Leupold RUG 77 EXT RINGS HIGH Matte Review

First Thoughts on the Leupold RUG 77 EXT RINGS HIGH Matte

The Leupold RUG 77 EXT RINGS HIGH Matte – just the name itself evokes a sense of quality and purpose. These aren’t just any rings; they’re designed specifically for the Ruger M77 rifle, promising a secure and extended mounting solution for your optics. Leupold‘s reputation precedes them, and as someone who’s spent years ensuring rifles are properly fitted with the right scopes and mounts, I was eager to see if these rings lived up to the hype.

I’ve spent countless hours in the field, and a reliable scope mount is paramount. A poorly mounted scope can lead to inaccuracy, lost hunts, and even dangerous situations. I needed rings that could withstand the recoil of a hard-hitting caliber on my Ruger M77, and these Leupold rings seemed like the ideal solution, offering both the correct height and the necessary extension for optimal eye relief.

Unboxing the Leupold RUG 77 EXT RINGS HIGH Matte, my initial impression was positive. The matte finish is clean and professional, promising to minimize glare in the field. The rings felt solid and well-machined, giving me confidence in their ability to hold my scope securely.

Compared to some generic scope rings I’ve used in the past, or even some lower-end Leupold offerings, the RUG 77 EXT HIGH Matte rings feel significantly more robust. I considered Warne rings, which are known for their durability, and Burris rings, which sometimes offer more budget-friendly options, but I ultimately chose these for their specific design for the Ruger M77 and the Leupold reputation for precision. My first impression was excitement, as I knew these rings were going to offer the perfect balance of height and extension I needed for my preferred scope on my Ruger.

Real-World Testing: Putting Leupold RUG 77 EXT RINGS HIGH Matte to the Test

First Use Experience

My first opportunity to test the Leupold RUG 77 EXT RINGS HIGH Matte came during a whitetail hunting trip in the Pennsylvania mountains. The weather was typically unpredictable, ranging from crisp mornings with a light frost to damp afternoons with occasional rain showers. Mounting the rings and scope to my Ruger M77 was straightforward, thanks to the precise machining and the Ruger’s integrated mounting system. The extended design proved crucial in achieving the correct eye relief with my large objective lens scope.

The rings held zero perfectly, even after repeated firing and traversing through dense brush. I spent a full week hunting with this setup and encountered various weather scenarios. The Leupold rings performed flawlessly, showing no signs of slippage or loosening. I experienced no issues at all during the first use, my scope stayed securely mounted in these rings, allowing me to ethically harvest a beautiful 8-point buck.

Extended Use & Reliability

After several months of consistent use, including multiple range sessions and another hunting trip in harsher conditions (think sub-freezing temperatures and snow), the Leupold RUG 77 EXT RINGS HIGH Matte continue to impress. There are no signs of wear and tear beyond some very minor scuffs on the matte finish. The rings remain tight and secure.

Maintenance has been minimal. I simply wipe them down with a clean cloth after each use to remove any dirt or moisture. Comparing these rings to some cheaper alternatives I’ve used in the past, the Leupold rings undoubtedly outperform them in terms of durability and reliability. The peace of mind knowing my scope is securely mounted is invaluable.

Breaking Down the Features of Leupold RUG 77 EXT RINGS HIGH Matte

Specifications

• Type: Ruger Extension. These rings are designed specifically for the Ruger M77 rifle, ensuring a perfect fit and seamless integration with the rifle’s integral mounting bases.
• Size: 1″. The 1-inch diameter accommodates the vast majority of traditional rifle scopes, making these rings versatile for many setups.
• Height: 1.03″. The high height provides ample clearance for larger objective lenses, preventing any contact with the rifle’s barrel.
• Tube Diameter: Ruger M77. This is a key specification, as it confirms these rings are engineered to directly attach to the Ruger M77’s unique receiver design.
• Finish: Matte. The matte finish minimizes glare and reflections, preventing the rings from spooking game.
• Part Number: 52301. The specific part number to guarantee you receive the exact rings you are searching for.

These specifications are critical because they ensure compatibility with the Ruger M77, provide sufficient scope clearance, and minimize unwanted glare. The precisely machined construction ensures a secure and stable platform for your optic. The extended design also allows for greater flexibility in achieving proper eye relief, especially when using scopes with longer or shorter tubes.

Performance & Functionality

The Leupold RUG 77 EXT RINGS HIGH Matte excels in its primary function: securely mounting a scope to a Ruger M77. The rings provide a rock-solid platform that maintains zero even under heavy recoil. The 1.03″ height offers plenty of clearance for scopes with larger objective lenses, and the extension allows for flexible eye relief adjustment.

The strength lies in its purpose-built design for the Ruger M77. The only potential weakness is that these rings are specifically for the Ruger M77, not a general-purpose mounting solution. They exceed my expectations by providing a confidence inspiring mounting solution.

Design & Ergonomics

The Leupold RUG 77 EXT RINGS HIGH Matte boast a simple yet functional design. The rings are constructed from high-quality steel and finished with a durable matte coating. The weight is negligible, adding minimal bulk to the rifle.

The installation process is straightforward, requiring only basic tools and a little patience. There is no learning curve, as these rings are designed to be user-friendly.

Durability & Maintenance

These rings are built to last. The steel construction and durable matte finish ensure they can withstand years of use in the field.

Maintenance is simple – just wipe them down with a clean cloth after each use. No special tools or cleaning solutions are required.

Accessories and Customization Options

The Leupold RUG 77 EXT RINGS HIGH Matte themselves don’t offer much in the way of customization. They are designed to be a simple and reliable scope mounting solution. However, they are compatible with any scope that has a 1-inch tube diameter.

You can add various accessories to your scope, such as scope covers, sunshades, or bubble levels.

Pros and Cons of Leupold RUG 77 EXT RINGS HIGH Matte

Who Should Buy Leupold RUG 77 EXT RINGS HIGH Matte?

The Leupold RUG 77 EXT RINGS HIGH Matte are perfect for Ruger M77 owners who want a reliable and secure scope mounting solution. These rings are ideal for hunters, target shooters, and anyone who demands accuracy and durability from their equipment.

Someone who doesn’t own a Ruger M77 should skip this product. Also, someone who wants a highly customizable scope mounting system may find these rings too basic.

A must-have accessory is a good quality torque wrench to ensure proper ring installation.

Conclusion on Leupold RUG 77 EXT RINGS HIGH Matte

The Leupold RUG 77 EXT RINGS HIGH Matte are a fantastic choice for anyone looking to mount a scope on their Ruger M77 rifle. The rings are durable, reliable, and provide a secure platform for your optic. The extended design is a particularly valuable feature, allowing for flexible eye relief adjustment.

At a price of $61.49, the value is definitely justified. These rings offer a superior level of quality and performance compared to cheaper alternatives.

I would absolutely recommend the Leupold RUG 77 EXT RINGS HIGH Matte to any Ruger M77 owner. If you value accuracy, reliability, and peace of mind, these rings are a worthwhile investment. Upgrade your Ruger M77 with these exceptional rings and experience the Leupold difference!