Ruger Single Six - The Firearms Forum

todd51 · 03-03-2010, 04:46 PM

I have decided to purchase a Ruger Single Six. At this point I am thinking the "Super", New Model with adjustable sights and the convertible with extra cylinder for the .22mag. Barrel length is still up in the air but sort of favor the 5.5 or the 6.5 inch. Haven't made up my mind on the blued or the stainless. Like the ease of cleaning the ss guns with out damage to finish but like the looks of the blued steel. I have a Blackhawk .45 Colt with 4 5/8s barrel and would not complain if it was a little bit longer but it is ok.

Any advice, experience, or preferences you might toss my way would be appreciated.

Had a Colt Scout with the buntline barrel but in a weak moment I sold it, DUMB.

Todd

raydcarter · 03-03-2010, 05:15 PM

Have you tried the single six forum at http://www.rimfirecentral.com/forums...play.php?f=264 - might gain a little insight there.

Alpo · 03-03-2010, 05:29 PM

Here's my take. I've got fixed-sighted guns (Colt, Uberti, US Firearms), for when I go play cowboy. But for serious shooting, my single actions are Blackhawks. I can not only dial the sights into my load, but they are easier to see.

For the same reason, I prefer the adjustable Single Six.

Barrel length is very personal, but, again my take, I've got three 7 1/2", four 6 1/2", one 3 1/2" and three 4 5/8" single actions. But I've got fourteen 5 1/2". That length just seems to fit me better. Better balance.

old semperfi · 03-03-2010, 06:58 PM

i have owned a super single six for over 30 years and will not ever get rid of it.the 5 and one half to me is the ticket but that is preference.it might be more work but a blue revolver will not galled like some stainless and dosnt shine in the sun if hunting.once again your choice. old semperfi

todd51 · 03-03-2010, 08:11 PM

Well I have been over at that rimfire site reading and reading. Just some of the things I was interested in. Thanks raydcarter for the suggestion. I know it is a personal thing but see a lot of preference for the 5.5 barrel length and both Alpo and Old Semperfi seem to sort of lean that way. Before starting this search I would say I favored the 5.5 in blue and still do.

One more question if you will put up with me. Is the quality on the current production equal to that of a few years back?

Ohio Gun Collectors Show is March 13 & 14 and will present the chance of finding an older New Model in like new or go with a fresh new manufacture. If not there is always the gun shop.

Thanks for the help.

Todd

old semperfi · 03-03-2010, 10:13 PM

i think the new models are just as well made but.......i would never part with my old model to find out.the one i have has never been converted ie safety issue.the bad thing is ruger will not sell me a part without doing mod.i do think since i have used it for over thirty years without trouble it will probably last another thirty.if you do buy a used one you can tell if the mod has been done simply by listening to the number of clicks when cock hammer.if you hear four clicks it has not been converted if only three it is either newer model or has had safety conversion.when carrying i always keep empty cylinder under hammer. old semperfi you choose wisely grasshopper

Sandman · 03-05-2010, 02:39 PM

I don't have a single six (yet) but I do have a blackhawk with a 6.5" barrel that I really like. If and when I make a single six or another blackhawk purchase, I will probably stick with the 6.5"

Double D · 03-05-2010, 03:06 PM

I just traded a ruger mark 3 for a single six convertable in stainless 6.5 barrel like new condition. It is a jewel. I love it and will probably never sell it. Rugers are nice.

greener · 03-05-2010, 04:43 PM

Single sixes are terrible guns. They lead to all kinds of problems. Problems like Blackhawks.

Great gun to have and to shoot. Everyone ought to have one.

Old Grump · 03-05-2010, 06:31 PM

Brother and I have used his to take a lot of rabbit, squirrel and pigeons since 1976. I doubt there has been more than200-300 rounds of 22 magnum through it but a ton of just about every brand of 22 LR ammo that we could find and it ate them all and spit them out just fine. His has the 4 5/8" and it is as accurate out to 25 yards as my S&W M41. Farther than that I would like better sights and a longer barrel. When anybody asks for a recommendation for a 22 cal handgun that one is the first one I suggest. It has proved itself for over 30 years and I think you will be happy no matter what your barrel length is.

kingcuke · 03-07-2010, 01:53 PM

I have the 4 5/8 barrel version. You can't go wrong with the Single Six, it's absolutely a great pistol. Definitely get the convertible version with the .22 Mag cylinder.
However if you're just looking for a cute little plinker the Bearcat is pretty cool too.

Zane71464 · 03-08-2010, 02:00 AM

I have a single six 9.5" and absolutly no problems here! Love the gun.

Terry_P · 03-08-2010, 10:17 AM

I have owned my Single Six for close to 30 years and it is as accurate as I am and a fun handgun to own. When I reach for a 22 handgun my hand always seems to find the SS in the safe and the others have become safe queens. I have the 5 1/2" model and like the balance with that BBL.

todd51 · 03-08-2010, 10:51 AM

Thank you all for the info. Went to a local gun show yesterday and there was only one Single Six worth consideration. It was a pristine Anniversary Model but wasn't the adjustable sight model. Had a price of $375 and was still in the box with everything. Looked new unfired. I passed as thanks to you all I have settled on the 5.5 inch with adjustable sights and the extra cylinder.

Lots of buying going on. All I purchased was a pound of Win. 231 and felt lucky to find that.

Big gun show this coming week end so will look there. Always the local gun shops too.

tlm1771 · 03-11-2010, 04:45 AM

I have a Ruger single six 22 LR with a 9 1/2" barrel. James Brown was the original owner of this gun which he purchased on 19 Jan 1972 in Oklahoma. I have no idea what it is worth, and ideas?

Alpo · 03-11-2010, 07:29 AM

I presume you mean "James Brown, the hardest working man in show business"? If so, and you can prove it, then it would be worth whatever some fanatical James Brown fan would be willing to pay. Otherwise, it's an Old Model Single Six. I've bought three of them in the last two years for less than 300 each. That long barrel makes it rarer, so it might sell for more, but then again, it makes it ungainly to carry, so it might make it sell for less.

raydcarter · 03-11-2010, 10:09 AM

Ever watch 'Antiques Roadshow'? Provenance is everything. It does absolutely no good to claim it was owned by James Brown unless you have paperwork, photos, etc. to prove it. That could easily mulitply the value by 10.

lentz · 03-12-2010, 06:40 PM

I bought a Ruger single six 3 years ago. I kept it 4 months or less.I hate the blade on adjustable sghts,they cut everytime i thumbed the hammer.
I found an old Herter's .22 in a pawn shop for $100.00,took the sights off and can hit what i shoot at.Just like pointing your finger.

Davis 101 · 03-28-2010, 01:21 AM

I just received my new single six anniversary model 5.5in ss, I’m not new to single action but it has been a few years, (got caught up in the autos) have only put a couple of hundred rounds (22lr & mag) and all I can say is it is very accurate, have no problem putting six in 1in group @ 25 yds as far as barrel length I think you should take a look at what feels right for you I like the 5.5 because the balance just feels right to me either way I love the feel fit & finish of this gun.

Zane71464 · 03-28-2010, 04:22 AM

I bought mine new years ago, and then it left my possesion for less then a year, and that was way too long...got it back and it's a keeper!

Zane71464 · 03-28-2010, 04:27 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by Davis 101

I just received my new single six anniversary model 5.5in ss, I’m not new to single action but it has been a few years, (got caught up in the autos) have only put a couple of hundred rounds (22lr & mag) and all I can say is it is very accurate, have no problem putting six in 1in group @ 25 yds as far as barrel length I think you should take a look at what feels right for you I like the 5.5 because the balance just feels right to me either way I love the feel fit & finish of this gun.

I agree with that on the 5 1/2" and balance. The long barrel I have is way off balance but if held right, it'll reach out there!
And welcome to the forum Davis!

OldPilgrim · 03-28-2010, 01:05 PM

now go here!

http://www.rugerforum.com/phpBB/

Gun Geezer · 03-28-2010, 07:18 PM

I've had a stainless single six convertible for more than 30 years too. Mine is in the original box and wrapping and has never been fired. I take it out once a year and clean and oil it. I'm saving it to pass on to my son when I'm gone.

steve666 · 03-29-2010, 10:27 AM

I have an old model "Magnum Only" with a 6 1/2" bbl. and standard sights that I love. If I were to buy a new one though it would be a 5 1/2" stainless with the adjustable sights.

Hunting Man · 03-29-2010, 12:02 PM

I purchased my single six in 1971 and still have it. Its the 6 1/2" model. Wouldn't think of selling it.

03-03-2010, 04:46 PM	#1
todd51 Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Central, Ohio Contributor Posts: 2,571	Ruger Single Six I have decided to purchase a Ruger Single Six. At this point I am thinking the "Super", New Model with adjustable sights and the convertible with extra cylinder for the .22mag. Barrel length is still up in the air but sort of favor the 5.5 or the 6.5 inch. Haven't made up my mind on the blued or the stainless. Like the ease of cleaning the ss guns with out damage to finish but like the looks of the blued steel. I have a Blackhawk .45 Colt with 4 5/8s barrel and would not complain if it was a little bit longer but it is ok. Any advice, experience, or preferences you might toss my way would be appreciated. Had a Colt Scout with the buntline barrel but in a weak moment I sold it, DUMB. Todd __________________ Retired Praefectus Vigilum NRA Endowment Member -->

03-03-2010, 05:15 PM	#2
raydcarter V.I.P. Member Join Date: May 2009 Posts: 160	Re: Ruger Single Six Have you tried the single six forum at http://www.rimfirecentral.com/forums...play.php?f=264 - might gain a little insight there.

03-03-2010, 05:29 PM	#3
Alpo Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: NW Florida Posts: 8,648	Re: Ruger Single Six Here's my take. I've got fixed-sighted guns (Colt, Uberti, US Firearms), for when I go play cowboy. But for serious shooting, my single actions are Blackhawks. I can not only dial the sights into my load, but they are easier to see. For the same reason, I prefer the adjustable Single Six. Barrel length is very personal, but, again my take, I've got three 7 1/2", four 6 1/2", one 3 1/2" and three 4 5/8" single actions. But I've got fourteen 5 1/2". That length just seems to fit me better. Better balance. __________________ Meddle not in the affairs of dragons, for thou art crunchy, and taste good with catsup - George of Lod, Year of Our Lord 297 I always take precautions. Beware the Evil Bullet Fairies.

03-03-2010, 06:58 PM	#4
old semperfi Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: i live in southern indiana,old country boy at heart Posts: 1,506	Re: Ruger Single Six i have owned a super single six for over 30 years and will not ever get rid of it.the 5 and one half to me is the ticket but that is preference.it might be more work but a blue revolver will not galled like some stainless and dosnt shine in the sun if hunting.once again your choice. old semperfi

03-03-2010, 08:11 PM	#5
todd51 Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Central, Ohio Contributor Posts: 2,571	Re: Ruger Single Six Well I have been over at that rimfire site reading and reading. Just some of the things I was interested in. Thanks raydcarter for the suggestion. I know it is a personal thing but see a lot of preference for the 5.5 barrel length and both Alpo and Old Semperfi seem to sort of lean that way. Before starting this search I would say I favored the 5.5 in blue and still do. One more question if you will put up with me. Is the quality on the current production equal to that of a few years back? Ohio Gun Collectors Show is March 13 & 14 and will present the chance of finding an older New Model in like new or go with a fresh new manufacture. If not there is always the gun shop. Thanks for the help. Todd __________________ Retired Praefectus Vigilum NRA Endowment Member

03-03-2010, 10:13 PM	#6
old semperfi Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: i live in southern indiana,old country boy at heart Posts: 1,506	Re: Ruger Single Six i think the new models are just as well made but.......i would never part with my old model to find out.the one i have has never been converted ie safety issue.the bad thing is ruger will not sell me a part without doing mod.i do think since i have used it for over thirty years without trouble it will probably last another thirty.if you do buy a used one you can tell if the mod has been done simply by listening to the number of clicks when cock hammer.if you hear four clicks it has not been converted if only three it is either newer model or has had safety conversion.when carrying i always keep empty cylinder under hammer. old semperfi you choose wisely grasshopper

03-05-2010, 02:39 PM	#7
Sandman Senior Member Join Date: Jun 2009 Location: Louisiana Posts: 552	Re: Ruger Single Six I don't have a single six (yet) but I do have a blackhawk with a 6.5" barrel that I really like. If and when I make a single six or another blackhawk purchase, I will probably stick with the 6.5"

03-05-2010, 03:06 PM	#8
Double D TFF Moderator/Host Join Date: Jul 2009 Location: North Florida Contributor Posts: 8,052	Re: Ruger Single Six I just traded a ruger mark 3 for a single six convertable in stainless 6.5 barrel like new condition. It is a jewel. I love it and will probably never sell it. Rugers are nice. __________________ I own a bunch of scary guns. You want em? Come and take em..... Liberalism is a serious, non curable, mental disorder... NRA LIFE MEMBER Oath Keepers Member NRA Certified Instructor 30 Yr CC permit holder.

03-05-2010, 04:43 PM	#9
greener V.I.P. Member Join Date: Dec 2006 Posts: 55	Re: Ruger Single Six Single sixes are terrible guns. They lead to all kinds of problems. Problems like Blackhawks. Great gun to have and to shoot. Everyone ought to have one.

03-05-2010, 06:31 PM	#10
Old Grump Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2010 Location: Little hut in the woods near Blue River Wisconsin Posts: 2,285	Re: Ruger Single Six Brother and I have used his to take a lot of rabbit, squirrel and pigeons since 1976. I doubt there has been more than200-300 rounds of 22 magnum through it but a ton of just about every brand of 22 LR ammo that we could find and it ate them all and spit them out just fine. His has the 4 5/8" and it is as accurate out to 25 yards as my S&W M41. Farther than that I would like better sights and a longer barrel. When anybody asks for a recommendation for a 22 cal handgun that one is the first one I suggest. It has proved itself for over 30 years and I think you will be happy no matter what your barrel length is. __________________ "When once a republic is corrupted, there is no possibility of remedying any of the growing evils but by removing the corruption and restoring its lost principles; every other correction is either useless or a new evil."~~- Thomas Jefferson Roman Catholic, Life Member of American Legion, VFW, Wisconsin Libertarian party, Wi-FORCE, WGO, NRA, JPFO, GOA, SAFand CCRKBA

03-07-2010, 01:53 PM	#11
kingcuke V.I.P. Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Cucumber Island Posts: 154	Re: Ruger Single Six I have the 4 5/8 barrel version. You can't go wrong with the Single Six, it's absolutely a great pistol. Definitely get the convertible version with the .22 Mag cylinder. However if you're just looking for a cute little plinker the Bearcat is pretty cool too. __________________ Giving every man a vote has no more made men wise and free than Christianity has made them good. H. L. Mencken It is not in the nature of politics that the best men should be elected. The best men do not want to govern their fellowmen. George MacDonald

03-08-2010, 02:00 AM	#12
Zane71464 Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: Ohio NRA Member Contributor Posts: 5,350	Re: Ruger Single Six I have a single six 9.5" and absolutly no problems here! Love the gun. __________________ Two Words; "Simple Man", song by Charlie Daniels sums up my thoughts on a "few things"!

03-08-2010, 10:17 AM	#13
Terry_P Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2008 Location: NH Posts: 2,513	Re: Ruger Single Six I have owned my Single Six for close to 30 years and it is as accurate as I am and a fun handgun to own. When I reach for a 22 handgun my hand always seems to find the SS in the safe and the others have become safe queens. I have the 5 1/2" model and like the balance with that BBL. __________________ NRA and NAHC Life "Both oligarch and tyrant mistrust the people, and therefore deprive them of their arms." -Aristotle

03-08-2010, 10:51 AM	#14
todd51 Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Mar 2009 Location: Central, Ohio Contributor Posts: 2,571	Re: Ruger Single Six Thank you all for the info. Went to a local gun show yesterday and there was only one Single Six worth consideration. It was a pristine Anniversary Model but wasn't the adjustable sight model. Had a price of $375 and was still in the box with everything. Looked new unfired. I passed as thanks to you all I have settled on the 5.5 inch with adjustable sights and the extra cylinder. Lots of buying going on. All I purchased was a pound of Win. 231 and felt lucky to find that. Big gun show this coming week end so will look there. Always the local gun shops too. __________________ Retired Praefectus Vigilum NRA Endowment Member

03-11-2010, 04:45 AM	#15
tlm1771 Member Join Date: Mar 2010 Posts: 2	Re: Ruger Single Six I have a Ruger single six 22 LR with a 9 1/2" barrel. James Brown was the original owner of this gun which he purchased on 19 Jan 1972 in Oklahoma. I have no idea what it is worth, and ideas?

03-11-2010, 07:29 AM	#16
Alpo Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Feb 2007 Location: NW Florida Posts: 8,648	Re: Ruger Single Six I presume you mean "James Brown, the hardest working man in show business"? If so, and you can prove it, then it would be worth whatever some fanatical James Brown fan would be willing to pay. Otherwise, it's an Old Model Single Six. I've bought three of them in the last two years for less than 300 each. That long barrel makes it rarer, so it might sell for more, but then again, it makes it ungainly to carry, so it might make it sell for less. __________________ Meddle not in the affairs of dragons, for thou art crunchy, and taste good with catsup - George of Lod, Year of Our Lord 297 I always take precautions. Beware the Evil Bullet Fairies.

03-11-2010, 10:09 AM	#17
raydcarter V.I.P. Member Join Date: May 2009 Posts: 160	Re: Ruger Single Six Ever watch 'Antiques Roadshow'? Provenance is everything. It does absolutely no good to claim it was owned by James Brown unless you have paperwork, photos, etc. to prove it. That could easily mulitply the value by 10.

03-12-2010, 06:40 PM	#18
lentz Former Guest Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Arkansas Posts: 606	Re: Ruger Single Six I bought a Ruger single six 3 years ago. I kept it 4 months or less.I hate the blade on adjustable sghts,they cut everytime i thumbed the hammer. I found an old Herter's .22 in a pawn shop for $100.00,took the sights off and can hit what i shoot at.Just like pointing your finger.

03-28-2010, 01:21 AM	#19
Davis 101 Member Join Date: Mar 2010 Posts: 1	Re: Ruger Single Six I just received my new single six anniversary model 5.5in ss, I’m not new to single action but it has been a few years, (got caught up in the autos) have only put a couple of hundred rounds (22lr & mag) and all I can say is it is very accurate, have no problem putting six in 1in group @ 25 yds as far as barrel length I think you should take a look at what feels right for you I like the 5.5 because the balance just feels right to me either way I love the feel fit & finish of this gun.

03-28-2010, 04:22 AM	#20
Zane71464 Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Aug 2009 Location: Ohio NRA Member Contributor Posts: 5,350	Re: Ruger Single Six I bought mine new years ago, and then it left my possesion for less then a year, and that was way too long...got it back and it's a keeper! Attached Images __________________ Two Words; "Simple Man", song by Charlie Daniels sums up my thoughts on a "few things"!

03-28-2010, 01:05 PM	#22
OldPilgrim V.I.P. Member Join Date: Feb 2008 Location: Southeastern Massachusetts Posts: 53	Re: Ruger Single Six now go here! http://www.rugerforum.com/phpBB/ __________________ US Army Security Agency 1967-71 Lifemember of: NRA, American Legion, DAV, AF&AM

03-28-2010, 07:18 PM	#23
Gun Geezer Advanced Senior Member Join Date: Oct 2009 Location: Central Florida Posts: 1,710	Re: Ruger Single Six I've had a stainless single six convertible for more than 30 years too. Mine is in the original box and wrapping and has never been fired. I take it out once a year and clean and oil it. I'm saving it to pass on to my son when I'm gone.

03-29-2010, 10:27 AM	#24
steve666 V.I.P. Member Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: Indianapolis, IN Posts: 231	Re: Ruger Single Six I have an old model "Magnum Only" with a 6 1/2" bbl. and standard sights that I love. If I were to buy a new one though it would be a 5 1/2" stainless with the adjustable sights. __________________ An armed society is a polite society.

03-29-2010, 12:02 PM	#25
Hunting Man Member Join Date: Mar 2010 Location: NW ohio Posts: 49	Re: Ruger Single Six I purchased my single six in 1971 and still have it. Its the 6 1/2" model. Wouldn't think of selling it.