ruger single six serial number lookup old model 1972

A few years later, I think around 1980, Ruger engineers figured out a way to retrofit the transfer bar mechanism into old model revolvers by means of a factory-installed safety conversion kit. The New Model solved the issue of accidental discharge from an inadvertent blow to to the hammer, which was possible with the original 'old model' action. In order to fire, the transfer bar must be in a raised position, and the trigger must be pulled for the transfer bar to be in that upper position. The transfer bar acts as an intermediary device that transfers the impact from the hammer to the firing pin, rather than having the hammer come in direct contact with the firing pin. It took a few more years for Ruger engineers to solve the transfer bar problem with the Bearcat, so the New Bearcat did not emerge until 1993. Ruger introduced the New Model line of Single Six, Blackhawk, and Super Blackhawk revolvers that incorporated the transfer bar safety mechanism in 1973. So I think a guide for detecting the conversion kit in online revolver pictures may be helpful. And when those are auction guns that get bid up to collector grade price, I can only imagine that the buyers are disappointed when they receive those guns, only to find the transfer bar safety installed and no original parts present. And in some cases, firearms may be stored for a length of time before they are shipped.įor details on your specific serial number you may contact our Service Department: 33įor serial numbers manufactured prior to our electronic records, or for an official letter confirming the details on your firearm please download and mail in the Request for Letter of Authenticity form.Ĭopyright © 2016 by Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.Sometimes I see guns advertised that I can tell are converted, but the ad doesn't mention that fact. Also, within a model family the same serial number prefix may be used to produce a variety of different models, all in the same block of serial numbers. There are occasions when blocks of serial numbers have been manufactured out of sequence, sometimes years later. Ruger does not necessarily produce firearms in serial number order.

It can be used to determine the approximate year your Ruger firearm was It is not necessarily the very first serial number shipped, but This number should be used as a point of reference The above chart shows the approximate first serial number shipped for *Blued Old Army Serial Numbers rollmarked with Stainless Old Army Revolvers beginning in 1982

Ruger single six serial number lookup old model 1972