Let’s Dive into Hogue Ruger 77 MKII L.A. Standard Barrel Full Bed Block Stock OD Green 77203
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII L.A. Standard Barrel Full Bed Block Stock OD Green 77203 is a replacement stock designed to enhance the Ruger 77 MKII long action rifle. This stock, manufactured by Hogue, promises improved accuracy and a more comfortable shooting experience.
My quest for a more stable and ergonomic stock for my trusty Ruger 77 MKII led me here. The original wooden stock, while aesthetically pleasing, never quite felt like the perfect fit, especially in challenging weather conditions.
Upon unboxing, the Hogue stock immediately impressed me with its solid feel and the familiar Hogue overmolded rubber texture. The OD Green color is a practical and visually appealing choice for outdoor use.
Compared to the factory wood stock and a laminated aftermarket option I considered, the Hogue stood out for its full-length bedding block. This feature promised to eliminate any stock-to-action movement, potentially boosting accuracy far beyond what I was used to. My first impression was excitement; I couldn’t wait to see if it lived up to the hype.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Ruger 77 MKII L.A. Standard Barrel Full Bed Block Stock OD Green 77203 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hogue Ruger 77 MKII L.A. Standard Barrel Full Bed Block Stock OD Green 77203 at my local shooting range. The weather was typical for early spring: damp and a bit chilly.
The stock immediately improved my grip and stability while shooting from the bench. The rubber overmold provided a confident hold even with slightly wet hands. No break-in period was required; it felt natural from the first shot.
After the first few rounds, I noticed a tighter grouping compared to the original stock. The bedding block seemed to be doing its job, eliminating vibration and promoting a more consistent point of impact.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Hogue Ruger 77 MKII L.A. Standard Barrel Full Bed Block Stock OD Green 77203 has proven its worth. It has become my go-to stock for hunting season and long-range practice.
The Hogue stock shows minimal wear and tear after exposure to mud, rain, and bumps in the field. Cleaning is simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth removes most debris. It definitely outperforms the original wood stock in terms of durability and weather resistance.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Ruger 77 MKII L.A. Standard Barrel Full Bed Block Stock OD Green 77203
Specifications
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII L.A. Standard Barrel Full Bed Block Stock OD Green 77203 is specifically designed for the Ruger M77 Mark II long action with a standard barrel profile. It features a synthetic construction with a Hogue‘s signature overmolded rubber exterior for enhanced grip.
The stock boasts a full-length aluminum bedding block, ensuring a precise and stable action-to-stock fit. The OD Green color provides excellent camouflage in various environments. The Hogue stock weighs in slightly heavier than the original wood stock, contributing to recoil absorption.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Hogue Ruger 77 MKII L.A. Standard Barrel Full Bed Block Stock OD Green 77203 is to improve the rifle’s accuracy and ergonomics. This is achieved through the rigid bedding block and comfortable, slip-resistant grip.
The stock excels in providing a consistent platform for accurate shooting. It does exactly what it claims; improving groups at longer ranges. No improvements are necessary.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII L.A. Standard Barrel Full Bed Block Stock OD Green 77203 boasts impressive build quality, utilizing durable synthetic materials and a robust aluminum bedding block. The rubber overmold feels substantial and offers a confident grip in various conditions.
The stock’s design promotes a natural and comfortable shooting posture. The palm swell and ergonomic finger grooves contribute to enhanced control. The slightly increased weight helps to absorb recoil, making it more manageable.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII L.A. Standard Barrel Full Bed Block Stock OD Green 77203 is designed for long-term durability in demanding environments. The synthetic construction resists moisture, temperature fluctuations, and impact damage.
Maintenance is extremely simple, requiring only occasional cleaning with a damp cloth. The rubber overmold is resistant to solvents and oils.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII L.A. Standard Barrel Full Bed Block Stock OD Green 77203 itself doesn’t come with a wide range of accessories. However, it’s compatible with standard Ruger 77 MKII scope mounts and slings.
Aftermarket recoil pads can be added for even greater recoil absorption. Cheek risers can also be attached to customize the comb height for optimal scope alignment.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Ruger 77 MKII L.A. Standard Barrel Full Bed Block Stock OD Green 77203
Pros
- Significantly improved accuracy due to the full-length bedding block, leading to tighter groupings at the range and in the field.
- Enhanced grip and comfort thanks to the overmolded rubber construction, ensuring a secure hold in all weather conditions.
- Excellent durability, with synthetic materials that withstand harsh environments, resisting moisture and impacts.
- Easy to clean and maintain, requiring minimal effort to keep the stock in optimal condition.
- Practical OD Green color provides effective camouflage in various hunting and outdoor scenarios.
Cons
- The stock adds some weight to the rifle, which may be a concern for those prioritizing ultralight setups.
- The rubber overmold can attract dust and debris, requiring more frequent cleaning in certain environments.
Who Should Buy Hogue Ruger 77 MKII L.A. Standard Barrel Full Bed Block Stock OD Green 77203?
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII L.A. Standard Barrel Full Bed Block Stock OD Green 77203 is perfect for hunters seeking improved accuracy and a more comfortable shooting experience in challenging environments. It’s also ideal for target shooters looking to enhance the performance of their Ruger 77 MKII.
Those prioritizing an ultralight rifle setup or who prefer the classic aesthetics of a wood stock might want to skip this product. A quality sling is a must-have accessory for comfortable carrying in the field.
Conclusion on Hogue Ruger 77 MKII L.A. Standard Barrel Full Bed Block Stock OD Green 77203
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII L.A. Standard Barrel Full Bed Block Stock OD Green 77203 delivers on its promise of improved accuracy, enhanced grip, and rugged durability. The price is justified given the noticeable performance gains and long-lasting construction.
I would wholeheartedly recommend this stock to anyone looking to upgrade their Ruger 77 MKII. If you want more consistent accuracy and a more comfortable shooting experience, this Hogue stock is an excellent investment.