Belt Auction

Thoughts on the Ruger 77 in .44 Mag?

http://www.auctionzip.com/cgi-bin/auctionview.cgi?lid=1247315&kwd=guns&zip=19508&category=0 Going to an auction this weekend, and this one caught my eye. Never had a need for a hunting rifle, but thinking a .44 Mag rifle would go nice with my pistol. Is this one worth it? And about what would you pay for a used one? If not, I'm going to try to get another .22. Maybe a pump, don't have one of them yet.

Public Comments

1. For a used one at auction in reasonable good, shooter condition I wouldn't go over $500 if I really wanted the rifle. The fact is though that I would rather have a lever action .44 magnum to match up with a revolver in the same caliber. If you want the gun, I wouldn't bust on you for getting it, but my personal opinion is that a pistol cartridge is just not worthy of a high grade bolt action rifle. I am admittedly a bit of a hypocrite in that opinion though, because I would love to have a light weight bolt action carbine in 7.62x25mm or a Spanish Destroyer Carbine. The 7.62x25 doesn't really rate a rifle of the Ruger's caliber (no pun intended) though, and the Destroyer carbine wouldn't measure up to Ruger's standards either. I have a Remington model 572 pump, and it's one hell of a sweet shooter and a ton of fun for plinking. I would recommend that gun if you are looking for a .22 pump.
2. Yes, well, depending on the cost, if it is banged up or just plain, messed up you might be able to get it at 100-150 easily, if pretty good codition, you coul get it for 250-400, but you can judge if its worth it.
3. An interesting idea, a bolt-gun that matches your handgun round. But let's face it. The 44 Mag rifle would be interesting as a plinker or a trapline gun, but that's about it. Even an old model 94 Winchester in 30-30 will have more power. I wouldn't pay more than $300 for such a gun. In fact, I own about 6 Ruger M77 rifles in varmint and deer calibers and I never paid more than $400 for any of them.
4. It would make a fun shooter. What other reason do you need? I'd like to have one of the new 77/357's, and eventually I will. The beauty of the pistol rounds are that you don't have to beat on your shoulder while you're shooting. And if you already stock .44 Mag. you won't have to stock another round. Price? Depends on condition. They probably go for about $650. to $700. new, real world price. I'd pay $500. for a nice used model, especially if it had a wood stock & bluing.