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Posted: 8/29/2026 10:42:38 AM EDT
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Stopped in at a shop i dont usually visit (not in the area very often). They had a really nice older Ruger Red Label on the used rack. Last time I went informal clay shooting with a few friends, I shot my buddies 20 gauge Red label (first time shooting an O/U) and fell in love with it. Hit almost everuthing I shot at and just felt great. This used one I found is an early model, with 26" barrel and the fixed chokes. Lock up felt very solid, though it has definitely seen use. The bottom of the reciever had the bluing worn, as if it was broken open and slung over an arm or shoulder. Also, the bluing was gone under the tang safety / barrel selector. Wood on it was very nice though. Needed a little cleaning / buffing, but figure was beautiful. Price was $1200, but they pretty much told me to make an offer. Looking at similar shotguns on GB, this seems to be on the lower-end of what they are listing for. My question though is on parts / service. Since its had use on it, im tempted to send it somewhere to just look it over and possibly replace springs if needed. Would ruger be able / willing to do this type of service? Or should I send it someplace else? Like maybe Turnbull? Thoughts? |
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I have a very early 20G, 26" red label and love it. The early models had issues with bluing and Ruger was repairing under warranty for many years. It's 2 lbs. lighter than my Browning 12G, which make it a joy to use for quail here in the southwest. If your intent is sporting clays, I would agree with the suggestion of a Browning- it's just a better built gun |
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Although Ruger O/U have a small cult following today they were never popular guns. Did not hold up to competition use and many felt they were clumsy guns. I would not buy one especially one with heavy use. Ruger no longer supports them. Beretta would be my first choice but definitely look at browning’s also. $500 bucks maybe. $1,200 no way. |
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Originally Posted By mike103: Although Ruger O/U have a small cult following today they were never popular guns. Did not hold up to competition use and many felt they were clumsy guns. I would not buy one especially one with heavy use. Ruger no longer supports them. Beretta would be my first choice but definitely look at browning’s also. $500 bucks maybe. $1,200 no way. This, except I'd pick a Browning O/U over Beretta because the Browning's fit me better. |
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From the Ruger website: Firearms with no parts / service available: * Red Label Shotgun (Serial # Beginning with "400-" or "410-") At the advertised price you will be much better served to save up for Browning or Beretta O/U 
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Steve Rose - RAS
"Let your gun therefore be the constant companion of your walks"
Thomas Jefferson - 1785
"Let your gun therefore be the constant companion of your walks"
Thomas Jefferson - 1785
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