The Value of Youngsters &
Ruger Collecting
A Vital Step for Our Future
A typical collection from a Ruger Owners and Collectors Society member at a gun show to entice youngsters of all ages
to get interested and involved in Ruger collecting.
Talking with a friend wishing to remain anonymous, we covered the gamut of guns, including the future and value of them when it’s time to relinquish them as we age. Here are some of the things we covered.
Ruger firearms have been synonymous with quality, precision and innovation for decades. The legacy of Bill Ruger and the continued excellence of Sturm, Ruger & Co. has resulted in a strong and passionate collector community. With the passing of time, the original wave of collectors matures, causing a growing concern. How do we bring younger collectors into the fold to ensure the knowledge, history and value of these collectible Rugers are preserved for future generations?
The answer lies in making the world of Ruger collecting accessible and exciting for younger enthusiasts while emphasizing the historical and financial significance of these firearms. It’s critical to pass down not only rare pieces but also the knowledge accumulated by long-time collectors — many having firsthand ties to Bill Ruger or working directly at the factory. Preserving this legacy is essential to maintaining the integrity and increasing the value of these collectible firearms.
Digital Platforms
The digital age presents a valuable opportunity for reaching younger generations who spend much of their time online. Social media platforms like Instagram, Facebook and YouTube allow collectors to connect with others while sharing their passion for Rugers and learning about rare and collectible models.
Instagram has become a visual showcase for firearm enthusiasts, allowing young collectors to display their collections while learning from others. YouTube offers an excellent platform for deep dives into the history, specifications and value of specific Ruger models. Creating engaging and educational content on Ruger collecting can help younger people understand the nuances of what makes these firearms so special.
Additionally, podcasts and online forums dedicated to Ruger collecting can foster meaningful discussions, connecting experienced collectors with newcomers. The use of modern digital tools offers a new avenue to keep the spirit of Ruger collecting alive and vibrant, reaching a broader and younger audience.
Don Findley holding one of his books at a
Ruger Owners and Collectors Society event.
Educational Resources & Mentorship
The Ruger Owners and Collectors Society (ROCS) has been a cornerstone of Ruger collecting for years, and its role in educating new collectors is more critical than ever. ROCS provides a platform for learning and networking, providing resources like books, articles and historical archives about Ruger firearms.
The society hosts events at large gun shows, like the Tulsa Gun Show and NRA Annual Convention, where members display their collections and meet fellow collectors while sharing knowledge and learning from each other. These events are excellent for introducing younger collectors to the history and craftsmanship behind Ruger firearms while creating a legacy of future collectors.
Moreover, ROCS has an active mentorship program consisting of seasoned collectors offering advice and guidance to newer enthusiasts. This mentorship is valuable for passing down decades of expertise by understanding the history of each model and identifying rare, valuable pieces in the market. By creating a welcoming environment for young collectors, ROCS helps ensure the legacy of Ruger collecting continues to grow.
Financial Potential
One of the driving factors for younger collectors entering the world of Ruger collecting is the significant financial value these firearms can hold. Over the years, certain Ruger models have appreciated considerably, offering investors not only a chance to own a piece of history but also the opportunity to see their investment grow in value. Many firearms that were originally sold for a few hundred dollars in the 1950s are now worth tens of thousands.
For example, the Spanish Engraved Single Six revolver, produced in the 1950s, had only 20 guns made, featuring intricate engraving, setting them apart from standard models. Today, one of these rare revolvers can fetch upwards of $30,000, making it one of the most sought-after Rugers in the collecting world. It is an example of the incredible financial potential that Ruger firearms hold, which should serve as an incentive for young collectors to get involved.
With such rare and valuable models in play, Ruger collecting offers young enthusiasts the chance to invest in firearms that are not just functional but can potentially appreciate greatly over time. The thrill of discovering and owning a piece of history that also doubles as a smart investment is a powerful draw. Plus, the mature collector looking to liquidate some of their collection needs an audience willing to pay top dollar for interesting pieces.
Larry Weishuhn, Tom Hutton, Lee Newton, Kelly, the Ruger girl,
David Lortscher and Bobby Tyler at the Ruger booth.
Tyler Gun Works
Bobby Tyler of Tyler Gun Works is one of the key players in rejuvenating the world of Ruger collecting. Known for acquiring rare, collectible firearms, Tyler plays an important role in placing these firearms in the hands of young, passionate collectors. Whether he’s acquiring large collections or restoring historical pieces, he ensures that these firearms continue to be enjoyed and appreciated for generations to come.
Through his work, Tyler has bridged the gap between older collectors, who are downsizing or passing on their collections, and younger collectors eager to take on the mantle. His involvement is helping to maintain the vibrancy of the Ruger collecting community by ensuring that valuable models are not lost or forgotten but instead find their way into the hands of new enthusiasts.
Lipsey’s Exclusive Guns
Another major contributor to the continued success of Ruger collecting is Jason Cloessner of Lipsey’s. Lipsey’s is well-known for its exclusive, limited-edition Ruger models, designed to appeal to both seasoned collectors and younger enthusiasts. These models often feature unique engravings, special finishes or one-of-a-kind modifications that make them stand out in the collector’s market.
By producing these exclusive firearms, Lipsey’s provides young collectors with an exciting entry point into the world of Ruger collecting. The models are not only highly collectible but also offer younger collectors the chance to own unique, limited-run firearms that can grow in value over time. Cloessner’s work serves to connect a new generation of Ruger fans with the rich history of the brand, ensuring that Ruger’s legacy continues to evolve.
Author Don Findley
Don Findley is another cornerstone of the Ruger collecting world. His extensive knowledge, along with his role as an author and historian, has made him a trusted figure in the community. Findley has written several highly regarded books, such as “Ruger’s 22 Automatic Pistols” and “The Ruger Story,” which provide in-depth insights into the company’s history, the evolution of its firearms, and detailed information on the models that collectors value most.
In addition to his writing, Findley is a respected mentor, sharing his expertise through talks, lectures and personal interactions with newer collectors. His contributions help ensure the rich history of Ruger firearms is passed on to the next generation. For any young collector looking to truly understand the nuances of Ruger firearms, his books and advice are invaluable.
Mentorship From Respected Collectors
Other notable figures in the Ruger collecting world include Bill Hamm, one of the most respected collectors of Ruger firearms; Terry Wolosek, a leading authority on Ruger 77 rifles; and Lee Newton, who is considered the foremost authority on Ruger Number One rifles. These collectors not only possess an encyclopedic knowledge of Ruger history but are also known for their generosity in mentoring younger collectors. Each of them plays a pivotal role in passing on the knowledge and passion for Ruger firearms. Their willingness to share their collections, offer advice and encourage younger collectors makes them instrumental in keeping the world of Ruger collecting alive.
The Future of Ruger Collecting
Ruger collecting isn’t just about acquiring valuable firearms; it’s about preserving a rich legacy, learning from experts and sharing that knowledge with new enthusiasts. As organizations like ROCS, Tyler Gun Works, Lipsey’s, and individual collectors like Bobby Tyler and Don Findley continue their work, the community will remain strong and vibrant.
For younger collectors, the rewards are both tangible and intangible: the joy of collecting rare, valuable firearms, the potential for financial growth, and the satisfaction of preserving an important piece of American history. With dedicated mentorship, access to exclusive models and the collective effort of seasoned collectors, the future of Ruger collecting is in good hands.
As Ruger firearms continue to increase in value, and as the community of passionate collectors ages, it’s vital to bring new, younger enthusiasts into the fold. Through digital platforms, mentorship programs and partnerships with companies like Lipsey’s Guns, Tyler Gun Works and Ruger Owners and Collectors Society, Ruger collecting remains a thriving, dynamic hobby that can continue to attract new generations. By investing in education, fostering community and sharing knowledge, we ensure that Ruger firearms continue to be celebrated, cherished and collected for generations to come.
