Ruger M77 Mark II .35 Whelen 22″ Bolt Action Rifle & Scope Rings, MFD 2001
SOLD FOR: $1,376.77
LSB#: LSB260302JJ002
Make: Sturm Ruger & Co.
Model: M77 Mark II (07981)
Serial Number: 788-61628
Year of Manufacture: 2001
Caliber: .35 Whelen
Action Type: Bolt Action, Internal Magazine, Hinged Floorplate.
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked with Ruger’s 2-line warning & address. The left side of the barrel is marked “.35 WHELEN”. The left side of the receiver is marked with the serial number, and “RUGER M77 MARK II”.
Barrel Length: 22″
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a brass beaded blade, pinned to a smooth ramp, integral to the barrel. The rear sight is an adjustable folding U-notch sight, on a smooth ramp, screwed to the barrel. The top of the receiver is mounted with 1″ Ruger rings for optics.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a one-piece checkered walnut stock, with a capped semi-pistol grip, fluted straight comb, black rubber Ruger buttpad, a checkered forend, and sling studs front and rear. The LOP measures 13 5/8″ from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttpad. The stock shows light wear, with only a few light scratches, dings, and compressions throughout the stock and on the grip cap. The stock’s finish is intact, and the checkering is well defined. The stock fits tightly to the barreled action, with no play. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stock rates in Fine condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore, but there is some light fouling present. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 9.75/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 98% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light handling wear, with only a couple of minor hairline scratches on the floorplate and barrel, along with minor superficial imperfections, and some light operational wear on the bolt. The bluing is deep, dark, and intact otherwise. The markings are clear and legible. The screw heads are sharp. Overall, this rifle rates in Fine to Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, as does the safety. We did not fire this rifle, but we did perform a mechanic’s check. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with the scope rings as mentioned above.
Our Assessment: The Ruger M77 Mark II is one of the most respected controlled round feed sporting rifles of the late twentieth century, combining Mauser style claw extraction, fixed blade ejector, and a three position safety into a durable American hunting platform. By 2001 the Mark II line had firmly established itself as a reliable field rifle, and chambering it in .35 Whelen gives this example serious authority. Developed in the 1920s by necking up the .30-06 Springfield to accept .358 caliber bullets, the .35 Whelen offers deep penetration and excellent performance on elk, moose, and large North American game while maintaining manageable recoil in a standard length action.
This rifle retains approximately 98 percent of its original blued finish with only minor handling marks and light operational wear on the bolt. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and rates 9.75 out of 10 in this writer’s opinion. The walnut stock remains tightly fitted with well defined checkering and only light cosmetic impressions consistent with careful use. Factory Ruger 1 inch rings are included, and the iron sights remain intact for traditional use. A strong, classic big game configuration in a hard hitting and highly practical chambering. Please see our photos for a better understanding of condition and good luck with your bids! – J.D.