OK. Here's my message to danjoe2006:
danjoe2006:
I didn't get your PM, so am PM'ing you on it.
The 510- prefix is what is reserved for the New Vaquero. What has happened is, Ruger accidently rollmarked at least one (and I have a hunch there would be at least a handful of them) stainless .44 Special flattops with a New Vaquero serial number.
The "T" is just Ruger's way of calling the gun a "duplicate" serial number of sorts, although it really isn't a duplicate. I have a hunch the "T" is for "TALO" in this case.
To explain a little further, Ruger is pretty adament about getting the correct serial numbers on their firearms. All of Ruger's model numbers (their SKU numbers) correspond with the catalog number series of a particular model....For example, the NM Super Blackhawk in 1973 began with the 0810 SKU number, and was given an 81- prefix serial number. Today, the Super Blackhawk is up to the SKU number of 0869.
The New Vaquero has the SKU number series of 5100, hence its 510- prefix. The New Model flattops (small frame) have a SKU sequence of 5200...the reason for the 520- prefix they all should have.
Again, Ruger is strict to holding this policy because when a customer calls in to tell them of a complaint, all Ruger needs is the serial number and the factory immediately knows what set of parts that gun needs.
Until a few years ago, I hadn't heard of any wrong model "out-of-sequence" serial numbering. Then a few Model 77 Mark II Magnum Rifles showed up with an M134- prefix serial number (they initially gave them a 134- prefix of the #1 rifle when they should have had 750- prefixes). I suppose the "M" is the abbreviation for "Magnum" rifle.
Then a few H703 prefix 77/22 Hornets showed up. Those should have had the 720- prefix of the Hornet but were incorrectly given a 703 prefix of a .22 or .17 cal 77/22. In this case the "H" is the abbreviation for "Hornet".
Then a few R580- prefix Mini-30's started showing up. Ruger incorrectly gave them a 580- prefix of the .223 model when they should have had a 581- prefix to begin with. I think the "R" stands for "Ranch" in this case.
If you can get that gun, I would definitely do it! Will be a rare "key" to a collection of NM flattops.
Do you know there have already been 10 different models of NM flattops, then start adding all the oddballs like the gun you saw!! This makes the NM flattop series a very intriguing collectible!
I'll have a NM flattop article in the May issue of RENE.
Chet15
