The Ruger M77 Hawkeye Predator: Your Ultimate Partner for Precision and Performance

Are you on the hunt for a rifle that combines rugged reliability with pinpoint accuracy, built to excel in demanding outdoor environments? Do you need a firearm capable of handling a variety of game, from challenging predators to substantial big game? The Ruger M77 Hawkeye Predator in .308 Winchester (SKU: 47123) is engineered precisely for individuals who demand unwavering performance and a classic, yet highly functional, design. This isn't just another rifle; it's a testament to Ruger's commitment to quality, offering a seamless blend of traditional craftsmanship and modern ballistic excellence.

For hunters and precision shooters alike, questions often arise: "What's the most reliable rifle for predator hunting?" or "Which rifle offers the best balance of accuracy and durability for diverse conditions?" Many also inquire about the optimal caliber for general hunting and target shooting versatility. The Ruger M77 Hawkeye Predator directly answers these questions, providing a robust solution designed to exceed expectations in the field and on the range.

Unveiling the Heart of the Hawkeye Predator: Superior Engineering for Superior Results

At the core of the Ruger M77 Hawkeye Predator's exceptional capabilities lies its meticulously engineered components. Every feature is chosen and crafted to contribute to the rifle's overall performance, ensuring it stands as a formidable tool in your arsenal.

The .308 Winchester Caliber: A Universal Powerhouse

The decision to chamber this rifle in .308 Winchester is a deliberate one, positioning it as an incredibly versatile firearm. Why is the .308 Win so popular and effective?

• Broad Game Compatibility: It's an ideal choice for a vast array of North American game, including deer, elk, black bears, and moose. Its balanced ballistics make it highly effective for medium to large game animals, delivering ample energy for clean, ethical harvests.
• Predator Control Excellence: For predator hunters targeting coyotes, bobcats, or even larger carnivores, the .308 Winchester offers flat trajectories and sufficient stopping power, crucial for quick and decisive engagements.
• Target Shooting Prowess: Beyond hunting, the .308 Win is a favorite among precision target shooters due to its inherent accuracy and manageable recoil, making it suitable for extended range sessions without undue fatigue.
• Ammunition Availability: One of the most widely produced and available rifle cartridges globally, ensuring you'll always find a variety of loads to suit your specific needs, from premium hunting rounds to cost-effective practice ammunition.

Precision Defined: The 22" Cold Hammer-Forged Stainless Steel Barrel

Accuracy is paramount for any serious shooter, and the M77 Hawkeye Predator delivers thanks to its 22-inch cold hammer-forged stainless steel barrel. This manufacturing process is a cornerstone of Ruger's reputation for precision.

• Enhanced Accuracy: Cold hammer forging compresses the steel, aligning the grain structure for superior concentricity and a consistently smooth bore. This results in exceptional inherent accuracy, shot after shot.
• Longevity and Durability: The process strengthens the steel, making the barrel remarkably durable and resistant to wear, even under sustained firing.
• Corrosion Resistance: The use of stainless steel offers outstanding protection against rust and corrosion, a critical feature for rifles exposed to harsh weather conditions, moisture, or humid environments. This ensures your rifle maintains its pristine appearance and performance for years to come.
• Medium Contour Barrel: The "medium contour" profile strikes an optimal balance. It's robust enough to resist heat-induced stringing during rapid firing or extended shooting sessions, yet light enough to maintain comfortable portability for long treks in the field. This design ensures consistent accuracy without excessive weight.
• Optimal Twist Rate: A 1:10" twist rate with 6 grooves is expertly chosen for the .308 Winchester. This specific twist rate is ideal for stabilizing a wide range of bullet weights commonly used in the .308 caliber, from lighter varmint rounds to heavier big game projectiles. This versatility ensures optimal accuracy with almost any ammunition you choose.

The Reliable Heart: One-Piece Stainless Steel Bolt

The M77 Hawkeye Predator features a robust one-piece stainless steel bolt. This design provides several critical advantages:

• Unrivaled Strength and Durability: A single-piece construction eliminates potential weak points found in multi-part bolts, enhancing overall strength and longevity.
• Smooth Operation: The polished stainless steel, combined with Ruger's renowned Mauser-type extractor, ensures exceptionally smooth cycling of the action, even in adverse conditions. This means reliable feeding and extraction every time you operate the bolt.
• Corrosion Resistance: Matching the barrel, the stainless steel bolt offers superior resistance to environmental degradation, crucial for a rifle intended for all-weather use.

Integrated Scope Mounting System

For precision shooting, a stable scope mount is non-negotiable. The Ruger M77 Hawkeye Predator boasts integral Ruger Pattern Scope Mounts.

• Robust and Secure: These integral mounts are machined directly into the receiver, creating an incredibly strong and stable platform for attaching scope rings. This design eliminates the need for a separate base, reducing potential points of failure and ensuring your optic remains perfectly zeroed.
• Simplified Mounting: Designed to accept Ruger's proprietary scope rings (available separately), the system simplifies the mounting process, allowing for quick and secure attachment of your chosen optic.

Precision Control: The Two-Stage Adjustable Target Trigger

A clean, crisp trigger pull is essential for accuracy, and the M77 Hawkeye Predator excels in this area with its two-stage adjustable target trigger.

• Enhanced Precision: The two-stage design allows for a clear take-up followed by a distinct second stage, enabling shooters to precisely control the moment of firing. This predictability significantly aids in achieving tighter groups.
• Customizable Feel: Being adjustable, the trigger can be fine-tuned to your personal preference, allowing you to optimize it for a lighter, crisper break that enhances your shooting consistency.

Unwavering Safety: The Three-Position Safety

Safety is paramount, and Ruger's commitment to it is evident in the three-position safety mechanism:

1. "Fire" Position: Allows the rifle to fire.
2. "Load/Unload" Position: Locks the firing pin but allows the bolt to be cycled, enabling safe loading or unloading of the rifle. This is invaluable when checking the chamber or removing rounds without compromising safety.
3. "Safe" Position: Locks both the bolt and the firing pin, providing the utmost security against accidental discharge and preventing the bolt from opening inadvertently while traversing rugged terrain.

Practicality in the Field: Hinged Floorplate Magazine

The hinged floorplate magazine design offers both convenience and traditional aesthetics.

• Easy Unloading: Rather than cycling each round through the action to unload, simply open the hinged floorplate to quickly and safely empty the magazine. This is particularly useful in cold weather or when wearing gloves.
• Secure Capacity: It holds 4 rounds of .308 Winchester, providing sufficient capacity for most hunting scenarios while maintaining a sleek profile.

The Foundation of Stability: Green Mountain Laminate Stock

The Green Mountain Laminate Stock is a standout feature, combining aesthetic appeal with functional superiority.

• Exceptional Stability: Laminate wood is created by bonding multiple layers of wood veneer with resins under high pressure. This process results in a stock that is incredibly stable and resistant to warping or shifting due to changes in temperature and humidity, which can affect accuracy.
• Enhanced Durability: The layered construction makes laminate stocks significantly stronger and more durable than traditional solid wood stocks, capable of withstanding the rigors of field use.
• Distinctive Aesthetics: The "Green Mountain" designation typically implies a unique coloration, often featuring varying shades of green, brown, and gray, creating a striking and appealing look that sets it apart.
• Comfortable Handling: The stock is designed for ergonomic comfort, providing a stable and natural grip, contributing to consistent shot placement.
• Sling Swivel Studs: Pre-installed sling swivel studs allow for easy attachment of a sling, making it convenient to carry the 8-pound rifle during long treks.

A Finish Built for the Elements: Matte Stainless

The Matte Stainless Finish on the metal components provides several functional benefits:

• Reduced Glare: The matte finish minimizes glare, an essential consideration for hunters who need to remain concealed and avoid spooking game.
• Enhanced Corrosion Resistance: While stainless steel is inherently resistant, the matte finish can offer additional surface protection and is less prone to showing minor scratches or smudges than highly polished surfaces.
• Understated Elegance: It contributes to the rifle's rugged yet refined aesthetic, perfectly complementing the laminate stock.

Who is the Ruger M77 Hawkeye Predator For?

This rifle is specifically designed to meet the demands of discerning shooters:

• The Dedicated Hunter: Whether you pursue deer, elk, or are focused on predator control, the .308 Winchester combined with the rifle's accuracy and durability makes it an ideal companion. Its ability to perform reliably in varied weather conditions is a significant advantage.
• The Precision Target Shooter: With its cold hammer-forged barrel, adjustable trigger, and stable platform, this rifle offers the inherent accuracy needed for consistent performance on the range, whether you're honing skills or engaging in friendly competition.
• The Outdoor Enthusiast: For those who spend considerable time in the backcountry, the Ruger M77 Hawkeye Predator's robust construction and weather-resistant features provide peace of mind, knowing your equipment can withstand the elements.
• The Collector Who Appreciates Performance: Combining classic design elements with modern manufacturing precision, this rifle appeals to those who value both aesthetic appeal and practical capability.

Real-World Applications and Scenarios

Consider these common scenarios where the Ruger M77 Hawkeye Predator truly shines:

• Deer Hunting in Diverse Terrain: Imagine tracking a whitetail through a dense forest or spotting a mule deer across an open field. The M77 Hawkeye Predator’s balanced weight (8 lbs), comfortable length of pull (13.5"), and overall length (42") ensure it handles effortlessly, whether shouldered for a quick shot or carried for miles. Its accuracy provides the confidence for precise shot placement at varying distances.
• Predator and Varmint Control: For farmers and ranchers facing persistent coyote or bobcat issues, a reliable and accurate rifle is essential. The .308 Winchester's flat trajectory and the rifle's inherent precision allow for effective long-range shots when necessary, helping to manage wildlife populations responsibly.
• Bench Rest Shooting for Group Consistency: When you’re at the range, seeking to shrink your groups, the two-stage adjustable trigger and rigid laminate stock work in concert to eliminate variables, allowing you to focus purely on your technique and the rifle’s impressive accuracy.
• Backpacking and Wilderness Expeditions: Its stainless steel components and durable laminate stock mean this rifle can endure the scrapes, bumps, and moisture encountered on extended outdoor trips, retaining its functionality and appearance without constant worry.

Why Choose the Ruger M77 Hawkeye Predator?

Choosing a rifle is a significant decision. The Ruger M77 Hawkeye Predator offers compelling reasons to be your next firearm:

• Unwavering Reliability: Ruger's reputation for building "Ruger-Tough" firearms is legendary. This rifle embodies that legacy, built to perform consistently in the most challenging conditions.
• Exceptional Accuracy Out-of-the-Box: The combination of a cold hammer-forged barrel, optimal twist rate, and precision trigger ensures remarkable accuracy without costly aftermarket modifications.
• Durability for a Lifetime: From its stainless steel components to its robust laminate stock, this rifle is designed for longevity and to be an heirloom that can be passed down through generations.
• Versatility: The .308 Winchester chambering, coupled with the rifle's design, makes it equally adept at hunting, target shooting, and recreational plinking.
• Thoughtful Ergonomics: With a 13.5" length of pull and an overall length of 42 inches, the rifle is dimensionally balanced for comfortable handling by a wide range of shooters.
• Investment in Quality: Owning a Ruger firearm means investing in a product backed by decades of innovation, dedicated craftsmanship, and a commitment to customer satisfaction.

Caring for Your Ruger M77 Hawkeye Predator

To ensure your Ruger M77 Hawkeye Predator remains in peak condition and continues to deliver exceptional performance for years, regular maintenance is key.

• Routine Cleaning: After each shooting session, especially when exposed to moisture or dirt, thoroughly clean the bore, action, and exterior. Use appropriate cleaning solvents and lubricants for firearms.
• Corrosion Prevention: While stainless steel resists rust, it's not entirely immune. Apply a thin layer of rust-preventative oil to all metal surfaces, particularly before storing the rifle for extended periods.
• Stock Care: The laminate stock is highly durable, but a light wipe-down with a clean cloth will help maintain its finish. Avoid harsh chemicals that could damage the laminate.
• Trigger and Action Maintenance: Keep the trigger mechanism and bolt free of debris. A light application of gun oil on moving parts will ensure smooth operation.

Optimizing Your Experience: Accessories and Ammunition

To truly unlock the full potential of your Ruger M77 Hawkeye Predator, consider pairing it with high-quality accessories and the right ammunition.

• Optics: Given the integral scope mounts, choosing a high-quality riflescope is critical. For hunting, a variable power scope (e.g., 3-9x40mm or 4-12x40mm) offers versatility. For long-range precision, consider scopes with higher magnification and advanced reticles.
• Ammunition Selection: Experiment with various .308 Winchester ammunition types to find what your rifle prefers. For hunting, look for bullets designed for terminal performance on game (e.g., bonded bullets, expanding tips). For target shooting, match-grade ammunition will yield the best accuracy.
• Sling: A comfortable, durable sling is essential for carrying the rifle in the field.
• Case: Protect your investment with a quality rifle case for transport and storage.

The Ruger M77 Hawkeye Predator represents a pinnacle of bolt-action rifle design, offering a compelling blend of traditional aesthetics and cutting-edge performance. It's a rifle built not just to perform, but to excel, offering confidence to every shot. When you're ready to acquire a rifle that defines reliability, precision, and enduring quality, the Ruger M77 Hawkeye Predator is an exceptional choice, readily available through trusted sources like DEGuns.

Ruger M77 Hawkeye Predator Specifications

Feature	Detail
Model	Ruger M77 Hawkeye Predator
SKU	47123
UPC	736676471232
Action	Bolt Action
Caliber	.308 Winchester
Rounds	4
Barrel Length	22"
Barrel Type	Cold Hammer Forged
Barrel Material	Stainless Steel
Barrel Contour	Medium
Twist Rate	1:10" with 6 Grooves
Bolt	One Piece Stainless Steel
Scope Mounts	Integral Ruger Pattern
Trigger	Two Stage Adjustable
Safety	Three Position
Magazine	Hinged Floorplate
Stock	Green Mountain Laminate
Sling Swivel Studs	Included
Finish	Matte Stainless
Length of Pull	13.5"
Overall Length	42"
Weight	8 lbs