Ruger compact rifle?

Question

Im pretty sure I am going to get a Ruger M77 Mkii Compact rifle chambered for 7mm-08. I was curious if there are any upgrades such as stocks, triggers, etc. for this... Also what would you rate this and why? I'm getting the blued with walnut stock. Also, what groupings can I expect from 100 and 200 yards. One last question, would this accept a full size stock to replace the compact stock, and would I be able to replace the barrel with a full size barrel? I'm actually thinking about doing this I am just wondering if it would work.

Answer 1

A 100 yard rifle it's not. It's only limited by the ammo in it.

I actually own the Ruger Frontier model in 7mm-08 and I wouldn't trade it for anything out there. Against common belief, the shorter barrel will actually make this rifle more accurate then an equal rifle with a longer barrel. Research it, I did.

The Frontier is basically a Compact except it has a forward scope mount, ala a Scout rifle. I would suggest the Frontier only because it gives you more options as far as sights go. You can go with a standard scope mount or, like me use the forward mount. I installed an Aimpoint red-dot sight out front and I couldn't be happier. Nothing blocks the action and the red-dot gives me a very fast sight picture in rough, close terrain. I "still" hunt and do drives with other hunters where this rifle really shines. I have the blued model with the laminate stock but they also make a stainless with laminate now which is pretty damn nice looking. Getting the trigger replaced would only make a great rifle that much nicer, but for me the stock set-up is fine. It's not a varmint gun.

Answer 2

Rugers are traditionally not very accurate out of the box. When someone says they shoot under 1", it's ussually a combination of handloads and stockwork.

But you should be able to get 2" at 100 with most any factory ammo. Plenty good for hunting, but it would be frustating if you were wanting to shoot it a lot right out of the box.

I don't see a problem with the short stock. If that's the case, you should probably look at the full size rifle. Ruger actions should be the same (someone verify?) If you get a longer stock though, it isn't going to look right.
As far as modifications if you're dead set on a ruger, I would probably get the trigger worked on a little and have the stock bedded.

Realize you are going to be spending close to 1000 dollars. There are other brands of rifles that will do what you want for far less.

Answer 3

Th Compact is a reliable rifle. I believe Ruger won't let them out of the door if they don't group 2.5" at 100 yards, or better. You would have to test it to find out which load(s) it likes. You could get a Timney or possibly a Canjar trigger for it. If you are going to replace the stock and barrel, you might as well start with the standard M77 and save yourself the extra money and trouble.

Answer 4

John,

I can't speak regarding M-77 Compacts, nor any M-77 in 7mm-08, but you can bet the farm that Ruger will let a rifle out that won't do better than 5" on its best day.

It was a Model 77 MkII All-Weather Stainless in .300 WinMag. That damned rifle gave me a bad taste for stainless steel rifles in general, Ruger M-77's in particular, and the .300 WinMag expecially.

Auburn,

You don't have the rifle yet. Don't got getting all hot and bothered about making changes until you get a chance to shoot it and see how it shoots.

As for replacing the barrel, and replacing the stock, why don't you just buy another rifle? It would be cheaper!

To tell you the truth, folks who start going on and one about how they want to "improve" their guns before they bother to learn if they need improvement give me indigestion.

Merry Christmas, enjoy your new rifle.

Doc

Answer 5

im also in the market for a compact bolt gun and the ruger compact is at the top of my list. from what ive read its a 100 yard gun because of the short barrel and lightweight. 2" groups at 100 is the norm, but thats perfectly acceptable for hunting. unless your a 7 foot tall basketball player you probably dont need a full length stock. american guns are stocked too long for the average adult.
an adjustable timney trigger is an excellent upgrade if your all about accuracy. it will be like an entirely different rifle. youll be shooting one hole groups at 100. the stock trigger has a good bit of creep and is too heavy at about 5 1/2 lbs. the timney can be adjusted from about 1lb to 4lb i think, and eliminates creep making the break extremely smooth and crisp.

Answer 6

Just buy the standard M77 MKII and save yourself the trouble.