Agreed on the Birch RAR ...but then again the RAR doesn't do anything for me and don't see me owning one. Rebarreling an older 77/22 is just like doing a 10/22. Easy peasy lemon squeezey. Did need to open the barrel channel a bit for the heavier barrel though.
I do have a 77/22 Hornet (VHZ) and with Factory rem/win ammo it sucks!!! Put some Hornady 35gr V-max boolits and she sings ....
see below (left target).