Historical Background and Development
The Need for a New Revolver
The late 1960s and 1970s witnessed a dynamic shift in the firearms landscape. Law enforcement agencies across the United States were seeking to upgrade their standard-issue sidearms. The old guard, primarily revolvers from Colt and Smith & Wesson, faced increasing challenges. Colt, once the dominant force, was struggling financially, and its revolvers were becoming increasingly expensive to produce. Smith & Wesson, while still a leader, presented its own challenges concerning price and some perceived quality issues. Agencies needed a reliable, readily available, and, importantly, cost-effective alternative.
Ruger’s Entry into the Revolver Market
Enter Sturm, Ruger & Company. Ruger, with its innovative manufacturing techniques and focus on affordability, was already making a name for itself in the firearms market. Recognizing the potential demand, they set their sights on producing a revolver that could compete directly with the established players.
Ruger’s initial foray into the revolver market was the Security-Six, introduced in 1968. This revolver, with its robust design and innovative features, was an immediate success. The Security-Six incorporated several design advantages, including a solid frame, coil mainspring, and ease of manufacturing. The Ruger Security-Six became an immediate favorite, establishing Ruger as a major contender in the handgun market.
The Birth of the Police Service Six
Building upon the success of the Security-Six, Ruger introduced the Police Service Six in 1972. While closely related to its predecessor, the Police Service Six was specifically designed for law enforcement. The improvements and intended purpose were clear: to create a duty-ready, durable revolver that could withstand the rigors of police work. The Police Service Six often featured a fixed rear sight, emphasizing simplicity and ruggedness. The standard finish for these revolvers was a blued steel or stainless steel. Various barrel lengths were available, including 2.75-inch, 4-inch, and 6-inch versions. This model was designed to handle constant use, which required ruggedness and reliability.
Production Timeline and Legacy
The Police Service Six enjoyed a long production run, solidifying its reputation as a workhorse. It was eventually discontinued in the early 1990s, as Ruger introduced the Ruger GP100, which was intended to be a successor, taking advantage of advances in manufacturing techniques and materials. The GP100 improved upon the proven platform established by the Security-Six and Police Service Six and offered enhanced features such as a beefier frame and an improved action. Despite the end of its production, the Ruger Police Service Six remains a sought-after handgun and a testament to Ruger’s commitment to quality and value.
Design and Distinctive Elements
The Ruger Police Service Six wasn’t just another revolver; it represented a smart blend of engineering and functionality. Let’s examine the key aspects of its design.
Technical Specifications
Technical aspects are crucial to understand the Police Service Six. Available in chamberings primarily for the .38 Special and .357 Magnum cartridges, the revolver offered versatility. The .357 Magnum variant could, of course, also safely fire .38 Special rounds. The weight and dimensions of the Police Service Six are relatively modest, making it easy to carry. The dimensions and weight were suitable for the kind of practical use it was intended for, and allowed for a reasonable grip. The cylinder typically held six rounds, providing ample firepower.
Construction and Materials
The Police Service Six was built with a solid, strong frame. This rugged construction made it very durable. The cylinder was made of high-strength steel, further enhancing its ability to handle the powerful .357 Magnum rounds. Ruger’s approach to manufacturing at the time centered on simplicity, but not at the expense of quality. The result was a firearm designed to last.
Key Design Elements
Several key design elements contribute to the Police Service Six’s appeal. The revolver featured a double-action/single-action (DA/SA) firing system. This meant the trigger could either cock the hammer and fire the gun (double-action) or cock the hammer manually for a lighter trigger pull (single-action). This flexibility was appreciated by both law enforcement officers and civilian shooters. The sights, typically fixed or adjustable, were easy to acquire. The grip design provided a secure and comfortable hold, promoting accurate shooting. The trigger pull, while not always as smooth as some competitors, was reliable.
Notable Design Features
The transfer bar safety system was another crucial design element. This system ensured the revolver could not fire unless the trigger was fully pulled. This added an extra layer of safety. Ease of disassembly and maintenance were also key features. Field stripping for cleaning was straightforward, a practical consideration appreciated by those in the field.
Performance and Functionality
Reliability and accuracy are essential factors for any firearm, and the Ruger Police Service Six excelled in both of these areas.
Accuracy
Real-world accuracy testing consistently showed that the Police Service Six was a reliable and accurate handgun, capable of grouping shots well at typical combat distances. The sights are simple, but effective, and the revolver is easy to point. Compared to other revolvers, such as those from Smith & Wesson, the Police Service Six was often considered competitive.
Reliability
The reputation for reliability is one of the defining characteristics of the Ruger Police Service Six. It was built to handle high round counts with minimal failures. Its rugged construction and reliable design ensured that it could withstand the demanding conditions of police work and civilian use.
Recoil Management
Recoil management is another key factor when assessing the performance of a handgun, and the Police Service Six does well in this regard. With .38 Special rounds, recoil is manageable. With .357 Magnum rounds, there is more recoil, but the weight and design of the revolver absorb this effectively, making it comfortable to shoot, even with a large number of rounds fired.
Use by Law Enforcement and Other Users
The Ruger Police Service Six earned its name.
Police Service
Law enforcement agencies across the United States and internationally quickly embraced the Police Service Six. It proved to be a dependable sidearm for patrol officers. The reliability and durability of the Police Service Six made it a valuable asset in the field, and its simple design and ease of maintenance were well-suited for the demands of daily duty.
Civilian Use
The Police Service Six also found favor with civilians seeking a reliable handgun for personal defense, target shooting, and hunting. The versatile caliber options, combined with its affordability and proven track record, made it a popular choice for those who valued performance and reliability.
Comparison with Competitors
Compared to other revolvers, such as the Smith & Wesson Model 19, the Ruger Police Service Six offered excellent value and a durable build. While the Smith & Wesson Model 19 was renowned for its craftsmanship, the Police Service Six offered a more rugged and perhaps more cost-effective alternative, especially for those looking for a workhorse revolver.
Advantages and Disadvantages
The Ruger Police Service Six has strengths and weaknesses.
Advantages
One of the most significant advantages of the Police Service Six is its durability and reliability. Built to last, it can withstand heavy use and harsh conditions. It also comes at a reasonable price, making it a more accessible option than some of its competitors, such as Colt and Smith & Wesson. Another plus is its ease of maintenance. Finally, it had a comfortable grip.
Disadvantages
The disadvantages include aesthetics, as it isn’t quite as finely finished as some other revolvers. The Police Service Six may also have a limited aftermarket support compared to some of the other revolvers. The trigger pull on some examples isn’t as smooth as other competitors.
Collecting and the Police Service Six Today
Collecting firearms is a popular hobby, and the Ruger Police Service Six has value.
Collector’s Value
Factors that influence the collector’s value of the Ruger Police Service Six include the revolver’s condition, any rare models, and whether it has the original packaging. The condition of the revolver, especially the finish, is very important. Rare variations, such as those with special markings or features, will command a higher price.
Availability and the Used Market
Finding a Police Service Six for sale isn’t too difficult, as many of them are on the market. You can look for them on websites and at local gun stores. When buying a used model, it’s important to inspect the revolver closely. Check for any signs of wear and tear, ensure the cylinder locks up tightly, and check for any damage to the bore.
Conclusion
The Ruger Police Service Six remains a legendary revolver, a testament to the innovative design and manufacturing skills of Sturm, Ruger & Company. Its reliability and durability made it a mainstay in law enforcement and a favorite of civilian shooters for many years.
Its lasting impact on the firearms industry is undeniable. It proved that a high-quality, durable revolver could be produced at a reasonable price. The Police Service Six continues to be appreciated for its simplicity, ruggedness, and overall functionality.
The legacy of the Ruger Police Service Six is secure. Whether you’re a collector, a shooter, or simply a firearms enthusiast, this revolver deserves recognition.
Resources
[Link to a Ruger Police Service Six manual or parts diagram]
[Link to a reputable firearms review website]
[Link to a gun forum with discussions about the Ruger Police Service Six]
[Link to a video about the Ruger Police Service Six on YouTube]
