Rarity of a Ruger Single Six 22LR

6

64Rugerman

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I have an old model Ruger Single Six with a serial number of 5XX. I was wondering how rare these guns were with that low of a serial number. According to the Ruger website they only made 50 the first year so I am guessing this was made at the start of the second years production run.
 
Probably

It's very possible that it is more collectable than current models. You will have to do some homework, like is it a Flat-Top, the loading gate and a three screw. Hopefully, it has not had the transfer bar conversion. ..... :)

Be Safe !!!
 
I have never been big on the idea that a low serial number alone (OK, maybe number 1) commands any huge premium. Sure, number 123 is unique, but so is number 123456 or 2345678. To those (like me) who study design, a low serial number may mean an early gun and subsequent changes, if any, will be of interest. But the low number alone doesn't mean much to me.

Jim
 
It has not had the conversion, has the 3 screws and has the flat-top loading gate. I do not plan on selling the gun but was just wondering if it is special or just another trusted old friend.
 
This is from the book "Ruger Pistols and Revolvers; The Vintage Years 1949-1973" by John Dougan.
Quote "In many ways the first 2000 or so flatgates are the most collector significant of production Ruger single action revolvers. They are distinct and set apart."
Your gun should have a flat breech face, smooth front sight and frame legend without a hyphen (SingleSix instead of Single-Six).
After that point the frame has a recessed breech face and a few other changes. This required revised drawings, revised or modified molds and some tool modifications. These changes alone set the first 2000 guns aside as a distinct variation in Ruger single action revolvers.
Your gun was made in 1954 and certainly has collector value. Condition and accessories will add to the value.
Ruger Single Six revolvers are not considered "Flat Tops". That name is only used for the .357 and .44 magnum Blackhawks.
 
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