The original Ruger Red Label was one of the few American-made over-under shotguns that could hold its own against European competition in the field and on the sporting clays course. Production stopped in 2011 and the guns that remained on the market found willing buyers at a premium. The Red Label III brings it back in 20-gauge — a caliber that has grown in sporting use as shooters recognize that modern 20-gauge loads can match 12-gauge field performance at reduced weight.
What Ruger Kept
The Red Label III maintains the classic aesthetic that made the original desirable. The walnut stock is fitted with traditional checkering on the grip and forend. The receiver is properly proportioned for 20-gauge — it doesn't run a 12-gauge receiver with a smaller bore, which is a common shortcut that produces a gun that feels too heavy for the caliber. The single selective trigger uses an inertia system — reliable, self-cleaning, and consistent across shell sizes and loads. Automatic tang safety returns the gun to safe after each shot opened.
New Engineering
Ruger updated the locking mechanism and ejector system for the III designation. The barrels headspace tighter than the original production, and the forcing cones are longer — which reduces felt recoil and improves pattern consistency with modern shot charges. The five included Tru-Choke-style tubes cover everything from Cylinder to Full. The receiver is drilled and tapped for scope or red dot mounting, which the original was not.
The 20-Gauge Case for Sporting Clays
Sporting clays and skeet shooters have discovered that 20-gauge forces better technique — the pattern is smaller, the gun moves faster, and the lighter weight reduces fatigue over a 100-bird round. The Red Label III at 28 or 30 inches in 20-gauge is a legitimate choice for competitive sporting clays that doesn't require spending $5,000+ on Italian guns to get quality hardware.
Specs
Gauge: 20 | Barrel: 28 or 30 inches | Chamber: 2.75- and 3-inch | Trigger: Inertia single selective | Stock: American walnut | Chokes: 5 Tru-Choke tubes included | MSRP: $1,899
Bottom Line: The Red Label is back and it's better engineered than the original. For a sporting clays gun or upland bird season, the 20-gauge Red Label III is a serious American option in a segment dominated by European imports.
