As one of the most diverse firearms manufacturers in the world, it was inevitable that some of Ruger’s products would wind up in the gun games. In fact, the MK series .22LR pistols and 10/22 rifles are among the most popular choices in rimfire Steel Challenge. But, none of those rolled off the production line in a match ready condition and required aftermarket customization to win.
That’s changing.
Recent years have seen the introduction of competition-oriented guns, beginning with the GP-100 Match Champion, the SR1911 Target, and the Precision Rifle series. Current additions are the moon clip-fed 8-shot .357 Redhawk revolver, 10/22 Target Lite, and the 9mm PCC Carbine.
“This is not your grandfather’s Ruger,” said Public Relations Manager, Paul Pluff. “Ruger has always been known for strong, reliable products. But our product mix has changed significantly over the last few years. If you look at the total product line you’ll see it now encompasses everything from precision rifle in centerfire and rimfire calibers, as well as competitive action shooting firearms in semi-auto pistol, revolver, carbine, and rimfire rifles.”
With Ruger’s new emphasis on competition, there was one more logical step.
“One thing I’ve found over the years, including my 36 years with Smith & Wesson, is that having a visible presence in competitive shooting is an excellent way to bring new shooters into the sport, and that is a goal with Ruger.” Pluff added, “That was the impetus for forming the first ever Ruger Team.”
Consisting of Team Captain, 18-time Bianchi Cup Champion Doug Koenig (pictured at top), with Randi Rogers, Dave Olhasso, and James McGinty, Pluff said,“This is a diverse set of accomplished shooters who can excel in multi-gun disciplines.”
While the first three shooters are well-known in competitive circles, McGinty may not be—yet.
“James is only 23-years-old,” Pluff explained. “But he has been mentoring under Dave Olhasso since he was 14. He’s a pure talent. At the 2017 ICORE IRC, Dave won Limited Class. And James won Limited 6 Class, while shooting against far more experienced shooters. He has a bright future, and we’re glad to have him.”
Ruger, as a responsible arms maker, wants to continue to grow the shooting sports and help create shooters who use firearms in a safe manner. There is no better way to learn the effective, safe, and responsible use of firearms than in the shooting sports. Bringing new shooters into the sport is one way to accomplish that. That’s what the Ruger Team is all about. And, these shooters will be putting many thousands of rounds through Ruger products at the highest levels of competition to share their thoughts with the company’s talented design engineers to create better products for the shooting sports.
Pluff concluded, “You will see Ruger become much more involved in the competitive shooting world, not just with our team, but also with match sponsorship.”
