Ruger Police Service Six - do I have a rare model? “U” serial number from 1989

Published on April 19, 2025
Duration: 8:54

This video provides an in-depth review of a Ruger Police Service Six revolver, specifically a 1989 model with a 'U' serial number suffix, potentially indicating a salesman sample. The presenter details its .38 Special-only chambering, manufacturing history, and compares its two-point cylinder lockup to the later GP100's three-point system. Trigger pull weights for both double and single action are measured and discussed.

Quick Summary

The Ruger Police Service Six, produced from 1972 to 1988, was a popular law enforcement sidearm available in multiple calibers. A 'U' serial number suffix may indicate a 'used' or 'salesman sample' model. This revolver features a two-point cylinder lockup and a transfer bar safety system.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction to Ruger Police Service Six
  2. 00:05Manufacturing History & Law Enforcement Use
  3. 00:22Caliber Variants (.38 Special Only Model)
  4. 00:33Action Types (Single/Double Action)
  5. 00:44Precursor to GP100 & Lockup Differences
  6. 01:07Grip Discoloration & 'U' Serial Number
  7. 01:16Ruger Bluing & Utilitarian Design
  8. 01:49Southport, Connecticut Manufacturing
  9. 01:56Cylinder Lockup & Release Mechanism
  10. 02:14Ejector Rod Features
  11. 02:29Cylinder Lockup Tightness
  12. 02:34Transfer Bar Safety Explained
  13. 03:03Trigger Pull Weight Measurement (Double Action)
  14. 03:38Trigger Pull Weight Measurement (Single Action)
  15. 04:14Grip Panel Color Differences Explained
  16. 04:23Serial Number 'U' Stamp Significance
  17. 04:51Production End Date Discrepancy (1988 vs 1989)
  18. 05:10Recap: Ruger Police Service Six .38 Special
  19. 05:30Police Use of .38 Special
  20. 06:01Barrel Length & Ammunition
  21. 06:12Range Test: Double Action Shooting
  22. 06:42Range Test: Police Service Six Shooting
  23. 07:11Late Production & Rarity Discussion
  24. 07:45Presenter's Ruger Collection
  25. 08:05Purchase Price & Value
  26. 08:24Conclusion & Channel Update

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the significance of the 'U' stamp on a Ruger Police Service Six serial number?

The 'U' stamp found after the serial number on some Ruger Police Service Six revolvers, like the 1989 model discussed, is believed to indicate that the firearm was either 'used' or served as a 'salesman sample'. This could explain cosmetic variations such as faded grip panels.

What were the available calibers for the Ruger Police Service Six?

The Ruger Police Service Six was manufactured in several calibers, including 9mm, .38 Smith & Wesson, .38 Special, and .357 Magnum. The specific model reviewed in the video is chambered exclusively for .38 Special.

How does the cylinder lockup of the Ruger Police Service Six compare to the Ruger GP100?

The Ruger Police Service Six features a two-point cylinder lockup. Its successor, the Ruger GP100, was designed with a beefier frame and a three-point cylinder lockup, offering enhanced strength and durability.

What were the measured trigger pull weights for the Ruger Police Service Six in the video?

The double-action trigger pull averaged 8 lb 13.5 oz, with individual pulls between 8 lb 11.66 oz and 8 lb 15 oz. The single-action trigger pull averaged 3.06 oz, with pulls ranging from 2 lb 15.7 oz to 3 lb 2.4 oz.

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