RUGER WRANGLER

The Ruger Wrangler is a single-action revolver designed to provide a high-quality yet affordable shooting experience. Chambered in .22 Long Rifle (.22 LR), the Wrangler combines the classic feel of Old West-style revolvers with modern materials and manufacturing techniques, making it an excellent choice for beginners, recreational shooters, and those looking for a budget-friendly yet reliable firearm.

Since its introduction, the Ruger Wrangler has gained significant popularity due to its affordable price point, durable construction, and ease of use. It serves as an entry-level alternative to Ruger’s renowned Single-Six series, offering a cost-effective way to enjoy single-action shooting without sacrificing quality. In this comprehensive guide, we will explore the history, design, features, performance, and practical applications of the Ruger Wrangler, providing an in-depth look at what makes this revolver stand out in the modern firearms market.

History and Development

Ruger has long been known for producing high-quality revolvers, with models like the Single-Six, Blackhawk, and Vaquero being staples among cowboy action shooters, outdoorsmen, and firearm collectors. However, many of these models come with a higher price tag due to their all-steel construction and premium craftsmanship. Recognizing a market need for an affordable yet dependable single-action revolver, Ruger introduced the Wrangler in 2019 as a cost-effective alternative.

By utilizing modern manufacturing techniques and materials such as aluminum alloy for the frame and Cerakote finishes for enhanced durability, Ruger was able to produce a revolver that maintained the essence of a traditional six-shooter while keeping the cost accessible to a broader audience. The Wrangler quickly gained traction among shooters who wanted a fun and affordable plinking gun, as well as those who sought an entry-level revolver for training purposes.

Design and Features

The Ruger Wrangler follows the traditional Colt Single Action Army-style revolver design, staying true to the classic lines and mechanics of Old West firearms while incorporating modern improvements for reliability and ease of use.

Frame and Construction

Unlike Ruger’s Single-Six, which features a steel frame, the Wrangler is built with a lightweight aluminum alloy frame, making it both durable and lightweight. This material choice allows Ruger to keep costs low while ensuring the revolver remains strong enough to handle thousands of rounds of .22 LR ammunition.

The Wrangler is also equipped with a Cerakote finish, a durable ceramic-based coating that provides excellent resistance against wear, corrosion, and harsh environmental conditions. The revolver is available in various Cerakote color options, including black, silver, burnt bronze, and more, allowing shooters to choose a finish that suits their style.

Barrel and Cylinder

The Wrangler features a cold hammer-forged barrel, which enhances accuracy and longevity. The standard barrel length is 4.62 inches, providing a good balance between accuracy and compactness. The rifling is optimized for .22 LR, ensuring consistent shot placement and a smooth shooting experience.

The cylinder is made of steel and holds six rounds of .22 LR ammunition. It operates with the traditional loading gate mechanism, requiring shooters to manually load and unload each chamber by rotating the cylinder.

Caliber and Ammunition

The Wrangler is chambered in .22 LR, one of the most popular and affordable calibers available. This makes it an excellent choice for target shooting, plinking, small-game hunting, and firearms training. The low recoil of .22 LR also makes the Wrangler suitable for new shooters and younger firearm enthusiasts.

However, unlike the Ruger Single-Six, the Wrangler is not compatible with .22 Magnum (.22 WMR) cylinders, which means users are limited to .22 LR ammunition only. This trade-off helps keep the Wrangler affordable and focused on its role as a plinking and training revolver.

Action and Trigger System

As a single-action revolver, the Ruger Wrangler requires the shooter to manually cock the hammer before each shot. This classic firing mechanism is a hallmark of Old West revolvers and provides a crisp, light trigger pull, contributing to better accuracy and control.

The trigger on the Wrangler is smooth and predictable, making it easy for shooters to develop good shooting habits. The hammer spur is also textured for better grip, allowing for quick and reliable cocking.

Grip and Ergonomics

The Wrangler comes with synthetic checkered grips, providing a comfortable and secure hold. The grip frame is modeled after Ruger’s Single-Six revolvers, making it familiar to those who have used similar models in the past. The grips can be easily swapped out for aftermarket options, allowing for further customization.

The revolver’s lightweight construction and well-balanced design make it easy to handle, even for extended shooting sessions. The combination of low recoil and comfortable ergonomics makes the Wrangler an ideal choice for beginners, youth shooters, and those who enjoy extended plinking sessions at the range.

Safety Features

Unlike traditional Colt Single Action Army revolvers, which lack modern safety features, the Ruger Wrangler includes a transfer bar safety system. This system prevents the hammer from striking the firing pin unless the trigger is fully pulled, eliminating the risk of accidental discharges if the revolver is dropped or handled improperly.

The Wrangler also features a loading gate interlock, which prevents the hammer from being cocked when the loading gate is open, adding an extra layer of safety during loading and unloading.

Performance and Shooting Experience

Accuracy and Precision

Thanks to its cold hammer-forged barrel and smooth single-action trigger, the Ruger Wrangler is capable of excellent accuracy. At typical plinking and small-game hunting distances (10-25 yards), the Wrangler provides tight shot groupings and a consistent point of aim.

While it may not match the precision of the Ruger Single-Six, which features adjustable sights, the Wrangler still delivers reliable accuracy for casual shooting and training purposes.

Recoil and Handling

One of the standout features of the Wrangler is its low recoil, thanks to the .22 LR cartridge and the revolver’s well-balanced frame. This makes it an ideal firearm for introducing new shooters to handguns, as well as for extended shooting sessions without fatigue.

Use Cases and Practical Applications

The Ruger Wrangler excels in several areas, making it a highly versatile firearm:

1. Recreational Shooting and Plinking
   • The affordability of .22 LR ammunition and the Wrangler’s low cost make it a fantastic plinking revolver for casual shooters.
2. Firearm Training and Skill Development
   • The single-action mechanism helps new shooters develop good trigger control and fundamental shooting skills.
   • The low recoil and comfortable ergonomics make it a great introduction to revolvers.
3. Small-Game Hunting and Pest Control
   • With accurate shot placement, the Wrangler is effective for hunting small game like squirrels and rabbits.
   • The .22 LR cartridge is also useful for pest control in rural settings.
4. Collectors and Western Enthusiasts
   • Fans of Old West-style firearms will appreciate the Wrangler’s classic design and aesthetics.
   • It serves as an affordable alternative to more expensive cowboy revolvers.