Extended range variable bore ram packer for a ram type blowout preventer

A variable bore ram packer including a ram body, a top seal and a packer member designed for use in a standard ram-type blowout preventer used in oil and gas drilling operations is disclosed. The packer member is molded of an elastomeric material having a central semi-elliptical opening with a plurality of packer inserts molded within the elastomeric material in a semi-circular pattern around the central semi-elliptical opening of the elastomeric material. The semi-circular pattern of the packer inserts and the semi-elliptical opening of the elastomeric material share a common axis. The packer member and the plurality of packer inserts are molded into a unitary structure allowing the plurality of packer inserts to move and seat against different diameter tubular members to prevent extrusion of the elastomeric material between the packer inserts and the tubular member.