Question on early new model single six

[sergeant206]

I have just agreed to purchase over the phone a new model single six stainless 5 1/2" made in 1974 s/n 62-7XXXX. It has both cylinders (both fluted) according to the LGS that has it and the pictures provided. I asked if one was a magnum cylinder and was told yes. My question is did they make them with both cylinders fluted and if so when? The barrel has no warning and the Ruger info is on top of the barrel just forward of the frame. Any info appreciated, Thanks

 

[Hondo44]

The early New Models both blue and stainless had fluted Mag cylinders. The non-fluted Mag cylinders started for the New Models c. 1975 for the Blue guns and c. 1976-1977 for the Stainless Steel guns.

The elimination of the firing pin groove in the 22 LR cylinder roughly coincides with the introduction of the non fluted Mag cylinders but there are transition guns with both old model cylinders or an old type LR cyl. with the new non-fluted type Mag cylinder.

The blue guns switched to the new type cylinders around 64-15000 to 64-17xxx c. 1975 or so before the 1976 Liberty marking and the stainless guns switched about 64-70000 c.1977, after the Liberty marked guns.

 

[street]

The blue guns switched to the new type cylinders around 64-15000 to 64-17xxx c. 1975 or so before the 1976 Liberty marking and the stainless guns switched about 64-70000 c.1977, after the Liberty marked guns.

One thing to note! The Stainless Steel Guns changed sometime in 1976. So you will have 200yr Stainless Steel guns with both fluted and non-fluted magnum cylinders.

 

[Kevin]

I have the same single six in a 6 1/2 inch model. Both cylinders are fluted. I can't tell you the serial number off the top of my head but it was made around the same year as yours. No warning on the barrel and Sturm Ruger; Southport Conn. On the barrel.

 

[sergeant206]

Thank you guys for the wealth of knowledge. I will post pics when he ships it to me. Happy Thanksgiving to all.