Waveform

Recently purchased a NIB M77 Hawkeye Alaskan in 375 Ruger that is new/old stock. Only noticeable difference from new model I can see is the upper sling swivel is located on the forend instead of the barrel band. Ruger admits that was a minor issue on the early Alaskan/African with the swivel sometimes biting a finger due to the recoil of of the 375 & 416 Ruger so the barrel band was implemented. I asked Ruger if I shipped them the rifle could they remove the forend swivel and install a barrel band swivel and I was surprised to hear that this "was not a service that they offered."

Anybody have any experience with this? Is this something a gunsmith could do? Would want a barrel band swivel that matched the matte stainless finish for a "factory look". Or should I just be happy with it the way it is?

bwinters

Recoil on a 375 or heavier class rifle can cause the front sling swivel to hurt your hand. I have a cz 550 that had a front sling swivel on the stoc and had a local rifle smith put on a barrel band sling swivel. I do not care about a slight difference but you might.

Waveform

I was thinking about contacting Ruger again to see if they would sell me the barrel band sling swivel by itself and have it put on locally. I don't know how Ruger installs these or if that's possible at this point (?)

NorwegianHunter

I had that done when I changed barrel on an old no 1. I`m sure your local gunsmith will help you. Think Midway has barrel bands for sale, believe my gunsmith had them in stock.

Waveform

Glad to hear it can be done. Will check locally and see what my options are. Thanks!