The Ruger Wrangler .22 LR 4.62″ Burnt Bronze Revolver is a single-action rimfire built for reliable, no-nonsense practice and plinking. It pairs a lightweight alloy frame with a cold-hammer-forged barrel, a six-round cylinder, and a transfer-bar safety system. The Burnt Bronze Cerakote finish on the frame and barrel with a matching Black Cerakote cylinder gives it a rugged, low-glare look that holds up to range use. At $212.95, this revolver delivers dependable function without the premium price tag.
| Manufacturer | Ruger |
|---|---|
| Model | Wrangler |
| Material | Aluminum alloy frame, cold-hammer-forged steel barrel |
| Compatibility | .22 LR ammunition |
| Finish | Burnt Bronze Cerakote (frame and barrel), Black Cerakote (cylinder) |
| Weight | Approximately 30 oz (per manufacturer specs) |
| Condition | New |
Key Features
- Cold-hammer-forged barrel — The 4.62″ barrel is hammered from steel under extreme pressure, which aligns the bore for consistent accuracy shot after shot. Why it matters: you get tighter groups at the range and more reliable hits on steel or paper.
- Transfer-bar safety system — This mechanism physically blocks the firing pin until the trigger is pulled fully to the rear. Why it matters: it reduces the risk of accidental discharge if the revolver is dropped or the hammer is struck, making it safer for new shooters and carry practice.
- Burnt Bronze Cerakote finish — The frame and barrel wear a durable ceramic coating that resists corrosion, scratches, and harsh solvents. Why it matters: this finish holds up to sweat, humidity, and frequent cleaning, keeping the revolver looking solid for years.
- Fixed blade front sight and integral rear sight — The front blade is pinned in place and the rear notch is milled into the frame. Why it matters: no adjustable parts to snag or lose zero, so you can focus on shooting instead of sight adjustments.
- Checkered synthetic grips — The grips are molded from a tough polymer with a textured pattern. Why it matters: they give you a secure hold even with sweaty or gloved hands, and they resist cracking or swelling in changing weather.
Who It’s For
This revolver fits anyone who wants a low-cost, reliable .22 LR for range practice, plinking, or teaching new shooters the fundamentals of single-action shooting. It’s also a solid choice for a backup plinker or a trail gun where weight and finish durability matter. If you carry a centerfire pistol for defense, the Wrangler lets you practice trigger control and sight alignment without burning expensive ammo.
Pros and Cons
- Pros: Lightweight alloy frame, reliable transfer-bar safety, durable Cerakote finish, affordable price, accurate cold-hammer-forged barrel.
- Cons: Single-action only — you must manually cock the hammer for each shot, which slows follow-up shots compared to a double-action revolver. Also, the fixed sights are not adjustable for windage or elevation, so you may need to hold over or under at longer ranges.
Comparison
| Feature | Ruger Wrangler .22 LR | Heritage Rough Rider .22 LR | Smith & Wesson M&P 22 Compact |
|---|---|---|---|
| Action type | Single-action revolver | Single-action revolver | Semi-automatic pistol |
| Barrel length | 4.62″ cold-hammer-forged | 4.75″ standard steel | 3.6″ stainless steel |
| Frame material | Aluminum alloy | Zinc alloy | Polymer |
| Finish | Burnt Bronze Cerakote | Blued or case-hardened | Black Armornite |
| Safety | Transfer bar + loading gate interlock | Half-cock notch | Thumb safety + firing pin block |
| Weight (unloaded) | ~30 oz | ~31 oz | ~15.3 oz |
| Capacity | 6 rounds | 6 rounds | 10+1 rounds |
| Price | $212.95 | ~$130-$200 | ~$400 |
Note: Prices are approximate and may vary by retailer.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is the Ruger Wrangler safe to carry loaded?
Yes, the Wrangler uses a transfer-bar safety system. The transfer bar only connects the hammer to the firing pin when the trigger is pulled fully. This prevents the gun from firing if the hammer is struck or the revolver is dropped. However, as with all firearms, always follow safe handling rules and use a quality holster that covers the trigger.
Does the Wrangler have interchangeable cylinders for .22 Magnum?
No, the Ruger Wrangler is chambered exclusively for .22 LR. It does not accept .22 Magnum cylinders. If you need a convertible revolver, consider the Ruger Super Wrangler, which ships with both cylinders.
What types of .22 LR ammo work best in the Wrangler?
Standard-velocity and high-velocity .22 LR rounds generally feed and fire reliably. Avoid subsonic loads with very low velocity, as they may not cycle reliably in some revolvers. For best accuracy, try CCI Mini-Mag or Federal AutoMatch. Always test a few brands to see what your gun likes.
Can I mount optics or a red dot on the Ruger Wrangler?
No, the Wrangler has fixed sights and no mounting rail or drilled/tapped holes for optics. It is designed as a traditional single-action revolver for iron-sight shooting. If you want an optic-ready .22 revolver, look at the Ruger Super Wrangler with a Picatinny rail.
Last updated: April 2026
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