A Glance Back in Time
The story of the Ruger Security Six begins in the late nineteen sixties, a period marked by growing concerns about personal safety and the need for reliable sidearms. Designed to compete with existing service revolvers from Colt and Smith & Wesson, the Security Six quickly gained traction, finding its way into the holsters of law enforcement agencies, security personnel, and civilians alike. Ruger capitalized on innovative manufacturing techniques, employing investment casting to create a revolver that was both durable and relatively affordable. This allowed Ruger to offer a quality product at a price point that was competitive, thus gaining a significant foothold in the market. The Security Six established itself as a workhorse revolver, designed to withstand the rigors of daily use.
Following the success of the Security Six, Ruger recognized a need for a more compact and concealable variant, leading to the development of the Speed Six in the early nineteen seventies. While sharing a similar foundational design with the Security Six, the Speed Six was tailored for ease of carry. This meant a more streamlined profile, often with a shorter barrel and a slightly lighter construction. The Speed Six was marketed towards those seeking a reliable revolver for concealed carry, off-duty law enforcement officers, and those who needed a practical and powerful handgun. The Speed Six’s introduction further solidified Ruger’s position in the revolver market, providing a more diverse product line.
Both the Speed Six and Security Six benefited from Ruger’s commitment to robust designs, intended to make them capable of withstanding the pressure. The use of a new design, incorporating a more rugged frame that was both stronger and more resistant to wear, separated them from many competitors.
Eventually, manufacturing processes shifted, and Ruger developed new models which were easier to produce. These advancements in manufacturing technology made the Security Six and Speed Six relatively more costly to produce compared to the later models. Ruger decided to discontinue production of both models, with the Speed Six ending its run in the early nineties. The Security Six was retired in the mid-nineties. Despite their discontinuation, the Security Six and Speed Six left an undeniable impact. These revolvers helped define Ruger’s reputation for durability and have gained a significant following within the firearms community.
Examining the Engineering
The core of any good revolver lies in its build. The Ruger Speed Six and Security Six both share a similar foundation, built around a strong steel frame. This frame design, in its basic form, contributed significantly to the revolvers’ reputation for reliability. The use of steel provides strength to manage high pressures. This is especially important when firing magnum rounds. The frame is the heart of both revolvers and determines their capacity to handle rounds. The frame also determines the revolver’s balance and overall durability.
The cylinder, a critical element, also shares some similarities between the two models. Both revolvers feature a cylinder capable of holding six rounds of ammunition, which was and remains a common configuration. The cylinders were made of steel to withstand the pressures generated during firing. Both models incorporated a swing-out cylinder design, operated by a cylinder release mechanism. This system allows for quick reloading. The differences here lie in the small details of design and aesthetics.
The barrel, the pathway the bullet must travel through, is integral to accuracy. Both the Speed Six and Security Six are found with different barrel lengths, although their availability differs. Barrel lengths had a direct impact on a revolver’s utility. Shorter barrels, like those commonly found on the Speed Six, improve concealability and ease of handling. Longer barrels, a hallmark of the Security Six, offered better accuracy and sight radius, along with higher bullet velocities. The barrels were typically made of steel with rifling designed to impart spin to the bullet, which is crucial for stability in flight.
The sights are crucial for aiming. The Security Six typically featured adjustable rear sights, which enabled the shooter to fine-tune the elevation and windage. This feature was beneficial for target shooting and compensated for differences in bullet weight. The Speed Six commonly had fixed sights, designed for quicker target acquisition, a more practical consideration for defensive situations.
Grip design is also a key element. Both models used grips made of wood or rubber, providing comfort and purchase. Rubber grips are often preferred for their shock absorption and secure grip. The grip design influences the feel of the revolver in the hand, affecting how well the shooter can control it.
The trigger mechanism in both revolvers is built on the same basic principles, offering both single-action and double-action firing modes. The double-action mode allowed the shooter to pull the trigger to both cock and fire the hammer. The single-action mode requires manually cocking the hammer prior to pulling the trigger.
Finally, the size and weight of each revolver are important factors. The Speed Six, designed for concealed carry, is slightly smaller and lighter than the Security Six. The dimensions influence how easily the firearm can be carried. The Security Six, due to its adjustable sights and barrel length, may weigh more.
Performance Under Pressure
Accuracy is crucial. With proper ammunition and a practiced shooter, both revolvers are capable of respectable accuracy. With their adjustable sights, the Security Six offers a slight advantage in this area, especially at longer ranges. The sights improve the ability to adjust for wind. The Speed Six, with its fixed sights, is more suited for close-quarters engagements.
Recoil is another important factor. Both revolvers are chambered in various calibers, including .38 Special and .357 Magnum, which dictates the level of recoil. The Security Six’s heavier frame and slightly larger size may make it feel more comfortable to shoot under rapid-fire conditions. The more compact design of the Speed Six means it will exhibit more felt recoil, which may impact a shooter’s ability to maintain control.
Reliability is paramount. Both the Speed Six and Security Six are known for their reliability. Their straightforward designs and robust construction generally lead to minimal malfunctions. Regular maintenance is critical for any firearm.
Practical shooting scenarios reveal how these models perform in realistic situations. The Speed Six, with its compact size and quick handling, excels in defensive scenarios where speed and maneuverability are key. The Security Six, with its adjustable sights and more balanced feel, is well-suited for range shooting and general-purpose use.
Comparing the Specifications
To better understand the key differences, here’s a comparative breakdown:
Year of Manufacture:
Security Six: Late nineteen sixties – mid nineteen nineties
Speed Six: Early nineteen seventies – early nineteen nineties
Frame Design:
Similar solid steel frames.
Barrel Length Options:
Security Six: Variable, including four, six inches
Speed Six: Shorter, more common: 2.75 inch, 3 inch, and 4 inch
Sights:
Security Six: Adjustable rear sights
Speed Six: Fixed sights
Weight:
Security Six: Heavier
Speed Six: Lighter
Original Market Focus:
Security Six: Law enforcement and general-purpose
Speed Six: Concealed carry, law enforcement
Used Market Availability:
Both models are available on the used market
Average Price:
Determined by condition, barrel length, and any special features or factory embellishments, but generally affordable.
Market Value and Today’s Availability
Finding both the Speed Six and Security Six in the current market is relatively straightforward. Gun shows, online auction platforms, and gun stores specializing in used firearms are all sources. The price of each revolver will vary based on its condition, any extra features, the original barrel length, and how rare the model or variant is. Models in excellent condition, particularly those with the original box and documentation, command a premium.
Both revolvers have gained a following of people who love to collect. The scarcity of specific barrel lengths and configurations can drive up collectibility. Limited-production runs, unique finishes, and any original accessories increase the value of certain variants.
Weighing the Advantages and Disadvantages
Ruger Speed Six:
Pros:
- Excellent for concealed carry due to the compact size.
- Durable and reliable Ruger construction.
- Relatively affordable in the used market.
Cons:
- Fixed sights limit long-range accuracy.
- Limited barrel length options.
Ruger Security Six:
Pros:
- Adjustable sights enhance accuracy.
- Multiple barrel lengths for different needs.
- Durable construction.
- Well-suited for general-purpose use.
Cons:
- Slightly larger than the Speed Six, making it less convenient for concealed carry.
Concluding Thoughts
The Ruger Speed Six and the Security Six are testaments to Ruger’s commitment to producing rugged, practical firearms. While both models share a common lineage, they were created for slightly different roles. The Speed Six is designed to be concealable, ideal for personal protection. The Security Six, with its adjustable sights and variety of barrel lengths, is more versatile. Both represent a significant value to shooters, collectors, and anyone looking for a dependable revolver. They embody the essence of Ruger: quality, dependability, and a lasting legacy. The enduring popularity of these revolvers is evidence of the great design that continues to serve its purpose. The choice between the two largely depends on the intended application. Consider how each revolver’s attributes align with the specific needs to find the best fit.
