[2] The Red Label was introduced in 1977 in 20 Gauge with a 26" barrel for a price of $480.00 (equal to $2,074.95 in 2018)[1][3][4] At the time the Remington Model 3200 was the only other quality American Made over-under, and it cost nearly twice as much.

In order to achieve this and put quality on par with hand-made European shotguns, Ruger invested in expensive machinery to do most of the work.

Introduced in 1995 and produced until 2002, the Ruger Red Label Woodside used select Circassian walnut for its forearm and buttstock, which extended into the action on two side panels.

Ruger also offered an all-weather version of the Red Label with stainless steel barrels and a black, synthetic forearm and buttstock.

Although originally conceived as a quality affordable American made alternative to pricey hand-made European shotguns, competition from imported brands had increased substantially.

It also featured two-inch extended forcing cones, maximum back-bored barrels and a soft Pachmayr buttpad to enhance the shooting experience with reduced recoil.

[7][better source needed] The price drop was achieved by streamlining the manufacturing processes, making the shotgun less costly to produce.

[citation needed] In January 2015, Ruger dropped the Red Label from its product line, citing an inability to achieve revenue expectations.