Ruger rsm 416 rigby

[mitch4570]

Hi I have just booked my first African safari with Ken Moody. I get a good feeling about how Ken runs his camp.
Anyway I purchased my Ruger 77 rsm in 416, and man I really like this rifle. Ruger really got it right. The only things I would have done different would be maybe jewel the bolt. Also the recoil pad could be better for a 416 Rigby.
The thing shoots too. I can hit a 3/4 inch dot at 50 yards off sand bags.
Anyway what are your thoughts on the Ruger RSM and Ken Moody?

 

[Rem280]

I recommend replacing that stupid ass red recoil pad.

 

[Chad Arnette]

Fantastic gun.

 

[PARA45]

I have one, and mine came with a black hard as rock recoil pad, which I'm about to replace. Mine is also 416 Rigby and I'm taking it to South Africa this Jun.

 

[Rellik]

I had one back in the 90s and it was a fabulous rifle. but I was young and any safari dreams were put on hold by life, family and a free spending spouse, and I came to believe I would never get the chance to use it for what it was intended, so I sold it. Of all of the rifles I have bought and sold over the years, I regret selling my Ruger 416 RSM the most. I topped it with a simple 4X Leupold and it would consistently group Barnes 350gr X bullets in nice cloverleafs. I agree that it could have used a better recoil pad but everything else about that rifle was perfect in my opinion. I still have brass, bullets and dies and someday I hope to replace it with another. Enjoy it. You have a winner.

 

[PARA45]

I need to update this picture; this is when I bought it. Here is mine.

 

[Jack Stevens]

I recommend replacing that stupid ass red recoil pad.

First thing I'd do is have my rifle 'smith remove the factory pad and fit a same-size Kick-Ezze (so LOP isn't changed).

I would also zero the irons for the same load you intend to shoot with a scope, if you run one. Fortunately, you can get different height aftermarket front sight blades that will the RSM for elevation purposes, and I believe that someone even makes a fiber-optic unit as well.

 

[USMA84DAB]

Get off the bench!

 

[mitch4570]

Thanks for your replies! Para45 you got some pretty nice wood on your rifle.
Usma84dab I agree! I shot off bags just to sight in. It does kick but if you don't lean into it not to bad.
I have purchased the shooting sticks my PH uses so I can practice with them before my buffalo hunt.
Really digging this rifle.

 

[deewayne2003]

I recommend replacing that stupid ass red recoil pad.

Agreed - Limb Saver makes a magnum pad that is perfect.

 

[ftrovato]

Love mine and it serves me very well!

 

[BGHNTR416]

The Ruger RSM's are fantastic rifles. I have heard people criticize the bolt handle shape and maybe the earlier ones with the swivel stud in the stock. For me, the recoil of the 375 is very polite but I found the 416 to be rather unpleasant, especially after getting tagged by the scope. I committed the ultimate sin and had a break installed some 25 plus years ago. And I have the damaged hearing to prove it as well as the rifle still in the safe. It will likely be a long time before I have a use for the Rigby again but I am looking forward to that day.