For wood, check out Luxus Walnut. Talk to Clay and tell him Trez sent you over.

http://www.luxusgunstock.com/

Most of the wood I stock guns with are in the $1500-$2500 range, but he also has a great selection in the price range you are looking for. As for a Ruger, there is nothing wrong with them in my book. Good guns. I don't see many come through the shop but my favorite rifle as a kid was a ruger 77 that my dad bought for me. Loved shooting that gun.

Trez Hensley-ACGG