There are a variety of questions that are commonly asked when a client is first introduced to the engraving process. Below you will find answers to these commonly asked questions. For further assistance, please “Contact the Ruger Studio.”

Q: Can I buy my Ruger Studio firearm directly from the Company?
A: A Ruger Studio firearm is purchased from the Company, but must be shipped to a licensed retailer to ensure that all federal, state and local laws are complied with. A copy of a Federal Firearms License (bearing an original signature) of a local retailer to whom you would like the firearm delivered must be provided to us prior to shipment.

Please be aware, however, that federal law restricts the sale of firearms to citizens over age 18 (21 for pistols and revolvers) who pass an instant background check with local law enforcement at the point of sale conducted by the dealer. Many other federal, state and local restrictions also apply to the sale, ownership, use and storage of firearms. Please contact your local law enforcement or the BATF for further details.

Q: I already own a Ruger firearm. Can the Ruger Studio engrave an existing firearm?
A: The Ruger Studio can engrave a customer’s firearm, provided it is in good condition. If additional work is needed to repair your revolver prior to engraving, this will be quoted separately from the cost of embellishment. The Ruger Studio may be able to embellish your rifle or shotgun, depending upon the level of engraving desired. Due to the temper (hardness) of some of the components used in Ruger rifles and shotguns, there are limitations to the level of engraving that can be performed on a completed firearm. Please contact the Ruger Studio with specific questions regarding engraving of an existing firearm.

Q: How long will it take to complete a Studio firearm project?
A: Typical Studio firearms require three to six months to complete. However, this can vary based upon the complexity of the project, level of coverage, and custom features. If you have any specific completion requirements, please identify them to the Studio when discussing your engraving project.

Q: What is required to begin to build my own Ruger Studio firearm?
A: After a price has been quoted and accepted, a 50% deposit payable to Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. is required to begin. Payment methods include personal check, bank check or major credit card (Mastercard® or Visa®). When the Studio firearm is complete, the customer must provide the balance due. A copy of a Federal Firearms License (bearing an original signature) of a local retailer to whom you would like the engraved firearm delivered must also be provided.

Q: There are many different styles of engraving. How do I decide which is best for me?
A: While there are many styles to choose from when considering an engraving project, you will know what appeals to you when you see it. This is why the Studio features a wide variety of designs on this website. New designs are being added all of the time, so be sure to check back often. The Studio can create nearly any design you desire. If you find an example of a design you find appealing, present this to your Studio representative for discussion.

Q: How much will it cost to create my engraved firearm?
A: After reviewing your requirements, your Studio representative will develop an estimate of the cost to complete your Studio firearm. Your Studio representative can then discuss alternatives before determining the final price to complete your Studio project. As a general rule, minimum total engraving and decorative charges for Studio services start at $500 for handguns and $1,000 for long guns.

Q: Can I incorporate premium-grade wood on my Studio rifle or shotgun?
A: Most Studio rifles and shotguns incorporate select-quality American walnut. The Studio may also offer premium-quality Circassian (Turkish) walnut upon request.

Q: Can I incorporate custom grips into my pistol or revolver Studio project?
A: Grips can be custom-made of many exotic materials including different types of wood, jade and mammoth tusk. Grip materials can also be engraved and engraved in relief. In addition, precious metals can be used in designing grip caps. The costs for these services vary widely.

Q: Can I have a special caliber, matched barrel sets, or custom barrel length as part of my Studio firearm?
A: No. These custom features are not available from the Ruger Studio.

Q: Does the Studio offer custom stock dimensions for rifles and shotguns?
A: Yes. Prices for hand-made custom stocks begin at $1,800.

Q: Does the Studio offer custom hand-checkering?
A: Yes. Hand-checkering is available in a variety of styles and designs. Prices begin at $250.

Q: Does the Studio offer custom fitting services?
A: No. The customer is responsible to provide the Studio with their custom stock dimensions if desired.

Q: Does the Studio offer color-case hardening?
A: No. Due to the materials used in the manufacture of most Ruger firearms, Ruger generally does not recommend color-case hardening on its firearms.

Q: Does the Studio offer consecutive serial numbers so that I can create a true “pair” of shotguns or revolvers?
A: Yes. This may affect your delivery time and there may be an additional charge depending on the firearm selected. Please contact the Studio for further information.

Q: Does the Studio offer for sale completed engraved firearms?
A: Yes. Please visit the Ruger Studio Gallery for different models currently for sale. New firearms are added frequently, so please check back often.

Q: How much will it cost to hand engrave my initials, name, or monogram on my firearm?
A: It depends on the complexity of the design and materials chosen. Please contact a Ruger Studio representative for further information.

Q: What styles are available for engraved lettering?
A: The styles available depend on whether the engraving is done by hand or by machine. Machine engraving is limited to script and block lettering. Lettering done by hand can be any style the customer desires.

Q: I am on a limited budget but I would still like to own an engraved Ruger firearm. What do you offer?
A: The Ruger Studio offers a variety of engraving options at affordable prices. For example, we offer hand-engraved new Ruger Vaquero revolvers with tasteful "western scroll" patterns of Level I coverage for approximately $1,650.00. More extensive hang-engraved Level II coverage is available for approximately $3,025.00 and Level III coverage for approximately $5,775.00. These prices do not include the cost of the firearm.

Please see our Studio Gallery section for examples of these handsome standard engraving patterns.