The Ruger New Bearcat is a single action revolver chambered in .22 LR, built on a compact, scaled-down frame inspired by 19th century single action revolvers. Originally introduced in 1958, the Bearcat was designed as a small, lightweight rimfire revolver suited for field use, kit guns, and recreational shooting. The New Bearcat designation refers to the revised production that began in 1993, incorporating a transfer bar safety mechanism that allows all six chambers to be safely carried loaded, replacing the original half-cock notch safety of earlier production. The Bearcat uses a loading gate for single cartridge loading and a manually operated ejector rod. The Shopkeeper variant features a shortened 3 inch barrel compared to the standard 4.2 inch barrel of the standard Bearcat. This grip shape reduces the overall dimensions of the revolver and provides a different handling dynamic well suited to the compact configuration. The cylinder is roll engraved with scenes of a bear and cougar.

This example is model number 0915, featuring a 3 inch barrel with a satin stainless steel finish throughout. The revolver is fitted with hardwood birdshead style grips. Accompanied by original box.

Specifications

• Manufacturer: Sturm, Ruger & Co.
• Model: New Bearcat Shopkeeper (0915)
• Caliber: .22 LR
• Action: Single action
• Barrel: 3 inches
• Frame: Stainless steel
• Finish: Satin stainless steel
• Grips: Hardwood
• Cylinder: Roll engraved, six round
• Sights: Blade front, integral notch rear
• Safety: Transfer bar
• Capacity: 6 rounds