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Best Rifle for Deer Hunting: Experts Offer Advice

By    |   Monday, 06 April 2015 04:38 PM EDT

If you’re looking for the best rifle for deer hunting, there is no single consensus from the experts the perfect gun. But one name that continually surfaces in conversations about firearms for hunting is the Ruger M77 series.

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1. In 2013, the Ruger was voted "Best Hunting Rifle" in Field & Stream magazine.
 Reviewer David E. Petzal wrote: “Here is a dangerous/heavy-game rifle with everything done right. It’s a short-barreled (20 inches), all-stainless, laminated-stock bolt action with the controlled feed of the Model 77. Features include an excellent rubber recoil pad, an adjustable length of pull, first-rate iron sights, and an effective muzzle brake.”

2. According to Guns.com's review, “Ruger has had a certain approach to gun design throughout its history which shines through in the Model 77. What Ruger has always been very good at is taking a classic design and unabashedly updating and improving it.”

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3. Keith Wood of AmericanHunter.org ranked the M77 as fifth on his list of top 10 deer hunting rifles. “Deer rifles don’t have to be big to be effective and if you’re climbing in and out of vehicles and tree stands, a full-size rifle can be an albatross,” wrote Wood. “A six pound .243 or 7 mm-08 would be just about perfect for the majority of whitetail hunting in the East, and would be a treat to carry up the mountains out West.”

4.  Independent expert and reviewer Chuck Hawks also lists the M77 on his website as his top 10 deer hunting rifles, particularly the Ruger International Model 77RSI.

“This trim and deadly Mannlicher-stocked beauty is one of the finest bolt action woods and mountain rifles ever made in the USA. With its 18" barrel, trim classic style walnut stock, controlled feed, integral scope base and 38.25" overall length (in short action calibers), the M77RSI is one trim, fast handling, hunting rifle,” wrote Hawks.

5. Ultimately when choosing a deer rifle it’s important to consider what caliber you are most comfortable with and your shooting experience. Other factors that should be taken into account when making a purchase include ammunition availability and price, according to Tips For Hunting online.

This article does not constitute legal advice. Check the current gun laws before purchasing or traveling with a firearm.

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FastFeatures
If you’re looking for the best rifle for deer hunting, there is no single consensus from the experts the perfect gun. But one name that continually surfaces in conversations about firearms for hunting is the Ruger M77 series.
rifle, guns, gun buying
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2015-38-06
Monday, 06 April 2015 04:38 PM
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