Red pad vs others?

[cabinroe]

I've noticed several references to "red pad" guns in your forum. What's the significance of this term?

 

[wwb]

It's an indication of age.... early M77 rifles and Red Label shotguns had a rusty red colored recoil pad (calling it a "recoil" pad is being polite). Eventually, they were changed to a black pad.... late 90's maybe?

Edit.... I think the early No. 1 rifles also had red, and later black pads.

 

[pete44ru]

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Many folks, who've experienced both early/late Rugers, prefer the features & workmanship of the older (red pad) guns.

AFAIK, the red pads were made for Ruger by Mershon (now part of Pachmayr).

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[cabinroe]

Appreciate the information, and your time.