Ruger Red Label 26” 28 GA 2.75” Over Under Shotgun Straight Hand 1999
SOLD FOR: $2,345.00
LSB#: 241207AA161
Make: Sturm, Ruger & Co.
Model: Red Label, 04265
Serial Number: 420-12701
Year of Manufacture: 1999 (https://ruger.com/dataProcess/serialHistory/)
Caliber: 28 GA, chambered for 2 3/4” Shells
Action Type: Top Lever, Break Action Over/Under Shotgun with Ejectors and mechanical single selective trigger. Auto Reset Safety.
Markings: The top receiver tang is marked with the serial number, “420-12701”. The underside of the receiver is marked “STURM, RUGER & CO., INC. / SOUTHPORT, CONN. / —U.S.A.—”. The left side of the block is marked with “28 GA. 2 3/4” CHAMBERS” and a proof mark. The bottom of the mono block is hand-scribed “2701”. The underside of the forend wood and grip cap are marked with Gold Ruger phoenix medallions. The buttpad is marked with the Ruger phoenix.
Barrel Length: 26” Vent ribbed.
Choke: This shotgun is threaded for Ruger interchangeable chokes, currently installed Modified over Full. Also includes 2 x Skeet chokes, and an Improved Cylinder. 5 chokes total.
Sights/Optics: There is a brass bead fixed to the front of the barrel rib. The top of the rib is serrated to reduce glare.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The furniture is a two-piece wood with checkered straight hand grip, fluted straight comb, and a black plastic buttpad. The forend is a checkered thin standard forend. The LOP measures 14.25” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. Drop at comb is 1.5” and drop at heel is 2.5”. The cast is neutral. The shotgun weighs 5lbs 10 OZ. The forend shows a few minor scattered marks. The stock shows scattered wear from use with marks, lines and small compressions and a small chip missing from the belly near the toe. The plastic buttplate shows wear from use. There are no visible cracks. The stock has very slight play against the receiver that is almost not noticeable. Overall the wood is in Good condition.
Type of Finish: Coin receiver and blued barrels.
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: Both smooth bores are mirror bright and there is no erosion. There is no plastic fouling. There are some minor visible lines from use. In this writer’s opinion the bores both rate 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. The coin finish areas have minor surface lines. The barrel set shows minimal handling wear and the usual rub marks from the forend that are not visible when assembled. The block is beginning to turn plum. The edges of the trigger guard have lost some finish. There is also minor operational wear on the inside of the action. All the markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun is in about Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The lock up is tight with no play. We have not fired this shotgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: This shotgun includes the 5 chokes, three choke containers, Ruger speed wrench, manual, paperwork, and all original packaging.
Our Assessment: The Ruger Red Label in 28 gauge is a finely crafted over-under shotgun that pairs classic design with the elegant handling characteristics suited for a lighter gauge. With 26-inch barrels and threaded for interchangeable chokes, this model provides versatility for various shooting activities, from clay sports to upland hunting. The 28-gauge chambering delivers a smooth, low-recoil shooting experience, making it enjoyable for both seasoned and novice shooters, especially for pursuits where a lighter, more maneuverable shotgun excels.
The straight hand stock offers a balanced blend of traditional and ergonomic styling, giving the shooter a comfortable yet controlled grip, which can enhance precision and follow-through. Ruger’s attention to detail in the stock’s design ensures a solid, secure hold while still retaining the aesthetics of a classic over-under.
The interchangeable chokes allow users to tailor the spread of the shot pattern based on their needs, adding to the shotgun’s adaptability across shooting conditions and ranges. Ruger’s reputation for reliable craftsmanship is evident in this model, making it both a collectible piece and a practical field gun, valued for its durability, balance, and refined style. Please see our high quality photos via the link and best of luck with your bidding!!!-R.L.
