Redhawk serial numbers

[Rat Rod Mac]

The serial number on Ruger Redhawks start with the number 500 and then go into the rest of the serial number like this,,, 500-12345. Did Ruger start the serial number for the Redhawk at number one. like this 500-0001? I know some gun companies start their numbers at a thousand, like this, 1001 and so forth. Thanks.   RRM

[Flash]

After seeing my share of Ruger handguns, I would say yes, the serial numbers most likely did start at 00001. However with the introduction of a new gun, first run guns are used for testing, often given as gifts and set aside for presentation models so the likelyhood of finding single digit guns are slim to none, unless you get one in stainless steel which also might carry the number one in another prefix.

[BlkHawk73]

  Test guns usually have an "X" or  such in the serial number.  Some are later sold as "used" and are marked with either a "U" or an "*" before the serial number.  Many early numbered guns are first offered to those with the subscription for that particular number. 

[Flash]

Didn't know the subscription guns were offered within the first 9 pieces. Thanks Blackhawk73

[BlkHawk73]

Didn't know the subscription guns were offered within the first 9 pieces. Thanks Blackhawk73

 So long as the person that has that # keeps up, they're still offered the number.  I believe some single digits stay within the company and/or go to specially chosen folks.