A Glance at the Ruger Red Label’s Past
The Ruger Red Label shotgun, a name synonymous with American ingenuity and enduring quality, has long held a special place in the hearts of sportsmen and firearms enthusiasts. Its distinctive design, known for its robust construction and reliable performance, has made it a highly sought-after piece, not only for its functionality in the field but also for its collectibility. If you own a Ruger Red Label, or are considering acquiring one, understanding the significance of its serial number is paramount. This seemingly simple sequence of characters holds a wealth of information, unlocking details about the shotgun’s origins and contributing to its overall value. This guide delves into the intricacies of Ruger Red Label serial numbers, empowering you to decipher the secrets held within.
Before diving into the specifics of serial numbers, a brief overview of the Red Label’s history is in order. Conceived by Sturm, Ruger & Co., this over-and-under shotgun first graced the market in the late nineteen seventies. Its introduction marked a significant step for Ruger, a company initially known for its semi-automatic handguns and rifles. The Red Label quickly gained recognition for its American-made craftsmanship, a stark contrast to the imported shotguns that dominated the market at the time. Ruger’s innovative approach incorporated several distinct design elements, including a sturdy receiver, a reliable ejector system, and a wood stock and fore-end that were as functional as they were aesthetically pleasing.
Over the years, the Red Label saw various iterations and upgrades. Different gauges, from the common twelve-gauge to the less frequently seen twenty-gauge and twenty-eight-gauge, were offered, catering to a wide range of hunting and sporting applications. The Red Label’s versatility and reputation for durability solidified its position in the world of shotguns. Its production, though interrupted at times, spanned several decades, leaving a legacy of quality and precision that continues to resonate with firearm enthusiasts.
Finding the Identifier: Serial Number Location
The first step in unlocking the information encoded within your Ruger Red Label is, of course, locating the serial number. It’s typically found on the receiver of the shotgun, often engraved or stamped in a clear and legible manner. Specifically, you’ll usually find it on the underside of the receiver, near the hinge pins, or sometimes on the inside of the receiver when the action is opened. Ensure you have good lighting and carefully examine the area to avoid any confusion. If you are struggling to find it, consulting the owner’s manual or an online resource is always a good idea. Note any variations in the location may be attributed to changes in production methods over the years. Precise accuracy in noting the serial number is absolutely crucial.
Unraveling the Ruger System: What the Numbers Tell Us
Ruger’s serial numbering system, while relatively straightforward, provides valuable clues to a shotgun’s history. The company has used a consistent approach over the years, making it easier to trace the approximate year of manufacture. The key to understanding this system lies in the initial numbers or prefixes of the serial number. These numbers hold the secret to the shotgun’s production timeline. The numbers weren’t always consistent, but for the most part, they follow a predictable pattern.
For example, a Red Label shotgun with a serial number beginning with, say, “11” suggests it was likely manufactured in the nineteen seventies. Other variations exist, and it’s often essential to consult specific resources to pinpoint the precise year. The subsequent digits and any possible suffixes, though less informative than the prefix, could indicate specific production runs, manufacturing locations, or minor design revisions.
Understanding the manufacturing dates encoded within the serial number is not simply a matter of idle curiosity; it can inform the value, originality and the overall history of the shotgun.
Production Years and Prefixes: Putting it all Together
While individual serial numbers can’t provide an exact manufacturing date, they can help you narrow down the timeframe. To further clarify this information, here is a reference chart detailing common prefixes and the corresponding production years:
- Prefixes beginning with “11”: These Red Labels were often manufactured in the nineteen seventies.
- Prefixes beginning with “12”: Generally point to production in the nineteen seventies.
- Prefixes beginning with “13”: Indicate manufacturing in the nineteen seventies.
- Prefixes beginning with “40”: Commonly associated with production in the nineteen eighties.
- Prefixes beginning with “41”: Typically indicates the nineteen eighties.
- Prefixes beginning with “42”: Production during the nineteen eighties.
- Prefixes beginning with “43”: Manufacturing runs during the nineteen eighties.
- Prefixes beginning with “44”: These guns were often built in the nineteen eighties.
- Prefixes beginning with “45”: Indicates production in the nineteen eighties.
- Prefixes beginning with “46”: These Red Labels were commonly manufactured in the late nineteen eighties or early nineteen nineties.
- Prefixes beginning with “47”: Represent production from the late nineteen eighties or early nineteen nineties.
- Prefixes beginning with “48”: Can indicate manufacturing in the early nineteen nineties.
- Prefixes beginning with “49”: Often found on Red Labels produced in the early nineteen nineties.
**(Note: This is not an exhaustive list, and variations may exist. It is always advisable to consult additional resources for more specific information about your shotgun.)**
It is important to emphasize that this guide provides a general overview. Minor shifts in production schedules and the evolution of manufacturing techniques mean there might be some discrepancies between the prefix and the exact production year. Furthermore, certain manufacturing locations may have employed different systems, so detailed research is vital.
Using Serial Numbers for Verification and Appraisal
Understanding the significance of the **Ruger Red Label serial numbers** extends beyond simply knowing the approximate age of your shotgun. It provides crucial data for assessing its value and confirming its authenticity. For collectors, the year of manufacture can significantly impact the price of a specific model. Certain years or configurations are more desirable and command higher prices.
The serial number can also be used to check if your shotgun has been reported as stolen. Law enforcement agencies and the National Firearms Act (NFA) registry use serial numbers to track firearms.
When considering purchasing a used Ruger Red Label, the serial number is an essential component of due diligence. By researching the serial number, you can verify the gun’s history, check for any potential issues, and ensure its provenance. Comparing the serial number with known production dates can help detect any possible alterations or modifications that might affect its authenticity and value. Several sources for this type of valuation and appraisal exist.
Navigating Potential Roadblocks
While researching **Ruger Red Label serial numbers** is usually a straightforward process, certain challenges can arise. Not all records are perfect. Older firearms may have incomplete or missing documentation. Variations in record keeping, even within a single manufacturer, are possible. Furthermore, the lack of detailed documentation can make it challenging to precisely determine the original configuration of a specific shotgun.
Another possible problem is the existence of altered or potentially fake serial numbers. It is essential to exercise due diligence when examining the serial number. Carefully inspect the engraving or stamping to ensure it appears original and undisturbed. Any inconsistencies should raise suspicion.
In instances where you encounter any of these challenges, seeking expert advice is recommended. A qualified gunsmith or appraiser can help you decipher the serial number, evaluate the shotgun’s condition, and determine its authenticity. Don’t hesitate to consult with professionals who are familiar with the history of Ruger firearms.
Essential Resources and Further Research
Several resources are available to assist you in your quest to understand your **Ruger Red Label serial numbers**. The Ruger company itself is a primary source, and while they don’t always provide public serial number lookup services, the manufacturer’s website offers a wealth of information, including historical details and product specifications.
Gun value guides, both print and online, often contain tables and charts that cross-reference serial numbers with production years. These resources can provide valuable insights into the age and potential value of your shotgun. Online forums and communities dedicated to firearms, and Ruger in particular, can provide a platform for seeking advice and connecting with fellow enthusiasts. You can share your serial number and ask for assistance with interpretation. Libraries and bookstores offer books dedicated to the history and production of firearms. These publications often contain valuable information on the Ruger Red Label.
By exploring these resources, you can further refine your understanding of your shotgun and unlock its history.
Wrapping it Up: The Importance of Knowing
In conclusion, the serial number of your **Ruger Red Label** is more than just a string of characters; it’s a key that unlocks a wealth of information about your firearm. By understanding the Ruger serial numbering system, you can determine the approximate year of manufacture, assess the authenticity of your shotgun, and potentially estimate its value. Whether you are a seasoned collector, a dedicated hunter, or simply an admirer of fine craftsmanship, the knowledge gained from researching serial numbers will enhance your appreciation for this classic American shotgun.
A Note for Owners
Take the time to carefully document your **Ruger Red Label serial number**, along with any other relevant details about the gun (e.g., gauge, barrel length, stock finish). This information can be invaluable if you need to prove ownership or make an insurance claim.
