I’m here to talk about the Ruger Red Label, a shotgun I’ve tested in the field.
My experience with this firearm was eye-opening. I had high hopes for it, but let’s just say it wasn’t all smooth sailing.
I encountered several Ruger Red Label Problems that seem quite common among users. We need to address light primer strikes, jamming, trigger issues, barrel problems, misfires, and even accidental discharges.
I will break down these Ruger Red Label Problems one by one and offer solutions to get your Ruger Red Label back in tip-top shape.
Overview of Ruger Red Label Issues & their Solutions
| Problems | Solutions |
| Light Primer Strikes | Sand down the wooden channel to reduce friction. |
| Jamming | Contact Ruger customer support for mechanical issues. |
| Trigger Issue | Clean and re-lubricate the entire setup. |
| Barrel Issue | (Not discussed in this article) |
| Misfiring | Adhere to safety procedures and adjust forearm lock. |
| Accidental Discharge | Get professional training and consult Ruger if problems persist. |
Top 5 Ruger Red Label Problems & Solutions
1. Light Primer Strikes
Let’s dive right into the first issue: light primer strikes, particularly on the lower barrel. I took the Ruger Red Label out for some field testing, and boy, did I run into this snag.
Picture firing in double-action, eagerly waiting for that bang, and then you get a failure to fire. What a letdown, right? Well, that’s what happens when you get a light primer strike.
I dug deeper and found that the hammer springs in this gun can create friction within the wooden channel that houses the stock’s springs.
Now, it’s frustrating and could pose a safety risk. We’ve got to get this sorted.
Solution
So, how did I fix this? Well, first off, remove the stock from your gun; you’re going to need a bit of room to work. Next, get yourself a 1/4-inch dowel wrapped in some sandpaper.
With this DIY tool, you’re going to open the channel slightly. The aim here is to shorten the rod so that it stops causing that friction. Once you’re done, reinstall the stock and give it another whirl. In my experience, this solved the problem right away.
If you still have issues after this, don’t hesitate to contact Ruger. But for me, this little tweak did the trick.
2. Jamming Problem
Okay, let’s talk about another frustrating issue: jamming shells and ejector problems. It’s the last thing you want to worry about out in the field, trust me. I’ve had instances where the shells slipped right under the ejector on the bottom barrel.
Even worse, with a gentle tap or push, the shells would bypass the ejector altogether. Then there’s the part where fired shells got stuck in the barrel and wouldn’t come out.
I tried different ammo. I cleaned the weapon meticulously, but it kept happening. This is a nightmare for someone in a trap competition; the gun just won’t close, and panic sets in.
Solution
Alright, so how do you get past this jam? This one’s a tough nut to crack on your own. We’re discussing mechanical problems like ejector errors or other hardware failures.
In a situation like this, your best bet is to contact Ruger customer support. When I got stuck with these issues, I didn’t hesitate. Ruger has the resources and expertise to diagnose and solve these problems.
They can guide you through troubleshooting steps or even have you send in the weapon for a more thorough examination and repair.
Believe me, trying to DIY this one might make things worse, so do yourself a favor and get the pros involved.
3. Trigger Issue
Let’s cut to the chase and talk about trigger issues, specifically when it comes to the second shot. It’s one of those problems that can throw your whole game off. I was out in the field, pumped to fire that second shot and bam! Or rather, no, bam.
The trigger just didn’t seem to reset quickly enough for that crucial second pull. After pulling the trigger, nothing happened, and this isn’t just a one-time fluke.
I noticed it’s something that comes up roughly once in every 25 shots. Sometimes, I hit the target; sometimes, I didn’t. Either way, it’s frustrating and takes away the reliability factor you need in a firearm.
Solution
So, what did I do to get over this hurdle? First thing first: clean the gun thoroughly. It might sound simple, but manufacturing grit or stock wood chips can be the culprit. After you’ve got it clean, re-lubricate the whole setup with some light oil.
Put it back together and give it another go. Ideally, recoil shouldn’t be necessary for the trigger to reset. In my case, after re-lubrication, both barrels were good for dry firing.
But hey, if you’re still experiencing this issue even after all these steps, it’s probably time to ring up customer care and get the firearm checked out.
Don’t mess around; the trigger is too critical a component to compromise on.
4 . Misfiring Problem
Now, let’s talk about a serious concern—unintended discharges. This problem isn’t just a headache; it’s downright dangerous.
I’ve heard of two scenarios causing the Ruger Red Label to fire without intent. The first is negligent discharge, where the user mistakenly applies pressure on the trigger.
Yeah, it’s a lapse in judgment, often due to a lack of experience or poor training.
The second issue is mechanical failure—perhaps the gun has a faulty part or a design flaw. Either way, the gun fires without you intending it to, and that’s a big no-no. I’ve come across users reporting this, so be on your toes.
Solution
First off, if you’re not familiar with this gun, make sure to adhere to all safety procedures. Read the manual, understand the gun, and, if possible, get professional training. Most negligent discharges occur due to ignorance.
On the technical side, say you notice the fore-end getting loose, making a small shim or adjustment around the forearm lock could be a quick fix.
I tried this, and it worked to correct the latch issue. But listen, if the gun still gives you problems, don’t mess around—get in touch with Ruger right away.
It’s better to let professionals handle potentially dangerous issues than to take a risk. Safety comes first, always.
5. Accidental Discharge Problem
Now, let’s talk about a serious concern—unintended discharges. This problem isn’t just a headache; it’s downright dangerous. I’ve heard of two scenarios causing the Ruger Red Label to fire without intent.
The first is negligent discharge, where the user mistakenly applies pressure on the trigger. Yeah, it’s a lapse in judgment, often due to a lack of experience or poor training.
The second issue is mechanical failure—perhaps the gun has a faulty part or a design flaw. Either way, the gun fires without you intending it to, and that’s a big no-no.
Solution
First off, if you’re not familiar with this gun, make sure to adhere to all safety procedures. Read the manual, understand the gun, and, if possible, get professional training.
Most negligent discharges occur due to ignorance. On the technical side, say you notice the fore-end getting loose, making a small shim or adjustment around the forearm lock could be a quick fix.
I tried this, and it worked to correct the latch issue. But listen, if the gun still gives you problems, don’t mess around—get in touch with Ruger right away.
It’s better to let professionals handle potentially dangerous issues than to take a risk. Safety comes first, always.
Final Verdict
The Ruger Red Label is a shotgun that brings a mix of excitement and challenges to the table. Having thoroughly tested it in the field, I can confidently say it’s a piece of equipment you’d want to have on your side—once you get the kinks ironed out.
Issues like light primer strikes, jamming, and trigger inconsistencies are real but not insurmountable. Most can be resolved with tinkering or a call to customer support.
Safety is non-negotiable, though. Issues of accidental or negligent discharges should be dealt with swiftly and professionally. This firearm shows promise but demands attention to detail and respect for safety norms.
FAQs
Why did Ruger stop making the Red Label?
They ceased production in 2015 due to failing revenue expectations.
Can you shoot steel shot in a Ruger Red Label?
Yes, if it’s equipped with screw-in chokes and follows U.S. industry specifications.
What years did they make the Ruger Red Label?
It was manufactured from 1977 to 2011, re-released in 12 gauge only in 2013.
Where is Ruger Red Label made?
It is made in Newport, NH, USA.
