Stainless production question

Hi, Just need to know when ruger first started making s.s. semi auto 22 lr ? I know the single actions were about 1975, so how long bsfore the mark 2s were offered. Thanks Ken

At the very end of the Standard Auto run, they made the 1 of 5000 model. 1982.

WAYNO said:

At the very end of the Standard Auto run, they made the 1 of 5000 model. 1982.

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This is true. The first 5,000 stainless .22 autos were a run to test viability of making the auto pistol in stainless. These pistols were the original pattern without bolt stop. The frame starts with stampings for a right & left half, which are welded and the seams ground flush. To stamp sheet stainless steel is not the same as stamping carbon steel. Stainless resists uniform bending. According to Bill Ruger, a lot of work went into making that pilot run. The stainless was put on hold. Bill Ruger, Jr., said they decided to commemorate his father with the 5,000 stainless Standard Autos and the receiver was roll marked with Bill, Sr.'s signature. Meanwhile, the MK II was released, incorporating a bolt stop and 10-shot magazine with improved feed lips.

The stainless idea came back to life as a MK II as Ruger sorted out production.
David Bradshaw