Bearcat Basepin Latch?

[mike7mm08]

Picked up a bearcat recently. First year production, unconverted. Shot it worked great. Took it out of the case to wipe down and put in the safe. Basepin latch hit the floor. Got the spring and the screw put am missing the nut. It appears to be the same as every other latch. But I got nothing that age to compare it to. So what do I need to replace the nut? Thanks.

 

[Ale-8(1)]

Might try calling Ruger.

 

[Hondo44]

Call Ruger (336) 949-5200. They'll send you new parts free up to about $20. They may ask you for your serial # so have it handy.

 

[chet15]

The earliest Bearcats shipped had a "capped" base pin latch nut. Overtightening would bust the tiny threaded end off.
But almost from the beginning, Ruger went to the drilled through type latch nut, which I believe is the same as the other blue latch nuts.
Chet15

 

[mike7mm08]

I found a couple used ones online. Claim they are from original early bearcat. Will see if they work. I am worried Ruger might not send me a new one. They will probable ask for serial number. If gun comes back as unconverted might not send parts.

 

[Hondo44]

They will send the parts! They will only want to convert it if you send the gun in for repairs! Give them the serial # if they ask, or a number close to yours. It doesn't matter.