Click here to download the catalog as a PDF file. To view this site you need Adobe Flash Player and your browser must allow javaScripts. Go here to get the latest Flash Player. should have adjustable sights to allow for sighting-in with different loads. By 1972 well over one-half million Single-Sixes had been produced and it was time for the next major change with the coming of the New Model Single-Sixes. In 1973 Ruger changed the concept and design of single action revolvers once again by the addition of an automatically engaged safety transfer bar. Up to this time all single action cartridge firing sixguns were only safely carried if the hammer was allowed to rest on an empty chamber. Some percussion revolvers, as does Ruger ’s Old Army, have a notch between chambers to allow the hammer to rest safely.) Rugers New Model Single-Six could now be carried safely fully loaded. The hammer did not contact the firing pin in its resting position. When the New Model Single-Six is cocked a transfer bar moves upward to allow the firing pin to be contacted when the hammer is pulled. Up to this time all SingleSixes had the traditional three screws in the side of the frame; they were now replaced with two pins. Any Ruger single action with three screws MUST be carried with the hammer down on an empty chamber. Until very recently all Ruger New Model Single-Sixes were fitted with adjustable sights, however a few have been made with Colt SAA-style sights as a rimfire companion to the centerfire Vaquero. New Model Single-Sixes are found in four barrel lengths, 45/8", 51/2", 61/2" and 91/2" all fitted with extra .22 Winchester Magnum cylinders. In 1974, Ruger began offering the New Model in stainless steel, also making it a most versatile and weather resistant .22 sixgun. I can’t think of a more practical .22 sixgun than an adjustable-sighted, stainless steel, single action revolver, with an extra .22 Magnum cylinder. My favorite New Model Single-Six, apart from my custom Single-Sixes by Andy Horvath, is the Hunter Model complete with a heavy ribbed 71/2" barrel, bead front sight, and scalloped to accept Ruger scope rings. This little .22 has it all. I doubt most kids today enjoy .22 sixguns as much as we did. We were not handicapped with the existence of computers, video games, VCRs, CDs, DVDs, portable plug-in-the-ear music, cell phones, MTV and all the other results of progress. We made our own enjoyment and were active participants — instead of viewers and listeners. In the 1950s I enjoyed Ruger .22s with my fellow teenage shooters. Today I enjoy them even more, shooting with my grandkids. Perhaps those were the days, however it’s more likely these are the days — at least for me. WWW.AMERICANHANDGUNNER.COM More Upgrades * 79