Wedge, the main reason FAs are so accurate is that they line-bore the cylinder with the final barrel/frame configuration. That means the pilot hole for each cylinder bore is done with a smaller drill run right down the barrel. The accuracy of the final barrel-to-cylinder fit is unmatched by any other process.
Now go back to the website for Jim Stroh at Alpha Precision, who is one of the more reasonably priced gunsmiths who do line-boring on Rugers. Guess what? The FA turns out to be a *bargain*. Go to Bowen and prices are even wilder.
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SA III Custom Ruger: Field Grade. Includes: Custom 1.750" diameter five or six shot line bore chambered cylinder, cylinder stop support, custom oversize cylinder stop, premium barrel with conventional crown and minimum barrel cylinder gap, modified Ruger ramp front sight and factory rear sight, factory ejector and tube, standard tune, adjusted carry up, free wheeling cylinder will rotate in either direction when loading gate is open, standard matte blue or brush stainless finish, appropriate markings, and test fire.
$1717
Note 2. Express cylinder, 1.780 diameter, up-charge $119.00
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http://www.alphaprecisioninc.com/contact/prices.htm
And that's his lower-end line-bored critter...so far as I'm aware, the least expensive source for this mod on Rugers. Look at what it runs JUST for that:
Cylinder, 5/6 shot, prem. barrel, line bore chamber, w/up grades $1,215.00
Take $1717 and add to it the cost of the base gun and you're above FA prices:
http://www.gunsamerica.com/guns/976395500.htm
http://www.gunsamerica.com/guns/976384924.htm
http://www.gunsamerica.com/guns/976395501.htm
http://www.gunsamerica.com/guns/976397983.htm