Old Ruger Old Army vs Later Ruger Old Army

[AbitNutz]

I have been fortunate enough to have several Ruger Old Army Revolvers. I have just acquired a very low 4-digit serial number 7-1/2" first year production. I have to say, in my opinion, it is superior in almost every way in fit and finish, to my very late production 145-XXXX serial number 5-1/2". It is smoother and locks up more solidly than all my others.

This is the only 4-digit serial number ROA so it's a sample of one so it could be a fluke. Has anyone else any difference between early and late production ROA's?

 

[JCooperfan1911]

The earlier Ruger revolver of ALL types, centerfire, rimfire, or black powder, are tremendously superior in fit and finish to the later guns IMHO. The handling of the original Colt style actions before the pre 70s guns were especially excellent.

 

[BullRunBear]

I have Ruger revolvers, including ROAs, that cover several decades and have found the older versions to be somewhat better for fit and smoother in operation. But the accuracy over the years has remained the same and the build is still robust. Not sure if there is a practical difference.

Jeff