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Ruger M77
Ruger M77
Ruger M77
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The Ruger M77 is a bolt-action rifle produced by Sturm, Ruger & Co. It was designed by Jim Sullivan during his three years with Ruger. It was designed primarily as a hunting rifle featuring a traditional Mauser K98-style two-lugged bolt with a claw extractor.[3]

Key Information

History

[edit]

Ruger's first bolt action rifle was introduced to the U.S. market back in 1968 after some years of design and innovation led by Jim Sullivan and influenced Bill Ruger himself, who hired Sullivan in 1965 primarily to develop the rifle.

Investment casting[4] was used to save on costs.[5] Ruger M77's popularity rose fast due to features such as the Mauser type claw extractor that filled a gap in the market that occurred in 1964 when Winchester discontinued the controlled round feed version of the Model 70 in order to compete with the recently introduced Remington 700, as well as for the writings of the late Jack O'Connor favoring the rifle.[6]

Design and features

[edit]

From the beginning, the Ruger M77 was intended as a modernized Mauser 98, though numerous changes were made. Bill Ruger wanted to use investment casting in place of a forged receiver. The Sullivan-designed bolt dispensed with the Mauser blade type ejector and instead used the simpler plunger style of ejector. A two-position tang safety and redesigned trigger system were also designed from scratch, while the stock design was carried out with the aid of the famous stock designer Lenard Brownell.[7]

The M77 uses an angled screw that draws the action down and to the rear, tightly bedding it against the stock.

Ruger M77 Hawkeye rifles chambered in .300 Win Mag and .270 Win

Variants

[edit]

The M77 has undergone several redesigns.

M77 tang safety

[edit]

The original model was not a true controlled round feed action but a push feed with an external claw and included a tang safety. Barrels fitted to these first Ruger M77 where provided by third parties, thus resulting in accuracy variation among rifles. The first change involved incorporating a proprietary scope mount milled integral with the receiver as the first production rifles in the late 1960s had simple rounded-top receivers drilled and tapped for separate scope mounts.[8]

M77 Mark II

[edit]

The M77 was entirely retooled and reintroduced in 1991 as the Model 77 Mark II. Barrels were now hammer forged at Ruger's factory. The safety, bolt, trigger, and bottom metal were substantially redesigned as well. The claw extractor was retained, but the bolt face was opened up to turn the action into a true controlled-round feed.[9] The plunger ejector was replaced with a Mauser style fixed blade ejector. The tang safety of the original model was replaced by a three-position safety, similar to Winchester M70,[10] which allowed the bolt to be operated while the gun was still on safe. Ruger also eliminated the factory-supplied adjustable trigger available on the original M77. With the Mark II, several variants were offered ranging from blued steel alternatives to stainless steel and from circassian walnut stocks to synthetic.[7]

M77 RSM Mark II

[edit]

This variant of the M77, often known as the Safari Magnum, features a circassian walnut stock, express sights and a long magnum action designed for cartridges such as the .375 H&H, .416 Rigby, and the .458 Lott.[11]

M77 Hawkeye

[edit]

In 2006, Ruger introduced new features and a new name for their rifle, the Hawkeye. Major changes were made to the trigger system and the stock was recontoured, but otherwise the rifle remained unchanged.[12][13] The LC6 trigger addressed complaints from consumers about the Mark II trigger to make it easier for gunsmith adjustment than the earlier design.[14][15] The LC6 trigger is lighter and smoother.[16]

Ruger has launched many variants of the Hawkeye, from classic walnut stock and blued steel to high grade synthetic stocks and stainless steel. Among the latest inclusions for the M77 hawkeye is a 5R rifling free floated barrel as well as picattiny rails as alternative to Ruger's original rings.[17][18]

The Hawkeye featured the introduction of a new line of short magnum cartridges such as the .300 Ruger Compact Magnum as well as the proprietary dangerous game cartridges .375 Ruger[19] and .416 Ruger, both of them capable of being chambered in standard length actions opposed to the long Magnum action calibers, offered in the RSM variant of the former Mark II Version of the M77.[20] Both cartridges are currently offered in both, the African and Alaskan variants of the Hawkeye.[21]

.30-06 Cal SAR (Search and Rescue) rifle

[edit]

The SAR Rifle, .30-06 caliber, RUGER, Model M77 is a rifle designed for use by Canada's search and rescue technicians (SAR Techs) and aircrews. The SAR Rifle is designed to be a compact survival rifle chambered in .30-06 Springfield. The rifle is based on the standard Ruger M77 Mk II rifle but the barrel has been shortened to 14.5 in (370 mm). The orange coloured buttstock has been modified so that it can fold along the left hand side of the stock and it also can hold six additional rounds of ammunition. The rifle is issued with a special case that has been designed to attach to the search and rescue technicians' parachute harnesses.

Gunsite Scout Rifle

Gunsite Scout rifle

[edit]
Main article: Ruger Gunsite Scout

To develop the Gunsite Scout, Ruger worked closely with Gunsite Training Center to meet the criteria of the modern scout rifle set forth by Jeff Cooper. The rifle is chambered in .308 Winchester, weighs 7 lb (3.2 kg), and has a 16.5" barrel and black laminate stock, ghost-ring iron sights, flash hider and a picatinny rail for optics mounting.

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Ruger M77

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
The Ruger M77 is a bolt-action sporting manufactured by Sturm, Ruger & Co., introduced in 1968 as a versatile centerfire designed for , varmint control, and target shooting. Featuring a robust action inspired by the 98 but incorporating innovative cost-effective manufacturing techniques like for the receiver and bolt, the original M77 was chambered in a wide array of calibers including .22-250 Rem., .243 Win., .30-06 Sprg., and .300 Win. Mag., with a plunger-style ejector, tang-mounted two-position safety, and a stock for reliable field performance. Developed by company founder in collaboration with designers Jim Sullivan and Lenard Brownell, the M77 marked a significant advancement in American design during the late , emphasizing precision engineering and affordability through innovative manufacturing techniques like , while retaining Mauser-inspired features such as the claw extractor but using a plunger-style ejector. Production of the original tang-safety model continued until 1984, during which it gained popularity for its crisp trigger pull and angled guard screw that enhanced stock bedding for improved accuracy. In 1991, the M77 evolved into the Mark II variant, introducing true controlled-round-feed extraction with a fixed blade ejector, a three-position located on the bolt shroud for safer operation, and a slimmer stock profile, alongside specialized models like the Varmint, , and International configurations to cater to diverse shooting needs. Further refinements came in 2006 with the Hawkeye series, which featured a redesigned stock for better , the LC6 trigger system for adjustable pull weight, and cold hammer-forged barrels providing ultra-precise for exceptional accuracy and longevity across calibers. The 77-Series, encompassing the M77 and its successors, remains a of Ruger's lineup, with ongoing innovations such as detachable rotary magazines for reliable feeding, integral scope mounts machined directly into the solid-steel receiver, and construction options for resistance in harsh environments. Notable for its rugged reliability and adaptability, the rifle has been produced in rimfire variants like the 77/22 and big-bore models such as the 77/44, solidifying its reputation among hunters and precision shooters worldwide.

History

Origins and Introduction

The Ruger M77 bolt-action rifle was conceived in the mid-1960s as sought to enter the centerfire sporting rifle market with a design that combined classic reliability and modern production efficiency. , a firearms designer previously with , joined Ruger in 1965 and led the development of the M77's action over the next three years until his departure in 1968. Working alongside stockmaker Lenard Brownell and under the guidance of company founder , Sullivan drew inspiration from the venerable 98 action, incorporating elements like a claw-type extractor while using a plunger-style ejector for push-feed operation, and adapting and other contemporary manufacturing techniques to reduce costs and improve consistency. The M77 was formally introduced in 1968 as Ruger's first bolt-action centerfire rifle, marking the company's expansion into big-game hunting arms. Initial production took place at Ruger's newly established facility in , which had opened in 1963 to support precision firearm manufacturing. The rifle debuted in popular sporting calibers including , , and , with additional options like and soon following to appeal to a broad range of hunters. At launch, the M77 was marketed as an affordable yet accurate American-made alternative to high-end rifles such as the pre-1964 , positioning it against both domestic competitors and imported European models amid a shifting post-World War II firearms landscape. The decline of inexpensive rifles, which had saturated the market in the and , created renewed demand for reliable, domestically produced precision sporting arms by the late 1960s. Priced competitively at around $150–$200, the M77 emphasized its Mauser-like robustness and inherent accuracy, quickly gaining favor among American hunters seeking quality without premium costs.

Model Evolutions and Updates

The Ruger M77 series has undergone several key evolutions since its initial launch, with updates driven by user feedback, manufacturing advancements, and market demands for specialized configurations. Early modifications focused on expanding caliber options and barrel profiles to cater to and big-game pursuits, while later redesigns emphasized safety, ergonomics, and precision enhancements. These changes reflect Ruger's commitment to refining a core bolt-action platform without abandoning its foundational Mauser-inspired . In 1969, just one year after the original M77's debut, Ruger introduced the M77V Varmint model, featuring a heavy contour barrel optimized for target shooting and precision varmint control, which addressed demands for improved stability in benchrest applications. This variant marked the first significant production milestone in adapting the M77 for specialized accuracy-focused roles. By 1976, Ruger expanded the lineup further with the M77RSC (Ruger Sporting Carbine), a big-bore configuration chambered in powerful calibers such as .458 Winchester Magnum, designed for dangerous game hunting with enhanced stock and metalwork for durability in rugged field conditions. A major redesign arrived in 1989 with the introduction of the M77 Mark II, prompted by user feedback criticizing the original model's two-position wing for limiting safe unloading while chambered; the updated version incorporated a three-position allowing bolt operation with the firing mechanism blocked, alongside integral scope bases for better mounting and a shift to controlled-round-feed extraction for reliability. This overhaul represented a comprehensive retooling, including hammer-forged barrels and refined trigger components, to elevate performance standards. The 1994 , which restricted semi-automatic rifles with certain features, indirectly boosted the appeal of unrestricted bolt-actions like the M77 series among hunters seeking reliable alternatives unaffected by the legislation. The Mark II remained in production through the early 2000s, but certain variants were discontinued around 2007 as Ruger transitioned focus; by 2006, the Hawkeye series emerged as the refined successor, integrating the new LC6 trigger for a crisper, lighter pull and a redesigned with improved for reduced weight and better handling balance. This update prioritized out-of-the-box usability without major mechanical overhauls, solidifying the Hawkeye as the primary M77 line by 2025. During the 2010s, Ruger broadened the M77 platform's versatility amid rising interest in multi-caliber and rimfire options for , small-game hunting, and training; notable additions included the 77/22 in .22 Long Rifle (originally introduced in 1984 but expanded with new configurations) and the 77/44 in (launched in 1997), alongside the 2011 debut of the 77/357 in for a versatile revolver-caliber bolt-action appealing to enthusiasts. In the 2020s, developments have centered on aesthetic and finish refinements rather than core mechanical changes, with new camouflage patterns such as Desolve Bare Reduced and Kryptek Obskura Nox applied to models like the 77/357 (2024) and the 77/44 (2025, including threaded barrels for suppressor compatibility), alongside limited-edition releases like the November 2025 exclusive M77 Alaskan Bush Rifle in 9.3x62mm for big-game applications, emphasizing production tweaks for sustained accuracy and resistance. These updates ensure the M77's ongoing relevance in modern sporting rifle markets.

Design Features

Action and Bolt Mechanism

The Ruger M77 rifle employs a bolt-action mechanism derived from the 98 design, incorporating a claw extractor for reliable cartridge control during feeding and extraction. The bolt features two primary front locking lugs that rotate into matching recesses within the receiver to secure the action, while the integral bolt handle engages a rear notch for additional support to aid in smooth operation and enhance extraction reliability. This two-lug configuration allows for a 90-degree bolt lift and rotation, promoting efficient cycling without excessive effort. The non-rotating, full-length claw extractor, reminiscent of the Mauser 98, grips the cartridge rim to provide positive control, enabling dependable feeding whether loading single cartridges directly into the chamber or stripping rounds from the magazine. In the original design, the system operates as a push-feed mechanism where the bolt face advances the cartridge forward, with the extractor snapping over the rim near the chamber; later iterations refined this to a true controlled-round feed for improved performance in adverse conditions. The receiver includes an integral recoil lug that embeds directly into the stock bedding, distributing recoil forces evenly to maintain accuracy and stability during repeated firing. Magazine options vary by model, with the original M77 utilizing a blind internal accessed via a hinged floorplate, while subsequent versions introduced detachable box magazines; standard capacities range from 3 to 5 rounds depending on the cartridge size, such as 3 rounds for standard magnum calibers or 5 for shorter actions. The firing sequence commences with the user lifting the bolt handle to disengage the lugs, retracting the bolt to extract the spent case via the and eject it using the plunger-style ejector in original models or the fixed blade ejector in later models (Mark II and Hawkeye), then advancing the bolt forward to chamber a fresh round from the , and closing the handle to lock the action for triggering. This process ensures consistent operation, with the safety—two-position tang-mounted in originals or three-position on the bolt shroud in later models—integrating seamlessly to lock the bolt when desired without disrupting the mechanism.

Barrel, Stock, and Ergonomics

The barrel of the Ruger M77 is constructed from high-quality with a free-floating design that minimizes contact with the to improve accuracy; later models such as the Mark II and Hawkeye series feature cold hammer-forging for enhanced durability and precision . Standard barrel lengths range from 20 to 26 inches depending on the model and , allowing for balanced handling in various scenarios. twist rates are optimized for specific calibers, such as 1:10 inches for the to ensure proper bullet stabilization. Early models of the Ruger M77 typically featured stocks made from American walnut with hand-checkered grips and forends for improved control, while later iterations introduced synthetic options for weather resistance. The stock design includes a classic and a measuring approximately 13.5 inches, promoting comfortable shouldering for a wide range of shooters. The Ruger M77 accommodates a broad spectrum of centerfire calibers, from lighter varmint rounds like to powerful big-game options such as , with popular hunting chamberings including and . Sights consist of an adjustable rear sight and a hooded front sight for open-iron use, complemented by drilled-and-tapped receivers for easy scope mounting, which became more refined in subsequent models. Unloaded weights for the Ruger M77 generally fall between 7 and 9 pounds, striking a balance between portability for field carry and stability for accurate shot placement. Ergonomic elements include a rounded forend for natural hand positioning and a sculpted that enhances control during , with standard sling swivel studs positioned for convenient attachment.

Variants

Original M77 and Tang Safety Models

The Ruger M77 bolt-action rifle was introduced in 1968 by Sturm, Ruger & Co. as a versatile sporting arm designed for hunters and marksmen, featuring a Mauser 98-inspired action with a push-feed mechanism, fixed claw extractor, and blind integral magazine. The standard configuration included a two-position sliding tang-mounted safety that allowed the bolt to be operated while engaged, a departure from traditional wing-style safeties on competing rifles, promoting ease of use during field carry. This safety design, combined with the rifle's robust one-piece bolt and plunger-style ejector, aimed to deliver reliable extraction akin to the pre-1964 Winchester Model 70's controlled-round-feed system, though the M77 employed a simpler push-feed setup for cost-effective manufacturing. Initial calibers encompassed popular hunting rounds like .243 Winchester, .270 Winchester, and .30-06 Springfield, with barrels typically 22 to 24 inches long and fitted to walnut stocks for balanced handling. The tang safety was a hallmark of the original M77 (produced 1968–1984) and subsequent transitional models (1985–1992), offering hunters quick thumb access without shifting grip, which proved advantageous for big-game pursuits in dense cover or from elevated stands. This rear-mounted, two-position toggle locked the while permitting bolt cycling on safe, enhancing during reloading or clearing malfunctions compared to bolt shrouds or trigger-blocking alternatives. The design's simplicity contributed to the rifle's reputation for durability, with the action's dual locking lugs and 90-degree bolt throw facilitating smooth operation under from magnum calibers. Production emphasized American stocks with cut checkering and pads, alongside blued finishes, making the M77 a staple for deer, , and varmint hunters seeking a no-frills, reliable platform. Early sub-variants expanded the lineup to suit specialized needs. The M77R, introduced in 1970 as a varmint configuration, featured a heavy-contour barrel measuring 24 inches with a target crown and no , optimized for scope mounting and precision shooting at small predators or pests. In 1972, Ruger launched the M77RS sporter, which included factory-express sights—typically a hooded front and adjustable rear V-notch—for rapid close-range acquisition in brush-country , while retaining the standard action length for short-action calibers. These models shared the core tang safety and blind magazine but catered to niche roles, with the M77R's free-floated barrel enhancing accuracy for benchrest-style varmint control. By the early 1990s, cumulative production of the original M77 series surpassed one million units, reflecting widespread adoption across and beyond. expansion during this period incorporated rimmed and bottleneck designs like the for small-game and varmint use, alongside staples such as and , broadening appeal from plinkers to dangerous-game enthusiasts. The rifles' blind magazines held three to five rounds depending on , with a hinged floorplate for controlled unloading, prioritizing field practicality over speed. Distinguishing the originals from subsequent generations, these M77s lacked factory integral scope bases, necessitating aftermarket drilling and tapping of the receiver for , which sometimes affected integrity if not done precisely. The factory trigger assembly delivered a heavier pull weight, generally 4 to 6 pounds with some creep, prioritizing safety over precision tuning and often requiring adjustment for competitive . This first-generation design's emphasis on simplicity and strength set the stage for refinements in later models like the Mark II.

Mark II Series

The Ruger M77 Mark II series, introduced in 1989, represented a significant of the original M77 , focusing on enhanced precision, user , and for modern and target applications. Key updates included a redesigned three-position wing mounted on the bolt sleeve, offering positions for safe (locking the bolt), load-unload (allowing bolt operation while engaged), and fire, which improved safe handling during field use compared to the original's two-position tang . The receiver incorporated integral bases machined directly into the solid steel body, providing superior stability for optics without the need for additional drilling or aftermarket bases, thereby reducing potential alignment issues and enhancing accuracy for long-range shooting. Further refinements emphasized modularity and reliability, with a hinged floorplate featuring a quick-release positioned outside the for faster unloading, and in select configurations, options for detachable rotary systems that allowed flush-fitting cartridges and easier reloading in specialized models. The trigger mechanism adopted a fast lock-time steel design, which was user-adjustable in many variants to a pull weight of approximately 3-5 pounds, effectively reducing the creep prevalent in the original M77's trigger for a crisper break and better control during precision shots. Sub-variants expanded versatility; the M77 Mark II Target model featured a heavy contour hammer-forged barrel for improved stability and a laminate stock for weather resistance and reduced weight, ideal for varmint and benchrest applications, while the M77RSM Mark II ( Magnum) included a factory to mitigate recoil in high-powered magnum calibers like .375 H&H and , catering to big-game hunters. Production of the Mark II series continued from 1989 until 2013, with the Hawkeye series introduced in 2006 as an updated variant incorporating further refinements like the LC6 trigger upgrade for even less creep and overtravel.

Hawkeye Series

The Ruger M77 Hawkeye series, introduced in 2006, represents the current primary production line of the M77 rifle, emphasizing refinements for and field use. Key updates include the LC6 trigger, a two-stage design offering a pull weight of approximately 3.5 to 5 pounds that is adjustable via spring tension for a crisp break with minimal creep, addressing prior models' trigger inconsistencies. The stock was redesigned with a slimmer profile, including a more rounded and oval-shaped forend with wrap-around checkering, enhancing and handling in varied terrain. These changes prioritize balance and user comfort without altering the core Mauser-style action. Sub-variants within the Hawkeye series cater to specific hunting needs, maintaining the platform's versatility across calibers. The Hawkeye Hunter features a synthetic or laminate stock with a matte stainless finish for weather resistance, often paired with a free-floated barrel in popular hunting rounds like or Creedmoor. The Hawkeye Alaskan, optimized for large-game defense such as , is chambered in (ballistically comparable to ) with a 20-inch stainless barrel and rugged Hogue overmolded stock for durability in harsh environments. The Hawkeye Predator targets varmint and predator hunters, incorporating a heavy-contour barrel—typically 24 inches—with threading for suppressors or brakes, available in flat-shooting calibers like and . Introduced in 2012, the Guide Gun variant emphasizes compact maneuverability for brush hunting, featuring a 16.5-inch barrel, integral , and a laminate stock, initially in calibers like before expanding to straight-wall options such as and for regions with cartridge restrictions. International and youth-oriented models include compact configurations with 18-inch barrels, such as the Hawkeye Compact in or , designed for global markets and smaller-statured users with reduced overall length for easier handling. In the 2020s, the Hawkeye series has broadened its caliber offerings to include modern precision rounds like 6.5 Creedmoor, alongside long-range variants with enhanced stocks and muzzle devices, resulting in over 20 distinct configurations by 2025 across standard, hunter, and specialized models.

Rimfire and Special-Purpose Variants

The Ruger 77/22, introduced in the and updated in the , is a rimfire variant chambered primarily in .22 Long Rifle, with options for .22 WMR and . It features a detachable 10-round rotary , a cold hammer-forged barrel typically 20 inches long, and weighs 5 to 6 pounds, making it suitable for and varmint control. The design scales down the robust M77 action for rimfire use, incorporating integral scope mounts and a three-position for reliable handling in casual or introductory shooting scenarios. Another rimfire adaptation, the 77/17, extends the platform to with similar lightweight construction and rotary magazine, emphasizing precision for small game at extended ranges. The 77/44, launched in the , serves as a carbine-style variant chambered in .44 Remington Magnum (also compatible with ), featuring an 18.5-inch barrel and a 4-round rotary magazine. Weighing around 6 pounds with a or synthetic stock, it is optimized for medium game using handgun calibers, offering a compact alternative to lever-actions with the accuracy of a bolt-action. The limited-production 77/50, manufactured from 1997 to 2004, is a .50-caliber in-line blackpowder based on the M77 action, designed for large-game with percussion caps and saboted projectiles. It includes a and interchangeable stocks, blending traditional blackpowder performance with modern for pseudo-modern applications in rugged environments. Introduced in 2011, the Gunsite Scout Rifle adapts the M77 Hawkeye platform with a 16.5-inch barrel, forward-mounted for optics, and chambering in , embodying Jeff Cooper's concept for versatile scouting and general-purpose use. It features a 5-round detachable magazine and non-reflective finishes for field reliability. The .30-06 SAR Rifle, developed in the 1980s for Canadian search-and-rescue operations, is a compact military-style variant with a 14.5-inch barrel, folding stock, and reinforced construction including a for survival and defense roles. The and African variants, produced in the 1990s and early 2000s, cater to specialized big-game needs with lever-release magazine floorplates and express sights. The , a Mark II compact model with a 16.5-inch barrel, targets plains game in calibers like . The African, built on the Hawkeye series, features a 23-inch barrel and for dangerous game in , prioritizing quick follow-up shots in African safari contexts.

Performance and Legacy

Accuracy, Reliability, and Applications

The Ruger M77 exhibits strong accuracy potential, achieving sub-MOA groups with match-grade during benchrest testing at 100 yards. In practical evaluations, it typically delivers 0.75- to 1.5-inch five-shot groups under controlled conditions with factory loads. Reliability defines the M77's performance, with its controlled-round-feed Mauser-derived action ensuring consistent feeding and extraction in extensive field use. The rifle maintains high function rates during hunts and adverse weather exposure, bolstered by weather-resistant features in all-weather variants that protect against moisture and debris. Primarily designed for , including deer and , the M77 also serves effectively in varmint control and long-range target shooting. Its robust construction has seen use in some sniper applications. Recoil management in magnum chamberings benefits from factory or aftermarket muzzle brakes, which can reduce felt by up to 50% depending on . The action's contributes to reduced muzzle flip during rapid follow-up shots. Users commend the M77 for its strong , with 2025 MSRPs spanning $800 to $1,500 across models. Early variants drew complaints for heavy, gritty triggers, but the Hawkeye series resolved these with an improved adjustable mechanism offering crisper pulls. In comparisons, the M77 surpasses budget options like the Savage Axis in durability and long-term reliability. It also approaches the precision of custom rifles while providing modern manufacturing advantages.

Production Status and Collectibility

The Ruger M77 Hawkeye series continues in active production at Sturm, Ruger & Co.'s facility, where the company manufactures a range of bolt-action rifles for the commercial sporting market. As of 2025, new Hawkeye models are available in various configurations, reflecting ongoing demand for their reliable design in hunting and sporting applications. In the current market, new Ruger M77 Hawkeye rifles typically retail for $900 to $2,000, depending on , barrel length, and features such as synthetic or stocks. Used original M77 models, particularly those from the early production runs, range from $400 to $800 in average condition, with higher values for well-preserved examples. The Mark I and Mark II series, discontinued in favor of the Hawkeye line, have grown scarce, driving premiums for mint-condition Tang Safety variants that now sell for $1,000 or more due to their historical appeal. The Ruger M77 enjoys iconic status in American rifle history as a durable, Mauser-inspired bolt-action that has influenced generations of hunters and shooters. Its collectibility is enhanced by appearances in hunting media and films, as well as limited-edition releases like the 2018 50th Anniversary Hawkeye model, limited to 1,000 units and often fetching $2,500 or higher among enthusiasts. High-grade commemorative versions of this edition, produced in even smaller quantities, further elevate its desirability in collector circles. Market trends show increasing demand for the rimfire 77/22 variant, bolstered by persistent ammunition shortages affecting centerfire calibers since 2020. Export restrictions on big-bore M77 models have limited international availability, though a 2025 regulatory rollback has eased some constraints on and shipments. The rifle's legacy includes sustained popularity in competitive shooting disciplines.

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  46. https://www.shootingtimes.com/editorial/longgun_reviews_77_062405/100529
  47. https://www.gunblast.com/Ruger_FrontierRifle.htm
  48. https://ruger.com/products/HawkeyeAfrican/models.html
  49. https://gunsmagazine.com/discover/ruger-416-hawkeye-african/
  50. https://www.gunsandammo.com/editorial/ruger-m77-hawkeye-longrange-hunter-in-65-prc-review/375033
  51. https://www.outdoorlife.com/hunting/ruger-m77-moose-rifle/
  52. https://www.americanrifleman.org/content/review-the-ruger-guide-gun/
  53. https://www.outdoorlife.com/guns/best-ruger-guide-gun-is-the-30-06/
  54. https://gunsmagazine.com/our-experts/sniping-old-school/
  55. https://www.americanrifleman.org/content/tested-the-ruger-hawkeye-long-range-target-rifle/
  56. https://www.guns.com/news/2025/09/09/ruger-updates-77-44-series-with-new-camo-threaded-barrels
  57. https://www.rugerforum.net/threads/m77-hawkeye-trigger.375527/
  58. https://thefiringline.com/forums/showthread.php?t=472506
  59. https://www.65creedmoor.com/index.php?topic=4178.0
  60. https://www.africahunting.com/threads/ruger-m77-mk-2-action-reliability-vs-mauser-98.39453/
  61. https://bluebookofgunvalues.com/products/ruger-hawkeye-model-hm77r
  62. https://ruger.com/products/Hawkeye/overview.html
  63. https://www.ruger.com/
  64. https://www.rugerforum.net/threads/m77-357-february-2025.419899/
  65. https://www.cashforarms.com/blogs/how-much-is-a-ruger-77-currently-worth
  66. https://truegunvalue.com/rifle/ruger-m77/price-historical-value
  67. https://truegunvalue.com/rifle/ruger-m77/price-historical-value/used/5
  68. https://www.americanrifleman.org/content/ruger-m77-50th-anniversary-limited-edition-rifle/
  69. https://www.guns.com/news/2018/11/16/ruger-unveils-new-50th-anniversary-limited-edition-m77-hawkeye-photos
  70. https://bluebookofgunvalues.com/products/sturm-ruger-co-inc-rifles-bolt-action-centerfire-model-77-50th-anniversary-m77-hawkeye-collector-edition-ruger-model-47191
  71. http://www.classicsportingarms.com/ruger-m77-50th-anniversary-high-grade/
  72. https://www.pewpewtactical.com/ammo-shortage/
  73. https://www.firearmsnews.com/editorial/us-major-ammo-shortage-coming/503165
  74. https://www.nssf.org/articles/nssf-hails-final-rule-rolling-back-biden-era-export-restrictions/
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