l2s,

...actually, sour grapes makes for great vinegar!...

...imho, ruger's products are the best out there for hard-working, reliable, well-engineered field firearms insofar as production rifles are concerned, and are, again imho, head and shoulders above your typical remchester...

...that said, i have had quite some trouble with the fit and finish of my ruger products which has, unfortunately, detracted from the overall purchase experience...

...as a former gun dealer, would you happen to know how to remove bluing salts from the barrel banded front sight and sling?...i have tried shooters' choice, kroil and wd-40 to no avail...