Ruger M77 guys, a recoil pad question

[STURMRUGERFAN]

Did the M77R's (Tang Safety) ever come with a black plastic but plate in lieu of the red pad or even a black pad?

I saw one for sale like that and asked the seller, but they were clueless to the matter. It kind of looks maybe factory. I just wouldn't think a previous owner would have removed the red pad and replaced it with that. Even if the original pad was damaged, it seems they would have just replaced it with a different aftermarket pad option.

I have a few M77s but haven't run across one like that yet. The caliber of the rifle in question is 7x57

[chet15]

Never on an M77 centerfire.
Chet15