Old Ruger Bearcat

[moosehunt]

I'm not seen a lot on this thread, but am definately not new to THR, so hopefully won't get newbie treatment. The Question: Does anyone know of a shop that does QUALITY restoration of the old Bearcat? The one I have is in pretty rough shape (not my doing) and I would like to see it "new" again. I really like the little shooter. A Bearcat in cherry condition is the only firearm I have ever had stolen (40 years ago) and I've always wanted another like it. True originals in primo condition are very expensive, so I'd like to look into refurbishing this one. Thanks!

 

[Brian Williams]

Ford's

 

[BlkHawk73]

For a top-notch restoration look at Turnbull but it'll cost as much if not more than a nice used OM one. I'd say go with Gallagher or Clements as they do a LOT with Rugers.

 

[danjet500]

OM Bearcat

I don't know how much you are willing to spend, but I bought this OM about 6 months ago for $375 and it is in excellent condition. What will it cost to restore the one you have now? Is there sentimental value with it? If I was to consider having custom work done on one of mine, I would have the cylinder fluted and adjustable sights installed, too. JMHO.

 

[Virginian]

Does Ruger still offer refurbishing? I have seen som great examples they turned out over the years.

 

[MADDOG]

Yes as said above---Call Ruger they will make it new again.

 

[Sam1911]

Yes as said above---Call Ruger they will make it new again.

I've been told that Ruger will not refinish Aluminum frames. Haven't asked them directly, but I have one myself that needs major work and I haven't because of this very issue.

-Sam

 

[moosehunt]

Thanks. I'll check with Ruger--hadn't even thought of that. BlkHawk73, can you provide an address or phone number for Gallegher and/or Clements? I know Turnbull is good, but also know that they are pricier than I want and, due to demand, quite slow--time consuming probably a better term. Danjet500--can't see too much from your photo, but it would appear you got a steal for $375! Good move!

 

[The Lone Haranguer]

I would call Ruger first. If anyone can refinish it to original specs, it ought to be the people who made it, and at low or no cost, too. However, if it is an unaltered "old model," they will put a safety conversion in it whether you want it or not.

 

[BlkHawk73]

Here's Clements' site: http://www.clementscustomguns.com/

Here's Gallagher's site: http://www.gallagherfirearms.com

I've had John do a couple for me and he'll definetly be getting at least two more, proberly more after those.

 

[rcmodel]

Thanks. I'll check with Ruger--hadn't even thought of that.

I don't know what Ruger will or will not refinish.

But I do know if you send them a working old model SA, it will come back with the new transfer bar safety parts in it.

And the old parts un-refinished, in a plastic bag.

rc

 

[moosehunt]

Mr. Model--What you say is, of course, correct, but if I prefer the "old" mechanism (which I do), isn't it simply a matter of changing out the new with the old parts? I don't believe anything is actually done to the original gun other than parts change. Am I incorrect in that thought?

 

[rcmodel]

That is correct.

I do not believe however, that they will re-polish the old hammer & trigger.
So if you want them "refinished" to match the new condition of the refinished gun, you will have to do it yourself.

rc

 

[moosehunt]

Right, thanks, Mr. Model. My whole objective here is just to make this pretty rough shooter (as said earlier, not my doings) look nice again. I will immediately go to shooting and using it, as I find the Bearcat a real fun little shooter. I'm not after a museum piece (hence no interest in Turnbull, excellent as they are), and I don't intend to put a fortune into this endeavor, just get the gun looking nice again. But I don't want the engraving and lettering all rounded out, though. I suspect you know what I mean.