Ruger Wrangler: A Popular Rimfire Revolver for Those on a Budget

by
posted on June 23, 2020
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
wrangler.jpg

Ruger has been producing rugged and reliable firearms that perform since 1949, and its Single-Six Revolver—first introduced in 1953 and now offered in a “New” version—puts the company’s craftsmanship and quality on full display. To provide even more enthusiasts a chance to savor the single-action wheelgun experience, the company introduced the budget-minded .22 LR-chambered Ruger Wrangler in 2019.

B. Gil Horman gave one a test ride last year for American Rifleman and concluded, “Now .22 LR enthusiasts who have little or no experience with single-action revolvers can give them a try without having to spend two or three times more than they would for a pistol. Best yet, they don’t have to sacrifice the product quality and customer service that Ruger provides.”

It's that kind of glowing praise the helped the Single-Six Revolver claimed third-place honors among the revolvers sold by retailers using the services of Gunbroker.com last year. Figures aren’t available through other outlets or wholesalers, but there’s no doubt the firearm is a favorite among enthusiasts who want a reliable gun, one with Old West Style.

Horman’s writeup provides a close look at the construction, performance and specifications. It’s well worth a read, but here are a few details that should pique any gun owner’s interest. The three versions available are all chambered in .22 LR, share identical specifications, but come in either a black Cerakote, silver Cerakote or burnt bronze Cerakote finish.

The single actions have cylinders capable of holding six cartridges and barrels are 4.62 inches long. Weight comes in at 30 ounces and overall length is 10 1/4 inches. The synthetic grips are “checkered” in the classic Single Six pattern and a transfer bar mechanism enhances safety. Best of all, they’re Rugers with an MSRP of only $249.

 

Latest

Icarry DD H9 1
Icarry DD H9 1

I Carry: Daniel Defense H9 in an ANR Designs Holster

In our latest “I Carry” segment above, we’re taking a closer look at the Daniel Defense H9, a unique, striker-fired design that borrows popular features from several different handguns. 

The Armed Citizen® Oct. 2, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Are Snub-Nose Revolvers Still Relevant?

In a world of micro-compact handguns, does the venerable snub-nose revolver still have a place? Here are four reasons why you might still consider carrying a snubby.

Behind Federal's 7 mm Backcountry Cartridge

In 2025, Federal Ammunition introduced its new 7 mm Backcountry cartridge, which operates at higher pressures than any previous commercial ammunition offering.

New for 2026: Beretta 94X Performance

The latest step in the evolution of Beretta's 90 series of handguns is the 94X Performance, a handgun that the company calls “the ultimate evolution of the Beretta competition pistol for IPSC and USPSA.”

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.