Christmas Comes Early: Ruger Brings Back the Classic Red Label Shotgun

SNW first heard that the Red Label shotgun would be making a triumphant return back in October and we were, to say the least, thrilled. We loved the quality and affordability of the the classic Red Labels that let the average guy own a quality American-made over/under.

Now Ruger has officially announced that they’re bringing the Red Label back. While this iteration will also be American made, it isn’t actually being made by Ruger. Instead, Ruger is partnering with the craftsmen at the Connecticut Shotgun Manufacturing Company to turn out the new Red Label III shotguns. If you’re unfamiliar with Connecticut Shotgun’s work, they make some of the prettiest damn double guns you’ve ever seen.

That also means, however, that these new Red Labels will be priced higher than you might expect. The first two models — 20 gauge guns with either 28- or 30-inch barrels  — carry an MSRP of…hold on…$3299. That said, given the quality, fit, and finish of the other guns we’ve seen from Connecticut Shotgun, we expect it to be well worth every single penny.

We have one on its way and can’t wait until it arrives. Here’s Ruger’s announcement . . .

Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. (NYSE: RGR) proudly announces the return of one of America’s most iconic over/under shotguns with the Ruger Red Label™ III, renewing Ruger’s commitment to being a full-line manufacturer of firearms.

First launched in 1977, the original Ruger Red Label earned a reputation for rugged reliability, classic lines, and American-made quality. Decades later, the Red Label III continues that legacy while elevating it with premium materials and world-class fit and finish.

Built by the highly skilled craftsmen at one of the world’s premier makers of fine firearms, Connecticut Shotgun Manufacturing Company (CSMC), the Red Label III marks a new era in Ruger shotgun excellence.

This 20-gauge shotgun is offered in both 28″ and 30″ barrel configurations and features a beautiful walnut stock with a classic checkering pattern and a hand-rubbed oil finish. The single trigger is inertia operated and resets on recoil. In addition, the automatic tang safety has an integral first shot barrel selector. Capable of shooting 2 3/4″ and 3″ shells, the barrels have a precise internal geometry that produces consistent patterns and superior shot performance.

The Red Label III is designed as a sporting shotgun for upland game hunting, skeet and sporting clays, as well as waterfowling. Each shotgun ships in a premium custom case and includes five Tru-Choke-style choke tubes: Skeet, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified and Full.

“Bringing back the Red Label has been a standing request from our loyal customers,” said Ruger President and CEO, Todd Seyfert. “By teaming up with Connecticut Shotgun Manufacturing Company, we’re able to deliver a firearm that meets Ruger’s standards for durability and reliability while elevating the craftsmanship to a level that honors the legacy of the original. Its return also marks an important milestone for Ruger as we reestablish ourselves as a full-line manufacturer of firearms, reaffirming our commitment to providing a complete lineup of firearms to our customers.”