Not as slender as other Hawkeye rifles, the Alaskan nonetheless shoulders quickly. Its Hogue stock fits the metal well and is durable and weatherproof.

The three-position wing safety operated easily. While it is not as quick to release from the fully "on" position as that of a Winchester Model 70, I do appreciate the Ruger's snag-proof profile with the thumb-piece tight into the striker. When anticipating a shot, I carry the rifle with the safety at its middle detent, which blocks the striker but allows bolt manipulation.

The floorplate latch was appropriately snug and required some effort to open. On rifles of heavy recoil, I want a latch that's reluctant to dump cartridges.

In sum, Ruger's new Alaskan is well suited to hunting in thick, wet, difficult places. It is sturdy, well balanced, and heavy enough to hold easily offhand and absorb the .375 Ruger's substantial recoil. It wears useful sights, shoots accurately, functions without error and handles better than it looks.

For big, dangerous animals at modest ranges, where weather and abuse test the mettle of and endurance of hunting rifles, it's a good choice. No--it's an excellent choice. You certainly won't find a better one for $1,139.