To finish or not to finish? Opinions

[dteed4094]

I recently won a 77 Ruger NIB. The finish is matt at best, looks more like stained and unfinished. Should I put a high gloss finish on it, a matt finnish or just leave it alone, and why do you feel that way. I am rather disappointed with the fit and finish.

[Bama Man]

I recently won a 77 Ruger NIB. The finish is matt at best, looks more like stained and unfinished. Should I put a high gloss finish on it, a matt finnish or just leave it alone, and why do you feel that way. I am rather disappointed with the fit and finish.

The Ruger 77s used a very dull finish on their "standard" models. Not the prettiest, by far, but they are still weather worthy and a "workingman's" rifle.
I'd leave it alone unless I wanted to upgrade to maybe a Boyd's or similar type stock. Ruger does not have the finest fit on the less expensive line of rifles, but they are adequate and usable.
The price is right though, you got a great deal on a good rifle.

[aubie515]

I am no fan of shiny finishes on a rifle. For hunting it's bad and for general purposes I think anything that shines is bad. I would either refinish it yourself or pay a professional.