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

target with holes
target with holes

Skills Check: The Tabula Rasa Method

Too many shooters step onto the range carrying the emotional residue of every missed shot, every bad stage and every ugly drill from the last six months like a tactical backpack full of disappointment. The Tabula Rasa method is designed to change that relationship.

Canadian Law Enforcement Agencies Select Federal Ammunition

Federal Ammunition will supply the Canadian Department of National Defense and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police with rifle and shotgun ammunition, respectively.

Shooting Surplus: Finding Affordable Mil-Surp Ammo in 2026

Today, the market for mil-surp ammo is vastly different than it was even just a few years ago. If you're a military-surplus collector and shooter, what should you look for in 2026? Here's our guide.

Colt Electro-Optics Introduces New Red Dots & Magnifier

No stranger to rebirth, Colt has recently spun off an optics division to make sure that, in a world where optics are considered to be standard equipment, a fully kitted-out gun can be all-pony.

What This Huge NFA Ruling Means for Gun Owners

The recent ruling in Jensen v. ATF and the subsequent lack of an appeal by the U.S. Department of Justice has left many gun owners with questions about purchasing NFA items. Here is some guidance.

Gun of the Week: Smith & Wesson Model 386 Night Guard

In partnership with Lipsey's, Smith & Wesson recently re-introduced two of its classic Night Guard revolvers, the Models 386 and 396, which are chambered for the .357 Magnum and .44 Special, respectively.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.