Opinions on Ruby revolvers

[Continental Op]

I found a Ruby .22 revolver at my LGS and am considering purchase. They're asking $200, but are negotiable. This one must by post-WWII. It's I- or J-frame size, with a 4" bbl, in really good condition. I'm afraid I can't offer much more info.

What do people know about the quality and reliability of Ruby revolvers?

 

[Absalom]

What do people know about the quality and reliability of Ruby revolvers?

This was most likely produced in Northern Spain by Llama, formerly Gabilondo y Urresti, which during WW I sold the French on its copy of the Browning 1903 .32 pistol design under the trade name "Ruby", and later used the Ruby name on some of its other handguns.

Since in the course of the war over 50 other gunmakers with dramatically different quality standards produced Ruby pistols, the Ruby name does not hold high esteem. And the many copies of US designs from the 1920s, with which those Basques gunmakers tried to survive after the Ruby pistol contracts ended, don't enjoy a great reputation either.

But Llama was one of the better manufacturers, and together with Astra and just a few others, were quite successful post-WW II. So if this is indeed post-war production, don't get spooked by hearsay about the Spanish revolver copies of the 1920s. Different animal.

While you may not find S&W quality in fit and finish, these can generally be considered as perfectly servicable, and if the gun checks out mechanically, the price seems right to you, and you're not looking for a collector piece, go for it.

 

[jeffrefrig]

Cont. Op, when you get it, can you throw a couple pics up? Thanks!

 

[Continental Op]

While you may not find S&W quality in fit and finish, these can generally be considered as perfectly servicable, and if the gun checks out mechanically, the price seems right to you, and you're not looking for a collector piece, go for it.

Thanks, Absalom. I appreciate it.

Jeffrefrig, I'm not sure I'll get it. I was in to pick up a Model 10. It's touch to justify two purchases so close together.

 

[kthom]

CO,
There's just a chance that you might get a deal if you make an offer for both of them. If the Ruby satisfies your inspection (along with the Model 10) and if you can bring some cash money to lay down when you make your offer, you just might be surprised at what kind of a deal you can get! Good luck with it.

 

[leonardocarrillo]

The RUBI or RUBI EXTRA brand can be seen in Spanish-made revolvers and guns, but there are also RUBI revolvers and guns made in Argentina by Venturuni Establishments (a company that no longer exists).
The Argentine RUBI were manufactured with very good materials and depending on the model their price in my country (Argentina) could go from $ 150 to $ 900.
If the RUBI you saw is Spanish and you like it, check that you have the stamp of the EIBAR test bench, if you do not have such a seal I recommend that you do not buy it.

 

[Continental Op]

Leonardocarillo,
Thanks for the info, but this one was definitely marked MADE IN SPAIN.

 

[jeffrefrig]

CO,
There's just a chance that you might get a deal if you make an offer for both of them. If the Ruby satisfies your inspection (along with the Model 10) and if you can bring some cash money to lay down when you make your offer, you just might be surprised at what kind of a deal you can get! Good luck with it.

I understand that completely! You need to keep peace in the house before your wants/needs! I've seen about three guns I'd like to buy on the net, but these tattletales keep sending emails about my recent firearm purchases! We share the same email. So...

 

[6string]

Not having unlimited funds, or space to store, I try to be selective, asking myself what purpose a prospective purchase might fulfill.
Since you're already in the process of purchasing a nice Smith & Wesson model 10, what is the point of acquiring a mediocre to poor quality knock-off?
Where the S&W would bring pride of ownership and enjoyment through use, could the same be said of the Ruby?
When I first started shooting, and was looking at 22s, a couple of cheaply priced revolvers like Ruby, H&R, Rossi, etc crossed my path. Rough & gritty was pretty standard, with questionable alignment of cylinder & bore. These can be even be unsafe for nearby bystanders, as they spit lead shavings out of the b/c gap.
I would have a hard time justifying that thing from just taking up space in my house!

If you just walk away, I doubt, in the years to come, you would ever say "Gee, I really wish I bought that Ruby".

Jim