Description

Looking for a classic single-action revolver that bridges the gap between a fun plinker and a serious small-game hunter? You’ve found it. The Ruger Single Six is a modern take on the legendary Western wheel gun, chambered in the flat-shooting .17 HMR cartridge. It’s the ideal platform for introducing new shooters to the fundamentals or for the seasoned hand who appreciates precision and simplicity.

Californiagunshop is a San Antonio, TX-based retailer specializing in family-oriented firearms and tactical gear. The Ruger Single Six handguns revolver is a modern single-action chambered in .17 HMR, holding 6 rounds. Its strength lies in its robust construction and timeless design, making it a superb training and small-game firearm. Available now for $1,350.89 (regularly $1,500.99).

Why the Ruger Single Six is a Family Shooting Staple

In my years of coaching families and building custom firearms, I’ve found that the best training tools are simple, safe, and rewarding to shoot. The Ruger Single Six checks all those boxes. The single-action mechanism forces a deliberate pace—you cock the hammer, aim, and fire. This builds incredible discipline and marksmanship fundamentals. The .17 HMR round offers minimal recoil, which is perfect for younger or newer shooters, yet its high velocity and accuracy make it a legitimate choice for varmint control. It’s the revolver I often recommend after someone has mastered a .22 LR; it’s the next step up in power and performance without the intimidation factor of a large-caliber handgun.

Detailed Specifications

How the Ruger Single Six Stacks Up

It’s easy to find cheaper single-actions or more expensive custom pieces. Here’s how the Ruger holds its ground against typical market options.

Feature	Ruger Single Six (.17 HMR)	Heritage Rough Rider (.22 LR)	Colt Single Action Army (Modern Replica)
Material	Stainless Steel Frame & Barrel	Zinc-Alloy Frame, Steel Barrel	Carbon or Stainless Steel
Quality	Investment Cast & CNC Machined (Consistent)	Budget Cast & Finished	High-Quality Fit & Finish
Compatibility	.17 HMR (High-Velocity, Flat Trajectory)	.22 LR (Low-Cost Plinking)	.45 LC, .357 Mag (Historic Calibers)
Shipping	Same-Day from San Antonio, TX	Varies by Retailer	Often Special Order, Long Lead Times
Lifespan/Durability	Built for a Lifetime of Use, Ruger’s Warranty	Suitable for Casual Use	Very Durable, Often Heirloom Quality
Price	$1,350.89 (Premium Factory Built)	~$200-$300 (Budget Tier)	$1,500+ (Premium/Collector Tier)

Pros and Cons from the Range

Pros:

• ✅ Superb Training Tool: The single-action mechanism teaches trigger control and patience better than almost any other design.
• ✅ Low Recoil, High Performance: The .17 HMR has minimal kick but delivers impressive accuracy and energy downrange for small game.
• ✅ Rock-Solid Ruger Construction: Built with investment-cast stainless steel, this is a revolver meant to be used for generations.
• ✅ Timeless Design: It feels right in the hand and connects you to the history of shooting sports.
• ✅ Safe Handling: The loading gate and hammer block safety provide clear, manual steps that reinforce safe firearm handling habits.

Cons:

• ❌ Deliberate Reloading: Loading and unloading six rounds through the gate is slower than a swing-out cylinder. It’s part of the experience, but not for speed.
• ❌ Not a Defense Firearm: This is a hunting, target, and training revolver. If home defense is your primary need, see our semi-automatic handguns.
• ❌ Ammunition Cost: .17 HMR costs more than .22 LR. If pure volume plinking is the only goal, a .22 LR revolver might be a better fit.

Who Should (and Shouldn’t) Buy This Revolver

Buy it if: You’re a parent looking for a fantastic “next step” firearm for a responsible teen after a .22. You’re a shooter who enjoys varmint hunting with a handgun and values precision. You appreciate classic American firearm design and want a durable, no-nonsense revolver for the ranch or range. You’re a competitor in single-action shooting sports looking for a reliable .17 HMR option.

Skip it if: Your sole purpose is concealed carry or home defense—this isn’t the tool for that job. You need rapid reloads for competition (except specific single-action events). Your budget only allows for the absolute cheapest plinking option. If that’s the case, browse our other revolver options to find a better match.

Common Concerns Addressed

Is the .17 HMR too much for a beginner? Not from this platform. The weight of the Single Six soaks up what little recoil the .17 HMR produces. It’s louder than a .22, so hearing protection is non-negotiable, but the recoil impulse is very manageable with proper instruction.

How difficult is maintenance? One of the joys of a single-action revolver is its simplicity. Field stripping for basic cleaning is straightforward, and the robust design isn’t fussy. I teach my kids to clean their own Single Sixes.

Frequently Asked Questions

This Ruger Single Six represents a piece of shooting heritage updated with modern manufacturing and a potent, accurate cartridge. It’s a firearm that teaches respect, rewards skill, and is built to last. If you’re ready for a revolver that offers more than just making noise at the range, this is it.

Browse more: Handguns | Revolver | Full Shop