Old Ruger 10/22 value?

[wproct]

Hi, I have a friend who owns a local gunshop and he recently took in an older Ruger 10/22 carbine. The serial number on it is 44xx which I'm guessing makes it close to 1st year of production? The rifle is in very nice condition for it's age. Blueing on the barrel is probably 98%, and the stock has minimal scratches and dings for a rifle that has obviously been used for hunting etc. My question, how much additional value would the rifle have due to it's very low serial number? I just don't have a feel for what kind of collector value the real low serial number 10/22 rifles might have. Any input would be appreciated. Thanks.

 

[radicalrod]

Well it is an early gun but to get much collector attention it would need to be as NIB or better yet NIB.....the 4 or 5 10/22 collectors out there most likely already have one or 10 guns just like it....single, two, and three digit serial numbers command a premium.....4 digit guns maybe will bring a little over market.....condition is everything.......I know I didn't answer you actual question but OK let me make a guess...maybe 50 bucks to the right guy....depends on where you are starting the price....good luck RR.

 

[rugnelli]

There was one very similar to what you describe in a local shop here about 8 months ago. Four digit serial number and 98%+. Very cool rifle. The price was $159. I had a chance to buy it but a guy was trying to decide on getting it for his son. His buddy told him it was a better gun than the new 10/22's on the rack. He himmed and hawed around and put the gun down. I picked it up and saw what it was... I put it down and he came back. I told him it was a great deal and if he didn't buy it, I would. He put it on layaway. Great gun, great price but I would have only bought it to sell and make $$$. I hope his son has fun shooting it for many years...

rugnelli

 

[flatgate]

Aww, what a nice story. I love hearing the tales that end up with a "young" shooter getting a fine example of Ruger's good work.

flatgate