Ruger Red Label 28 GA 2.75” Chamber 28” Over Under O/U Shotgun MFD 1998
SOLD FOR: $2,200.00
LSB#: WY240910MK007
Make: Sturm, Ruger & Co.
Model: Red Label
Serial Number: 420-09451
Year of Manufacture: 1998 (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, “420-09451”. 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 “9451. The underside of the forend wood and grip cap are marked with Gold Ruger phoenix medallions. The buttplate is marked with the Ruger phoenix.
Barrel Length: 28” Vent ribbed.
Choke: This shotgun is threaded for Ruger interchangeable chokes, currently installed Modified over Improved Cylinder. Also includes Full and three Skeet chokes. 6 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 capped semi-pistol grip, fluted straight comb, and a black plastic buttpad. The forend is checkered thin standard forend. The forend shows only very minor handling wear. The stock also shows only barely visible handling wear. The checkering is sharp. The LOP measures 14.25” from the front of the trigger to the back of the buttplate. The buttplate has some rub wear and shows some discoloration to the plastic. Drop at comb is 1.5” and drop at heel is 2.5”. The cast is neutral. Overall the furniture is in Excellent condition especially for its age.
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 minor plastic fouling and minor visible lines from use. In this writer’s opinion the bores both rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This shotgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. The coin finish areas have minor surface lines with more notable lines near the front bottom lip of the receiver. The barrel set shows minimal handling wear and the usual rub marks from the forend that are not visible when assembled. There is also minor operational wear on the inside of the action. All the markings are clear. Overall, this shotgun is in Excellent 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 six chokes, manual, choke speed wrench, choke storage tubes, and a Ruger Logo bearing padded zipper case.
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 28-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 semi-pistol grip 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.