New Guns 2026: The Ruger Red Label III Shotgun

Ruger has brought back one of America’s most iconic over-under shotguns—the Ruger Red Label III—renewing the company's commitment to being a full-line manufacturer of firearms.

by posted on December 27, 2025
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Ruger Red Label 1

Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. has announced the return of one of America’s most iconic over-under shotguns—the Ruger Red Label III—renewing Ruger’s commitment to being a full-line manufacturer of firearms.

The original Ruger Red Label, first launched in 1977,  earned a reputation for rugged reliability, classic lines and American-made quality. Decades later, the Red Label III continues that legacy while elevating it with premium materials and world-class fit and finish.

Built by the highly skilled craftsmen at one of the world's premier makers of fine firearms, Connecticut Shotgun Manufacturing Company (CSMC), the Red Label III marks a new era in Ruger shotgun excellence.

This 20-gauge shotgun is offered in both 28” and 30” barrel configurations and features a beautiful walnut stock with a classic checkering pattern and a hand-rubbed oil finish. The single trigger is inertia operated and resets on recoil. In addition, the automatic tang safety has an integral first shot barrel selector. Capable of shooting 2 3/4" and 3" shells, the barrels have a precise internal geometry that produces consistent patterns and superior shot performance. 

The Red Label III is designed as a sporting shotgun for upland game hunting, skeet and sporting clays, as well as waterfowling. Each shotgun ships in a premium custom case and includes five Tru-Choke-style choke tubes: Skeet, Improved Cylinder, Modified, Improved Modified and Full.

“Bringing back the Red Label has been a standing request from our loyal customers,” said Ruger President and CEO Todd Seyfert. “By teaming up with Connecticut Shotgun Manufacturing Company, we’re able to deliver a firearm that meets Ruger’s standards for durability and reliability while elevating the craftsmanship to a level that honors the legacy of the original. Its return also marks an important milestone for Ruger as we reestablish ourselves as a full-line manufacturer of firearms, reaffirming our commitment to providing a complete lineup of firearms to our customers.”

For more information on the Ruger Red Label III Shotgun or to learn more about the extensive line of award-winning Ruger firearms, visit Ruger.com

Latest

GTM Avenue Large Satchel Concealed Carry Bag GTM Image
GTM Avenue Large Satchel Concealed Carry Bag GTM Image

New Gear 2026: GTM Original Expands The Avenue Collection

The satchels are crafted from USA top-grain cowhide and distressed buffalo leather, offering a refined blend of fashion, function and personality.

SLG2, Inc. and Walk The Talk America Unite to Advance Firearm Safety

The partnership will provide practical resources that encourage safe firearm handling, secure storage and meaningful conversations surrounding mental health.

The Armed Citizen® Reload June 26, 2026

The law was on a woman's side quite literally all the time, which didn't end well for her ex-cop boyfriend.

Henry Repeating Arms’ America's 250th Anniversary Tribute Edition Collection

Now shipping to dealers, the trio of collector-grade lever-action rifles mark the nation's 250th anniversary of independence.

Savage 220 Harvester Woodland Slug Gun Review

If you live in a state that limits your deer-hunting firearm options, the Savage 220 Harvester Woodland could be your answer to finding a shotgun that fits well, manages recoil, and offers the adjustability needed for comfort and confidence.

A Real-Life Situational Awareness Example

The author recently had to practice what she preaches when an ordinary night turned into a Condition Orange situation.

Women's Interests



Get the best of NRA Women delivered to your inbox.