I wanted to HATE this… The Ruger Red Label 20ga

Published on January 5, 2023
Duration: 21:04

This review explores the Ruger Red Label 20ga, acquired via auction. Despite initial skepticism about its American over-and-under design and 'agricultural' action, the shotgun proved surprisingly effective in field tests, breaking clays reliably. Bill Ruger's philosophy of machine precision for affordability is highlighted, making it a robust, albeit less refined, hunting tool.

Quick Summary

The Ruger Red Label 20ga, launched in 1977 for $480, is known for its robust construction and affordability due to machine precision manufacturing. Despite an 'agricultural' action, it offers reliable field performance and effective clay-breaking capabilities.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction & Auction Find
  2. 00:55Initial Shooting Test & Safety
  3. 02:32History of the Ruger Red Label
  4. 04:03Technical Examination: Stock & Action
  5. 06:38Ruger's Manufacturing Philosophy
  6. 08:38Field Performance & Handling
  7. 11:48Final Assessment & Market Value

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the Ruger Red Label 20ga known for?

The Ruger Red Label 20ga is known for its robust construction, affordable price point achieved through machine precision, and surprisingly effective performance in the field, despite a less refined mechanical action compared to European counterparts.

How much did the Ruger Red Label 20ga originally cost?

When Bill Ruger released the Red Label in 1977, it was priced at $480, making it significantly more affordable than many competing over-and-under shotguns available at the time.

What is unique about the safety selector on the Ruger Red Label?

The Ruger Red Label features a distinctive safety selector that pivots around a center point to choose barrels, rather than the more common side-to-side sliding mechanism found on many other shotguns.

Is the Ruger Red Label 20ga a good hunting shotgun?

Yes, despite its 'agricultural' action feel, the Ruger Red Label 20ga is considered a robust and effective tool for hunting, offering reliable performance and good handling in practical field conditions.

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