The Ruger 77/17 is a bolt-action rifle chambered in .17 Hornet, intended for small game hunting and target shooting. The cold hammer-forged barrel contributes to long service life and consistent precision, while the Green Mountain Laminate stock holds up well across different weather conditions. 
 

Key Specifications: 

• Brand: Ruger 
• Model: 77/17 
• Caliber: .17 Hornet 
• Barrel Length: 18.5 inches 
• Total Length: 37.75 inches 
• Weight: 7 lbs (8.6 lbs per some sources) 
• Capacity: 6+1 rounds (detachable rotary magazine) 
• Action Type: Bolt Action 
• Sights: None (Drilled & Tapped) 
• Stock Finish: Green Mountain Laminate 
• Receiver Material: Stainless Steel 
• Safety Feature: Three-position safety 
   

Detailed Features: 

The cold hammer-forged barrel is the main accuracy driver here. The detachable rotary magazine makes reloading straightforward. The three-position safety covers the standard fire, safe-with-bolt-operation, and fully locked positions. With no factory sights, the receiver comes drilled and tapped ready for scope rings. 
 

Usage: 

The .17 Hornet's flat trajectory and low recoil make it practical for varmint work and small game. The 7 lb weight is manageable enough for younger or lighter-framed shooters. At 37.75 inches overall it handles well in the field.

Owners of the Ruger 77/17 in .17 Hornet generally speak well of its accuracy and the smooth bolt cycle. The .17 Hornet cartridge gets consistent praise for flat trajectory and minimal recoil. Construction quality comes up often too, with most finding the action reliable over time.

The main recurring complaint is .17 Hornet ammunition availability -- it's a niche round and can be hard to find at local shops. A handful of users have reported occasional feeding or extraction hiccups, and some feel the stock ergonomics are a step behind what aftermarket options can offer.

Talk in owner communities tends to focus on handload development, optics choices, and getting the most out of the caliber for pest control or precision target work. The rifle has a solid reputation for the applications it was designed around, with most criticism being minor and specific.