Ruger M77 30-06

[rozman62]

I have one of the old tang style rifles that I purchased on '83. It is classified as an ultralight (6.5#) and wrecks my shoulder after 2 groupings of 5 shots. The rifle is stock but it's time to modify. I have had this gun so long that I don't really want to part with it.

It has a factory trigger that I will have modified to 3.0#. I was always led to believe that this trigger could not be modified but multiple sources confirm that the tang style triggers can. TheMK2 triggers cannot be modified and require a Timney drop in trigger. I cannot get this rifle to group better than 1.5" using various bullet types. All my other rifles have triggers set at 3-3.5#. This one is at 7.5#.

Next is a Sims recoil pad to help with the kick. Between these 2 changes I hope to get better groupings. I will eventually work up reloads.

Ishouldmake mention I had a old Redfield 3x9x40 scope. I took it off as I suspected the scope was part of the problem and discovered when I shake the scope I hear a rattling sound. I assume this is a loose reticle. A friend lent me a cheap Bushnell Trophy scope to test out after my modification work. Hopefully my groups improve. If not I may have to part with my long time friend and buy an Encore.

[wolverine72]

Shooting a 1.5" group with a 7.5# trigger is, IMHO, not too bad. That's all I could do on a good day with my M77 MKII before I replaced the trigger with a Timney and bedded the action. I was ready to get rid of that gun too. It is my first high power rifle (I only had a .30-30 before that), and I'm glad that I still have it. It is now shoots MOA.

I bet that a trigger job and a recoil pad will do wonders -- for a hundred dollars at most. Never part with an old gun that you like. IMO, the original 77's are classic...

[bugsNbows]

I'd sure try a newer, better scope. 1 and 1/2" groups are not that bad.

[rozman62]

Thanks for the comps. I got my other rifles shooting .75-1.0" so I guess I have come to expect that from this M77. The gun has less than 100 rounds thru it in 26 years. It has been a safe queen most of its life. The cheap scope is only temp and to confirm the results of the mods. I have thoughts of rebedding in the back of my mind. I need to buy a new scope either way and will most likely buy another 3x9x40 Nikon Prostaff or Bushnell 3200. It's fun stuff but frustrating likewise.

[bugsNbows]

Want a very good scope at a very good price......try the Bushnell Elite 4200 3-9 X 40.