I have a 77/22 hornet. Same action as the rimfires, just a bit longer.
It has two locking lugs (three, actually). This makes it a very strong action - overbuilt for rimfire stuff, actually. In theory, having two symmetrical lugs instead of the one traditionally found on a rimfire adds accuracy, though in practice, only one of the lugs will actually bear. Still, accuracy is fine enough to hit gophers at 200 yards and in which is about all you can expect from a Hornet anyway, so benchrest it is not but adequate it is. The factory triggers suck so much ass it's unbelievable, and they're not adjustable. The factory rings are classy, but require much honing to properly mount a scope. In general, it's Ruger all around. Old-word craftsmanship with all its charm AND rough 'character' spots. The action is a bit rough, the parts are 'eyeball' machined, and the bedding system is just odd. Accuracy isn't great - a Savage Mark 2 should be able to out perform it easily - but, it's serviceable, and I find the ruger a bit more 'civilized' and charming than the usual mass-produced machine-made flawless (and characterless) stuff out there.
Oh, and if you find the brno's heavy, then you probably won't like the 77. It's a man-sized 22, and a side effect of the sturdiness is weight. It feels like a full sized hunting rifle, and weighs pretty much the same. Mine's got a laminate stock and a 'heavy' barrel (which isn't that heavy, probably .600 at the muzzle - noticeably smaller than my (lighter) Savage mk2 heavy barrel 22)
If you have a line on a cheap one and decide NOT to go for it, hook a brother up. If the price really IS good, I'll snap it up.
. I was glad. I have access to a 77/22 cheap & don't know what to expect. My Brunos are to heavy & the 10-22 is not suitable. thanks to those that have some exp. whith them.
AJ
