what to look for in a M77? (515 bucks) vs Marlin XS7 for 450

[ruggedruger]

I've been looking to buy my first rifle (for deer). Been planning on picking up a Marlin XS7 in .308. I see one used nearby I might get, but then I noticed a Ruger M77 in 30-06. I believe it has a tang safety. It comes with a Redfield Frontier 4x scope (looks older).

I can get the XS7 for about 450 and the M77 for maybe 515.

Maybe that's a no-brainer once you put the prices side by side.

I'd love to hear some opinions?

 

[96/44]

Nothing wrong with the Marlins, but they were designed to be a low cost option. The 77 will be a much nicer gun, but no more functional.

 

[tas6691]

I would take a Ruger 77, especially a tang safety, over a new Marlin all day everyday. The 77 is, IMO, more gun for the money, and the scope will do just fine until you get a different one. But you might find the 4X is all you need

 

[bnewberry]

The tang safety would get me for sure. I love them!

 

[patrickjames]

You would be getting more for your money with the Ruger but the Marlin X rifles is some of the most accurate rifles I have ever shot.

 

[Hunter6657]

Price is high on the Marlin. I think they sell new for 379. They originally sold new for 299 and less.

 

[ruggedruger]

Price is high on the Marlin. I think they sell new for 379. They originally sold new for 299 and less.

Yeah, but this one came with a scope and the Boyd's walnut stock, (with the original black stock included too).

 

[Hunter6657]

Might be a good deal then if it has a new stock and a decent scope.
The Marlins are great rifles with adjustable triggers. i have one in 30-06.
Then again I like the Ruger rifles better vs. the economy brands.
You might want to look at one of the Ruger American rifles also.
I would have bought the Ruger American rifle but I was able to trade a Ruger 10/22 rifle for the Marlin XL7 even up, so I only have $214 in the Marlin.

 

[308longdistance]

Definitely look at the Ruger American in .308.

 

[Mobuck]

The Marlin seems way over priced. While they MAY be decent rifles, the Marlin has very little retained value vs. the Ruger which has very high retained value. Personally, I wouldn't buy either a Marlin or Mossberg BA centerfire rifle except as a throwaway beater.

 

[mike-c]

No contest, get the Ruger 77, and do not look back.

Mike 8)

 

[Del J]

I have owned a few rifles for deer hunting. My favorite for sure is a M77 in 30-06 tang safety.

Del J

 

[4MUL8R]

Ensure any Marlin you find is marked with a true Marlin proof stamp on the barrel to minimize potential quality issues. This would be a JM on the left side, not a REP on the right.

 

[41 Magnum]

Just bought another X7 in .243, for $329.00 & change, out the door.