Ruger M77 Mark II . 223 Rem to .22BR

[draluisio]

I have a Ruger M77 MarkII Target Grey .223 Rem and wonders whether it is possible to change the cal. of .223 Rem to .22BR, using the same action.
Thank's

 

[fdshuster]

You would have to change the bolt face diameter also: from .378" to .473".

 

[draluisio]

It is very difficult for the gunsmith to do this?

Thanks

 

[fdshuster]

draluisio: Better talk to a qualified 'smith on the bolt face question, but I see a problem/disappointment in the future if you are expecting the sub moa group sizes that are common, and expected of the fine 22BR, mine is a 1-12 Shilen, .251" neck). Ruger does not have a history of accuracy with the mdl. 77, mainly because of the angle of the recoil lug: impossible to properly bed,, or so I've been told by several experienced 'smiths).

 

[draluisio]

I can make 1 / 4 MOA at 100 meters using Berger 52gr FB, Lapua Brass, CBC 102 powder, and 0.8 inches at 200 meters.
Will lose accuracy with the 22BR?
Thanks

 

[fdshuster]

draluisio: If you're getting those results with a 223, I don't know why you would want to convert to a 22BR. Personally, I would use and enjoy the Ruger "as-is", with the idea of a "built" 22BR sometime in the future. Now, you've got me wondering: I recently ran across a Ruger mdl.77, MK 2, in a factory chambered 22ppc,,discontinued in 1996), I'm already set-up to load the ppc, it's available from an estate sale--have to give it some thought. Are the Rugers' better than I've been led to believe?

 

[draluisio]

Here in Brazil we need a permit from the Army to carry weapons. But the weapons are of .223 caliber with exclusive use of the army and for that size do not give them permission. So I would like to change the size to carry the rifle without having problems. As the .22 BR is very accurate, I thought that would be ideal.