Let’s Dive into Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock 77000
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock 77000 is more than just a replacement stock; it’s a complete transformation for your Ruger rifle. Crafted by Hogue, a name synonymous with quality grips and firearm accessories, this stock promises enhanced comfort, improved accuracy, and a more secure hold in any environment. This isn’t your run-of-the-mill synthetic stock; it’s an investment in your rifle’s performance and your shooting experience.
I was battling inconsistent groups with my Ruger 77 MKII, especially in inclement weather. The original wood stock, while aesthetically pleasing, was susceptible to swelling and warping, throwing off my zero. I needed a solution that was impervious to the elements and offered a more stable platform for accurate shooting, leading me to the Hogue PillarBed stock.
The unboxing was simple, but the quality was immediately apparent. The stock felt solid, with a reassuring heft that spoke to its durable construction. The rubber overmold felt grippy and comfortable in my hands, and the cobblestone texture on the forend provided excellent purchase. My initial thought was, “this feels like a serious upgrade.”
I considered a few other options, including a laminated wood stock and another brand’s aluminum chassis system. However, the Hogue stood out because of its reputation for durability, its comfortable overmolded grip, and the promise of improved accuracy thanks to the PillarBed design. The aluminum chassis system felt too bulky for my needs, and the laminated wood, while stable, didn’t offer the same level of weather resistance as the Hogue’s synthetic construction. I wanted something that could handle the rigors of backcountry hunting without sacrificing comfort or accuracy.
My first impression was excitement mixed with a touch of anticipation. Would this stock truly live up to the hype and solve my accuracy woes? I was eager to get it mounted on my rifle and head to the range.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock 77000 to the Test
First Use Experience
I first tested the Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock 77000 at my local shooting range on a moderately windy day. Mounting the stock was straightforward, requiring only basic tools and about 15 minutes of my time. Immediately, I noticed a significant improvement in the rifle’s balance and how securely it seated in my shoulder.
The weather during this initial range session was variable, with intermittent rain showers. The Hogue’s rubber overmold proved invaluable, providing a consistently secure grip even when my hands were wet. This was a marked improvement over the slick feel of the original wood stock in similar conditions.
The Hogue stock required virtually no acclimation period. The ergonomics were intuitive, and the palm swells filled my hand perfectly, promoting a comfortable and consistent grip. My groups immediately tightened up compared to previous range sessions with the factory wood stock.
My initial surprise was just how much the PillarBed design contributed to the accuracy. I expected an improvement from the enhanced grip and weather resistance, but the consistency of my shots was noticeably better than before. There were no pressure points and the receiver appeared to be sitting very nicely on its new platform.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock 77000 has proven to be exceptionally durable. It has seen action in several hunting trips, enduring everything from dense forests to rocky mountain terrain. There are no signs of cracking, splitting, or any other structural degradation.
The Hogue stock shows minimal signs of wear, despite being subjected to harsh conditions. The rubber overmold still provides a secure grip, and the cobblestone texture on the forend remains intact. The finish has held up remarkably well, showing only minor scuffs from contact with rocks and brush.
Maintenance is incredibly simple. The stock wipes clean with a damp cloth, removing mud, dirt, and even dried blood with ease. I haven’t needed to use any specialized cleaning products or solvents to keep it looking and performing like new.
Compared to my previous experiences with traditional wood stocks, the Hogue stock is a clear winner in terms of durability and weather resistance. I no longer worry about the stock warping or swelling in wet conditions, and I have complete confidence in its ability to withstand the rigors of backcountry hunting. It definitely outperforms the original.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock 77000
Specifications
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock 77000 boasts several key specifications that contribute to its exceptional performance. It is designed specifically for Ruger 77 MKII short action rifles with standard barrels, ensuring a precise and secure fit. The stock is constructed from a fiberglass-reinforced polymer, providing exceptional strength and stability. This is then overmolded with Hogue’s signature rubber, creating a comfortable and non-slip gripping surface. The sleek, straight comb design promotes proper cheek weld and sight alignment, while the palm swells enhance comfort and control. The “varminter”-style forend, treated with a unique “cobblestone” texture, offers a secure grip in all conditions. Finally, the ambidextrous recoil pad helps to mitigate recoil and enhance shooting comfort. These specs combine for a great stock!
These specifications directly impact the rifle’s performance and the user’s experience. The fiberglass-reinforced polymer provides a stable and consistent platform for the action, minimizing movement and improving accuracy. The rubber overmold ensures a secure grip, even in wet or slippery conditions, enhancing control and reducing the risk of accidents. The ergonomic design promotes proper shooting form, reducing fatigue and improving accuracy. The PillarBed design ensures a precise and stable fit between the action and the stock, further enhancing accuracy and consistency.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock 77000 performs exceptionally well in its intended role. The PillarBed design provides a stable and consistent platform for the action, resulting in improved accuracy and reduced recoil. The rubber overmold ensures a secure grip, even in wet or slippery conditions, enhancing control and promoting safe handling. The ergonomic design promotes proper shooting form, reducing fatigue and improving overall shooting experience.
One notable strength is the enhanced accuracy compared to the factory wood stock. The PillarBed design eliminates pressure points and provides a more consistent bedding surface, resulting in tighter groups. One potential weakness is that the rubber overmold can attract dirt and debris, requiring regular cleaning to maintain a secure grip. Overall, it exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality of the Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock 77000 is excellent. The materials used are of high quality, and the construction is solid and robust. The fiberglass-reinforced polymer provides exceptional strength and stability, while the rubber overmold adds a layer of comfort and grip. The stock’s weight is well-balanced, contributing to improved handling and control.
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock 77000 is incredibly user-friendly. The stock installs easily with basic tools, and the ergonomic design requires virtually no acclimation period. The palm swells and cobblestone texture on the forend provide a comfortable and secure grip, promoting proper shooting form. There is no learning curve whatsoever.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock 77000 is built to last. The fiberglass-reinforced polymer is highly resistant to cracking, splitting, and warping, while the rubber overmold provides a layer of protection against impacts and abrasion. With proper care, this stock should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is simple. The stock wipes clean with a damp cloth, removing mud, dirt, and debris with ease. No specialized cleaning products or solvents are required. The rubber overmold may require occasional scrubbing with a soft brush to remove stubborn dirt or grime.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock 77000 does not come with any accessories. However, it is compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, including sling swivel studs, bipods, and cheek risers.
The stock’s design allows for easy installation of these accessories, providing enhanced functionality and customization options. Many users will add sling swivels to this stock.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock 77000
Pros
- Enhanced accuracy due to the PillarBed design.
- Superior grip and control thanks to the rubber overmold and cobblestone texture. This makes it worth buying.
- Exceptional durability and weather resistance. This makes it worth buying.
- Improved ergonomics and shooting comfort. This makes it worth buying.
- Easy installation and maintenance. This makes it worth buying.
Cons
- The rubber overmold can attract dirt and debris.
- Limited customization options compared to some chassis systems.
Who Should Buy Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock 77000?
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock 77000 is perfect for hunters seeking improved accuracy and weather resistance. It’s also great for recreational shooters looking for a more comfortable and controllable shooting experience. Anyone who values durability and reliability in their firearm accessories will appreciate this stock.
Someone focused on extreme long-range shooting or tactical applications may want to skip this product. A more modular chassis system with adjustable length of pull and cheek weld might be a better fit for those applications.
Must-have accessories include sling swivel studs for attaching a sling and a quality scope for maximizing the stock’s accuracy potential.
Conclusion on Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock 77000
In summary, the Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock 77000 is an outstanding upgrade for any Ruger 77 MKII rifle. The enhanced accuracy, superior grip, exceptional durability, and improved ergonomics make it a worthwhile investment for hunters and recreational shooters alike.
At $127.46, the price is more than justified by the performance and durability this stock offers. The increased accuracy alone is worth the investment for serious shooters.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock 77000. If you’re looking to improve your Ruger 77 MKII’s performance and reliability, look no further. Upgrade your rifle today and experience the Hogue difference!