I think both rifles are fine choices. I have the Ruger because: I like Ruger's overall design very much - the bolt safety, the floor plate, the controlled feed (but you can load directly into the chamber), and the scope ring system. I love the appearance with the full length stock. I installed a Timney trigger in mine, as Rugers do have a heavier pull than I like. I don't feel that they are anywhere near as bad as some exaggerate them to be, but I like the Timney anyway. A lot of guys find them relatively easy to touch up without replacing them. Ruger M77's started out with some barrel issues many years ago, but the Ruger barrels nowadays IMO shoot with anything and are somewhat underrated. Lots of people have concerns about the full length stock and it's effects on accuracy. I have always felt that those were valid concerns because wood can get snaky as the moisture and temp change. I look at that two ways - one, my RSI and a friend of mine who has the same, are both great shooters - right at MOA (hornady fatctory ammo). Never had any issues with POI change. Ruger has been very good with customer service and I believe if there was a problem they would stand behind it. I have a few Mannlicher style stocked rifles and I have never had problems, but that possibility does exist with wood unless floated or bedded. I have returned traditionally stocked rifles (not Rugers or full stocks BTW) to the factory with "wild stocks" and they were replaced. Really, the only issue I have with my RSI is that I tend not to take it hunting much because I am too finicky about dinging up such a nice looking rifle. I gravitated to the stainless synthetic side for my "tools". But, I really do like my RSI. Fine rifle.
That said, I have always thought the Model 7 was a nice compact rifle as well. I just prefer Ruger's design characteristics and the appearance of the RSI..
