Ruger M77 R Bolt-Action Rifle, .257 Roberts, 22" Douglas Barrel, 1980 Production
This first-generation Ruger M77 R was built in 1980 and pairs the classic M77 tang-safety action with a factory Douglas-supplied, sporter-contour barrel chambered in the comparatively scarce .257 Roberts. Integral scope-ring bases machined into the receiver, a deep blued finish, and Ruger’s walnut stock with red recoil pad and gold grip-cap medallion round out a configuration prized by shooters and collectors alike.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Rifling Condition: Good Rifling – Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Minor scratching, scuffing, and blemishing are visible on the metal surfaces and walnut stock but do not affect function.
What’s Included
- Ruger M77 R bolt-action rifle (.257 Roberts) with integral scope-ring bases
Produced under serial prefix 75-xxxxx, this rifle falls into Ruger’s early M77 run and retains the original two-position tang safety, a feature later dropped in redesigned models. The “R” designation indicates the plain barrel profile without iron sights, giving the rifle a clean, streamlined look perfect for scoped use.
The 22-inch Douglas barrel is cold-hammer-forged from alloy steel and carries a sporter contour that balances well for field carry. Chambering in .257 Roberts adds hunting versatility and collectible appeal, as Ruger offered the cartridge only intermittently and in limited numbers.
The American walnut stock features factory cut checkering, a Monte Carlo cheek-piece, sling swivel studs, and Ruger’s signature red recoil pad. A gold Ruger medallion set into the pistol-grip cap underscores the rifle’s 1980s heritage.
With its Mauser-inspired, controlled-round-feed action, flat-bottom receiver, and integral scope mounts, the original M77 series delivers reliability and ease of optic installation without additional hardware.