Early Early No.1

[K6JVS]

Hello, new here. I have a No.1 with serial #395 .308 WIN in great condition. receiver has serial #395, the block has 395 etched and the fore-end has 395 hand written in it. I contacted Ruger several years ago to get more information and they said it was a pre distribution manufactured in May of 1967. They said pre production no.1's were gifted to special persons and asked if I was interested in selling it. The story is interesting but the one thing that doesn't add up is the wood. It is in great condition but somewhat plain. A little tiger striping at the for-end but nothing spectacular.I would think if it was such a special gun, they would have put high grade wood on it. Ever since that call I have been curious of the value. Would anyone have any information on what the value would be? I would say it's 90%, zero rust, internals look new, some blueing worn off at the muzzle.

[X1Ruger]

A little more info is needed. What is the barrel length & what Forearm does it have Beavertail or Alex Henry?
Let me know and I can supply more details.

[X1Ruger]

One more question, where is the 395 inscribed on the barrel?

[K6JVS]

Sorry, the serial number is not on the barrel, it is located on the bottom of the receiver. Here are some pics. Hope this works..

Thanks again

[K6JVS]

Sorry if these aren't coming through

[K6JVS]

[zebra55]

Are you thinking of selling it?

[K6JVS]

I haven't thought about selling it. I am more interested on the history and value.

[X1Ruger]

Here is a little info I have acquired.
380 BB 308 Sep-67
381 AB 308 Aug-67
383 AB 308 May-67
384 NVN
386 BB 30-06 Nov-67
387 BB 243
388 NO INVOICE
394 AB 308 Aug-67
395 AB 308 May-67 V 4 Wood
396 AB 222 Sep-67 H
397 AB 222 Nov-67
400 AB 222 Aug-67
403 AB 308 Apr-67
405 BB 308 Sep-69 V HANGER MKD AB

The AB in 308 is one of 196 known with 733 Projected built. From a Data list of 2320 known SN of the 8437 non-prefix.

[K6JVS]

Thanks for the info!!