I got to thinking that I spend way too much time on the nuance of ballistic gack and reloading and really just need to add something to the stable that makes so much sense it is sinful to not use it as my go-to rifle ALL the time. Since I hunt in the east, I figure this set up gets it done with a minimum of fuss from coyotes to white tails to black bear:
Out of the box Ruger M77 chambered in .308 Winchester
Leupold 4X scope
Uncle Mike's Mountain Sling
Factory Federal 165 grain Barnes Triple-Shock X
Can anyone think of anything more effective and reliable, for less money out the door?
Sounds like a great set-up, but I'm an unabashed fan of Ruger bolts and levers.
I'd run a 3-9x and a TTSX. I like stretchy slings, much easier on the shoulder at the end of a long day of carry. Get one with a good non-slip surface.
And I wouldn't be afraid of saving some coin by buying used. BTDT several times and very happy with all.
As to getting something more reliable/rugged, I like the boat paddle stocks. $85 at Numrich last time I got one. Also picked up a used one for $50 delivered. Other than that, no other rifle I know of will beat the Ruger for rugged and reliable.
