Radical Ruger Rifles: Model 77 and Hawkeye

A comparison of the Ruger Model 77 and Ruger Hawkeye.
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[@invictus3598]

Terrific demo and comparison of the Ruger Mark I and Mark II. Well done! Thank you!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks for being on the channel

[@hawk270leadflinger9]

I have the original m77 Ruger in .270 and it’s a cherry. I’ve had it for over 20 years. Best gun I have ever owned. Reliable and a tack driver. It’s hammered plenty of whitetail deer over the years. Great video explaining the difference in the rifles. Enjoyed it.

[@rustyshackleford1091]

By the way, you are extremely good at talking in front of a camera and have exceptional videos sir!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you Andrew!

[@kennethbailey2616]

Andrew Bittmann I agree. I so enjoy his videos and always learn things. I enjoy the fact he doesn’t put down any guns whether high dollar or inexpensive. He has taught me that most guns have a value whether as works of art or for utility.

[@chipsterb4946]

Thanks for showing the difference in the safeties.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you!

[@roeng1368]

Excellent video as always. Ruger makes firearms which are in my experience always tough, good value for money products. Much like cz in europe.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

That is a very good observation - had not thought of it. Both CZ and Ruger have that practical toughness and excellence to them.

[@black_jackledemon6298]

At the price point of what I can typically afford I prefer Ruger to Savage and have both. Reasonable expectations of them both helps.. Haven't given a CV a go yet but maybe I should. 😊👍

[@RickNethery]

USOG, Great comparison Sir. Both are excellent rifles, I have a strong preference for the Hawkeye, and the Mark 2 series. I also have a little Ruger Frontier .308 with a Leopold 2.5 scout scope, I had a Packmyer recoil pad and a one inch spacer added to the stock. That little Frontier is a joy to carry and shoot, I think of My Hawkeye as My Rifle, and the Frontier as My Carbine 😊. Thank You for making these good up close and detailed reviews they are fantastic and I thoroughly enjoy watching them. God Bless You Sir.

[@happytrails5400]

Your knowledge of firearms is impressive. Keep making the great video's and I'll keep watching them.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Will do Happy Trails : )

[@pauledwards8576]

Thank you for an excellent video on a topic I have looked forward to for some time. Your partial disassembly and side by side comparison sure helped me understand that safety difference I knew existed between the two models. Your demonstration actually gave me more appreciation for the work Ruger put into the Hawkeye. On another note, sorry to see that the ammunition was incorrect for that beautiful Austrian rifle, but I appreciated seeing those loads with the paper.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Paul - the Hawkeye is really something fine - Ruger did an excellent job. The ammo is so fine to own - I find myself just studying it - and the clips. Sort of like old wine or something. I'll find a rifle for it now : )

[@pauledwards8576]

Indeed, I have often found myself perusing an old Cartridges of the World looking at old or unusual ammunition, going backwards to the gun...while most get an old gun and hunt down the ammo, or blowout some brass and cast some bullets... both ways are fun. Similar to how you fashioned some rimfire loads out of some .410 shotgun ammo, I think it was, but I have not gotten that creative yet.

[@Nick-wn1xw]

Great video and comparison.

[@freddywarren69]

Gotta love your informed but understated style USOG.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thanks Freddy!

[@rickbattle5706]

Excellent comparison. Would not know the difference otherwise. Very insightful as always! :-). Thanks....

[@denisl7503]

Thank you USOG for review. I just bought Ruger Hawkeye compact (16.5" barrel in 7mm08). Fantastic accuracy (sub moa) for short barrel. I just added few spacer for butt-stock and now it fit me perfect.It is great little bush gun.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Denis - great buy. The 7-08 is a superb cartridge - much underappreciated; and the American is the best of the budget rifles! Good hunting!

[@stevebryant9647]

Helpful hints for vintage Ruger 77 w tang safety: When removed from stock, if safety’s transfer bar comes loose, to reattach, under-hook short portion of bar at front & long portion inserts left>>right into bottom hole on tang safety switch. If transfer bar won’t easily reach hole, tang switch is probably reversed & will not allow trigger to release; if reassembled incorrectly. When properly installed the transfer is not under tension. Regarding positioning of metal magazine body, flat bottom portion goes down/again stock & curved portion up/toward bottom of bolt. Length-wise, the insert should match contour of stock inlet - - the wider end belongs closest to trigger guard with narrow end with center impression is held in place by front of hinged floor plate & diaganal screw. Once closed, the base of trigger guard holds floor plate closed unless release is depressed. If magazine body is installed upside-down, the spring & follower can not be inserted due to the “misplaced” formed curve of the lips that are intended to retain the ammunition & follower at the top - not bottom.

[@jcaputo3156]

Great video very informative

[@markhansen8078]

I have 3 Ruger rifles M77 MKII, and Hawkeye. They are all fine rifles. 260 rem, 30-06 sprg, 338 win mag. All of them are stainless steel (all weather) models. The 260 rem started life as a 308 win. We changed the barrel to Shilen 260 rem. 24". Outstanding rifles all of them. Tough, reliable, effective rifles. You did not mention the bolt/feed on these models. I was somewhat surprised. Great video as usual... TY MH

[@Gunners_Mate_Guns]

Nice comparison. It's good to see that I wasn't the only one to seek out an M77 with iron sights. I've had my .30-06 M77 since 1989, and it finally had a chance (my state's laws changed that year allowing rifles in "standard calibers that year) to take a deer with it three years ago.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Bravo! Iron sights on the 77 complete the rifle.

[@philipprebble7089]

Thanks for the education on 77 Ruger .

[@Bluewater6060]

G’day thanks for the video you went into detail which was excellent ruger firearms are excellent 👍

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

G'day Alan! Thank you! Cheers.

[@rdaugherty52]

I have a Ruger Hawkeye 2015 edition 1 of 150 in 35 Whelen I was surprised when you said this is in 35 Whelen I absolutely love mine and will never get rid of it.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Lucky, lucky, lucky! Great rifle and cartridge!

[@Southernguitar74]

I just picked up a SS Hawkeye in .308 last weekend and everything about it wreaks of quality. Well, all except the plastic stock, which I am not crazy about. It is certainly a serviceable stock, however, so I am simply being picky. I can't wait to take it out next week and see which ammunition it likes best. I have always appreciated the M77, and though some may think I am wrong, I like the overall features of the Hawkeye (such as you expertly show here) better than the original 77. For a modern rifle the build quality is impressive. Thanks so much for all you do!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

You bought an all time great rifle. In SS : all weather, always works, accurate, and after market stocks if you so choose. A+++ rifle, cal. and decision.

[@Southernguitar74]

Thank you my friend. I hope to find a decent walnut stock from an original M77. It appears that every piece and part of the Hawkeye are steel...All it needs is walnut! Hope you are having a great day.

[@jeffreyreardon7487]

That ammo, on the end bloc clips is for the M1886 Manlicher straight pull rifles. They were chambered in the Werndl cartridge

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Jeffrey - I can't tell you how nice it is to own those old cartridges. 1888. When they were made Verdi was still alive among other great minds; I love opera. I'll try to find the M1886. Have a great weekend Jeffrey.

[@308blr2]

Perhaps an example of an M77 Mark II compared to these 2 models would be worthwhile; because the Mark II was sold for many years before the Hawkeye models were introduced.

[@glorybound7599]

Thanks. I own three Hawkeyes and two 77/ series Rugers. Excellent rifles. The 77/ 357 does have some ammunition feed issues that I don’t experience in my 77/22.

[@russellkeeling4387]

At first I had some feed issues with my 77/357 also. Time has passed and that problem has mitigated. I think the spring tension on the magazine has lots to do with it. I was checking the zero on it yesterday and it worked nicely. Time and use are all I can say I did to it.

[@glorybound7599]

@@russellkeeling4387 thank you 🙏🏻

[@manwithclass09]

Good morning USOG - well - I did it again yesterday... I picked up a Ruger Hawkeye 77 "Safari" in 6.5x55 with really nice wood and a Ruger No. 1 - RSI in .257 Roberts - full Mannlicher stock with decent wood and also in stainless steel configuration. Both are beautiful rifles and nice additions to my collection. Every-time I find something that is different and scarce - my will power is not very good!!!! Great video on the 77 Sir - as usual.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello! Those are irresistible! The RSI in 257 Bob is perfection. Hawkeyes with nice wood...not easy. Well done. I would have done the same!

[@christinamoneyhan5688]

I’m in the same boat with you fellows.

[@johnt4060]

This video has encouraged me to go out and buy one in 270 Win! Absolutely superb rifle

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Drew - Bravo - you'll never look back!

[@44hawk28]

The angled action screw, was studied quite a bit in the '80s and found to be a huge key to the action of that rifle bedding far more consistently than in any other bolt action because it pulled the action back and seated it against the interior of the stock in a far more consistent manner. Probably why the Ruger Model 77 appeared in a lot of shooting competition, and one most of them for quite a number of years. Not only did it have a square receiver which cuts down on torque moment and forces that cause inaccuracy in both action rifles. It was frequently noted that people sometimes glass bed that rifle and not get any better accuracy. My first Centerfire rifle was a Model 77 in 7 mm mag and would fire a sub quarter minute group all day long matter of fact it was actually less than a half of 100th of an inch. The only issue that people ever had with the Model 77 was that tank safety. Which it is at a convenient spot but it doesn't allow you to operate the action with the safety on. And that was a flaw that the Mauser did not have and the Ruger is basically a copy of a Mauser. The other problem with that tank safety, is if you're out hunting on a nice quiet morning and you see a deer come into the clearing, when you reach up and thumb off that safety you be better be ready to shoot right away because everything within 50 yards just heard that safety go click. And it isn't quiet about it. Another advantage that the Model 77 has that the Hawkeye doesn't, and why it doesn't I do not know. But you can adjust the trigger on the Model 77. And make a real nice trigger out of it.

[@steveharvey6421]

Back in 68 when the gun came out it was in the 308 family instead of the 30-06 family because concern of the investment cast action was strong enough. Obviously, it was. Also the gun came with real checkering instead of the gawdy pressed checkering on Remchesters.

[@kennethbailey2616]

I’ve had two 77s with the tang safety, I agree, they’re not the best way to go. I bought a Ruger guide gun a few years ago in .300 RCM. I shot a beautiful bull elk with it last fall at a ranged 400 yards. He didn’t drop instantly which elk seldom do, but I made a long walk to get a better vantage point and he was down in the pines. I was using 180 grain Nosler bullets. It has a laminated stock and I really like it.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

That Guide Gun is something. I tried to buy 2 at different times - other people beat me to the store. I know why. I'm glad you got your elk. Congrats.

[@TomDog5812]

I have an M77 Target with an over-molded laminate stock, stainless barrel, it's a beauty and it's very accurate.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Some of those are incredibly accurate. I had one in 6PPC like that. Good on you

[@raymondmathewson4817]

I own an old tang safety and a newer Hawkey, both in 338 win mag. I personally prefer the older version. Been hunting with the old 77 for over 20 years. Works perfectly every time. Great video!

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Raymond - they are just about perfect. I only have a .35 Whelan left - used to have a few. They're such a great rifle.

[@yessir3404]

Usog, I always love watching your videos. My first rifle was a Hawkeye Standard in 30-06. Excellent rifle that I didn’t appreciate like I should. Now that I have a tikka I really like the gun, but it just doesn’t feel like the same quality of gun. I think I’m going to buy another one in the future as these now are starting to become more available again.. I just don’t know when yet. First I want one of those new Ruger Marlins, which look excellent.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Thank you Yes Sir - I'm glad my videos are okay. I find the Rugers are superb too - I like your plan to buy a Ruger Marlin - I will as well. All the best to you!

[@mickmoriarty7780]

I've got a 300WM in the middle model, the M77 Mk11 and it is a great rifle. I had a credit at a gunshop and got the whisper that the shop was about to be raided, so I decided to collect the credit before the boom was lowered on the owner for his indiscretions.. There was nothing I fancied (that I could afford with the credit and the toy fund was severely deleted due to buying a 4WD the week before), so I took the 300WM and six 20 round boxes of Corelokt ammo (reluctantly), cutting the cedit out. The rifle was placed in the safe and sat there for a few years. A gun dealer friend asked me one day if I owned a 300WM and I told him about the Ruger. He went out to his car and returned with a couple of hundred rounds of ammo in new brass that he had loaded for a customer who was obviously a tyre kicker and never returned. I decided to give it a run. No matter what I shot through it, the first three shots touch! One Ruger rifle suddenly promoted from safe duties to front line hunting rifle, haha! Great video, thanks.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Bill Ruger brought us a superb rifle in the 77 - one of the best of all time. Now taken for granted.

[@n300zx931]

Just picked up a Ruger M77 25-06. Looking forward to using it.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Perfect choice. I hunted for years with the 25-06 - nothing but good to say about that cartridge. Not as popular as it should be. Great rifle/cartridge combo.

[@BloodiedYetUnbowed]

I love the Ruger 77. I have a Ruger M77 Hawkeye 223 with a wood stock like the one in this video and also a Ruger 77/17 chambered in .17 HMR. The 77/17 was my first rifle I got when I was 13 and I think it might just be my favorite rifle to shoot. It has the boat paddle stock and I actually really like it. It's a really well made stock and I don't really find it to be unattractive, but I do prefer wood.

[@crazykash4977]

Milling can be a machine or A.I. generated program to cut your piece right. It uses a drill with water to cool down the process while it's drilling away the metal. Its making precise moves to cut it into shape. I love my 7mm rem mag mark 77 gen II 2000 series. It'll be pass down through my family as it was to me. Grateful for that Ruger it survived a tornado believe it or not. I'll never let it go.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

A tornado Ruger - now that is unique!

[@danielfisher9344]

I had a Model 77 in .257 Roberts. Very nice gun and a great shooter. I really like the looks of that Hawkeye though.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Daniel - The 77 in .257 - is in high demand as you know - maybe they'll chamber for the .257 again; a superb round as you know.

[@oncall21]

The Ruger M77 always had superior walnut to the rifle's successors.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Always good and sometimes exceptional.

[@Gunners_Mate_Guns]

My tang safety M77 has straight grain walnut, but from what I understnad, straight grain is considerably less vulnerable to warping and splitting, so I call it a win. I love the beauty of walnut stocks of whatever figure, though.

[@smartacus88]

The Hawkeye has a better action. Tit for tat.

[@bobscruggs8886]

I purchased a Ruger M77 in 270 cal in the 1970's a nice Walnut stock after glass imbedding the stock and with hand loads it would shoot half inch groups at 100 yards with the factory barrel and it still does that's quality I also had a Remmington Model 700BDL being a bench shooter I notice a slightly faster lock time with the 700BDL or it could be my imagination .

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Both are so fine...all one needs really.

[@black_jackledemon6298]

I tend to make a nice wood replacement for rifles that are retired from active Texas ranch-land duty. Not sure if I'm leaving something of value as inheritance but it seems important symbolically and fitting for the tools that serve me so well. And frankly it's less expensive to just buy the less problematic polymer ones in daily all weather use. Even in a leather pouch horseback they take constant care but less so than wood. Wood is great looking though. I enjoy machining well enough I guess....but the stock is the proverbially "cherry on top" and very satisfying to do for me personally. Ruger has always been an affordable go to for me because I basically grew up in a machine and welding shop. What I don't like is easily polished ....the trigger IMO are a bit rough and polish those parts first thing.

[@Rucksack57]

I have the M77 in .270 it is fast and smooth to operate when you see a deer. It will impress you. I also have the MK II also fast and smooth. I do like the new safety. More secure when hiking the hills.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Superb rifles both! So glad they have not stopped making them.

[@gilream]

good video. Was hoping to hear your thoughts on the "controlled feed" aspect of the M77. I read that it is not a true Controlled Feed like the pre-64 Winchesters. I have an original M77 in '06 ...very good rifle.

[@adamcuneo7189]

Yeah, the original tang safety M77s are apparently not true controlled feed rifles, they have the claw extractor, but it will still jump a cartridge. Luckily, when the Mark II was introduced in 1991, they had improved it into being a true controlled feed action and the receiver was forged steel instead of cast steel, along with other improvements to the rifle. I also have a tang safety M77 in .243, I really love it and I wouldn't trade it.

[@garyK.45ACP]

I love Ruger 77s. Though I collect Winchesters and have managed to assemble a really nice assortment of them, I probably carried, more often than not, for most of my hunting over a period of 50 years with a Ruger Model 77 .30-06 I purchased in the early 80s. It is, of course, the tang safety model. When it came time to buy the first centerfire rifle for my two sons, I chose a Ruger Model 77 RSI (International model) for each of them. They still use theirs and I still have mine. I think the Hawkeye type (model 70 type) safety is better. I am not going to get rid of the one I have, but the three position safety is better.

[@bullrambler]

Another Great Video USOG on the Ruger M77 & Ruger Hawkeye. I've recently acquired a Ruger M77 Hawkeye in 300 RCM. I noticed that this rifle has no relief in the barrel channel. I was wondering if it should get sanded out a bit to free float the barrel. Your suggestions are appreciated.

[@edspencer7121]

I'm glad this video came across my suggestions! A local pawn shop has an older Ruger 77 in 7mm mag for sale with what looks to be an older Leopold scope for $675.00. The stock is original and fairly beat up. I'm not familiar with the actual market value. After watching this I believe I'll pass on this piece and look at the Hawkeye modell. Besides that I've already got a Tika T3 light in 7mm mag. I may go 308 or 243 with the Hawkeye. At any rate, thank you for sharing your video and thoughts about the two models presented.

[@antoniomanuelrodrigues-sz7lb]

BTW, I hate that ugly black plástic paddle stock.!!! Love your videos. I'm a big fan of you. Many thanks for your work. And you are a gentleman. Kudus to you Sir. !!!

[@BloodiedYetUnbowed]

Also, have you noticed USOG that they no longer have the M77 Hawkeye "Standard" model available on the Ruger website? The only traditional wood stock version they have is the compact one. It's a shame if they discontinued the "Standard" model.

[@jakemitchell1671]

Very good review, thank you. I own a tang model and a MkII, both in 30-06. A close friend owns a Hawkeye in 270 that I've shot many times. They are all really good rifles, and although the Rugers are often criticized for their accuracy (relative to some other brands such as Remington and Savage), these are all highly accurate guns. They are built like tanks, well balanced and great looking, too. HOWEVER, I've been very disappointed in the triggers on the MkII and Hawkeye models. The tang-model trigger is much better, but still not the equal of many others. How is the trigger on your Hawkeye? I understand that some are very good. I just haven't experienced one. In fact, the trigger on my MkII was so bad I couldn't imagine how it ever got out of the factory. After 2-3 hours polishing/shaping the sear I finally have it about 3.5lbs with much less (but still too much) creep.

[@wayneingle378]

Thank you, great video. I hate all the tactical crap, (ugly) It does have it's place, as in combat, shtf, that said, I prefer the classic beauty of a walnut stock, a bolt action should have no other.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Bravo - I hope they shift back to proper stocks - the Browning rep told me the public seems to be shifting back to wood.

[@aaronwilcox5673]

The Ruger 77 series is my solution for me having a "Mauser-esqe" type of hunting rifle for a lefty, and I'm a left handed shooter. There have been Winchester M70 rifles available in left but they're not nearly as common as the Ruger rifles, and I'm grateful that Ruger has produced these for this segment of the population. You should produce a video on the choice for left handed folks because it's an issue and there really isn't a lot of current models available. Its an issue right handers don't even consider. Anyway I am happy with my Ruger GSR, Ruger compact rifle, single shot rifles, and leverguns. All these work well for lefties, but the Ruger pays tribute to the Mauser design and thankfully includes options for us lefties.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I'm not left handed, but I like shooting the Ruger left hand. Something about that motion seems right. : )

[@bobgarr6246]

Hi Mike. So, in your opinion, where does the M77MkII fall in comparison to the M77 and the Hawkeye ? I know how I think about it, but was curious as to your perspective on it. I know that as much as I like the M77 and the convenience of the tang safety, I don't like the linkage bar connection. For that matter I don't like any firearm design that has unsecured parts fall out when the barelled action is removed from the stock. For obvious reasons.

[@pseudopetrus]

Great video, but I do prefer wood to synthetic. It is kind of funny, because I am usually very practical, but as far as hunting rifles go, I guess I am a little nostalgic. Silly me.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

You've got the right way. Wood is nature's plastic anyway - with character and warmth as well - and other things too.

[@kennethbailey2616]

pseudopetrus I like wood best as well. I bought a Ruger Guide gun in .300 RCM. It’s stainless with a laminated stock. Not as pretty as walnut but still beats holding cold plastic.

[@ChromeArty]

I live on the west coast of BC Canada, had my synthetic Tikka T3 stolen a couple weeks ago... will be replacing with a wood and blued M77 🤷‍♂️ it is just so beautiful and tough. No silly floating recoil lug or any shite like that. Just a man's rifle

[@Oldhogleg]

Interesting, didn't realize the Hawkeye was a stronger and better design than the original M77; always just assumed it was the other way around.

[@tyler1671]

He's actually wrong... talk to anyone that owns and shoots both.

[@freddywarren69]

Boat paddle stock is the best. Got one in .243.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Freddy - Isn't it interesting how so many don't like them - but not everyone : )

[@thelocustemperor]

Hey I was wondering if you have a ruger gold label and if so were you ever planning on doing a video on it?

[@ashmerch2558]

That is a fantastic video idea

[@rickybristersmusic3658]

Just bought a Ruger m77 mark 2. How does it compare to these? Thanks so much for the videos. I love them and. Watch them all the time. Do u have a Facebook or instagram page I can follow?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Ricky - Ruger M77 Mark 2 is an A+++ rifle. One of the very best. I'm on Twitter - just started today. Learning.

[@blackieswart9813]

I've got a ruger m77 18.5" barrel rifle chambered in .270. I use factory ammo. When shot is fired the bang is so loud it sounds like a cannon. Why and what can be done about it. Fitting a silencer is not an option. Thanks for your nice videos.

[@redtobertshateshandles]

It's been a race to the bottom since '64, but Ruger looks like they did it better than most. Not a thing of beauty but pretty good. Thanks for the education.. That boat paddle stock is so M16..

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I like that Ted : "race for the bottom" - some of the guns seem to be "under bottom" - Ruger is pretty good - all things considered. Thanks for writing.

[@philipprebble7089]

What are the torque specks on 3.38 tang safty stock action ? I see mixed reviews and don't know what to believe.

[@redcanyonoutdoorquest6220]

Was hoping you’d cover the change to control round feed too

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Lee - I forgot - sorry about that.

[@patrikmeijer7437]

Great video USOG, I have a ruger m77 TS and must say that when I compared it to the Browning X-bolt and Remington 700 it feels much more robust and looks better IMO. The bolt was much smoother too, but that’s probably because my m77 is about 40 years old and they were brand new. Anyhow, I’ve heard that the Hawkeye is control fed. Is that correct? I know the TS is not. If that’s the case, I’d say that the upgrades in the Hawkeye add up pretty significantly.

[@johnt4060]

Patrik Meijer The hawkeye version is control fed. It's a Mauser style action. Very reliable and tough actions

[@patrikmeijer7437]

DrewT65 I have a Hawkeye now in 260 Rem :) The full stock version and I love it

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Perfect combination!

[@skylerg6550]

3:14 you see the little spring? I took mine out to clean out some rust and cant get it back in to plce to wear it is spring loaded again? I would be incredibly greatful if up you could advise

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello Skyler - I am full of flaws. God Bless.

[@TOPGUNMPD08]

Very well done and informative video sir. I have been a Ruger 77 fan since the 80s. So I've owned the original tang rifles, the Mark II, and the Hawkeye. For whatever reason I seem to always prefer my older tang rifles, although I agree the newer Mark II and Hawkeye maybe better constructed. Also agree that the boat paddle stock is quite utilitarian and fantastic. My favorite 77 is my 1989 vintage RS model in 358 Winchester. A fabulous rifle to be sure. Thanks again for taking the time to share your rifles with us.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello! That .358 is a universal rifle - scarce - and for real world hunting distances - it just doesn't get any better. Thanks for writing. oh and I just picked up another boat paddle stock - $50. ha!

[@nakoawarrior3186]

I always wanted the 77/22 and the 96/22,.....they were cool,..... like baby Rugers.

[@carlosoliveira1623]

Parabéns pelas demostração da marca ruger os rifles são de ótima qualidade e ótimo acabamento tanto os semi automático como os de ação por ferrolho são muito bonitos parabéns ,Brasil

[@Hill_Billy_Without_A_Hill]

I really like the Hawkeyes. Ive read many things about them not being as accurate as other competitive rifles, maybe because not free floated. I have not experienced that though. From what ive seen they are plenty accurate, and well made. Not the smoothest bolt, but Mauser style actions usually are not. Id like to find a zytel stocked stainless version. Not sure what caliber, something common most likely. The savage stevens 200 was a good gun too. I think they were better than the Axis.

[@haroldvera5712]

The cannon of ruger m 77 are martelado en frio?

[@DDZZ55]

For the safety link on the Ruger Tang Safety rifles, I place a drop of Weatherstrip Adhesive on each of the two link tips, and allow to harden overnight before re-assembly. One must be careful to keep the adhesive from going further than the tips on the link. The advantage is, should one need to remove the link, it is fairly easy to remove that hardened drop of adhesive. Adhesive color doesn't matter, but black is My preference. Frequently, I watch Your videos as they are very well done, and very informative! ~DDZZ55

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Great advice - thank you!

[@iluvbigknockers5321]

Good info, I prefer the tang safety and adjustable trigger on the original m77. The mkii had a horrible heavy lawyer trigger you had to change the spring to make it shootable.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Yes indeed - lawyer triggers are often not triggers at all.

[@user-ms5pf2we4e]

Cut a coil off the spring. Until you get what pull you like.

[@b.griffin317]

Love the M77. 😊 Do you think it is necessary to keep the rear screw which goes between the stock and receiver and behind the trigger guard in?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I think so - not sure why - but my usual thinking is that if the factory included it - maybe one should leave it as they made it.

[@enlightenedwarrior7119]

I free floated the barrel loaded Sierra 60 grain hollow points 3x9 redfield scope and had 3 shot groups touching at 200 yds after I found the powder load very accurate rifle ball powder btw

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

That is incredible accuracy! Good on you for finding the magic load.

[@six.5799]

Hi USOG, another great vid. How do you feel about the Zastava Z98/LKM 70 (Remington 798, Charles Daley, Interarms, etc.)? They have many of the same features as the M77 and other CRF rifles. However they do retain the 3rd safety lug and seem to be build quite well with all metal parts internally and externally. If you have had any experience with them, I'd like to hear your thoughts on them.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello Six - The Zastava is a fine rifle and action - I have nothing bad to say and have only good experiences with them. I shot one bear with a full stock in 30-06 - iron sights. Unfortunately, they are not in high demand as collector items partly because of initial low prices and they crank them out in great numbers for foreign currency. The Remington 798 is a serviceable rifle but Remington knows they can do a lot better. The 788 was far more interesting and accurate and had some character at least.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi again Six, I should have written that I would buy a Ruger 77 or Hawkeye used over the others new; but that is just me.

[@six.5799]

agreed, I lucked out and picked up a brand new stainless model for $500 (cdn). After a little bit of work to help the bolt cycle smoother and adjusting the trigger i'm quite happy with it. Unfortunately here in Canada even used Ruger's are quite expensive.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Such a great value - and another thing; one of these days or years they'll stop making them and then after awhile you have double your money anyway.

[@mostachiocam1598]

Would be interested to know the difference between the Hawkeye and Mark 2

[@coreychilders4970]

I just pick up a ruger m77 tang safety 300 win mag. It's from 1988 . It has the same sight that yours has on it

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

You'll find the M77 utterly reliable and accurate - an excellent buy. Well done! And the .300 WM is proven many times over as a superb cartridge. You're set!

[@coreychilders4970]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns thanks you. Your video are great.

[@keatonjorgensen8793]

Just got a m77 chambered in 338 win mag. Can't wait to take it hunting and put it to use

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Awesome Keaton!

[@kennethbailey2616]

I’ve been interested in the.35 Whelen for years. Never have shot one but I believe you aren’t under-gunned anywhere in North America. Thanks for the tip on the safety transfer bar. I have had an with my 77 once I put a Timney trigger on it.

[@bruceinnawoods3610]

Could you please compare Kimber rifles and Ruger Hawkeyes in detail similar to this video?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Will do Bryce - thanks for the suggestion!

[@bruceinnawoods3610]

I have both actions in my possession at the moment and seem to be having a problem with the Kimber. It appears that the claw extractor doesn't actually grab onto the rim of the case during feeding or extraction. You can actually see a small (a few thousandths of an inch) gap between the claw and the rim if you fit a round onto the face of the bolt. The Ruger's claw extractor actually grabs onto the rim. Is this normal for kimber?

[@missey316]

Anything on Marlin bolt action model 7 ??

[@user-ms5pf2we4e]

I never liked the tang safety. The 3 positions Mouser safety always worked fine for me. I also like the controlled feed of the Mark II.

[@adambrewer8621]

How does the Hawkeye compare to the ruger 77 MK II?

[@justinschmidt4692]

I have a m77 mark 1 in .308 and really enjoy it. I'm a big fan of tang safeties because my over under shotgun has one too. My muscles memory is the same for both. I think it is an advantage, but that is just my thinking. It also has the mannlicher shock too, so it is heavy for it's size. Great gun and my son took his first animal with it too.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I agree Justin - the tang is an ideal location for a safety. On the other hand a safety is supposed to be "safe" and linkages etc... required by the tang location make things more complicated. Your Ruger is one of my favorite models - something about the full stock is so classic; great that your son could harvest his first deer with one.

[@justinschmidt4692]

USOG I think the story of the gun is under estimated. Who owned it and what the gun did is part of the joy of ownership. The gun my dad used his whole life or the gun I shot my first deer. As for tang safeties I think it is quicker and easier to manufacture the 'mauser' style.

[@ianmartinez3601]

Bought a 83 m77 720 thing real nice

[@esquad5406]

I got me one in .270. Killed more deer hogs coyotes and ground hogs with it then any other rifle I have ever owned.

[@redcanyonoutdoorquest6220]

I can’t believe you didn’t show the bolt faces to compare one of the biggest, yet under celebrated changes between them (controlled feed vs push feed).

[@jerroldshelton9367]

I was also wondering why no mention was made of the original being plunger-eject and push feed v. controlled feed.

[@Nick-wn1xw]

Interesting the Ruger 77 receiver being cast only requires 3.7 oz of steel to be machined away for final form. By contrast the pre-64 Model,70 receiver which started out as bar stock at 7 1/2 lbs required 6 3/8 lbs removed to reach final form and the post 64 which changed to highly accurate forgings still require 2 1/2 lbs to be removed to reach final form. Ruger seems determined to slowly phase out the 77 though in favor of their American budget rifle. Also when they transitioned from push to controlled feed there was a period where the rifles were push feed but with a blade ejector. Didn’t last long in that configuration. Should have kept mine.

[@stevenkennedy4130]

I have 1 of these, made in 1976. Just A beautiful rifle. 270 Win, with a Burris 3X9 scope. They just don't make them like that anymore.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Glad you have. If things don't change....rifles will be brooms.

[@stevenkennedy4130]

Member of the NRA. Proud member of the GOA.

[@timbennett6703]

I have a pre 64 m77 that does not have the milled bases. It's just a regular round top with holes for regular bases. It's the only one I've seen like that. Do you know anything about that? Maybe its older?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Tim - some people call those Ruger round top receivers - not easy to find and Ruger collectors look for them. You're right - the round top 77s were from the 70s - they are sleek and striking. The integral dovetail models that became the standard are excellent - so was the round top. You've got a valuable item.Hope this helps.

[@Turin-Fett]

My M77 in 6mmRem is a straight shooting sumbitch. My most favorite gun I own.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Yes indeed Pepr - they can cost 100x more - but they don't get better.

[@Gunners_Mate_Guns]

That's a really cool choice of caliber. I hope you've had an opportunity to take that little jewel hunting.

[@ChromeArty]

I have a Ruger M77 Hawkeye in 7mm-08 that is my main hunting rifle. I just purchased an original M77 RSI (Mannlicher Stock) in .308 for $1800 Canadian 😯😬 ouch! I hope I haven't made a mistake in buying an original and not waiting for a mk2 or Hawkeye version. I guess it doesn't matter as the 308 is solely for practice with 7.62x51 ammunition. A beautiful piece regardless

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

You made a great purchase! - these rifles and the RSI are gems - they don't go down in value with reasonable care.

[@ChromeArty]

@@UnitedStatesOfGuns thank you! She is in beautiful shape. I also cant help but baby my rifles. Sorry for my ignorance here. So this is not an RSI? what is an RSI? is an International different? Thank you so much

[@user-ms5pf2we4e]

What about the m77 mark II?

[@Phuc_Socialist_You_Tube]

Please don't confuse terminology. To "Machine" metal is primarily a metal shaping/ finishing process. Investment castings can be machined. Hammer Forging is the other commonly used manufacturing method whereby blocks or billets of white-hot steel are "hammered" to increase the strength and density of the steel. The steel requires much more machining to create the finished part. Hammer forged steel is vastly superior in strength to investment cast steel. Investment cast steel parts must be made much thicker to equal the strength of hammer forged steel parts. Alloys being equal.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Excellent post W.S. Schuessler - thanks for the note.

[@josecanisales3491]

In the 70s I bought brand new 77s in 30-06 & 308, neither rifle grouped decently. Are the new 77s more accurate now?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Jose - So hard to know - I receive many letters and messages of all kinds and just about everyone reports that Rugers are very accurate - but there are always exceptions. Maybe those first ones you owned were not so great. I did hear from a few people that early Ruger barrels were from some other source - maybe that was a problem. My early, tang safety Rugers were all excellent. Always interesting. Thanks for writing and take care.

[@ronniebaughman1666]

My son has the M77 Mark ii 300 win mag stainless steel the safety is a three position like you showed in the video but he got rid of the boat paddle stock and tricked it out with a Hogue aluminum bed stock and a timney trigger it is a heavy weight built rifle. I don't like the way most companies are making these new low budget rifles the Remington ADL and Howa rifles are about as low as I want to go that's built at this period of time looking around at gun shows you might luck up on a quality built rifle at a decent price.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

That Mark II in 300 is the ticket - unique stock your son chose - nice - I agree on the disposable models - practical I guess but they don't seem to last. Good hunting!

[@artsmith103]

Can someone provide a general summary of Ruger M77 MKII with side safety? It's not a Hawkeye.

[@rustyshackleford1091]

I’m thinking about buying a used skeleton stock version in 7mm Remington magnum for $500 in good shape, do you think I should?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

For $500. - sounds like a steal! I would.

[@rustyshackleford1091]

I might have too!

[@zacmcgowan3079]

I have same riffle good gun my go to gun

[@josecanisales3491]

I had a 308, and a 30-06, I could never get the Ruger 77 to group (terrible accuracy). Same ammo grouped good in Win 70 and Rem 700. Ruger 77 ca. 1980. Are the Ruger 77 Mark 2 better?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hi Jose, I heard from a few people about some bad Ruger 77 barrels. Evidently this has been resolved as I hear nothing but good comments about accuracy in the Mark 2/Hawkeye.

[@danielminton3876]

My brother in law had that same problem, it was because the barrell which was supposed to be free floating wasn't free floating. He had to shave the stock a little around the barrell to get it to group.

[@jerroldshelton9367]

When the tang safety 77 was made, Ruger didn't make their own centerfire rifle barrels. They got their barrels from various suppliers. Some were better than others. Back in 1985, I bought two new tang-safety 77 Ultralights in .250 Savage. I gave one to my dad for Christmas and kept the other. According to most, that thing shouldn't shoot well at all. It's a tang-safety Ruger with a pencil-thin 20" barrel. But it has been "M.O.A. or better" from new and still is today. The trigger was light and crisp right out of the box. The cocking effort was next to nothing and the bolt operation was like gliding on snot-lubed crystal rails. My dad's is just as good as mine is. I had two tang-safety M77's in .30-'06 but while they were accurate enough to let me kill a deer or elk with them as far off as I care to shoot such things, they weren't the tack-drivers my little .250 Savage is and therefore not as much fun to shoot at the range. I got rid of them when the Mark II M77 came out. I wound up with an M77 MK II in .270. It was about as ho-hum in the accuracy department as my .30-'06 tang safety rifles were. The safety was brutally stiff to use, the trigger sucked, and the bolt throw was nothing like as sweet as my little .250 was, right out of the box. It was a monumental disappointment. Personally, I don't think the Mark 2 offer any accuracy improvement over the tang safety versions.

[@mickmoriarty7780]

By the way, a lot of people poo poo the investment casting process, but investment cast Rugers are tough. A lot of custom rifle makers found that out when they tried to engrave Ruger No 1s. Most engraved ones had plates fitted to the action sides. I think they have got on top of the problem now, but there was much wailing and gnashing of teeth in the early days, haha.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I've owned many cast actions of all kinds - never had a problem. The Rugers - just as you wrote - are excellent.

[@robertunderdunkterwilliger2290]

Cast steel is slightly heavier, that is the only downside to it. It is not stronger or weaker than other suitable materials, it is sufficient (or better) and very much used in much more stressed components that we bet our lives on daily, like parts for cars. To get the strongest lightest steel component you want it to be forged. Ceasare Guerini and many other high end makers still use this method. It used to be the best way to make guns, because of the structure is aligned with the shape of the part, but today we can make relatively inexpensive steel that is much stronger than needed even as a bar stock material. I think it is more a personal preference of the maker what material he prefers to work with. Personally I prefer forged and case hardened parts just for the mechanical feel to them, actions made this way tend to feel more smooth.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

You know what's what Baikal. Forged and case hardened is the way. That glass hard surface makes parts slide so smoothly and perfectly - nothing else like it.

[@robertunderdunkterwilliger2290]

The first statement I will have to retract. My source who know this stuff extremely well, must have had a brainfart when he told me that. I contacted my fa...my source yesterday and he said that cast steel must weigh the same as any steel if it has the same carbon content, and that makes of course perfect sense! I will have to read up on that part specifically! Stahl und Holz is the proper way to make guns that feel good to hold and use, and look at. Modern guns will not age as nice as older guns have. And the smoothness of case hardened steel is legendary. Like old American 30-40 Krag rifles! kzbin.info/www/bejne/iWPNm59mm891bKc

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

I agree again Baikal. Aluminum receivers and powder coatings on steel or what have you look okay until they chip or peel or are abraded - then they look like old brooms. The 30-40 Krag and the rifles of the past look better and better as they wear. Which reminds me - a doctor once told me that as the beauty of each of us fades on the outside due to time, so too does our eyesight weaken, so for an old couple much in love - no matter how old - they still only see the beauty of each other and their love - no matter the time.

[@RealH0rr0rsh0w]

odd question but can you tell me about your shirt?

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Hello Graphic - A friend of mine gave me that shirt; I think 2 actually.

[@jeffreyhershey5754]

I personally don't want anything to do with the m77 MK2 or the Hawkeye I love the m77 those are great rifles they have a adjustable trigger and the safety on the Tang right where God intended for it to be placed on a rifle

[@russellkeeling4387]

I really like the Hawkeye. I prefer the action on it over the original M77. There's nothing wrong with the M77 but I prefer the true control feed action. I kind of think the M77 has the big claw extractor for the look and not a practical use. My M77 is quite a nice accurate rifle. I like the 35 Whelen caliber and love that Hawkeye rifle. The only thing I see I don't like on the Hawkeye is its not having the express rifle sights.

[@UnitedStatesOfGuns]

Solid comment. All 77s are excellent but some are more excellent : )