Let’s Dive into Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock Ghillie Green 77800
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock Ghillie Green 77800 is more than just a replacement stock; it’s an upgrade that promises enhanced accuracy and improved ergonomics for your Ruger rifle. Offered by Hogue, a company renowned for its innovative and high-quality firearm accessories, this stock aims to provide a superior shooting experience through its thoughtfully designed features and durable construction. I’ve spent years tinkering with rifles, and a good stock can truly transform a rifle’s performance, so I was eager to see if this Hogue offering lived up to the hype.
My old factory stock on my trusted Ruger 77 MKII had seen better days. Years of hunts in harsh weather had taken their toll, and the bedding was starting to loosen, impacting accuracy. I needed a durable, weather-resistant, and above all, accurate replacement.
The stock arrived well-packaged. My initial impression was that it felt solid and well-made. The Ghillie Green color is subtle and effective for blending into a variety of natural environments.
I considered Boyds Hardwood Gunstocks and Bell and Carlson, but ultimately went with the Hogue due to their reputation for comfortable, grippy overmolded stocks and the promise of a PillarBed system. I was looking for a stock that would improve accuracy and felt confident that the Hogue would deliver.
Excited! That was my initial feeling. The stock appeared to be exactly what I was looking for to breathe new life into my Ruger 77 MKII.
Real-World Testing: Putting Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock Ghillie Green 77800 to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to test the Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock Ghillie Green 77800 was at my local range. I wanted to get a feel for the stock’s improved ergonomics and see if the PillarBed system truly made a difference in accuracy. The rifle felt immediately more stable in my hands.
The weather was typical for late fall – damp and cool. The Hogue‘s overmolded surface provided a surprisingly secure grip, even with slightly wet hands. Installing the stock was straightforward and didn’t require any gunsmithing, which was a welcome bonus.
The stock felt very natural in my hands. The slightly tacky feel of the Hogue overmolding inspired confidence, and the grip angle seemed perfect for quick target acquisition. I noticed that the PillarBed system seemed to minimize any movement between the action and stock, contributing to a more consistent shooting platform.
I experienced a noticeable improvement in group sizes right away. My initial groups at 100 yards were tighter than I had previously been able to achieve with the factory stock.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock Ghillie Green 77800 has proven to be incredibly durable. I’ve taken it on several hunting trips, including one week-long excursion into the rugged backcountry. There are no signs of cracking or warping, even after being exposed to temperature extremes.
The overmolded material still looks and feels like new. Despite a few minor scratches from encounters with rocks and branches, the Ghillie Green finish has held up remarkably well.
Cleaning the stock is a breeze; a simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually all it takes. The non-porous surface prevents dirt and grime from penetrating the material.
Compared to my experiences with other synthetic stocks, the Hogue is a clear winner. Its combination of durability, comfort, and accuracy is unmatched by other stocks in the same price range.
Breaking Down the Features of Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock Ghillie Green 77800
Specifications
- This stock is specifically designed for Ruger M77 Mark II Short Action rifles with a standard barrel contour. Compatibility is crucial for proper fit and function, ensuring optimal performance.
- It features a PillarBed design, incorporating aluminum pillars molded directly into the stock to provide a rock-solid bedding platform. This enhances accuracy by minimizing movement between the action and the stock.
- The stock is constructed using Hogue’s signature overmolded rubber, providing a comfortable and secure grip in all weather conditions. The rubber material is durable and resistant to impacts, chemicals, and extreme temperatures.
- The Ghillie Green color offers excellent camouflage in a variety of natural environments. This subtle color helps hunters and shooters remain concealed while in the field.
- The stock is lightweight, contributing to the overall portability and balance of the rifle. Reducing weight can be a significant advantage during long hunting trips or extended shooting sessions.
These specifications are important because they directly impact the rifle’s performance and the user’s experience. A well-bedded action, secure grip, and manageable weight are all essential for accurate and comfortable shooting.
Performance & Functionality
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock Ghillie Green 77800 significantly improves the rifle’s overall accuracy and stability. The PillarBed system creates a rigid and consistent platform, minimizing vibrations and ensuring precise shot placement.
The overmolded rubber provides an exceptional grip, even in wet or cold conditions. This enhanced grip translates into better control and more confident handling of the rifle.
The Hogue stock exceeded my expectations. The improved accuracy and enhanced ergonomics have made my Ruger 77 MKII a more capable and enjoyable rifle to shoot.
Design & Ergonomics
The Hogue stock boasts a well-thought-out design that prioritizes both functionality and comfort. The overmolded rubber provides a tactile and secure grip.
The stock’s ergonomic shape fits naturally in the hand. This reduces fatigue and allows for extended shooting sessions without discomfort.
The installation process is simple and straightforward. I appreciated that no gunsmithing was required.
Durability & Maintenance
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock Ghillie Green 77800 is built to withstand the rigors of field use. The overmolded rubber is incredibly durable and resistant to damage.
The stock is easy to clean and maintain. A simple wipe-down is all that is usually needed to remove dirt and grime.
With proper care, this stock should last for many years. Its robust construction ensures long-term reliability and performance.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock Ghillie Green 77800 is primarily designed as a drop-in replacement stock and doesn’t come with any additional accessories. However, its standard design makes it compatible with a wide range of aftermarket accessories, such as slings, bipods, and cheek risers.
The stock’s solid construction provides a stable platform for mounting optics. This enhances the rifle’s accuracy and versatility.
The textured grip of the Hogue stock can be further customized with grip tape or stippling. This is to achieve a more personalized feel and improved control.
Pros and Cons of Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock Ghillie Green 77800
Pros
- Significantly improved accuracy due to the PillarBed system.
- Exceptional grip and comfort thanks to the overmolded rubber construction.
- Durable and weather-resistant, ideal for harsh hunting conditions.
- Easy to install without the need for gunsmithing.
- Ghillie Green color provides effective camouflage.
Cons
- The overmolded rubber can feel slightly “tacky” to some users.
- Limited customization options beyond basic accessory attachment.
Who Should Buy Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock Ghillie Green 77800?
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock Ghillie Green 77800 is perfect for hunters seeking improved accuracy and a more comfortable grip in all weather conditions. It’s also ideal for recreational shooters who want to enhance the performance of their Ruger 77 MKII rifle.
Those prioritizing aesthetic customization or needing advanced features like adjustable cheek pieces might consider other options.
A quality sling and a bipod are must-have accessories to fully utilize this stock.
Conclusion on Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock Ghillie Green 77800
The Hogue Ruger 77 MKII Short Action Standard Barrel PillarBed Stock Ghillie Green 77800 is a worthwhile upgrade for any Ruger 77 MKII owner seeking improved accuracy, enhanced comfort, and increased durability. The price is definitely justified for the performance benefits you receive.
I wholeheartedly recommend this stock. It transformed my Ruger 77 MKII into a more accurate and reliable hunting rifle.
If you’re looking to breathe new life into your Ruger 77 MKII, this Hogue stock is a fantastic investment. Upgrade your rifle and elevate your shooting experience today!