Description
The Ruger M77 Hawkeye Varmint Target Rifle in 6.5 Creedmoor with a 28-inch heavy barrel is a purpose-built, long-range precision rifle designed for competitive target shooting and serious varmint control. It combines Ruger’s proven M77 controlled-round feed action with a heavy-contour barrel and target-style stock to deliver consistent, sub-MOA accuracy right out of the box.
I’ve put a few hundred rounds of factory match ammo through this platform, and here’s what makes it stand out for the precision-minded shooter.
- Controlled-Round Feed M77 Action: The heart of the system. The claw extractor and fixed blade ejector provide reliable feeding and positive extraction, a feature borrowed from classic hunting rifles but tuned for precision work.
- 28-Inch Heavy Barrel: This is where the magic happens. The long, cold hammer-forged barrel maximizes velocity for the 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge and provides a stiff, stable platform for repeatable shots. The weight up front also tames recoil significantly.
- Target/Varmint Stock: It’s a full, beavertail fore-end and a straight-comb design meant for use with a scope. The checkering is functional, and the flat bottom helps with bag and bipod stability. It’s a no-frills, all-business stock.
- Adjustable Trigger: The LC6 trigger is user-adjustable down to about 3.5 pounds. It’s crisp, with minimal creep, and is a huge step up from a standard hunting trigger for precision work.
- Integral Scope Mount Bases: The receiver is drilled, tapped, and includes Ruger’s integral scope mounting bases. This means you can mount rings directly—I’ve used both Ruger rings and quality aftermarket options from brands like Warne—without dealing with separate bases. No gunsmithing required.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | 6.5 Creedmoor |
| Barrel Length | 28″ Heavy Contour |
| Overall Length | Approx. 48.5″ |
| Weight | Approx. 9.5 lbs |
| Magazine Capacity | 4+1 Rounds |
| Action Type | Bolt Action, Controlled Round Feed |
Look, this rifle isn’t for everyone. At nearly 50 inches long and weighing in around 9.5 pounds without optics, it’s a bench or prone rifle. You’re not carrying this through the woods on a whitetail hunt. It’s built for one thing: putting rounds through the same hole from a stable position. The 4-round detachable magazine is practical for range use, and the overall fit and finish are exactly what you’d expect from Ruger—robust and functional.
Who It’s For: This rifle is for the shooter who has graduated from a standard sporter-weight rifle and wants a dedicated, out-of-the-box accurate platform for target shooting, F-Class style competition, or long-range varminting where you’re setting up for the day. It’s also a fantastic foundation for someone wanting to learn the fundamentals of long-range shooting without the complexity of a custom build.
Pros & Cons
Pros: The accuracy potential is excellent for a factory rifle. The heavy barrel soaks up heat and reduces mirage during long strings of fire. The integral bases are a huge convenience. The controlled-feed action is supremely reliable. The 6.5 Creedmoor chambering is ideal for its intended role, offering low recoil and superb ballistic performance.
Cons: It’s heavy and long—this is by design, but it’s not a hunting rifle. The stock, while functional, is a basic laminate; serious competitors often bed the action or swap it. At a price point of $931.91, you’re investing in a tool, not a showpiece.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Is this rifle ready to shoot, or do I need to buy bases and rings?
A: It’s nearly ready. The receiver has integral bases, so you only need to purchase scope rings that fit the Ruger dovetail system. Many brands make them, including Ruger, Warne, and Leupold. Once you screw those on and mount your scope, you’re good to go—no gunsmithing required.
Q: What kind of accuracy can I expect?
A: With quality match-grade ammunition, sub-MOA (under 1 inch at 100 yards) groups are a reasonable expectation. Many users, myself included, find that with careful load development or the right factory ammo, it will consistently shoot in the 0.75 MOA range or better. The 28-inch barrel helps stabilize that 6.5 Creedmoor bullet beautifully.
Q: Can this rifle be used for hunting?
A: Technically, yes—the 6.5 Creedmoor is an excellent medium-game cartridge. Practically, I wouldn’t recommend it for a typical stalk hunt. The 9.5+ lb weight and 48.5-inch length make it cumbersome to carry. It’s perfect for stationary hunting over a prairie dog town or from a fixed blind where ultimate precision is the goal.
If you’re looking for a serious, no-compromise rifle to reach out and touch targets with confidence, the Ruger M77 Hawkeye Varmint Target is a compelling choice. It’s available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide, with an FFL transfer required for firearm purchases. See the full details on our site.
Reviews
There are no reviews yet.