Ruger M77 .220 Swift 26” Bolt Action Hunting Rifle & Leupold Scope 1974 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,600.00
LSB#: LSB250902JM076
Make: Sturm Ruger & Co.
Model: M77
Serial Number: 70-82989
Year of Manufacture: 1974
Caliber: .220 Swift
Action Type: Bolt Action, Internal Magazine, Hinged Floorplate
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked with Ruger’s Southport address. The left side of the barrel is marked “.220 SWIFT”. The left side of the receiver is marked “70-82989 RUGER M77”.
Barrel Length: 26” Heavy Contour Varmint Barrel
Sights / Optics: There are no provisions for iron sights. The receiver is mounted with a Leupold 12x scope, with a duplex reticle. The glass in the scope is clear. The scope shows no notable wear. Overall, the scope rates in Excellent condition. The scope is mounted directly to the receiver using 1” Ruger rings, and comes with scope covers.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is a one-piece checkered walnut stock, with a capped semi-pistol grip, fluted straight comb, red rubber buttpad, 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 handling wear, with only a couple minor scratches and dings throughout. The stock’s finish is strong and intact throughout and the wood grain is attractive. The checkering is well defined, with sharp peaks. The stock fits tightly to the barreled action, with no play. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the stock rates in Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright with sharp rifling. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion, the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains approximately 99% of its original metal finish. The balance of the finish shows minimal wear, with the only imperfections being one tiny spot of finish wear on the bolt handle, and one tiny ding on the floorplate hinge. Otherwise, the bluing is deep and dark throughout. The markings are clear and legible. Overall, this rifle rates in Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly, as does the tang mounted safety. The trigger has a very light, crisp, and clean break. 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 standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: This rifle comes with a plastic hard case, and the Leupold scope as mentioned above.
Our Assessment: Introduced in 1968, Ruger’s original M77 series blended classic sporting rifle lines with modern manufacturing, and early tang-safety rifles like this 1974 example remain especially desirable for their controlled-round feed action, clean machining, and excellent barrel quality. This rifle is configured as a dedicated varmint rifle, built around a 26-inch heavy contour barrel, and chambered for the .220 Swift, one of the most storied high-velocity cartridges ever developed. Visually, this example presents with extraordinary care, showing only minimal evidence of handling and retaining a deep, even blue finish throughout the metalwork. The walnut stock displays attractive grain and remains crisp in its checkering, with only light, isolated marks that reinforce the sense that this rifle was fielded sparingly, if at all.
The .220 Swift, introduced by Winchester in 1935 for the Model 54 and later the Model 70, quickly earned a reputation as the benchmark of commercial cartridge velocity. Known for its flat trajectories and exceptional performance on varmints and small game, it became synonymous with precision-oriented shooting, varmint control, and chronograph-stretching experimentation among riflemen of the mid-20th century. Here, its potential is paired with a pristine bore, Ruger’s controlled-round feed M77 action, and a Leupold 12x optic mounted in correct Ruger rings, forming a cohesive and period-appropriate package. With its outstanding condition, sharp mechanics, and classic configuration, this early M77 stands as an appealing example of Ruger’s first-generation bolt-gun craftsmanship. Please see our high quality photos, and good luck on your bids! – J.D.
