Sturm Ruger M77 .22-250 24” Bolt-Action Hunting Rifle 1981, Weaver Scope
SOLD FOR: $835
WOA#: WY240303JP015
Make: Ruger
Model: M77 Varmint
Serial Number: 74-98649
Year of Manufacture: 1981
Caliber: 22-250
Action Type: Bolt Action, Internal Magazine with hinged floorplate
Barrel Length: 24” Bull Barrel with recessed crown
Sights / Optics: The top of the receiver is mounted with a Weaver T-10 Scope in Fine Condition. The sight picture is clear with Duplex Reticle. There is light handling wear on the body.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The stock is checkered walnut with capped semi-pistol grip, straight comb, sling studs in the belly and forend, and Ruger rubber buttpad. The stock rates in Excellent condition. Both sides of the stock have light scratches and compression marks. The checkering is crisp and attractive. There are no chips or cracks.
Magazine Quantity & Condition: Internal 4+1 Magazine.
Type of Finish: Walnut, Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no visible erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This rifle retains about 97% of its metal finish. The balance of the finish shows light operation wear. The receiver has turned a plum hue. The screw heads are sharp. The pins are clean. There is some finish loss on the hinge of the floorplate and thinning on the tip if the bolt handle. The markings are clear. Overall, this vintage rifle rates in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions as intended. We did not fire this rifle. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance requirements. Has a Tang Safety as well as an internal mag floor release at the front of the trigger guard for easy cleaning.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: Attached Scope (See Sights / Optics Section above).
Our Assessment: The Ruger M77 Varmint in .22-250 is a highly regarded bolt-action rifle, known for its precision and durability, tailored specifically for the needs of varmint hunters and long-range shooters. This rifle is part of the Ruger M77 series, which has a strong reputation for robust construction and reliable performance.
Chambered in the .22-250 Remington, a popular caliber for high-velocity and flat-shooting characteristics, the Ruger M77 Varmint is ideal for targeting small, fast-moving game at considerable distances. The .22-250 is especially favored for its ability to deliver rapid, precise shots with minimal recoil, making it one of the top choices among varmint and predator hunters.
The M77 Varmint model features a heavy, free-floating barrel which significantly enhances accuracy by reducing vibration and allowing the barrel to expand and contract uniformly. This setup is crucial for maintaining precision during rapid follow-up shots or in diverse weather conditions. Typically, the rifle comes with a finely finished wood stock that not only provides a classic look but also adds stability and comfort due to its heft.
Ruger’s hallmark in the M77 series is the integral scope mounts machined directly on the solid steel receiver, providing a stable mounting surface for scope rings, and thus eliminating a potential point of failure found in rifles that require separate bases. Additionally, the M77 features the Mauser-type controlled feed extractor, a feature appreciated for its reliability in cycling rounds, which is particularly valuable in high-stress hunting situations.
Overall, this Ruger M77 Varmint manufactured in 1981 combines the ruggedness expected from Ruger rifles with the precision needed for effective varmint hunting, making it a durable, accurate, and highly capable rifle for both dedicated hunters and target shooters. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.