Originally Posted by hrdwareguy

But you just can't go buy a replacement barrel. If you need a new barrel, you will need to contact Ruger. You will need to send your firearm back to them so they can fit the new barrel and send it back to you.

Although most gun parts are cookie cutter, barrels still need to be fitted by a professional at the factory. After putting a new barrel in, they will have to check head space to make sure it fires correctly and that it works correctly will all the other parts.

Also, changing the barrel is essentially buying a new gun with regards to ballistics so they will fire new test cases to send back to you in case your state requires you to turn in a spent shell casing. Some states require it for ballistics match in case your firearm is ever used in a crime.