Smith & Wesson Forum

Go Back   Smith & Wesson Forum > General Topics > Firearms & Knives: Other Brands & General Gun Topics
o

Notices

Firearms & Knives: Other Brands & General Gun Topics Post Your General Gun Topics and Non-S&W Gun and Blade Topics Here


Reply
 
Thread Tools Display Modes
  #1  
Old 09-15-2018, 02:29 PM
PALADIN85020's Avatar
PALADIN85020 PALADIN85020 is offline
US Veteran
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Arizona
Posts: 10,440
Likes: 3,924
Liked 50,373 Times in 6,009 Posts
Default One of the first Ruger pistols...

Here are some views of Ruger's very first product - the Ruger "Red Eagle" Standard .22 LR pistol. This particular gun was made in the first full year of manufacture - July, 1950.

This is the left side of the pistol. Note that the Ruger emblem in the grip panel is red. This was later changed to black when co-founder Alex Sturm died. Note that the rear sight is "blocky" rather than curved, and fit a 1/4" dovetail. The safety is smaller than in later manufacture. The muzzle had a curved crown, rather than flat.



This is the right side. Here you will see that the ejection port is not beveled as it was in later manufacture.



Here you will see the pistol field stripped into its five component groups - the barrel and receiver, the lower receiver, the bolt, the mainspring assembly, and the magazine. The entire bolt was left "in the white" rather than being partially blued.



This is a picture of the pistol in its original box, with papers and some advertisements clipped from The American Rifleman.



Here is a view of this pistol compared with Ruger's latest version, the Mark IV. The outline has not changed much, but the details differ a lot, particularly with the newer takedown system.



I thought you might find these detailed views of interest. This was the gun that was the beginning of the huge company that Ruger is today.
__________________
- Cogito, ergo armatus sum -

Last edited by PALADIN85020; 09-15-2018 at 02:57 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following 75 Users Like Post:
  #2  
Old 09-15-2018, 02:38 PM
TOM BECKWITH TOM BECKWITH is offline
US Veteran
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Oct 2001
Location: BELTON, SC, USA
Posts: 1,783
Likes: 425
Liked 603 Times in 338 Posts
Default

Any idea of SN range, first and last before black emblem? Interesting Info. Thank you.
__________________
TOMBECK
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #3  
Old 09-15-2018, 02:50 PM
PALADIN85020's Avatar
PALADIN85020 PALADIN85020 is offline
US Veteran
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Arizona
Posts: 10,440
Likes: 3,924
Liked 50,373 Times in 6,009 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by TOM BECKWITH View Post
Any idea of SN range, first and last before black emblem? Interesting Info. Thank you.
Alex Sturm died in 1951. The "black eagle" was transitioned into manufacture between serial numbers 30,000 to 43,000.

John
__________________
- Cogito, ergo armatus sum -
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #4  
Old 09-15-2018, 03:13 PM
Drm50 Drm50 is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Oct 2014
Location: Monroe cnty. Ohio
Posts: 6,923
Likes: 4,410
Liked 10,023 Times in 3,676 Posts
Default

What was the date on any major engineering changes post 1965?
Is there bull barrel targets in the old model.?
Reply With Quote
  #5  
Old 09-15-2018, 03:24 PM
Texas Star Texas Star is offline
US Veteran
Absent Comrade
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Mar 2005
Location: Texas
Posts: 20,362
Likes: 24,260
Liked 16,154 Times in 7,408 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Drm50 View Post
What was the date on any major engineering changes post 1965?
Is there bull barrel targets in the old model.?
I'm not Paladin, but can help. He may know more about small changes.

There were MK I bull barrels. And a separate semi-heavy 5.25 inch barrel that was between a std. and a true bull barrel.
You may wish to read my article on these guns in the Nov-Dec 1980 American Handgunner. I know it's available Online, but don't have the actual URL.

That article also includes a color photo of No. 100,000,000! It was suitably engraved and has ivory stocks. I'm grateful to Ruger for the photo. I've never seen that actual gun.

In the article, I cited some VERY high amounts of ammo fired by some of these guns used by pistol clubs in Europe and in South Africa. With reasonable care, they last a LONG time.

I prefer the stainless MK II with 5.5-inch bull barrel, and bought Ruger's optional walnut grips. That's what I have now. The blued gun in that article went to my wife in a divorce. It was the only gun I had that she wanted, and I got a kitchen table in return. Pat wasn't into guns much, but even she liked that Ruger .22!

I think Ruger autos are the best deal in a .22 handgun.

Last edited by Texas Star; 09-16-2018 at 12:09 AM.
Reply With Quote
  #6  
Old 09-15-2018, 04:15 PM
S.B.'s Avatar
S.B. S.B. is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Feb 2003
Posts: 1,618
Likes: 49
Liked 721 Times in 369 Posts
Default

A local gun shop had the same thing only stamped " Property U.S." a while back?
I assume would their's predated yours since the first were designed as military pilot survival guns but, who knows?
Steve

Last edited by S.B.; 09-16-2018 at 06:53 AM.
Reply With Quote
  #7  
Old 09-15-2018, 04:30 PM
PALADIN85020's Avatar
PALADIN85020 PALADIN85020 is offline
US Veteran
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Arizona
Posts: 10,440
Likes: 3,924
Liked 50,373 Times in 6,009 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Drm50 View Post
What was the date on any major engineering changes post 1965?
Is there bull barrel targets in the old model.?
I'm not aware of any major changes post-1965 in the first models until the advent of the Mark II.

The Mark I bull barrel pistols were first announced in the January, 1963 price sheet, first serial number range 307xxx. I bought one of these new in August, 1965. Some of the serial numbers in the range of mine (315xxx) were duplicates and were marked with the suffix "D". Mine was one of these. I worked the trigger over on mine, put in an external overtravel stop, and equipped it with a trigger shoe for a more precise "feel." I shot it extensively in competition for years. It still has the best trigger of any target gun I own.

Here's a pic of my Mark I bull barrel.

John

__________________
- Cogito, ergo armatus sum -
Reply With Quote
  #8  
Old 09-15-2018, 04:42 PM
PALADIN85020's Avatar
PALADIN85020 PALADIN85020 is offline
US Veteran
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Arizona
Posts: 10,440
Likes: 3,924
Liked 50,373 Times in 6,009 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by S.B. View Post
A local gun shop had the same thing only stamped " Property U.S." a while back?
I assume would assume their's predated yours since the first were military pilot survival guns but, who knows?
Steve
The 6 7/8" Mark I was introduced in 1951, in the serial number block 15,000. Some had the red eagle medallion. A number were purchased for training and target use by the military. I shot one of these "arms room" guns in the 1962-1963 time period when I was on active duty, and they were marked "U.S." These are collector items today. Here is a photo of one of those Mark I pistols that belongs to me - no "U.S." marking, unfortunately, but otherwise identical. It was shipped in 1961.

John

__________________
- Cogito, ergo armatus sum -

Last edited by PALADIN85020; 09-17-2018 at 12:18 PM.
Reply With Quote
  #9  
Old 09-15-2018, 04:44 PM
gman51 gman51 is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Feb 2012
Location: Just West of Houston
Posts: 3,468
Likes: 787
Liked 4,674 Times in 2,062 Posts
Default

I have a MKII and MKIV. Two of the best handguns I own and no doubt the best in 22lr caliber.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #10  
Old 09-15-2018, 05:32 PM
Drm50 Drm50 is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Oct 2014
Location: Monroe cnty. Ohio
Posts: 6,923
Likes: 4,410
Liked 10,023 Times in 3,676 Posts
Default

I saw a few Mk 1 targets carried by Huey pilots. I'm not sure if
they were Govt. issue. Also some Hi Standards which some were
marked and some not. I also saw a Std Auto in a rusted pile of
captured weapons, origin unknown.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #11  
Old 09-15-2018, 05:50 PM
Bakebfr480 Bakebfr480 is offline
Banned
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Jul 2017
Posts: 1,469
Likes: 271
Liked 1,207 Times in 659 Posts
Default

Very nice pistola!
Reply With Quote
  #12  
Old 09-15-2018, 06:20 PM
ancient-one ancient-one is offline
WW II Vet
Absent Comrade
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Oct 2007
Location: Moore Oklahoma
Posts: 3,413
Likes: 11,807
Liked 8,711 Times in 1,959 Posts
Default

I used to have the standard version 6 inch that I bought in 1968 for a little less than the msrp of $37.50. My grandson now has it and he says it is the most accurate handgun that he has ever shot. He has the box, paperwork and sales slip from a discount place called Founders Fair. I know that it was a joy to shoot, but re-assembly unless you really paid attention, not so much.
__________________
Mighty 90's,Trying 4 a 100!
Reply With Quote
  #13  
Old 09-15-2018, 06:33 PM
shouldazagged shouldazagged is offline
Absent Comrade
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Feb 2013
Location: Louisville, KY, USA
Posts: 19,336
Likes: 53,737
Liked 38,386 Times in 11,801 Posts
Default

I haven't seen a Red Eagle Ruger in probably fifty years. I wish I had bought that one.
__________________
Oh well, what the hell.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #14  
Old 09-15-2018, 06:37 PM
walnutred walnutred is online now
US Veteran
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Ohio
Posts: 4,452
Likes: 785
Liked 3,032 Times in 1,002 Posts
Default

We had six US Property marked Ruger 22/45s in the arms room when I was on active duty in the last century.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #15  
Old 09-15-2018, 06:37 PM
OLDSTER's Avatar
OLDSTER OLDSTER is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Aug 2012
Location: North Dakota
Posts: 10,146
Likes: 14,187
Liked 12,739 Times in 3,480 Posts
Default

Another informative, educational, and interesting thread. The Ruger MK series .22 has to be the most prolific ( and popular) .22 pistol of all time. I wonder how many forum members DO NOT own one, or have at some time. Thank you again
__________________
John
Reply With Quote
  #16  
Old 09-16-2018, 12:03 AM
Texas Star Texas Star is offline
US Veteran
Absent Comrade
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Mar 2005
Location: Texas
Posts: 20,362
Likes: 24,260
Liked 16,154 Times in 7,408 Posts
Default

It's interesting that some pilots may have carried these arms.

Captured U-2 pilot Francis Gary Powers had a Hi-Std. .22 left over from OSS days. I think it was silenced. CIA may have bought Rugers to replace those older guns.

I read a story in,Life (?) about some Special Forces men who executed a Viet Cong spy with a silenced Ruger .22. I think they were charged with murder. Don't recall how that case ended.

In the USAF, we had the MK I's in the base small arms training building, and the marksmanship instructors shot them in matches. I think I recall firing one and a S&W Model 41 while there.

I don't think USAF pilots carried them. They normally had .38 revolvers. But some strings may have occasionally been pulled to get one to a pilot, or someone may have just bought their own, allowed then. Navy aircrew also had wide discretion in carrying personally owned pistols. An A-6 Intruder pilot who became a famous novelist had a Combat Magnum/M-19, I believe, as did his primary character. That's Stephen Coonts, and you'll probably like his books. The first, Flight of the Intruder, became a popular movie.

James Bond's creator Ian Fleming owned a MK I target version, and it was among his effects sold following his death in 1964. I feel pretty sure it inspired the "long barreled .22 pistol" carried by a female agent in one of his short stories. Remember, until 1997, it was possible for British subjects who could get through the red tape to own modern pistols. Fleming had at least four handguns. Ironically perhaps, I don't think he had a Walther PPK or a .25 Beretta.

John, thanks so much for this topic with your usual fine photos.

Last edited by Texas Star; 09-16-2018 at 12:07 AM.
Reply With Quote
The Following 3 Users Like Post:
  #17  
Old 09-16-2018, 12:11 AM
DWalt's Avatar
DWalt DWalt is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: South Texas & San Antonio
Posts: 33,483
Likes: 236
Liked 28,949 Times in 14,015 Posts
Default

"James Bond's creator Ian Fleming owned a MK I target version, and it was among his effects sold following his death in 1964."

I once passed up an opportunity to buy that Ruger, completely papered, for a very reasonable price. One of my life's big regrets.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #18  
Old 09-16-2018, 12:26 AM
alwslate alwslate is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: Indiana
Posts: 6,607
Likes: 3,693
Liked 7,175 Times in 2,997 Posts
Default

I have a 4 3/4" MKII blue Standard Model. Great pistol. Mine prefers
high velocity HPs for best accuracy.
Reply With Quote
  #19  
Old 09-16-2018, 03:06 AM
CLASSIC12 CLASSIC12 is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Mar 2010
Location: Switzerland
Posts: 1,699
Likes: 3,449
Liked 11,367 Times in 1,323 Posts
Default

Very nice and instructive thread, thanks for posting. I never owned a .22Ruger, and that needs to change.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #20  
Old 09-16-2018, 07:24 AM
DWalt's Avatar
DWalt DWalt is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: South Texas & San Antonio
Posts: 33,483
Likes: 236
Liked 28,949 Times in 14,015 Posts
Default

I have only one Ruger .22, a ca. 1955 Standard Model. In very good condition except for two small rust freckles. It seems to perform fine, except that I had a dickens of a time regulating the sights. The rear sight is very difficult to move, and I had to file down the front sight quite a bit. I figured that the reason that it showed little use was that the previous owner(s) couldn't hit anything with it as the sights were so far off so he (they) never shot it much.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #21  
Old 09-16-2018, 08:05 AM
S.B.'s Avatar
S.B. S.B. is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Feb 2003
Posts: 1,618
Likes: 49
Liked 721 Times in 369 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Texas Star View Post
It's interesting that some pilots may have carried these arms.

Captured U-2 pilot Francis Gary Powers had a Hi-Std. .22 left over from OSS days. I think it was silenced. CIA may have bought Rugers to replace those older guns.

I read a story in,Life (?) about some Special Forces men who executed a Viet Cong spy with a silenced Ruger .22. I think they were charged with murder. Don't recall how that case ended.

In the USAF, we had the MK I's in the base small arms training building, and the marksmanship instructors shot them in matches. I think I recall firing one and a S&W Model 41 while there.

I don't think USAF pilots carried them. They normally had .38 revolvers. But some strings may have occasionally been pulled to get one to a pilot, or someone may have just bought their own, allowed then. Navy aircrew also had wide discretion in carrying personally owned pistols. An A-6 Intruder pilot who became a famous novelist had a Combat Magnum/M-19, I believe, as did his primary character. That's Stephen Coonts, and you'll probably like his books. The first, Flight of the Intruder, became a popular movie.

James Bond's creator Ian Fleming owned a MK I target version, and it was among his effects sold following his death in 1964. I feel pretty sure it inspired the "long barreled .22 pistol" carried by a female agent in one of his short stories. Remember, until 1997, it was possible for British subjects who could get through the red tape to own modern pistols. Fleming had at least four handguns. Ironically perhaps, I don't think he had a Walther PPK or a .25 Beretta.

John, thanks so much for this topic with your usual fine photos.
I thought I read Gary Powers was captured with a S&W K22 but, could be wrong(a long time ago, back when it all happened)?
Steve
Reply With Quote
  #22  
Old 09-16-2018, 08:10 AM
DWalt's Avatar
DWalt DWalt is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: South Texas & San Antonio
Posts: 33,483
Likes: 236
Liked 28,949 Times in 14,015 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by S.B. View Post
I thought I read Gary Powers was captured with a S&W K22 but, could be wrong(a long time ago, back when it all happened)?
Steve
It was a suppressed .22 caliber Hi-Standard HDM/S (Model H-D Military/Suppressed). A more or less standard issue CIA pistol of that time period, it was modified to allow the slide to be locked closed to fire (basically making it a single shot) so that there would be no noise associated with slide movement. The captured FGP pistol is supposed to be on display somewhere in Moscow. I believe it would bring a fantastic price at auction should the Russians ever decide to sell it. The whole FGP-U2 episode was one of the most stupid blunders in recent history as it handed the Soviets a superb propaganda coup on a silver platter at a very critical time in U.S.-Russia relations.

Last edited by DWalt; 09-16-2018 at 10:27 PM.
Reply With Quote
  #23  
Old 09-16-2018, 08:33 AM
Texas Star Texas Star is offline
US Veteran
Absent Comrade
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Mar 2005
Location: Texas
Posts: 20,362
Likes: 24,260
Liked 16,154 Times in 7,408 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by DWalt View Post
It was a suppressed .22 caliber High Standard HDM/S (Model H-D Military/Suppressed). A more or less standard issue CIA pistol of that time period, it was modified to allow the slide to be locked closed to fire (basically making it a single shot) so that there would be no noise associated with slide movement. The FGP pistol is supposed to be on display somewhere in Moscow.
Yup, and he had a Randall Model 8 knife, too. And a coin containing a poisoned needle.
Reply With Quote
  #24  
Old 09-16-2018, 12:18 PM
PALADIN85020's Avatar
PALADIN85020 PALADIN85020 is offline
US Veteran
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Jan 2007
Location: Arizona
Posts: 10,440
Likes: 3,924
Liked 50,373 Times in 6,009 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by DWalt View Post
It was a suppressed .22 caliber Hi-Standard HDM/S (Model H-D Military/Suppressed).
Actually, it was not an HD Military, but a suppressed USA-HD. These were left over from OSS work during WWII. The USA-HD pistols were almost identical to the postwar HD-Military, except for the markings and the use of a fixed rear sight, where the later HD-Military had an adjustable rear sight.

Over 2,000 of the USA-HDs were equipped with suppressors, taken at random from regular production during WWII. It's documented that Gary Powers used one of these on his famous U-2 flight. There would have been no need to equip a postwar HD Military with a suppressor; there were quite a few of the USA-HD suppressed guns in inventory at that time.

Here's a pic of a USA-HD that I own. Note the markings on the right side. I believe you can click on the picture to see a larger view.

John

__________________
- Cogito, ergo armatus sum -

Last edited by PALADIN85020; 09-16-2018 at 12:22 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following 6 Users Like Post:
  #25  
Old 09-16-2018, 10:37 PM
DWalt's Avatar
DWalt DWalt is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: South Texas & San Antonio
Posts: 33,483
Likes: 236
Liked 28,949 Times in 14,015 Posts
Default

I did find a picture of what was supposed to be FGP's .22 pistol on display in Moscow, and it does have the fixed rear sight on the slide.
Reply With Quote
  #26  
Old 09-16-2018, 10:49 PM
DWalt's Avatar
DWalt DWalt is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: South Texas & San Antonio
Posts: 33,483
Likes: 236
Liked 28,949 Times in 14,015 Posts
Default

BTW, I would like to find at least one of the "zig-zag" magazine springs for the earlier Ruger magazines as shown above in #8. The spring in my early magazine is on the weak side (it may have been left loaded for many years), but I have been unable to find anyone having a NOS zig-zag spring to replace it with.
Reply With Quote
  #27  
Old 09-17-2018, 06:40 AM
S.B.'s Avatar
S.B. S.B. is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Feb 2003
Posts: 1,618
Likes: 49
Liked 721 Times in 369 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by DWalt View Post
BTW, I would like to find at least one of the "zig-zag" magazine springs for the earlier Ruger magazines as shown above in #8. The spring in my early magazine is on the weak side (it may have been left loaded for many years), but I have been unable to find anyone having a NOS zig-zag spring to replace it with.
Zigzag spring? Is this your own definition?
Steve
Reply With Quote
  #28  
Old 09-17-2018, 11:10 AM
DWalt's Avatar
DWalt DWalt is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: South Texas & San Antonio
Posts: 33,483
Likes: 236
Liked 28,949 Times in 14,015 Posts
Default

I suppose it is, but it describes the earlier spring. If you are familiar with how the spring for an AR magazine looks (also springs used for most larger caliber semiauto handgun magazines), the early Ruger .22 magazines used a somewhat smaller version of it. You can sort of see the magazine springs pictured in #8 above. Newer Ruger .22 magazine designs all use a round coil spring.

Last edited by DWalt; 09-17-2018 at 11:14 AM.
Reply With Quote
  #29  
Old 09-17-2018, 12:15 PM
double-dipper's Avatar
double-dipper double-dipper is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: May 2018
Location: Kansas
Posts: 720
Likes: 1,917
Liked 1,143 Times in 454 Posts
Default

Without Alex Sturm there would be no Ruger today. Alex put up the money that helped start the company. Disappointed that company executives decided to drop Sturm's name on advertising from "Sturm, Ruger & company"" and only go by Ruger.
Reply With Quote
  #30  
Old 09-18-2018, 09:32 AM
Rayfan87's Avatar
Rayfan87 Rayfan87 is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Jun 2017
Location: Laurens, SC
Posts: 174
Likes: 56
Liked 269 Times in 90 Posts
Default

I love my MK1, according to the SN it was made in '65. It's got the 6 7/8" taper barrel and the older frame. Bought it from a small shop, the only 9 round mag available was included and I've added a few 10 rounders (after swapping the slide button), all run flawlessly.
Reply With Quote
  #31  
Old 09-18-2018, 11:34 AM
S.B.'s Avatar
S.B. S.B. is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Feb 2003
Posts: 1,618
Likes: 49
Liked 721 Times in 369 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Rayfan87 View Post
I love my MK1, according to the SN it was made in '65. It's got the 6 7/8" taper barrel and the older frame. Bought it from a small shop, the only 9 round mag available was included and I've added a few 10 rounders (after swapping the slide button), all run flawlessly.
IMHO,mkIIs were the best of the lot, mkIs you had to apply the safety to hold back the slide(mkIIs had a slide lock lever on their left side) and as you say the magazines capacity increased by 1 round, and they still worked.
Steve
Reply With Quote
  #32  
Old 09-18-2018, 11:41 AM
MCorps0311's Avatar
MCorps0311 MCorps0311 is offline
US Veteran
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: May 2016
Location: Derby City,Ky.
Posts: 4,675
Likes: 5,277
Liked 3,503 Times in 1,680 Posts
Default

The first Rust pistols was a beautiful hand gun to my eyes.
__________________
Life is short,live it fully.
Reply With Quote
  #33  
Old 09-19-2018, 08:17 AM
Rayfan87's Avatar
Rayfan87 Rayfan87 is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Jun 2017
Location: Laurens, SC
Posts: 174
Likes: 56
Liked 269 Times in 90 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by S.B. View Post
IMHO,mkIIs were the best of the lot, mkIs you had to apply the safety to hold back the slide(mkIIs had a slide lock lever on their left side) and as you say the magazines capacity increased by 1 round, and they still worked.
Steve
She may not be perfect, but my I love that MkI, accurate, nice trigger, good balance, and can take MkII mags. The late MKI's take the MkII mags as is, earlier ones you just have to switch what side the button is on, it only takes a min or two to do the swap.
I have been thinking about a MkIV 22/45. I like the Turnbull colored one, but as standard it comes with black grips and I think it would look better with some nice walnut ones.
Reply With Quote
  #34  
Old 09-19-2018, 08:58 AM
S.B.'s Avatar
S.B. S.B. is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Feb 2003
Posts: 1,618
Likes: 49
Liked 721 Times in 369 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Rayfan87 View Post
She may not be perfect, but my I love that MkI, accurate, nice trigger, good balance, and can take MkII mags. The late MKI's take the MkII mags as is, earlier ones you just have to switch what side the button is on, it only takes a min or two to do the swap.
I have been thinking about a MkIV 22/45. I like the Turnbull colored one, but as standard it comes with black grips and I think it would look better with some nice walnut ones.
I can't disagree, just stated my preference. Just that I've always appreciated their changes. Now, if they could do something about the field stripping?
Steve

Last edited by S.B.; 09-19-2018 at 09:00 AM.
Reply With Quote
  #35  
Old 09-19-2018, 09:46 AM
Not Getting Any Younger's Avatar
Not Getting Any Younger Not Getting Any Younger is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: May 2017
Posts: 211
Likes: 381
Liked 245 Times in 110 Posts
Default

Great post! Thanks for all the information on the early Rugers.
If buying handguns wasn't such a hassle here in NJ, I would probably have several of these fine pistols.
I love my Stainless Mk II Target! (6 & 7/8" Slab Side Bull Barrel)

When I first bought it, I put Pachmayr rubber grips on it because the factory grips had sharp checkering that felt uncomfortable to me.
The Pachmayr grips required some 'cutting' to get the clearances against the frame to work, but they still caused problems.

Nowadays that pistol has newer Ruger (Hogue) grips, fiber optic sights, and Volquartzen parts inside it.

I need to take it to the range again. It's time for a day of 22LR!
Attached Images
File Type: jpg IMG_1527.jpg (71.6 KB, 20 views)
File Type: jpg IMG_1526.jpg (78.8 KB, 17 views)
Reply With Quote
  #36  
Old 09-20-2018, 07:03 PM
Kinman's Avatar
Kinman Kinman is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Jul 2010
Location: Spokantucky
Posts: 4,099
Likes: 10,351
Liked 6,901 Times in 2,335 Posts
Default

I was born in 1951 and for as long as I can remember my grandmother always had her "Luger". She never called it anything other than "The Luger", years later I told her that it was not a Luger but made by Ruger. She said "Its a Luger made by Ruger."
Back in the late 50's she was living with us, my dad was out of town working. One evening we were watching t.v. and the dog started growling at the door, my mother and grandmother exchanged looks and mom got up and went to the door, dog was growling along with her. She got her hand on the door knob and said "Mom there is someone turning the door knob." Grandma said "I go get the gun." The door knob went slack..****gers Luger saved the day.
Reply With Quote
The Following 5 Users Like Post:
  #37  
Old 09-20-2018, 07:21 PM
Wee Hooker Wee Hooker is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Mar 2003
Location: New England, USA
Posts: 4,468
Likes: 3,068
Liked 4,294 Times in 1,610 Posts
Default

Thanks for sharing! MK I's bring back memories. My first handgun was a well worn Ruger Standard that dad bought for me back in 1972 for $42. ( I was 15 at the time.) I loved the gun but it used to go "full auto" now and then and dump the mag in a split second. (Despite a trip back to Ruger) so it eventually got traded off for a H&R mod 939 .22 revolver which was allot safer. ( Still kick myself for that though). Since then, I have had a love affair with the MK series pistols. I've owned several dozen and still keep seven. Oddly, it took 45 years for me to get another MK I. Here is my MK I Target as I found it in a LGS last year. She's a beauty and has an amazing trigger. Gave mid $200's for it as I recall.
BTW, it's hard to see but there is a $4.50 price on the spare mag still in it's box :-)
__________________
Dave

Last edited by Wee Hooker; 09-20-2018 at 07:32 PM.
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #38  
Old 09-21-2018, 06:10 PM
Old Corp's Avatar
Old Corp Old Corp is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Feb 2009
Location: Coastal NC
Posts: 2,936
Likes: 2,339
Liked 4,673 Times in 1,599 Posts
Default

Yep, my very first handgun was a Standard Model (Mk I) in 6".
Truckloads of ammo and lots of small game to it's credit.

Just for historical interest, I'd have loved to have sat in on the high level Sturm-Ruger meeting where they decided to make the model a nightmare to re-assemble after total disassembly.
There was no YouTube. No online forums to get nifty helpful hints.
You either had to figure it out - or 'know somebody who knew'.

Eventually, after battling mine into proper assembly, and after several thousand dirty .22 rounds I'd just de-grip mine, lock the slide open and soak it in a pan of kerosene overnight. A little toothbrush scrubbing, a bore brush and it was good for another few shoe boxes of ammo.
__________________
Ret'd LEO
SWCA #2275
Reply With Quote
  #39  
Old 09-21-2018, 07:09 PM
DWalt's Avatar
DWalt DWalt is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Dec 2009
Location: South Texas & San Antonio
Posts: 33,483
Likes: 236
Liked 28,949 Times in 14,015 Posts
Default

There is only one trick for assembly/disassembly of the Ruger .22 - always keep the hammer down (uncocked).
Reply With Quote
The Following User Likes This Post:
  #40  
Old 09-21-2018, 11:27 PM
kraynky's Avatar
kraynky kraynky is offline
Member
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Mar 2013
Location: Central Kentucky
Posts: 3,083
Likes: 11,376
Liked 5,119 Times in 1,947 Posts
Default

My very first handgun was a Ruger .22, bought used in 1976 for $15.00. I fell on hard times during the Jimmy Carter days and had to sell, or eat it, so it was reluctantly sold. I seem to recall a red eagle in one of my Ruger 22's, and that was probably it.

I only have one today, a stainless 5.5" bull barrel MK II, and I let my wife think it's hers because it gets her to shoot with me, sometimes. It's way too accurate to ever sell, unless I have to eat it or else. I really enjoy reading this thread, and seeing those sweet 22's. There's a picture on this phone somewhere..............hmmm, maybe not.
Reply With Quote
  #41  
Old 09-21-2018, 11:55 PM
one eye joe's Avatar
one eye joe one eye joe is offline
US Veteran
One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols... One of the first Ruger pistols...  
Join Date: Dec 2008
Location: New England
Posts: 4,190
Likes: 3,543
Liked 3,996 Times in 1,627 Posts
Default

Quote:
Originally Posted by Texas Star View Post
I'm not Paladin, but can help. He may know more about small changes.

There were MK I bull barrels. And a separate semi-heavy 5.25 inch barrel that was between a std. and a true bull barrel.
You may wish to read my article on these guns in the Nov-Dec 1980 American Handgunner. I know it's available Online, but don't have the actual URL.

That article also includes a color photo of No. 100,000,000! It was suitably engraved and has ivory stocks. I'm grateful to Ruger for the photo. I've never seen that actual gun.

In the article, I cited some VERY high amounts of ammo fired by some of these guns used by pistol clubs in Europe and in South Africa. With reasonable care, they last a LONG time.

I prefer the stainless MK II with 5.5-inch bull barrel, and bought Ruger's optional walnut grips. That's what I have now. The blued gun in that article went to my wife in a divorce. It was the only gun I had that she wanted, and I got a kitchen table in return. Pat wasn't into guns much, but even she liked that Ruger .22!

I think Ruger autos are the best deal in a .22 handgun.
I MUST AGREE THAT RUGER SEMI-AUTOS ARE THE ALL TIME BEST DEAL IN A .22LR PISTOL.....

I MAINTAINED AN AVERAGE IN THE 290s, FOR OVER A DECADE IN A .22 CALIBER BULLSEYE LEAGUE WITH A RUGER MK II, GOVERNMENT TARGET MODEL. IT IS EQUIPPED WITH AN AIMPOINT, MOUNTED IN A B-SQUARE MOUNT. IT IS COMPETITIVE WITH ANYTHING ON THE FIRING LINE, REGARDLESS OF THEIR COST.....
__________________
'Nam 1968-69.DAV,VFW,NRA Inst.
Reply With Quote
Reply

Thread Tools
Display Modes

Posting Rules
Forum Jump

Similar Threads
Thread Thread Starter Forum Replies Last Post
The full monty - All 3 Ruger SS MK IV pistols Florida Guy Firearms & Knives: Other Brands & General Gun Topics 0 04-08-2018 09:53 AM
Tac Sol upper for Ruger pistols Vfeldman GUNS - For Sale or Trade 1 11-30-2011 10:36 PM
FS Book: Encyclopedia of Ruger Semi-Auto Rimfire Pistols nutsforsmiths Accessories/Misc - For Sale or Trade 2 11-20-2010 12:37 AM
Withdrawn: 3 pistols (Sig-Hammerli, Ruger (Sold), High Standard (Sold) ) phulst GUNS - For Sale or Trade 11 01-09-2010 11:36 PM
Ruger Pistols Mod10 Firearms & Knives: Other Brands & General Gun Topics 24 11-13-2009 10:18 AM

Powered by vBadvanced CMPS v3.2.3
smith-wessonforum.com tested by Norton Internet Security smith-wessonforum.com tested by McAfee Internet Security

All times are GMT -4. The time now is 08:27 AM.


Smith-WessonForum.com is not affiliated with Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select: SWHC)