1976 Ruger No. 3 Falling Block 22 Hornet w/3-8x40mm Scope - 200th Year - Excellent Condition

Description:
OVERVIEW
The 1976 Ruger No. 3 in .22 Hornet is a charming, lightweight falling-block single-shot rifle. Released as an affordable, utilitarian counterpart to the No. 1, all models produced in 1976 bear the "Made in the 200th Year of American Liberty" stamp, making them highly sought-after by Ruger collectors.

Key Features & Design

• Action: A strong John Farquharson-style falling-block action. Opening the curved under-lever drops the breechblock, making it incredibly rigid and reliable. 
• Stock & Sights: Features uncheckered American walnut, a barrel-band front sight, and a slim 22-inch barrel. It's delightfully lightweight, weighing in at just 6 pounds. 
• The "Bicentennial" Stamp: The commemorative 1976 roll mark was placed on every firearm Ruger produced that year, which slightly appeals to collectors though actual monetary premiums heavily depend on the rifle's overall, unblemished condition. 

Shooting & Performance

• The Cartridge: The .22 Hornet is America's first centerfire .22, offering mild recoil, little report, and superb accuracy for small game and short-range varmints. 
• Accuracy & Barrel Band: The No. 3's barrel band is known to affect barrel harmonics, which can sometimes result in stringing shots as the barrel heats up. Many users on forums like Shooters' Forum suggest modifying the barrel band or bedding the forearm to achieve consistent 1 MOA (minute of angle) accuracy. 
• Reloading Tips: Because Hornet brass is famously thin, reloaders must employ finesse to avoid deforming the case. Neck-sizing only is a highly suggested tactic to prolong brass life and improve consistency. 

Market & Valuation

• Demand: The Ruger No. 3 was discontinued in 1986. Due to the enduring popularity of single-shot rifles, used examples in good condition generally command premium prices.  200th Aniversity models have high collector value. 

Specifications

The 1976 Ruger No. 3 in .22 Hornet is a highly collectible, single-shot falling block carbine. It was released as a simplified, economical version of the Ruger No. 1. A standout feature for this year is the bicentennial roll mark on the barrel reading "Made In The 200th Year Of American Liberty".

Key Specifications

• Action: Farquharson-style hammerless falling block single-shot
• Caliber: .22 Hornet 
• Barrel Length: 22 inches
• Overall Length: 38.5 inches
• Weight: ~6 lbs (unloaded)
• Stock: Uncheckered straight-grip American walnut with a faux barrel band on the forearm 
• Butteplate: Curved black polymer/plastic (borrowed from the 10/22 line)
• Safety: Sliding tang safety 
• Sights: Gold bead front sight and flip-up adjustable leaf rear sight; factory drilled and tapped with integral scope bases for Ruger rings 
• Production Dates: Manufactured from 1973 to 1986, with this specific "200th Year" marking corresponding to the 1976 production run (serial numbers starting around 130-55139)

Ballistics & Performance

The .22 Hornet is the first centerfire .22 caliber cartridge, designed for varmint and small pest control out to 150-200 yards. It delivers velocities between 2400 and 2900 feet per second. Because of the light recoil and low report, it is highly sought after by small game hunters and collectors alike. 
For comprehensive collector insights or to check the exact serial number range, refer to the Ruger No. 3 Product History. 

This is a used item. While we do not test-fire our used firearms, we perform an inspection and function check to ensure that they are fully functional to the best of our ability. 

Layaway: 1/3 down, 90 days
Shipping:  $60, insurance extra upon request
Payment:  Personal Check, Money Order, Cert. Check, or Zelle
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(703) 858-2881
Returns without damage, firing, or alteration within 3 days of delivery, minus a 20% restocking fee 

Curio/Relic: Yes
Rifle Caliber: .22 Hornet
Manufacturer: Ruger
Model: No. 3
Serial Number: 130-56407
Barrel Length: 22
Bore Info: Sharp
Chambers: Single Shot
Condition: Excellent
Metal Condition: Excellent
Wood Condition: Excellent
Bore Condition: Excellent
Action: Farquharson-style hammerless falling block single-shot
Triggers: Adj Single
Stock: American Walnut
Butt Pad: Factory Polymer Plate
LOP: 13.5
Finish: Satin
Weight: 6Lbs
Sights: Metal
Manufacture Date: 1976
Extras: American Eagle 3-9X40mm Rifle Scope and Rings
Case: Optional
Optic: American Eagle 3-9X40mm Rifle Scope and Rings

Price: $1,899.00
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