MKII 10in barrel question. Always tapered?

Purchased a Ruger MKII with 10in barrel mfg in 2000. I noticed that the bull barrel has a slight taper. I owned one maybe 20yrs ago and traded it because after some time at the range, I couldn't hold it up anymore. I didn't notice a taper on that one. Did Ruger begin tapering those barrels slightly at some point in the production? Thanks, Bob
**I posted in the wrong category. Should be in rimfires. Sorry**

As far as I know they were always tapered. Technically they are a tapered target barrel, not a full bull barrel.

I've got a blue beauty I purchased new in 1984.
Yes it tapers, from around .870 at the receiver to .750 at the muzzle, just quick rough numbers.

Thanks everyone, Bob