Is This a Reasonable Request

[dranrab]

I am interested in buying a Ruger Number One. The question could just as easily apply to any walnut stock high end gun. I have found several good prices on number ones through online merchants. One of the prime selling points of number ones has always been that they had nice walnut, and indeed that's what I want. Of late, number ones have been sourced with some wood that's pretty bland, but there's also some pretty nice stocks in inventory. Merchants are well aware of this. Would it be reasonable to email an online vendor and ask them to look at a few of the rifles and see if any of them have nice wood prior to purchase? Maybe even send a quick pic?

 

[jmorris]

You could always ask, if they are small enough you might even get an answer you like.

 

[243winxb]

Select wood is $50 extra. No guarantee. Then they ship the first one without opening the box..

But photos on the internet, great new invention.

Doesnt cost any $$$ to ask.

 

[adcoch1]

I would ask. At big box stores if i have requests like that I wait till they aren't really busy, but i usually can look at some stock if I have cash to buy. Like stated above, the smaller vendors may give you reasonable help in that department...

 

[Malamute]

Time is money, they will sell guns without taking the time to look for nice wood. Expect to pay well to get what you want and you will probably find a more receptive audience. In person they may be a little more receptive, but no guarantees. Some places have a hand select charge. Its probably money well spent, and they probably wont want to listen to grumbling about it. Not saying you as an individual would, just saying some people don't seem to know when to act nice and not whine to people doing them a favor, even if its a favor that costs money. Dealing with customers (or more to the point NOT dealing with customers), is why many online merchants have NO phone dealings at all. Order on their site and get it over with and don't waste their time talking. I get it.

Buying an individual gun on gunbroker or wherever and you know up front what exact gun and wood you are getting. That's my vote.

 

[243winxb]

Gunbroker has photos. Oops got beat by a few seconds.

 

[NeuseRvrRat]

You could ask. If no one will oblige, then I guess you can either roll the dice or you can pay a little extra and pick one out at a brick and mortar gun store. A good LGS will be willing to pull out what they have in stock and let you take your pick.

 

[Sun Tzu warrior]

I have to agree with 243,
Photos on the internet are a great invention.
That said, whenever I buy a wood/blued arm, I always ask to see all they have in stock so that I might compare the fit, finish, and grain of the wood. I have never had anyone act like it was a hassle to them, in fact, they felt like they learned something.

Ask for detailed pictures, at the price point of a number 1 Ruger, you will be accommodated, or buy from someone else! I have some beautifully figured tiger stripped wood stocks that didn't cost anything more, than just paying attention.
I have never heard of a "Select" charge, if someone has paid one, they, created that problem. I don't see that ever happening in my neck of the woods.
STW

 

[J-Bar]

I bought mine at a gun show nearly 20 years ago, used not abused, with a nicely figured stock. They aren't that rare. Go on a quest for one to inspect in person, you will know it when you find it, and used ones will save you a few bucks.