Ruger Single-Six Standard Model, Early Flat-Gate Variant 4, Blue 5 ½” 6-Shot Single Action Revolver, MFD 1957 C&R
SOLD FOR: $905.55
LSB#: 151019AZ01
Make: Ruger
Model: Single-Six Standard, Flat-Gate, Variant 4
Serial Number: 60362
Year of Manufacture: 1957 (http://ruger.com/service/productHistory/RE-SSixSM.html)
Caliber: .22 Short, Long & Long Rifle
Action Type: 6-Shot, Single Action, Flat Side-Gate Loaded Revolver.
Markings: The top of the barrel is marked “STURM, RUGER & CO. / SOUTHPORT, CONN., U.S.A.”, the left side of the frame is marked “RUGER .22 CAL. / SINGLE-SIX” with the company logo, the right is marked with the serial number, the grip frame is marked “XR3-RED / G”. The grip have silver-colored Ruger logo medallions.
Barrel Length: 5 ½”, Round
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a rounded blade with a serrated rear curve, set into the barrel. The rear sight is a flat top, square notched base that is dovetailed onto the topstrap of the frame.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are checkered black plastic panels with silver-colored Ruger logo medallions. The panels have faint handling marks among the checkers with wispy scuffs in the smooth portions. The butt of the left panel has a heavier scratch, please see our pictures. There are no major losses and the fit to the frame is excellent. The grips rate in about Fine overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blued Steel with Black Alloy XR3-Red Grip Frame & Case Colored Flat Loading Gate
Finish Originality: Factory Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is highly defined with some wear present. There is no erosion in the bore.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 93% of its metal finish. The balance is represented by operational and leading edge wear on the barrel, cylinder (which also has a thin drag line) and trigger guard piece. The metal shows scattered handling marks and rare instances of light pin prick erosion; portions surrounding the pin pricks show patina forming. The left side of the frame, ejector rod housing and grip frame have areas of small nicks and wear, please see our pictures. The screw heads have sharp slots. The markings are sharp but for the “CO.” marking on top of the barrel which is lightly struck but legible. Overall, this handgun rates in about Fine Plus condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinder has light play in full lockup side to side with no perceptible play fore to aft. The timing is correct and the hammer has a strong spring. The revolver has not been fit with a transfer bar. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: This is a rare little gem that has a case colored flat loading gate, serialized just hundreds of pistols before the gate was replaced with the rounded configuration. The action is smooth and strong, the bore bright, with sharp rifling and about 93% of the finish remains. This is a Fine condition revolver that would rate higher but for some areas of pin prick erosion. Single-Six revolvers have been captivating the American public since the 1950’s and should continue to do so with its simple but effective mechanical design. Please see our pictures and good luck!
