Let’s Dive into Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Heavy Barrel PillarBed Stock 77010
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Heavy Barrel PillarBed Stock 77010 is more than just a replacement stock; it’s an upgrade that can breathe new life into your rifle. Hogue has a long-standing reputation for quality and innovation in the firearms accessories market, and this stock is no exception. It promises improved accuracy, enhanced ergonomics, and a modern look for a classic rifle.
I’ve always been a fan of the Ruger 77 MKII, but the factory stock on my short action heavy barrel model left something to be desired. It felt a bit flimsy and lacked the stability I needed for consistent long-range shots.
The Hogue stock arrived in a simple, functional package. My initial impression was positive: the stock felt solid and well-made. The synthetic material had a good texture, providing a comfortable and secure grip.
I considered a Boyds laminate stock and a Bell and Carlson fiberglass option. However, I chose the Hogue due to its reputation for a comfortable, grippy feel and the promised ease of installation with the PillarBed system. I was hoping it would improve my rifle’s accuracy without requiring extensive gunsmithing.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. I was eager to see if the Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Heavy Barrel PillarBed Stock 77010 could truly transform my rifle’s performance.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Heavy Barrel PillarBed Stock 77010 to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Hogue stock at my local shooting range, focusing on 100-yard and 200-yard targets. The weather was mild and dry, providing ideal conditions for testing accuracy.
The improved grip and stability of the Hogue stock were immediately noticeable. The rifle felt more planted, and recoil seemed slightly reduced. The stock’s design allowed for a more consistent cheek weld, which improved my sight picture.
Installation, while not exactly a “snap” as some might claim, was relatively straightforward with the right tools. I didn’t encounter any major issues, although re-zeroing the scope was definitely necessary. After the first few shots, I was impressed with the improved accuracy.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Heavy Barrel PillarBed Stock 77010 has held up remarkably well. It has been used in a variety of conditions, including damp mornings and dusty afternoons, without any noticeable degradation.
The synthetic material shows no signs of wear and tear, and the grip remains secure even when wet. Cleaning is easy: a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient.
Compared to the factory stock, the Hogue is a significant upgrade in terms of both comfort and performance. It has noticeably improved my accuracy and made shooting more enjoyable. The enhanced grip and stability provide greater confidence, particularly during longer shooting sessions.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Heavy Barrel PillarBed Stock 77010
Specifications
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Heavy Barrel PillarBed Stock 77010 is designed specifically for the Ruger 77 MKII short action rifles with heavy barrels. It is constructed from a durable synthetic material, offering weather resistance and a comfortable grip.
The PillarBed system provides a stable and consistent platform for the action, improving accuracy. It is designed to accommodate both right and left-handed shooters, making it a versatile option for a wide range of users.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the rifle’s accuracy and overall handling. The PillarBed system ensures that the action is properly supported, reducing stress and improving consistency. The synthetic material is weather-resistant, making it suitable for use in a variety of environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Heavy Barrel PillarBed Stock 77010 performs exceptionally well, providing a noticeable improvement in accuracy and stability. The enhanced grip and ergonomic design make the rifle more comfortable to shoot, even during extended sessions.
The stock’s design allows for a more consistent cheek weld, which improves sight picture and reduces eye strain. Recoil is also slightly reduced, making the rifle more manageable.
The primary strength of this stock is its ability to improve accuracy without requiring extensive gunsmithing. The PillarBed system provides a stable platform for the action, reducing movement and vibration. A minor weakness could be the need for some fitting, as mentioned in the product description, but that’s typical for aftermarket stocks.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Heavy Barrel PillarBed Stock 77010 features a classic and functional design. The synthetic material is durable and provides a comfortable grip, even when wet.
The stock is well-balanced and feels solid in hand. The ergonomic design allows for a natural and comfortable shooting position.
The stock is incredibly user-friendly. While some machining may be required for installation, the overall process is relatively straightforward. Once installed, the stock requires minimal adjustment or modification.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Heavy Barrel PillarBed Stock 77010 is built to last. The durable synthetic material is resistant to scratches, dents, and other forms of wear and tear.
Maintenance is simple: a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to remove dirt and grime. The stock is also resistant to chemicals and solvents, making it easy to clean.
With proper care, the Hogue stock should provide years of reliable service. The durable construction and weather-resistant materials ensure that it can withstand the rigors of regular use in a variety of environments.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Heavy Barrel PillarBed Stock 77010 does not come with any specific accessories. However, it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, including scope mounts, slings, and bipods.
The stock can be easily modified to accept different types of slings. It is also compatible with most aftermarket recoil pads.
The Hogue stock is designed to work seamlessly with popular accessories from other brands. This allows users to customize their rifle to suit their specific needs and preferences. For example, upgrading to a higher-quality recoil pad can further reduce felt recoil and improve shooting comfort.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Heavy Barrel PillarBed Stock 77010
Pros
- Improved Accuracy: The PillarBed system provides a stable platform for the action, resulting in enhanced accuracy.
- Enhanced Ergonomics: The comfortable grip and ergonomic design make the rifle more enjoyable to shoot.
- Durable Construction: The synthetic material is resistant to scratches, dents, and weather damage.
- Easy to Maintain: A simple wipe-down is usually sufficient to clean the stock.
- Affordable Upgrade: Offers a significant improvement over the factory stock at a reasonable price.
Cons
- Potential Fitting Required: Some machining may be necessary for proper installation.
- Basic Aesthetics: The synthetic material may not appeal to those who prefer a more traditional wood stock.
Who Should Buy Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Heavy Barrel PillarBed Stock 77010?
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Heavy Barrel PillarBed Stock 77010 is perfect for hunters and target shooters looking to improve the accuracy and handling of their Ruger 77 MKII rifle. It’s also suitable for anyone who finds the factory stock uncomfortable or lacking in stability.
Those seeking a purely aesthetic upgrade or who prefer the look and feel of a traditional wood stock might want to skip this product. Additionally, individuals uncomfortable with basic gunsmithing tasks might want to seek professional installation.
A must-have modification is a high-quality scope and appropriate rings to take advantage of the improved accuracy. A comfortable sling can also enhance the rifle’s portability.
Conclusion on Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Heavy Barrel PillarBed Stock 77010
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Heavy Barrel PillarBed Stock 77010 is a worthwhile upgrade for anyone looking to improve the accuracy and handling of their Ruger 77 MKII rifle. It provides a stable platform for the action, enhances ergonomics, and is built to last.
At a price of $127.99, the Hogue stock offers excellent value for the money. It’s a significant improvement over the factory stock and can transform your rifle’s performance.
I would definitely recommend the Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Heavy Barrel PillarBed Stock 77010 to anyone looking for an affordable and effective way to upgrade their Ruger 77 MKII. It’s a solid investment that will enhance your shooting experience for years to come. Consider adding the Hogue stock to your rifle and experience the difference for yourself!