Ruger Redhawk Barrel/Frame Separation Dates

[TEXASJake]

Hello,

I wanted to send a little 411 people's direction. I recently picked up a Ruger Redhawk circa 1985. Serial No. is 501-64XXX.

I recall hearing about the whole barrel/frame separation. I figured people on this forum might be like me and own more than just S&W Revolvers. So I am posting some info here for reference.

(Ruger Response to inquiry)
Thank you for contacting Ruger Customer Service.
Your Customer Service Issue # is 1032XXXX

Barrel separation occurred on the models that have a 500-XXXXX prefix. We would be willing to examine your firearm if you would like. Please contact us at 336-949-5200 to have an RMA number issued.

Ruger Customer Service
(End Response)

 

[sigp220.45]

I like Ruger customer service but they are well known for just keeping guns that are sent in. They may offer you a deal on a current product, but there is a chance you’ll never see that gun again if you send it in.

 

[Fishinfool]

OP - For what its worth, I have an earlier Redhawk that has had thousands of stiff loads thru it without issue. If you are worried about yours, I would send it in for inspection. Its a current model, and I would assume they have spare barrels, or an entire new gun available if yours is found to be un-safe. It can get sticky though with model that are no longer offered, or for which parts are no longer available. Ruger will keep / replace a gun they deem unsafe to return to the customer. I think that is the same for most manufacturers these days.

Larry

 

[hittman77]

Seems your falls well outside the serial number range.

IIRC, there were fewer than a dozen total confirmed problems. I think the internet contributed to driving the story.

I had one once in the 500-xxxxx range in 44 magnum. Never sent it back and never had a problem.

As said above, their customer service is stellar if you need it though.

 

[H Richard]

A friend at the time had one that did blow the barrel off. He sent in and the returned it with a new barrel (6") and added the scope cuts and the scope rings. (Which are now highly sought after). The barrel sheared off even with the front of the frame. He had no sensation anything was wrong until he realized how much lighter the gun was.

The story we were told was one assembler put just a "little" extra oomph on the barrel torque and it caused a stress point.