I noticed in my 2000 edition of the Shooters Bible that the RSM has the barrel band back into the stock and the sling swivel post in the stock.In my 2003 Ruger Catalog it shows the RSM with the barrel band in front of the stock and the sling swivel post on the barrel band.
When did this all change and are all the newer ones like the one in the 2003 Ruger Catalog???

As far as I know, the barrel band (and swivel) was only through the stock on the first year or two of production. All of the current rifles should have the band ahead of the stock.

I just sold a Ruger in .416 through the shop I work at. According to the serial number, it was built in 2000. It had the barrel band out on the barrel ahead of the stock.

Ok thanks! I didn't care for the looks of the barrel band in the stock and sure hope mine comes in with it ahead of the stock.