Ruger single six - Old Model, Flatgate

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Gmony.308

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I have an old model flatgate single six in the 31XXX serial number that is prior to the 1956 start point. it is in better than 95% with Ruger black eagle stag grips and a pair of walnut grips. it has fixed sights a 5 1/2" barrel and is blued. I also have a holster and belt for it as well as other odds and ends. I inherited it from my best friend in 2001, and have only shot 1 cylinder through it. I'm not sure if he ever shot it (he never did that I knew of). It has never been modified according to Ruger and is totally unmolested.

I'd like to get some insights about it's potential value, collectability and anything else of valuable interest.

I may post a couple photos later, but not at this point.
 
I'd say its worth $600 to $800 given its condition. They are sought after. The stag grips are also valuable themself, $200 or more I'd say. Sounds like a nice package. I had one that I sold to a friend which was converted. I sold it for $300, but what are friends for, it was 95% or so itself.
 
If they are factory stags they're worth a lot more than that. I don't believe a flatgate Single Six is worth quite that much without its original box.
 
Lots of stags have the factory emblems and lots of fakes have been attempted over the years. It's difficult to prove it either way but the way the medallions are attached is usually a telltale sign. Flatgates do carry a premium but I don't think it would be $600-$800. That is, without the grips.
 
Here's a couple detail pics of the single six. I pulled the grips off to inspect them I'm pretty sure they are and factory and that they are not plastic. They logos match up perfectly and the backside indicates actual antler and cutting scores.
 

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Gmony.308 said:
I have an old model flatgate single six in the 31XXX serial number that is prior to the 1956 start point.

I pulled the grips off to inspect them I'm pretty sure they are and factory and that they are not plastic. They logos match up perfectly and the backside indicates actual antler and cutting scores.
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Er, while SN31xxx certainly dates to 1956, the Single-Six was first introduced in 1953.


FWIW, That's not how genuine Ruger factory stags are ID'd.

They are ID'd by examining the inside surfaces for certain factory markings, and the exact location (measurements) of the medallion from the top & front edges (which are documented).


.
 
Yes, the question is not whether or not they are real, it's whether or not they are factory stags. I would suggest posting some detailed pics at RugerForum.com, including the inside of the grips, in the collectibles section.

Looks like the gun is in really good condition though. You have a real prize, whether the grips are factory or not.
 
Thanks for the insights on the grips I will follow up on the Ruger forum about them and try to authenticate if their in fact factory.

As for the serial number the 1956 issue guns begin at 319XX and my gun falls into one of the 1955 guns without question. the SN is 31XXX, but well before the numbers of the 1956 guns.

PS I've had two different collectible gun dealers assure me that the grips alone would bring $250-$300.
 
Yep, ever since India stopped exporting it, real Sambar stag (not elk antler) is easily worth $250-$300 all by itself. As noted, factory stags are worth a lot more.
 
FWIW, from the horse's mouth (Ruger), 1956 started @ SN 31857
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I am well aware of the 1956 initial production serial number it's not a secret.

The gun is a 1955 production gun! Please let it go.

I would never consider "Trading" this gun into a dealer. there's not a dealer on earth that would pay the collector value or appraised value for a weapon.
 
You'll get screwed nearly every time selling to a dealer. If you do decide to part with it, online auctions are your best bet. Although I must say, if the stag grips prove to be aftermarket, you're better off selling them separately. Somebody might REALLY want your flatgate but not want to pay full price for the stags.
 
I inherited the revolver along with a Winchester model 75 bolt action from my best friend several years ago. After shooting it once I've stored it in my safe and only recently took interest in its value because I was thinking about shooting it again. Thankfully, I'll refrain from putting more ammo through it, and keep it as the momento it is.

edit: interestingly both guns are third year production models
Ruger Single Six -circa 1955
Winchester model 75 - circa 1940
 
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You're obviously free to do whatever you wish with your own property and no one will judge you for putting it away. I would shoot it, a lot. I would shoot it, carry it and hunt with it. I'd do everything with it my friend no longer could. Stored in a box somewhere it's just property. Carried, shot and enjoyed, making countless trips to the range, the woods and fields it becomes something of real value. Something to ponder......;)
 
:D Newfrontier, I hear ya!

I shoot the snot out of the Winchester as di my friend. One of my favorite activities is head shooting squirrels at 50yard from sitting position with it. It just amazes me how accurate it is everytime! It's the closest I'll ever get to hanging in the wood with my bud.

The Ruger on the other hand I like to tinker with and mostly admire. It just warms my soul.
 
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