^Lot 2183 RUGER EARLY ISSUE OLD MODEL BEARCAT REVOLVER.

Cal. 22 LR S# 7989 Blued finish (black anodized alloy frame); produced from 1958 to 1970. Barrel length of 4 inches. Fixed staked serrated blade front sight and frame notched rear. Single action trigger with anodized brass colored alloy trigger guard. Non-Fluted 6 round cylinder with decorative Ruger roll engraving. Smooth rosin impregnated rosewood grips without Ruger medallions; only Ruger handgun model (early Bearcats below S# 35500) produced without grip medallions or Ruger logo. Early features of straight cross pin to hold firing pin retainer and steel ejector housing. "Alcoa" marked grip frame; later replaced by Ruger castings (about S# 84000). CONDITION: Overall very good. Barrel retains approximately 90% of original finish with some light wear. Frame retains about 95% of original finish with minor handling marks. Grips are in near excellent condition with minimal wear. Bore is bright with strong rifling. PROVENANCE: Estate Collection of John "Jack" Dhooghe. CURIO (25-5542/NW) $400-600.