Ruger M77 1st-Generation Tang Safety Standard Rifle in .270 Win., 22-Inch Barrel, Blued/Walnut, 1976 Production
This first-generation Ruger M77 tang safety rifle was manufactured in 1976—the U.S. Bicentennial year—and pairs a 22-inch blued chromoly barrel with a gloss-finished walnut stock. Collectors value these early rifles for their tang-mounted two-position safety, integral Ruger scope-ring dovetails, and Mauser-style full-length claw extractor combined with push-feed operation. Chambered in the versatile .270 Winchester, this example retains its original red Ruger recoil pad and checkered furniture, giving buyers a classic hunting rifle with desirable period features.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Excellent – Clean, mirror finish, no signs of wear; rifling presents with sharp lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The walnut stock shows scattered scuffs and handling marks. The left side of the action bears engraved numbers from a previous owner.
What’s Included
- Ruger M77 1st-Generation Tang Safety rifle in .270 Win.
Introduced in 1968, the M77 quickly earned a reputation for reliability, and early tang safety models like this one remain sought after. The two-position safety is intuitive and allows silent operation from the shooting position.
This rifle’s serial number prefix 72 places production firmly in 1976, adding collectible appeal for enthusiasts interested in Bicentennial-year firearms.
The 22-inch chromoly steel barrel is paired with Ruger’s proprietary integral dovetails, allowing direct attachment of Ruger rings without external bases—an elegant, rock-solid mounting system.
The walnut stock features cut point-pattern checkering for a secure grip, sling-swivel studs for field carry, and Ruger’s classic red recoil pad with the company’s eagle logo.
Internally, the claw extractor ensures positive primary extraction, while the push-feed bolt face delivers smooth chambering. Combined with the bright, sharp bore, this mechanism supports dependable accuracy from a proven .270 Win. platform.