloths or with recoil because its in .270 but I suspect a good recoil pad makes these so much nicer to shoot in heavy recoiling cartridges like yours? I would probably want to change the pad like you did even for a 30/06.

[@tomalophicon]

I bought a used one in .243 about 10 year ago. Have used it extensively here in Australia in the mountains, in all weather on goats, pigs, deer and even some rabbits. I've fallen on it several times, dropped it etc. It's been the most reliable, dependable, and fun gun I've used. Friends who use it are surprised at its weight and dependabiity. I will never sell this gun and will continue using for the rest of my days.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I did a 243 video with a good friend of mine and he's of the same opinion as yourself. His 243 is the same as yours, and I have been really impressed with how accurate his is.

[@jordancoglan1406]

I also have this rifle in .243

[@jordancoglan1406]

Also in AUS

[@garybalasa3158]

I have watched a lot of rifle reviews, but mate you put this across so well and informatively that I was blown away, great detailed explanation of the important aspects, no bull just plain and to the point in a really well presented manner, thank you been searching for ages for a bit of history on this and in 30 minutes you covered what others have taken many segments and not even gotten close, well done Champ.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Thank you and I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[@dvetter473]

I happened upon my M77 many years ago used in a gun shop. I wasn’t familiar with the model but bought it because it was chambered in 7.62 x39, and I had a couple of cases that I bought for nothing! Roger must have only made a few in 7.62x39 because since then I have never heard of anyone owning one. I consistently get sub MOA groups at 100 yards with cheap Russian ammo. Love it!

[@willrowell3218]

From my understanding the 7.62x39 was only offered as a distributor exclusive, not a cataloged item. But, I could be wrong. I know I've looked for one for a long time and have yet to find one. At least at a reasonable price.

[@joshuamaier3482]

I remember seeing one in that chambering at Mill Creek Sport Center in Michigan. Had i lived a little closer, id have went back and purchased it. Glad yours shoots well for you

[@jeffhull2504]

Great video Tom and very informative on the old Ruger M77 boat paddle stock rifle. Picked one up in .243 Win in the early 2000's for my wife and she just loves it. She has taken a few antelope and tons of deer with it and couldn't ask for more. Funny how when I first starting hunting in the late 70's, if I could shoot a one inch group at a 100 yards I was excited. Today, most rifle hunters would view this as horrible accuracy, but it was more than accurate enough for deer hunting. I imagine most deer that I have ever taken were all taken less than 200 yards, and a few I can count on one hand that were over that. Love the look of these rifles, wish I would of bought a few more of these in the day. Keep up the great videos, very refreshing to listen to a real rifleman and hunter. God Bless and take care.

[@goldcfi7103]

The boat paddle/skeleton stock rifles are great rifles. They are not bench-rest accurate, but they are well built, rugged, and minute-of-deer accurate. I own two, both in blued finish : 7.62x39 and 257 Roberts. They have become fairly desirable collectibles-particularly in unusual configurations, finish, and chambering. Thanks for posting.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Yes, those are 2 extremely collectable rifles you have. Nice! And to be honest I'm a little envious of your 257 Roberts. That's one of my absolute favorite cartridges.

[@garylewis6631]

Hi Tom, I'm a Utah boy. Was brought up on nice wood and blue'd steel. Always thought the boat paddle and stainless was ugly as heck. My best friend loved them. Needless to say was not to happy with my oldest boy when e came home from the pawn shop with 9ne in 223. It was shot.out or else the barrel was not good to start with, thus the pain shop. We tried several different brands of ammo with out any results. Even loaded many different combinations with no results. Finally sent it back to Ruger with a letter telling all that we had done excluding the fact that it was purchased from a pawn shop. Ruger replaced the barrel with a new one at no charge, even sent it back for free. Good shooter now. Lots of respect for Ruger. Still like nice wood and blues steel!!!

[@kalmlykeabomb]

My dad and I have hunted with these in 300 win mag for 20 years. Unfortunately my dads was stolen out of his truck 2 days ago. They're fantastic but good lord that light narrow stock lets it buck. Also, I have had one or two of these in MKII with wood grain inserts. That's not to say someone didn't put the wood grain on a newer rifle. At one point we had around 20 of these in calibers from .22 LR to .338.

[@korazjian5251]

Hey tom! I just took a trip out to Oregon to visit my pops, ended up coming home with a super blackhawk 44 mag and M77 in .25-06 with an older Leupold VX-2. Such a flat shooter, low recoil and smooth action! serials match up to around 1982/83. Glad to add it to my collection!

[@timmer9lives]

You are just dead on absolutely correct in almost every word you said. “Minute of Deer….not Minute of Angle.” That and “People in the woods - not people watching KZbin videos” Just a great, common sense review of a Hunting Rifle. And I have a Zytel 22 bolt action single shot Remington that my dad bought for training us. It’s indestructible. Probably one of the most informative videos about firearm designs & manufacturing I seen in a while. Just great. SUBSCRIBED !!

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Thanks Tim

[@gilream]

Tom, Bought my M77 (tang safety), 30-06 on sale in 1992 for $324 (list price was $359). Accuracy was very good from the jump, sub MOA. Later had the action professionally bedded, the barrel free floated and the trigger lightened to 1 1/2 pounds. Have shot some stupid crazy groups using Sierra 168 match bullets and it shoots Ballistic Tips under 1/2 MOA. I'll never part with this thing. Absolutely love it. Thanks for the video.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[@Bradmarg1111]

This is one of my favorite videos of yours. I’ve watched it like 10 times. Thanks Tom!

[@rustyyates421]

I had this rifle in 91in 338. Win mag. This particular version is one of the best guns ever made. I bought this ruger m77 mk ll for less than 400 dollars new. I prefer wood furniture but on this particular rifle that solid zytel stock was solid and weather proof. As far as the accuracy, it is as accurate as you are. This rifle in 30.06 is a 1000 yard gun.

[@arthurparris6223]

I have a M77 MK ll stainless with a composite stock in .308. Installed a Timney trigger and that made it for me. Perfect for my deer hunting.

[@combatengineerbroski6712]

I could sit and drink coffee with this ole boy everyday of the week. Love the content!

[@jefferyboring4410]

First one I grabbed up and checked out mk2 boat paddle 06 Wa le a sprayed poachers Leo sold special. I was impressed with the quality of the bolt safety system the bolt release mechanism the internal magazine the trigger guard . It’s just a strong quality rifle that won’t corrode . Super light but it’ll obviously kick a bit

[@jaybrown3924]

I have one in .280 that shoots sub 1/2 moa with my hand loads . It’s is also the best carrying gun I own . Love it .

[@bradwolfgram6345]

It’s always great to watch a video when you are talking about a rifle that I own . Now I know it’s a great rifle. Thank you for the great videos.

[@donaldanderson4139]

I’ve been following your presentations for some time now and can honestly say that they’re the best. Keep them coming and thanks for this one.

[@ukeplaya1]

This was a great and honest review. I've loved the look of this rifle for over 20 yrs. Now I'm finally going to pick one up because of your review. Thank you!

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I don't think you'll regret it. The more I shoot mine the more I like it. And I haven't quite nailed down the load for it but I'm getting one inch groups with 140gr Accubonds right now and I'm convinced it'll shoot even better than that? A good friend of mine is shooting 3/4" groups in his skeleton stock .243 Mark II. It seems the accuracy potential of these rifles is a lot better than what I was expecting. And I will be taking it to the woods this year.

[@patrioticguy1791]

They aren't made anymore so used will be your only option. And they bring a pretty penny...but well worth it!

[@patrioticguy1791]

I own one in .270 win. I love it. I just bought wood inserts for it. Cedar. Looks really cool. Thanks for the review!

[@travishehl830]

@@patrioticguy1791 where did you get wood inserts?

[@woodystube1000]

Great video with fantastic explanation of the rifle's history. However, I'm reading all of these comments and scratching my head. I bought this exact rifle in the mid 90's in .270. Always been a big Ruger fan, and this was my first rifle bigger than 22LR. Other than maybe a half dozen trips to the range over almost 3 decades, it lives in my safe. I bought a VERY inexpensive Ruger American in .243 on clearance a few years ago, threw it in a Boyds stock and stuck a Nikon Buckmaster on it. That "low-end" Ruger rifle absolutely runs circles around my M77, in just about every way. To be fair, I am comparing a .270 to a .243. My M77 Mark II may be an indestructible all-weather rifle, but when I go hunting I grab the Ruger American every time. Freezer stays full.

[@nicholasdoneen7860]

I have always been drawn to these, a buddy has one in .243 and was just a phenomenal hunting rifle. My dad got one in .270 and I killed everything with it, elk, deer, coyotes, etc. I just bought one for myself chambered in 7mm and am excited to utilize one truly great rifle. Thanks for the history and great information.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I'm glad you enjoyed it. And I can't wait to put this one to use this year! The more i shoot it the more I'm liking it. And my buddy has one in .243 that will absolutely shoot!

[@GbodyPat]

I love mine in 300 win mag, I used it all last year and can say it became my favorite rifle after using it to harvest 2 elk and 2 mule deer.

[@Bradmarg1111]

I own the same caliber and gun . Love it better than my now sold Remington 700 BDL in stainless steel.

[@bentleycochran2466]

My father grandfather and uncle have all had one identical to that one in 30-06 my entire life been my dream rifle forever

[@kmerkingdomfilms]

I really like the Ruger MK 2. Mine is a 270 win, I love and own it for 27 years. It has never turn me down. Thanks for sharing.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[@jereganey1576]

Great job ( as usual ) of presenting this Ruger rifle and showing us the finer aspects as well as the historical aspects which to me sets your videos apart from most others. I have this same rifle in 270 Win that's never been fired as I bought it new and have had it in my safe all these yrs . This is simply bc I quit hunting so long ago . At the same time I bought this model I also purchased the Ruger Mini 14 stainless Ranch model as well as the stainless model 10/22 and to date none of them have ever been fired except I assume the test firing at the factory . I love them all, especially as I learn more and more about them . Thanks again for your videos Tom , take care and stay safe.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

It's the historical aspects to me that make firearms interesting and that's why I like sharing that information with others. I'm glad you enjoyed it, and I have to say you have really good taste in firearms!

[@victorespinosa1673]

Loved the tone of this video. I never thought of this rifle as inaccurate. I have this same rifle in 7mm. I've never changed a thing on it. I shoot Winchester Silvertip 150gr (a discontinued round) . It shoots sub moa. My son owns the blued M77 Mkll, it does not like that round. We just started trying other factory rounds until we found one that shoots moa.I took mine to a gunsmith to put a muzzle break, he told me not to change anything on the rifle, it was shooting as tight as some of his best rifles. Go figure. P.S., I bought this at Walmart.

[@danieledwards7178]

Love mine ... '91 Ruger m77 mark II all weather in 7mm Rem Mag with a Harris bipod, Alaskan magnum stretch sling that holds 4 rounds and an old Tasco 6-24 Range Finding scope .... with an extra heavy duty ICC aluminum case the whole pkg in 1991 was just $1k ... she shoots Sub MOA with the "Underwood loaded" SST 154g or "underwood loaded" AccuBond 160g .... Definitely a tool to be handed down for generations to come ...

[@danieledwards7178]

If I had the coin ... a Burris Eliminator 6 would be awesome addition.. . Lol

[@guns4funfreedomkeeper999]

I have two of those MK2’s. One in 270, the other in 300wm. Love them both.

[@mitchellthomas8432]

Bought mine the first year they made it in this configuration. I still hunt with it today and have had 0 problems or failures with it. 3006 Springfield is my choice for an all round North American caliber in the lower 48.

[@russellsullivan2342]

I have one in 22-250. Love it for hunting. Always groups under 1" @ 100 yards irregardless of weather. It is very light which is harder for me to steady, but I bought it for the field not the bench. Thanks!

[@robelliott5900]

What a great, detailed and thought out video. You obviously know a thing or two about guns. This is my first video from you I have watched. Won’t be my last. Thanks for taking the time to make this video.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I appreciate your comment Rob. As for me knowing a thing or two about guns, I think that's because I did everything wrong and eventually all I had left was what worked? I guess it's knowledge either way but I certainly took the scenic route getting here. LOL

[@robelliott5900]

@@TomRiverSimpleLiving isn’t that the truth.

[@beharford]

Very nicely done, Tom....great video. I do like your laidback approach...what a refreshing change! My .308 Mark II will be 30 this year...I agree with some, with the composite stock and stainless hardware it was never a thing of beauty - and those three decades of hard use certainly haven't helped - but it is and always has been reliable, tough and more than accurate for our local mulies and black bear, and it has never failed me. I did change out the 'package' Ruger scope for a Nikon a number of years back, but the rifle itself is as it was from day one....I've got a couple other much newer rifles, but nothing feels as good in my hands as I'm climbing around the Coquihalla Summit every fall.....if anyone has a chance to buy one of these, I'd say go for it.... Thanks again for posting

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

It seems like just yesterday when they were coming out with these, not 30 + years ago?

[@daveschuetrum576]

Great review! I bought one of those M77 MK II's when they first came out. In 3006. I hunt with it to this day and it is still my go to rifle. I have a silver Leopold VX3 on it and replaced the trigger with a Timney trigger set at about 1 1/2 lbs. Every year for meat I shoot about 4 or 5 deer and who knows how many hogs. Don't buy much store bought meat. I shoot Remington Core-Lokt 150 grain stuff. Dave from South Carolina.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

What part of S.C. are you in Dave?

[@daveschuetrum576]

@@TomRiverSimpleLiving I live outside Columbia and hunt in a club that borders Congaree National Park, and my other club is directly across the river from Congaree Park. Look for the Park on the map to get an idea. Much of the Park was my club at one time, too. Out in the woods all the time.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

@@daveschuetrum576 Gorgeous country down there! I'm in Greenwood and hunt Greenwood, Abbeville, McCormick, and parts of Edgfield.

[@daveschuetrum576]

@@TomRiverSimpleLiving I do my picture stories of down this way on Facebook. We simply live in Paradise. It's OK to friend me if you wish.

[@DobermansRock]

As a white water canoer. This was the best thing after sliced bread. Through rapids, soaked, over and over. Love it when its called the boat paddle. Perfect rifle for harsh environments. You can beat on it and only feel bad about defeat. On the range it has to be allowed to cool down. It gets into drift when hot. Not a problem in one shot one kill cases. They do drift after about 7 rounds without time between. Usually low and to the right for me. Milage may vary. The only other go to for hunting in my Handi Rifle. No longer made. Add a 3X9 variable quality scope. You are in business. Mine is passed from my brother to me in .30-06. He passed. But, his soul remains on all hunts.

[@calmclimb]

Have one in .308. Barrel shortened to 18" and a trigger job that breaks like glass. Good rifle

[@JamesTuller-hw1cp]

Ive got a M77 mark ll in 7 rem mag Sub moa rifle. Best dam hunting rifle there is. Bought it on 92. Great video

[@kenfochtman8698]

Got one in .270 when they first came out. Still have it and love it. Only regret is I didn’t buy the .22 version of it. I will someday.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I've come close a time or two to getting the 22 version myself!

[@michaelwhitman8642]

Absolutely great presentation. I have one of these rifles with the green inlets in the stock. It's a 30-06 and shoots Absolutely great. It's a keeper. These rifles are exceptionally tuff built and will handle any environment. Well done Bill Ruger!!!!

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Thanks Michael, and Ruger definitely got it right with this one.

[@atanaka1069]

I have 2 of these, 1 in .243 and the other in .300 win mag. I think these are beautiful rifles as well as great hunting guns. My .243 will shoot .75 in groups with Hornady 95gr. SST and the .300 shoots 1 inch groups which I’m still looking right ammo combo so with the right ammo they are shooters. Wish I would have bought one in .308 so if I find one I’m buying it. Thanks for making this video and showing what a fantastic rifle this is.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I'm glad you enjoyed it and I agree with the right ammo they can shoot. My friend Joey has one in .243 and 30/06 and both are sub MOA.

[@huntermikes5736]

I have this gun in the 270 cal, and it has been an AWESOME gun and i have taken many deer with this gun

[@adammcevoy2010]

Just picked one of these up couple weeks ago in 338 win mag , great video !!

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I found myself reaching for mine more and more this season. It's just that good in the field. Just be ready for a little thump when you pull the trigger on yours!

[@theoutdoorsmantimg3450]

I have a mkII 30-06 with zytel stock, My wife got me for Christmas in 1990 ,it would shoot clover leaf groups every day with 165 gr federal fusion ammo....great gun still have it.

[@markwentland3147]

I have that same Rifle in a 280 Rem with green inserts I love that rifle

[@robertyusinski6082]

This is my first time seeing one of your review videos, and i will be a return customer for sure! Great review! This has been one of my bucketlist rifles for a long time. Just picked one up that was MFG in 1998 and chambered in .270. Can't wait to take it out in the PA deer woods this upcoming season!

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I'm glad you enjoyed it! And I'll be load testing mine this weekend. I want to see just how accurate can this rifle be. Of course it's already minute of deer and I can't wait to take mine to the woods either.

[@kenbyker6696]

Great video,and great informative history video! The way you explain it,it definitely is a great HUNTING rifle! 😊

[@markduncan7638]

Just picked one of these up in .308 Winchester, looks identical to yours. Couldnt be happier with it, it's in great condition.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Mark, that should be just an outstanding rifle! I would have preferred a 308 over the 270 I have but it's so rare to run across one of these in my area in 308. Congrats!

[@markduncan7638]

@@TomRiverSimpleLiving Had it at the range yesterday with a ladder load out using Sierra Match 155Gr and it is clover leafing at 100m so yeah I am pretty happy, the scope I currently have on it is crap but I'll be buying something better soon.

[@kennethhlavik8155]

Thanks for all the information! I have a Ruger M77 Mark II it's a great rifle like you said. It's built like a tank.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I'm glad you enjoyed it Kenneth

[@BADBOYM109R]

I always thought they where ugly, i remember when they came out always said I would never buy one. With that said found a used one so cheap I couldn’t pass it up decided I would play with it a little before I would sell it, well the first load I made shot excellent touching bullets. Love that gun is my go to deer rifle and has been a very long time!

[@cartology]

Very enjoyable video. I learned a lot about the rifle I've been humping around the Yukon for the past 15 years. It's taken sheep, caribou, moose and bison in pretty much all weather conditions without issue. Your comments about hunting distances are pretty much in alignment with my experiences...most everything gets taken inside of 200 yards, so it's more than accurate enough. I do think about a 2nd rifle in .300 WSM for bison (and longer shots), but so far it hasn't been necessary. Thanks for posting!

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I'm glad you enjoyed Gerry. And I have to warn you, it's amazing how quickly a 2nd rifle turns into a 3rd! Those things are like rabbits. As long as you only have one you'll only have one but as soon as you get two together they start multiplying. LOL

[@smokepole14]

I have a M77 Mark II in 270 win. It’s a wood stock I got it the year before they quit making the Mark II and started with the Hawkeye. My favorite rifle of all time!

[@johnnyboy9931]

My nephew was looking for a deer rifle a couple of years ago while stationed in Texas doing his advanced flight training as a Marine aviator. He had grown up shooting his dad's Remington Model 788 in .243 Win and was looking at a "modern" hunting rifle, like a Ruger American or a T/C Compass. I have a friend who had just inherited her dad's guns which she had asked me to appraise. They included an early 90's Ruger M77 in .243 with a Swift 3-9x50 scope, blue steel and a nice checkered walnut stock. My nephew decided that the M77 was the better option to go with that and my friend accepted the lower end of the price range from my appraisal. It was a great deal for a classic hunting rifle and only a couple of hundred dollars more than the "modern" rifles. I worked up couple of loads and was impressed by the inherent accuracy of the .243 cartridge. That rifle seemed to shoot adequate hunting accuracy for just about anything I tried. I fine-tuned a good sub-MOA load for the two bullets that I had selected. Unfortunately the Marines have kept him too busy to have many opportunities to hunt. That might change as he has now completed all of his helicopter flight training and will soon to be stationed on the east coast. I am really enjoying your videos, having recently discovered your channel. It's all about the hunting for me too. One question that this SW Virginia mountain boy has is......what is the accent that your other viewers keep commenting on?

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

It's funny you should mention the Marines and the accent. There's one retired Marine here that lives overseas that commented early on that hearing me talk reminded him of home. He was originally from north Georgia. What sounds like a funny accent to one person sounds like home to another. Funny how that works out. And I think your nephew is definitely going to appreciate that M77 more and more over time? After he's got his time in and retires and that rifle still functions like the day it came from the factory is when he'll appreciate paying that little bit extra now. And in a great cartridge too. Those .243's aren't just easy to load for but they're also a lot of fun doing the load testing with. And I'm glad your enjoying the videos!

[@johnforya]

I bought a 308 new Ruger M77 mkii in 2001, as a Dutch immigrant and coming from a no-gun country I was highly impressed with this gun. More than seriously impressed with the 308 recoil though! Mine has a wooden stock and a 24" bull barrel and a Leopold scope on it. I stopped shooting for a long while and recently got it out of the case. Still like new of course, but changed the original stock pad to a 'Limbsaver' and have a Witt muzzle brake on the way....call me a sissy...:) Not a hunter but planning hog hunting in TX with this and my new Sig AR10 in 308! Enjoyed your take on it!

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I wouldn't call you a sissy at all. Coming from a non gun country i have no doubt that recoil got your attention the first time you pulled the trigger. And it sounds like one really sweet shooting rifle now! Good luck on those hogs and it should be interesting to see which you prefer for that the AR10 or the bolt gun!

[@MikesManCave]

Bought one back in the 90's thought it was the best looking rifle around, bed the action and free float the barrel and epoxy fill the voids in the fore end to stiffen the stock (that's what I did with mine) and you have sub MOA all day long. I have the 223.

[@themanonmars2708]

I had an uncle who shot one in 270. Always loved that rifle, thanks for the video!

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I'm glad you enjoyed it.

[@markhansen8078]

I enjoyed your video and liked that you were thorough in your analysis of the M77 all weather. My first center fire rifle was a Ruger M77 MKII all weather with iron sights in 30-06 spr caliber. I put a considerable amount of thought into which rifle to buy. At the time it was a big expense for a married man with 2 little kids. I managed to save the money to order this rifle by working a second job. My intended purpose was for hunts in AK. I had 2 brothers living in AK and we were discussing a caribou hunt so a rugged rifle was paramount, iron sights mandatory as backup, 30-06 more than capable and ammo readily available everywhere. I never got to do a caribou hunt but did hunt black tail deer on Prince William Sound. I also still own that M77 and use it for deer and hogs here in FL. Thanks for the M77 review.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I'm glad you enjoyed it. And that's the great thing about the old 30/06, you can use it anywhere for anything!

[@markhansen8078]

@@TomRiverSimpleLiving It was a good choice for me at the time. Over the years I have acquired two more M77 all weather rifles. One is in 260 rem. which is a sweet rifle.

[@ULFISHGETTER]

My first rifle was a ruger m77 in 30-06. I sold it the following year after I killed my first deer with it. I just couldn’t fall in love with it. They are very dependable rifles though, but I prefer Winchester model 70’s If I’m getting a control round feed. Ended up with a tikka in 30-06 and will say I like that rifle better. Weatherby Mark V’s and Remington 700’s are my favorite though! I love a good lever action as well. Browning blrs, Henry Long Rangers, and Marlin 45-70’s are always a fantastic option for deer hunting. I know I’m wondering off on a different road now! Hope you’re well Tom!

[@mattcurrie3862]

My favorite hunting rifles by far. I have one in .22 mag, .243 Win and .270 Win. I am still looking for one in my favorite rifle caliber, .222 Rem.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

.222 or .223? Not that it matters that much since the difference between them is only .001.. LOL

[@jacdan0716]

I have in the last 4 weeks purchased 2 a 270 and 243 love the look and feel. joined a group on fb to get more info apparently the 222 was only released in New Zealand and Australia . Small group but amazing collections of m77,. skeleton stock ruger owners if interested.

[@cb777-t1l]

Mine's in .338 Win Mag and it's not too big for whitetails. Got it at a gun show in Coudersport, PA, in the nineties. Thought I'd take it bear hunting. I did, but I never saw any bears. I remember deer hunting with it on a day of lots of heavy wet snow (2ft)---tree branches were breaking and bowing everywhere---and I just crossed a creek and looked up to see 5 or six deer 30 yards away (in doe season) and I pulled up to shoot and my glasses were completely fogged up. I took them off and made a shot just as they were skedaddling away and dropped her. Ol' Zytel came through. It's got some character, just like the Remington Nylon. I wish I had a Remington Nylon .22. They were readily available when I was 16 but I just didn't buy one. They were probably $50.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

It's funny the rifles that we remember, which is a big part of why I got this one. And I remember when these were a lot cheaper!

[@nwredneckturner1508]

Living in the Pacific Northwest, rain is the norm rather than the exception. I've been looking for one of these M77's for a while now and they seem to be scarce as hens teeth. People that have them do not want to let them go!

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I've heard the same thing from some guys in Alaska. They come up pretty often on Gun Broker but they usually bring top dollar on there especially for the rare cartridges but I can say they're great rifles and worth it.

[@aaronwilcox6417]

Im a left hand user of Ruger rifles, and unfortunately I dont think these were ever offered in lefties. Even so, this video is the most sound and historically correct about the Ruger 77 and their Zytel stock that ive watched. The information you relayed was correct about the design of the stock and in genrral of the m77 series. Its also a testament as to why this model of rifle is sought after in places like the BC coast and Alaska and folks fondly refer to them as their boat paddle rifle. They are sought after in nasty weather areas. Anyway great production and homeage to a really great rifle made for not so great weather.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Thanks Aaron, and now that you mention it I don't recall having ever seen one of these in a left handed version. I have to say you south paws get left out far to often when it comes to rifles.

[@billyellis3509]

Awesome topic and video as always . I have this in a 243 and what a sweet well mad rifle. Thanks and keep the shows coming.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I'm glad you enjoyed it Billy.

[@billyellis3509]

@@TomRiverSimpleLiving thank you sir .God Bless

[@clintjohnson7023]

I want one of these river M77 skeleton rifles in either 25/06 or 7mm-08 or both. I fell in l8ve with them in 1994 or 95. When a friend of mines son showed up at the deer lease with one. It was in 25/06.

[@marylisaac2191]

Dear Sir, I pin this under my wife's name, it is her pad ,I own 4 mark II Ruger rifles of witch 2 are the boat ore 1 a 300 win mag,that I love! The other in 270win I bought in the mid 90s slapped a125 dollar scope on it bore it to 2in high at 100yds I have not touched it to this day!!! If I were to have to choose only one rifle, and I have a few! This would be the ONE!!!

[@chrislayman7004]

Great video. I have this gun in 30/06 hands down my favorite

[@donaldanderson3249]

I love mine . It's also 270 and I painted the stock green and the inserts are dark tan to blend in with the Oregon coast 😀

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

We'll call yours a custom M77! And I haven't heard from anyone yet that didn't love theirs. That's the sign of a great rifle.

[@ronws2007]

06:59 another good point, to an extent, you don't need a competition target rifle for hunting deer. You need a rifle that can hit an 8 inch target at about 200 yards or less. In fact, I have been reading the works of Elmer Keith and Townsend Whelen (Elmer Keith is the K in the cartridge .333 OKH and Townsend Whelen is the namesake of the .35 Whelen cartridge.) Both have shot at big game with .30-06 at distance, which was okay but closer in, the bullet just whizzed through the beast too fast to expand and do damage. Ergo, the need for fat and slow cartridges. Modernly, we are using the .450 Bush Master and the .350 Legend and the .45-70 Government, straight wall cartridges averaging at least 250 grains, maybe more. And, of course, .50 cal muzzleloaders (a favorite of my old friend, John, RIP, who used to hunt his aunt's property for old does that did not fawn anymore. Anyway, so, if you are shooting something a little more sedate, like a .308 Win, like I have, you don't have to have the fastest bullet with the highest BC to hunt deer. What is important is that your rifle can put this round where you need it and that it can expand in the target and achieve the effect of stopping the heart and lungs or the brachial plexus, whichever zone you are targeting. Believe it or not, similar to what a military sniper is doing with the enemy. You need a bullet that gets in the zone that you have, reliably. That being said, I am getting great accuracy from a rifle that doesn't seem to care what I feed it. Hornady SST 165 gr 1/2 inch on the first two shots. Same with Federal Nontypical Whitetail 150 gr. And in a hot barrel, slightly less than 1 MOA with Armscor 168 grain hollow point boat tail. The latter costed me about $1.80 per round.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

And everything you just wrote there fits in perfectly with my way of thinking. But I have to say I've never heard of the Armscor. I guess I'm just little behind the times on new bullets.

[@ronws2007]

@@TomRiverSimpleLiving Armscor is in the Phillipines and make ammo but they are associated with Rock Island Armory. And I get the bulk deal through Cheaper than Dirt!, which lives up to it's name. Last bulk I bought was a 250 round shipment that came out ot about $1.80 per round of .308 Win 168 gr HPBT with a BC of .447 and a muzzle velocity of 2700 fps.

[@robinbrown473]

Tom, enjoyed your look at the Ruger m77 and thanks to your good description discovered a lot more about it, I have always liked Ruger rifles so about 20 years ago I found one in a gunshop brand new in my favourite calibre 222rem. I get 3/4 ins groups at 100 yds with my reloads and would not change it for the much hyped 223.

[@ethanolson2591]

I have found this rifle locally for $500 in. 30-06. The stock is fairly scratched but the bore and action is very clean. At first I didn’t think it was worth the money but now I do. Have a bushnel elite scope that is decent enough

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I had wanted one of these since they came out but just never did get one. Well a couple of years of ago I decided to finally get one. Now keep in mind you could get these rifles used at a really low price way back when. Well we'll just say I had sticker shock when I saw how much these had gone up in value over the years. But they went up in value because they are such a great rifle. Unlike most rifles today these old Zytel stocks are going to keep holding their value if not continuing to go up. And I think you got a great deal on yours for $500!

[@shawncrittenden6216]

The Stock cleans up light scratches and white dusty looking oxidation real nice with Armor-All tire cleaner..... Makes it look brand new.....

[@jasonlopez4855]

I really like mine Ruger Mark II 300 win mag thousand yards no problem. My do all rifle never let me down. 1998 I have the original sales matt It shows every rifle they sold from 1996 to 1999 I got it when store went out of business with all kinds of stuff.

[@jarrettpdaugherty]

I have this rifle in 270 and love it, it is my go to.

[@thecheapshot1065]

I love your shop. I saw 1 of those gun broker for relatively cheap the other day

[@kentowens2179]

Great video. I enjoy your presentations, and explanations. A lot of folks can learn from you if they watch. As I said, I enjoy all of your videos, because I love hunting rifles.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Thank you very much!

[@jamesondancy2183]

Other excellent design features are the scope ring bases are integral to the action and can’t move or come loose. Front sight base is machined integral with the barrel on the models that have sights. The bolt and bolt handle are one piece of steel and would have to be sheared apart unlike most bolt handles that are a separate piece that is attached to the bolt body and thus weaker. I’ve heard Bill Ruger say his bolts were designed to be 30% stronger than any bolt on the market and I don’t doubt it except maybe the Weatherby Mk V that has 9 locking lugs. Agree one of the best hunting rifles ever made, love mine!

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Thanks for mentioning both of those points Jameson. I can't believe I forgot to mention the integral bases. And I had never heard that about Bill Ruger wanting the bolt to be 30% stronger, but I can believe it as well.

[@johngeddes7894]

The reason that lost wax investment casting is so strong, is that it puts the grain of the steel oriented in its strongest direction, even more thoroughly that hot drop forging. The Ruger investment casting centerfuges. The steel as its being cast, so the hollows or airgaps found in hot drop forging don’t exist in the investment casting process. Hard to beat a product like that!

[@doylehightechmattstumpf2529]

I own 2. One in .243 and one in 30-06. I’m constantly on the lookout for the latest and greatest in ARs, pistols and shotguns. Haven’t been in the market for a hunting rifle in 20 years, and don’t plan on buying one any time soon. Maybe I’ll sell em to someone in Alaska for a small fortune some day.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Well they sure are popular in Alaska and the Pacific North West. And it is amazing how the value of these have gone up.

[@gordyowens9570]

I have a Ruger m77 Mark two in wooden stock in mm remington magnum and I love it.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Great rifles, with the zytel stock or wood.

[@leonharris1329]

Love all versions of the great 77 rugers. I should have kept all the ones that I have owned.

[@matthewknight1910]

I agree with you - I think they’re a good looking unit.

[@dustinsilva6130]

Thanks for the video on this rifle. I picked up a lighty used 338 m77 mark II a few years ago, absolutely love it. I am looking for a 270 and 300 in this model.

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

I'm glad you enjoyed it. And this probably isn't going to be my last one either?

[@1StanTheMan1]

I love mine. Chambered in 30-06 with the trigger pull lightened a smidge. The barrel is ported and has a very mild kick, compared to stock. Pretty accurate. I’m mounting a bipod and am not sure how to install the sling stud... I guess I need to pull the stock off, I’ve never done that yet. Should be interesting. I’ve a new 3-9x50 to sight in, the Mylar crosshairs on my old one shattered. Sig Sauer Buckmaster BDC reticle should be a good fit I think. Gonna find out soon. Can’t wait!!

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

Let me know how that turns out. I did find out the stocks are thinner than I thought in the forend but they are plenty firm enough when against the barrel. I saw one that someone had free floated the barrel and I was surprised by how much it flexed. And I'm not much on porting but this rifle in 30-06 would be a good candidate for that. The .270 shoots really good as is but I don't know that I would enjoy an 06 very much in this rifle? As a matter of fact a friend of mine has one in '06 and he didn't enjoy it. He took the stock off and put a grey Boyd's stock on it and that turn out to be a really good shooting rifle, and it looks great in they grey laminate.

[@MSHunts]

I’d love to see a range day video with this rifle.

[@chevymiami123]

I used my Ruger in Africa and did a world shot 450 mts!! Great rifle!!

[@TomRiverSimpleLiving]

They certainly are!