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Ruger 77/44 Review: Best .44 Magnum Bolt-Action Rifle for Hunting Deer and Hog in 2025
The Ruger 77/44® bolt-action rifle, chambered in the powerful .44 Remington Magnum, has earned a loyal following among hunters and sport shooters for its compact design, hard-hitting performance, and rugged reliability. In 2025, Ruger introduces two new camo variants — Desolve Bare Reduced Camo and Kryptek Obskura Nox — giving this classic brush gun a modern edge.
Whether you’re stalking whitetail in thick woods or tracking hogs through swampy terrain, the 77/44® delivers the punch and precision needed for short-range success.
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New Camo Configurations: Desolve Bare & Kryptek Obskura Nox
Ruger’s latest models offer enhanced concealment and corrosion resistance:
• Model 7426• Desolve Bare Reduced Camo Synthetic Stock
• Brushed Stainless Finish
• MSRP: $1,279 USD
• Ideal for snowy, open terrain and wet conditions
• Model 7427• Kryptek Obskura Nox Camo Synthetic Stock
• Blued Alloy Steel Finish
• MSRP: $1,249 USD
• Designed for dense woodland and low-light environments
These finishes not only improve stealth but also extend the rifle’s durability in harsh field conditions.
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Technical Specifications and Features
• Caliber: .44 Remington Magnum
• Barrel Length: 16.6 inches (cold hammer-forged, threaded)
• Overall Length: 36 inches
• Weight: ~5.5 lbs (unloaded)
• Magazine: 4-round rotary magazine
• Safety: Three-position manual safety
• Bolt: Stainless steel, 90-degree throw
• Sights: Gold bead front, adjustable rear
• Scope Mounts: Integral mounts with included rings
• Threading: 5/8x24 TPI — suppressor-ready
The rifle’s compact dimensions and lightweight build make it ideal for maneuvering through thick brush or climbing into tree stands.
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Ballistics and Effective Range
The .44 Remington Magnum cartridge is known for its stopping power at short distances:
• Energy: ~1,800 ft-lbs with 240-grain bullets
• Effective Range:• Up to 100 yards for big game
• Up to 150 yards with premium ammo and optics
• Trajectory: Flat enough for short-range precision, but drops quickly beyond 150 yards
While not designed for long-range shooting, the 77/44® excels in close-quarters hunting scenarios.
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Hunting Applications: What Game Is It Built For?
The Ruger 77/44® is a favorite among hunters targeting:
• Whitetail deer
• Wild hogs
• Black bear (within ethical range)
• Elk (with premium loads and precise shot placement)
Its quick handling and powerful cartridge make it ideal for brush hunting, ATV-based hunts, and ambush-style setups.
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Accessories, Suppressor Compatibility, and Scope Mounts
• Suppressors: Factory-threaded barrel (5/8x24 TPI) supports most .44-cal suppressors
• Optics: Integral scope mounts and included rings support red dots, LPVOs, and traditional scopes
• Sling Swivel Studs: Pre-installed for easy carry
• Aftermarket Support: Limited but growing — includes custom stocks, trigger kits, and extended magazines
The rifle’s modularity is modest, but its factory setup is well-equipped for most hunting needs.
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Pricing and Model Comparison (Text Format)
Model 7426
• Stock: Desolve Bare Reduced Camo Synthetic
• Metal Finish: Brushed Stainless
• MSRP: $1,279 USD
Model 7427
• Stock: Kryptek Obskura Nox Camo Synthetic
• Metal Finish: Blued Alloy Steel
• MSRP: $1,249 USD
Model 7428
• Stock: American Walnut
• Metal Finish: Blued Steel
• MSRP: $1,239 USD
Prices may vary by region and retailer. All models include scope rings and rotary magazines.
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Pros and Cons Based on User Reviews
Pros:
• Lightweight and easy to maneuver
• Powerful cartridge for short-range hunting
• Suppressor-ready barrel
• Reliable rotary magazine
• Excellent build quality and finish options
Cons:
• Limited effective range beyond 150 yards
• Small magazine capacity (4 rounds)
• Noticeable recoil with full-power loads
• Less aftermarket customization than AR-style platforms
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Why Shooters Choose the Ruger 77/44®
Hunters and shooters choose the 77/44® for its:
• Brush-ready design
• Hard-hitting .44 Magnum chambering
• Suppressor compatibility
• Low-maintenance stainless or blued finishes
• Trusted Ruger reliability
It’s a rifle that blends traditional bolt-action simplicity with modern tactical features, making it a rare and versatile tool in the field.
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Final Verdict: Is the Ruger 77/44® Worth It in 2025?
If you’re looking for a compact, powerful, and dependable bolt-action rifle for short-range hunting, the Ruger 77/44® is one of the best options available. With its updated camo finishes, suppressor-ready barrel, and proven performance, it’s built for hunters who demand mobility, stealth, and stopping power.
Whether you’re chasing deer through thick timber or dropping hogs in open fields, the Ruger 77/44® delivers — shot after shot.
10 Classic Hunting Rifles Every Hunter Should Own (Part 2)
4. Ruger No. 1
Single-shot hunting rifles aren’t what most of us have in mind when we think of the classics, but the Ruger No. 1 is one that has stood the test of time. It was introduced in 1967 and is a hammerless falling-block single shot that styled after the British Farquharson rifles and was offered in a plethora of chamberings and developed a cult-like following.
In an article introducing the Ruger M/77 in the September 1968 issue of OL, O’Connor says the following regarding the still-new Ruger No. 1: “The production of a single-shot big-game rifle was a bold gamble on Ruger’s part. I am sure that 9 out of 10 market consultants would have said that the demand for single-shot rifles for centerfire cartridges had gone out with the mustache cup and the Stanley Steamer. In spite of all this and also in spite of the fact that Ruger gets a premium price for the No. 1 single shot, his (Bill Ruger) only problem has been to produce the rifles fast enough.”
5. Marlin 336
Another classic deer rifle that everyone should at least be familiar with is the Marlin 336. The Marlin 336 was introduced in 1948 and produced until recently. It’s one of the most popular lever-action deer rifles and commonly chambered in .30/30 and .35 Remington.
The style of deer hunting has changed in many ways over the decades, but there’s still a place for the quick-pointing, hard-hitting, close-range woods rifle that the 336 is. From an availability perspective, it would make sense to get one in .30/30—and that combination has accounted for untold amounts of game—but in a perfect world, I’d have one in .35 Remington.
The future of the Marlin 336 is uncertain, but after seeing what Ruger’s ownership of Marlin has done for the Model 1895 in .45/70, if they resume production of the 336, they will likely be the best made to date.
6. Ruger 10/22
The 10/22 is likely the single most successful .22 LR design ever made. It’s a recoil-operated semi-automatic action chambered in .22 LR that’s still in full-production today. The basic 10/22 carbine has the nifty feel of a .30 caliber M1 carbine and utilizes a 10-round rotary magazine.
With its long-term popularity and simplicity, the 10/22 has become one of the most versatile and customizable .22’s ever—if not the most. Ruger has offered takedown models, but the market is also ripe with aftermarket parts and accessories. Extended magazines, stocks, integrally suppressed barrels, triggers, and more are available.
Although the 10/22 is nearly 60 years old, it’s just as relevant today as it ever was. The 10/22 is simple, fun, and a joy to shoot.
7. Remington Nylon 66
Aside from the Ruger 10/22, the Remington Nylon 66 is often regarded as one of the best production semi-auto .22 LR rifles ever made—at least if you’re asking a member of its cult following. The unique, almost toy-looking rifle was a fairly radical development—and one of the first to use a synthetic (nylon) stock.
This semi-automatic rifle was fed from a magazine tube that was loaded through the back of the stock and was known for its reliability with many different types of ammo. In fact, part of the incorporation of these synthetic parts into the design was to eliminate the need for lubrication.
Ruger Company History and Popular Hunting Rifles
The Complete History of Sturm, Ruger & Co. from Founding to Present.
📜 Founding Years: 1949–1951
The story of Ruger begins in 1949, when William B. Ruger, a self-taught firearms designer, partnered with Alexander McCormick Sturm to create Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. in Southport, Connecticut. With just $50,000 in startup capital, they launched their first product: the Ruger Standard, a .22 caliber semi-automatic pistol inspired by the German Luger and Colt Woodsman. It was a commercial success and laid the foundation for the company’s future.
Sturm passed away in 1951, but Ruger kept his name in the company title out of respect. From that point forward, Ruger became the driving force behind the brand’s expansion and innovation.
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⛓️💥 Expansion into Rifles and Revolvers: 1953–1970
• 1953: Ruger released the Single-Six, a single-action revolver chambered in .22 LR, designed for sport shooting and small game hunting.
• 1960: The company entered the rifle market with the Ruger .44 Magnum Carbine, a semi-auto hunting rifle that gained popularity among deer hunters.
• 1964: Ruger opened its own foundry, Pine Tree Castings, allowing full control over investment casting — a process that would become central to its manufacturing efficiency.
• 1969: Sturm, Ruger went public, listing on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE: RGR). This move provided capital for expansion and positioned Ruger as a serious player in the firearms industry.
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🧱 Dominance in the Rimfire Market: 1970s–1990s
• 1976: Ruger launched the Ruger 10/22, a semi-automatic .22 LR rifle that became one of the most popular rimfire rifles in the world. Known for its reliability, affordability, and massive aftermarket support, the 10/22 remains a staple among hunters, sport shooters, and survivalists.
• 1979: The company celebrated its 30th anniversary with the production of its one-millionth “New Model” single-action revolver.
• 1982: Ruger reached another milestone with the one-millionth Security-Six, a double-action revolver used by law enforcement and civilians alike.
• 1985: Ruger expanded its casting capabilities by acquiring American Metals and Alloys, Inc., adding aluminum casting to its portfolio.
During this era, Ruger became known for producing affordable, durable firearms using advanced casting techniques, which allowed for lower production costs without sacrificing quality.
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🧠 Innovation and Diversification: 1990s–2000s
• 1990: Ruger began trading on the NYSE, reinforcing its position as a publicly accountable manufacturer.
• 1991–2000: The company introduced several new platforms:• Ruger M77 bolt-action rifle, popular among big-game hunters.
• Mini-14 and Mini-30 semi-automatic rifles, chambered in .223 Rem and 7.62x39mm respectively — widely used for ranch defense, varmint control, and tactical applications.
• Ruger Red Label over-and-under shotgun, aimed at upland bird hunters and clay shooters.
Ruger’s catalog now included bolt-action rifles, semi-automatic rifles, revolvers, pistols, and shotguns, making it one of the most diversified American gunmakers.
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📈 Modernization and Tactical Shift: 2007–2015
• 2007: Ruger introduced the SR9, a striker-fired pistol designed for the concealed carry and law enforcement market.
• 2009: The Ruger LCP (.380 ACP) became a hit in the concealed carry segment.
• 2012: Ruger launched the Ruger American Rifle, a budget-friendly bolt-action rifle with sub-MOA accuracy, praised by hunters for its performance and affordability.
• 2015: The Ruger Precision Rifle (RPR) entered the long-range shooting market, offering modularity and match-grade accuracy at a fraction of the cost of custom rifles.
These years marked Ruger’s transition from traditional hunting arms to modern tactical platforms, without abandoning its core hunting and sporting audience.
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🏭 Manufacturing and Facilities
Ruger operates multiple production facilities across the U.S.:
• Southport, Connecticut – Corporate headquarters
• Newport, New Hampshire – Major manufacturing and casting operations
• Prescott, Arizona – Focused on handgun production
• Mayodan, North Carolina – Expanded rifle and shotgun production
This geographic spread allows Ruger to maintain high output while adapting to regional labor and logistics advantages.
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🔍 Acquisition of Marlin Firearms: 2020–Present
In 2020, Ruger acquired Marlin Firearms from Remington Outdoor Company during bankruptcy proceedings. This strategic move allowed Ruger to enter the lever-action rifle market, a segment dominated by Marlin for decades.
Ruger committed to preserving Marlin’s legacy while improving quality control and production efficiency. The first Ruger-made Marlin rifles began shipping in late 2021, with positive reception from hunters and collectors.
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🧮 Ruger Today: Market Position and Product Range
As of 2022, Ruger is the largest firearm manufacturer in the United States, surpassing even Smith & Wesson in total production. Its catalog includes:
• Bolt-action rifles: Ruger American, Hawkeye, M77
• Semi-auto rifles: 10/22, Mini-14, Precision Rifle
• Shotguns: Red Label (discontinued), tactical pump models
• Revolvers: GP100, SP101, Super Blackhawk
• Pistols: LCP, LC9, SR series, Max-9, Security-9
• Lever-actions: Marlin 1895, 336, 1894 (under Ruger ownership)
Ruger continues to serve hunters, sport shooters, law enforcement, and collectors, offering firearms across nearly every category except AR-style rifles, which it avoids for strategic and branding reasons.
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🧠 Why Ruger Stands Out
• Investment casting expertise: Lower cost, high durability
• American manufacturing: All Ruger firearms are made in the U.S.
• Broad product range: From rimfire plinkers to precision rifles
• Aftermarket support: Especially strong for 10/22 and Mark IV platforms
• Collector appeal: Early models, rare variants, and commemorative editions hold strong value
