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.
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 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.
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“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.”
For more information on the Ruger Red Label III Shotgun or to learn more about Ruger firearms, visit Ruger.com.
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21 Comments
I wonder what the price point will be. Ruger’s quality often comes at a premium, but it’s worth it for a shotgun you can rely on.
I’d expect a higher price given the premium case and choke tubes included.
If it’s competitively priced, it could be a strong contender in the over-under market.
The inertia-operated trigger and automatic tang safety are features that athletes will appreciate. Safety and reliability are paramount in any firearm.
Absolutely. When you’re in the heat of the moment, the last thing you want is a finicky safety mechanism.
The reset on recoil sounds like a smart design choice for rapid follow-up shots.
The 28” and 30” barrel options cater to different shooter preferences. It’s interesting to see how the internal geometry impacts shot performance.
The 20-gauge is underrated. It’s powerful yet manageable for recoil-sensitive shooters.
I’d lean towards the 30” for long-range patterns, but the 28” is likely better for close-range upland game.
Ruger’s partnership with CSMC suggests this shotgun is built to last. It’s good to see a classic design updated with modern manufacturing techniques.
CSMC has a well-earned reputation for quality. This collaboration is a win for gun enthusiasts.
I hope the Red Label III lives up to the legacy of the original.
The inclusion of five choke tubes is a nice touch. It makes the Red Label III versatile enough for various types of hunting and clay shooting.
I wish more manufacturers included such a comprehensive set of chokes with their shotguns.
Agreed. Versatility is key, especially for those who enjoy multiple types of shooting sports.
The hand-rubbed oil finish on the walnut stock sounds like a departure from the factory looks. It’s refreshing to see a manufacturer care about aesthetics.
It’s the little details that often separate a good shotgun from a great one.
I prefer the natural look of walnut over synthetic stocks, especially for hunting.
Ruger has always been known for quality craftsmanship, and this reintroduction of the Red Label III seems to uphold that reputation. Curious to hear from owners about its performance in the field.
The 20-gauge is a great choice for smaller shooters. Wonder if Ruger plans to offer other gauges in the future.
I’ve heard great things about its balance and accuracy. The walnut stock adds a nice touch of classic elegance too.