May 9, 2001

Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. Announces Recall to Replace Padlocks and Cable Gun Locks

Sturm, Ruger & Co. Inc., of Southport, Conn. is voluntarily recalling 1.2 million padlocks and 800,000 cable gunlocks that bear the "Ruger" name. The padlocks can be opened using keys other than those originally provided with the locks and the cable locks can be opened if struck with force potentially allowing unauthorized access to a firearm. Ruger is aware of three incidents where a consumer was able to open a padlock without the use of its designated key. No injuries have been reported.

Ruger shipped lockable boxes using these padlocks with its pistols and revolvers from 1987 until 1995. The red cable locks were shipped with Ruger rifles and shotguns from 1998 until March 2001. These locks were distributed nationwide. Consumers should always be sure to obey all laws and follow appropriate safety procedures when storing their firearms. Consumers are reminded to make sure their unloaded gun is secure until the new replacement lock is received.

Ruger began its voluntary lock replacement program in March 2001. Consumers with the recalled padlocks and cable locks should send them to Sturm, Ruger & Co. Inc., Dept. LK, 411 Sunapee Street, Newport, NH 03773 for a free replacement lock. For more information, call Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. toll-free at (888) 317-6887 between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. ET Monday through Friday, or visit Ruger's website at www.Ruger- Firearms.com. Ruger Contact: Phyllis Garber (203) 259-7843