Ruger XR3-RED frame ('62 - '04) grips

Ruger XR3-RED frame (1962 - 2004) grips

The Ruger XR3-RED frame (often called "XR3-Red" or "redesigned XR3") marked a key evolution in Ruger single-action revolvers, introduced in mid-1962 to replace the original XR3 grip frame used from 1953–1962

William B. Ruger redesigned the aluminum alloy grip frame — slightly wider (about 1/16 inch) and with a flared bottom for better recoil control and comfort — shifting the hand farther back from the trigger guard. Marked "XR3-RED" (RED = Redesigned; early ones noted Alcoa maker), it debuted around June 1962 on Single-Six models (serial ~194,000+ for 5.5-inch), Blackhawk, Super Single-Six, Hawkeye, and later Old Army

This "three-screw" old model frame (pre-transfer bar) featured black anodized finish, varnished walnut grips with Ruger eagle medallions (silver from ~1971), and improved ergonomics over the slimmer Colt-inspired XR3

In 1972–1973, Ruger updated it for New Model safety (transfer bar, coil mainspring), redesigning internals while keeping similar dimensions — marked XRN-3RED (alloy/blued) or KXR3 (stainless). It became the standard for New Model Single-Six, Blackhawk, Vaquero (1993–2005), short-barrel Super Blackhawk, and others

Stainless versions appeared ~1975 (Old Army). A short variant (~1/4 inch shorter) launched ~2001 for .32 H&R Single-Six

The XR3-RED era spanned 1962–2004, ending when Ruger shifted to a true XR3 profile (steel, narrower) for New Vaquero in 2005 and some anniversary models. It remains iconic for durability, widespread use, and aftermarket grip compatibility in Ruger single-action history

The grips are compatible with XR3-RED revolver frame:

  • Ruger Single-Six (1962+)
  • Ruger New Single-Six (1972+)
  • Ruger Super Single-Six (1962+)
  • Ruger Super Single-Six (1972+)
  • Ruger Blackhawk (1962+)
  • Ruger Blackhawk (1972+)
  • Ruger Super Blackhawk 4-5/8” barrel (1972+)
  • Ruger Super Blackhawk 5-1/2” barrel (1972+)
  • Ruger Hawkeye (1962+)
  • Ruger Old Army (1962+)
  • Ruger Vaquero (1993-2005)
  • Ruger New Vaquero .44 Magnum
  • Ruger Wrangler (2019+)