Why this change on the Service Six

[Legion37]

So these are two Police Service Six s a 1980 and 83 why did Ruger scallops? The frame from the full frame behind the cylinder? If it was weight reduction it doesn't seem significant, although having carried a weapon all day for many years, both on duty and off, I understand weight issues. Was this the only reason?

Thanks in advance

 

[Yaworski]

Weight and cost. Mo' metal is mo' money.

 

[Hawk-in-Wi]

seems to me that it would cost more to machine the metal out than it would to leave it rounded

 

[trapperon]

Not sure of the "why" but I think the scallop looks better as it matches the other side of the frame with the cylinder release button which is scalloped.
Ron

 

[hittman]

O

Thread 'Scalloped v/s non-scalloped Security Six'

Oct 19, 2022

I am considering Security Six, 6", stainless. I do have now S&W 686-3, 6", nice revolver, but I don't like its weight; almost 45 oz, IMO too much for 357 Magnum revolver. That is about 10 oz more than Security Six.

I found that Security Six comes in two versions, with scalloped shield (left) and non-scalloped one (right)

I looked on internet and found in one post that top strap thickness on scalloped revolver is .250", and on non-scalloped one is .200". Is this correct? Also, is any other significant difference between Security Six with scalloped shield and non-scalloped...

• Onty
• Replies: 21
• Forum: Ruger Single Action & Double Action Revolvers

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[contender]

Legion37,, I don't think I've ever seen a real explanation as to "why" there is a scalloped & non-scalloped version.
And as for the "cost" idea,, doubtful,, since Ruger casts the frames.

Maybe trying to shave weight for the whiners saying the gun was too heavy? (Think LEO's who carried but don't shoot.)

 

[hittman]

Post in thread 'Lookie what I picked up Security Six'

Oct 19, 2022

It was noted as "Big Grip" on the box, but the "T" in the catalog number GS-36T is the proof that designates it as having the Target grips. The $10 letter will include the catalog number.

The rubber grips with the Ruger medallions are indeed Pachmayr, made under contract to Ruger. A factory shipped gun with the rubber grips would have a "P" instead of the "T" in the catalog number.

Stainless Security Six catalog numbers started with "GA" and blue ones with "RDA". The "36" means .357 Mag, and 6" barrel.

• weaselmeatgravy

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[s4s4u]

I recall a post in a thread a few years ago where someone mentioned that the top strap thickness was increased and to maintain weight the material was removed from the recoil shield.

I also recall someone saying that it was done to match the look of the newly released Redhawk.

Done for weight reduction and aesthetics, I expect.

 

[gunzo]

I never heard, or don't remember if there was a reason, but the scallop appeared about the same time, or just after the barrels got heavier.
I only have my own thought that they changed the balance point of the gun for the good. Added more weight to the front & removed just a smidge off the rear. I like it.

 

[Terry T]

On the Speed Six and Service Six revolvers, there is NO weight change or difference. The "extra" material went into the top strap. I first noticed this when looking at the sight picture between the two versions. The scalloped framed version has a deeper sight channel. Great for these old eyes.
This was about the time that S&W was having problems with the 1890s designed "K" frame guns shooting full power 357 magnums. Eventually, S&W developed the "L" frame to address the issue. Then Ruger followed with the GP series.

 

[Yaworski]

seems to me that it would cost more to machine the metal out than it would to leave it rounded

Aren't Ruger frames investment cast? If so, you have to polish either one.

 

[Hawk-in-Wi]

Yes , I was thinking if it needed to be machined , but I believe you're right on the casting

 

[Timbo23]

What I heard, way back in the day, was that it was to give the Security Six line a family resemblance to the Redhawk, which had a scalloped recoil shield.
I don't know if this is true or not.

 

[GasGuzzler]

I think the answer is obvious. The top strap was bolstered so to keep the weight close they added the scallop.

 

[pisgah]

seems to me that it would cost more to machine the metal out than it would to leave it rounded

It was cast. Most of that "removal" isn't there to be removed...

 

[sceva]

They both look good but I prefer the older rounded recoil shield

 

[hittman]

I think all the USPS guns came later with the scallop