For those that might be interested, Ruger is auctioning off a pair of #3's in .223, one from 1980 and 1981, both new and unsold.

https://www.gunbroker.com/item/879119683

https://www.gunbroker.com/item/878742857

They sure have the pick of the litter Walnut stocks.

I was going to remark on the quality of the wood but from what I remember that was pretty standard for No. 1's and 3's. We've gotten so used to the plywood Ruger puts on them these days that what was average factory walnut looks great by comparison.

Had a .223 No. 3 back in the early 80's. To be honest it wasn't particularly accurate, 1.5" groups were about the best it would do unless I used Sierra 53 gr. Matchkings and even those would only go into about an inch, but it was definitely well built.

What is the twist rate and are these from the Wilson barrel era?

Mine seems to be a 10 twist. as far as barrel manufacture? I have no idea.

Some very charitable folks out there.

One rifle sold for $1825 and the other one is at $1476 with one day to go.