Ruger RSM .375 H&H (2005)

[DaleGribble82]

Recently aquired this Ruger RSM in a Gunbroker auction from Green Top Sporting Goods in Virgina. It is chambered in the historic .375 H&H Magnum, that many of you seem to love. I began looking for one of these after doing some exstensive research on factory production rifles chambered in .375 calibers. Based on what I was looking for and the positive feedback these rifles seem to receive I began purusing one on the somewhat volatile RSM market. The example below appeared to be unfired upon my inspection. It is in immaculate shape and was well cared for since leaving Ruger. I doubt it has seen much if any sunlight over the last 20+ years. Inside the box was still the lock, scope rings, and sling swivels.

I plan to add some Alaska Arms scope rings as well as an LPVO, likely an EoTech Vudu 1-6x24mm FFP with the SR1 reticle. I'm not stuck on that optic, I am looking at other options as well. It just seems to fit my needs for this rifle. The fit and finish is incredible and the wood is outstanding (I am not a wood stock guy). The main complaint about the rifle seems to be the weight, I can say without hesitation it is not light. Aside from that though, I can't really think of anything negative about it. I think the added weight will really tame the recoil and help with getting back on target after the initial shot. I havne't decided on a factory load to try yet, I've been looking at what can be found and the Buffalo Bore X Barnes TSX 270gr seems like a great choice as well as the Nosler 260gr Accubonds.

I really agree with the sentiment that this is a whole lot of gun for the money. My initial thought when diving into the .375 calibers was to have Alamo Precision build me one but after reading so many positive things about this rifle I decided to go the production route. I am not planning to have this stock bedded. I have noticed some of the .416 Rigby and .458 Lott stocks have cracked over time on this rifle. Has anyone had one crack in .375?

I normally hunt with a 7PRC followed by a .300WM both suppressed. I'm looking forward to trying something new. I do plan to take this rifle to Africa when I go on my first safari (whenever that happens). What are your thoughts and experiences RSM owners? What optic setups and ammunition are you using, both factory and handloads? Who has taken some game with an RSM in any of the available calibers. Would love to see some pictures in action and hear some feedback.

 

[Schüler Jumbo]

I hold the Ruger M77 RSM in high regard and applaud Ruger’s commitment to the sporting world with a beautiful, affordable, rifle. The integral quarter rib, barrel band, and front sight band are spectacular and extremely expensive to have that barrel built with the limited shops capable of machining one. The RSM is MOA and the stock design shoots fantastic off sticks. You made a great decision. My RSM has taken buff, croc, and large plains game. The RSM was very expensive for Ruger to build and unfortunately discontinued. Would love to see it back again.

 

['68boy]

This is a terrible rifle!!! How much will you sell it for ??

 

['68boy]

Have gotten several Haha responses. I always like to make the gang chuckle. It is a gorgeous rifle and if it was offered I’d probably bite!

 

[Arcticgrayling]

I purchased such a rifle around 1992. I can't tell you how many times I have shot it, probably something approaching 2,000. No issues with cracks. Everything has held together very well.
Yes, the weight helps tame recoil. I commonly fire around 25 rounds at each range session and while in my early sixties I don't have an issue with recoil. In Africa I carry it on a sling over my shoulder.
It has taken four Cape Buffalo and three elephant (one tuskless and two bulls).
I have a buff and bull ele hunt planned for next year and that will be the rifle.
I have hunted using both a scope (Leupold 1.5-5x) and red-dot. I think my preference is the red-dot.
For solids, I shoot the Hornady 300 gr DGS loaded over Sta-Ball 6.5 propellant.

It is a fine rifle.

 

[Schüler Jumbo]

I purchased such a rifle around 1992. I can't tell you how many times I have shot it, probably something approaching 2,000. No issues with cracks. Everything has held together very well.
Yes, the weight helps tame recoil. I commonly fire around 25 rounds at each range session and while in my early sixties I don't have an issue with recoil. In Africa I carry it on a sling over my shoulder.
It has taken four Cape Buffalo and three elephant (one tuskless and two bulls).
I have a buff and bull ele hunt planned for next year and that will be the rifle.
I have hunted using both a scope (Leupold 1.5-5x) and red-dot. I think my preference is the red-dot.
For solids, I shoot the Hornady 300 gr DGS loaded over Sta-Ball 6.5 propellant.

It is a fine rifle.

Did you have to send your RSM to a gunsmith to get it to perform the way you describe or did it perform right out of the factory box?

 

[Rafiki]

When was talked into getting a 375 H&H, something I did not want, I looked at several manufactures but decided on a RSM built in 2006. Of the several choices I chose the RSM, I chose wisely as you did. Bill Ruger put his heart and sole into this rifle and it shows. Oh yeah, there are well known issues with the design but when you look beyond those you realize what a gem the rifle is.

I bought mine in 2023 and spend a year and considerable cash to make my gem into something remarkable; I like to think that Bill Ruger would approve. When finished I took it to Tanzania for buffalo; one shot, open sights, 104 yards, DRT.

Enjoy your rifle, you did good.

 

[Schüler Jumbo]

Oh yeah, there are well known issues with the design but when you look beyond those you realize what a gem the rifle is.

Hi @Rafiki, please advise what the design issues are. I’ve been shooting mine for over 20 years and I honestly am not aware of the well known issues? Agreed Bill poured his heart and soul into the RSM.

 

[DaleGribble82]

Hi @Rafiki, please advise what the design issues are. I’ve been shooting mine for over 20 years and I honestly am not aware of the well known issues? Agreed Bill poured his heart and soul into the RSM.

Would also love to hear of any issues or upgrades done.

 

[Rafiki]

Would also love to hear of any issues or upgrades done.

Look at my thread "Ruger Safari Magnum Project".

 

[Schüler Jumbo]

Okay. Thank you @Rafiki. I read your thread.

 

[Rafiki]

Hi @Rafiki, please advise what the design issues are. I’ve been shooting mine for over 20 years and I honestly am not aware of the well known issues? Agreed Bill poured his heart and soul into the RSM.

Some of this is subjective, in fact all of it is subjective but ...

1. Most people think it is too heavy for a 375. Apparently Ruger used the same barrel for each of the 3 calibers that made up the RSM lineup.

2. The rifle is out of balance, muzzle heavy. See #1.

3. The wood is great but the stock is a club.

3. 2 piece bottom metal.

4. The recoil system is almost comical.

5. Single cross-bolt.

 

[etsonaut]

I literally bumbled into and bought an RSM in 416 Rigby today from @dirtroadhound while looking at another rifle. It is beautiful but has been hunted and has the bumps and bruises to show for it. The figuring on the stock is gorgeous. One unique feature on this particular rifle is that the barrel has been fluted in sections while not touching the swivel band or the front sight band, It actually feels quite balanced. I'm sure there may be a recoil tax for the weight loss. It also has a period appropriate Leupold 4x24 (maybe 20). After shooting it, I will decide whether to doll it up and upgrade the optic or to enjoy it in the vintage condition.

 

[algreffe]

Recently aquired this Ruger RSM in a Gunbroker auction from Green Top Sporting Goods in Virgina. It is chambered in the historic .375 H&H Magnum, that many of you seem to love. I began looking for one of these after doing some exstensive research on factory production rifles chambered in .375 calibers. Based on what I was looking for and the positive feedback these rifles seem to receive I began purusing one on the somewhat volatile RSM market. The example below appeared to be unfired upon my inspection. It is in immaculate shape and was well cared for since leaving Ruger. I doubt it has seen much if any sunlight over the last 20+ years. Inside the box was still the lock, scope rings, and sling swivels.

I plan to add some Alaska Arms scope rings as well as an LPVO, likely an EoTech Vudu 1-6x24mm FFP with the SR1 reticle. I'm not stuck on that optic, I am looking at other options as well. It just seems to fit my needs for this rifle. The fit and finish is incredible and the wood is outstanding (I am not a wood stock guy). The main complaint about the rifle seems to be the weight, I can say without hesitation it is not light. Aside from that though, I can't really think of anything negative about it. I think the added weight will really tame the recoil and help with getting back on target after the initial shot. I havne't decided on a factory load to try yet, I've been looking at what can be found and the Buffalo Bore X Barnes TSX 270gr seems like a great choice as well as the Nosler 260gr Accubonds.

I really agree with the sentiment that this is a whole lot of gun for the money. My initial thought when diving into the .375 calibers was to have Alamo Precision build me one but after reading so many positive things about this rifle I decided to go the production route. I am not planning to have this stock bedded. I have noticed some of the .416 Rigby and .458 Lott stocks have cracked over time on this rifle. Has anyone had one crack in .375?

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I normally hunt with a 7PRC followed by a .300WM both suppressed. I'm looking forward to trying something new. I do plan to take this rifle to Africa when I go on my first safari (whenever that happens). What are your thoughts and experiences RSM owners? What optic setups and ammunition are you using, both factory and handloads? Who has taken some game with an RSM in any of the available calibers. Would love to see some pictures in action and hear some feedback.
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about the stocks cracking it's way more common on the bigger bores like the .458 lott because of the crazy recoil. the .375 is usually much safer but just keep an eye on the screws and make sure they are tight. beautiful rifle for a first safari for sure.

 

[Ryan]

Congrats, sounds and looks like a fine rifle for your needs. My last PH had that rifle in 416 Rigby and certainly liked it.

Weight in this caliber is a positive thing to a point. You'll appreciate it when you start pulling the trigger and that will lead into a good shot when you need it. My Ruger Hawkeye African in 375 Ruger with an aftermarket laminate stock, scope and sling weighs right at 10 pounds and shoots very well. Better than one of my 30-06 in a light for caliber set-up.

 

[UpNorthMI]

I purchased this model in 1997, I have probably shot about 200 rounds through it, it was very accurate straight out of the box. I've used bullets from 200-300 grains all shot well, I hunted it for a few whitetail deer with light bullets. It's one of my favorite rifles, unfortunately it will never go to Africa as I have numerous other rifles that are easier to travel with or dare I say it, better suited. I spent 25 years thinking about taking it to Africa until a Blaser R8 came along in .375 H7H and now .416 RM.

Enjoy your recently acquired rifle, it will stay one of my favorites and lives in one of my safes with many other Ruger rifles.

 

[cgcrook1]

I bought mine new in 2006 chambered in the .416 Rigby. Added a Limber Saver recoil pad and had a gun smith work the trigger down to 4 lbs from like 7. Took it to Namibia in 07 and shot a Leopard, Red Hartebeest and Gemsbok with it. Used 400gr Swift A-frame bullets with 95 grains of RL22. Finally going back next June for Cape Buffalo with Ken Moody Safaris 20 years later. Better late than never!