MARK II KMK512GCUS (RUGER MODEL 0168) Description
.22 LR cal., Special Distributor USA Shooting Team model, gold anodized trigger, TruGlo-type green fiber optic front sight, shipped with Weaver style scope base mount (scope rings not included), black laminate checkered Target grips with thumbrest on left panel, features gold-plated bolt ears with USA Shooting Team logo and the words "VICTORY IN ATHENS" embossed on rear of bolt, shipped in special teal blue plastic case with lens label. Known SN range USA00001 to USA02599. Distributed by the TALO group in 2004 to raise funds for the US Olympic Shooting Team. At least 2,599 produced in 2004 for Talo group of Ruger distributors - Camfour (MA), L.M. Burney (TX), Davidson's (AZ), Hill Country (TX), Bill Hick's (MN), V.F. Grace (AK), and Lipsey's (LA).
Note that SN USA00008 had more embellishment done to it which included selectively gold plating the scalloped areas of the barrel and rear of receiver. On the right side of the barrel within the selective gold layering (embossed in black with laser?) is the phrase "Victory IN BEIJING 2008" and on left side of the barrel is the USA Shooting Team logo. This pistol also has two sets of grips; regular issue pair and Altamont type wood thumbrest set with two-panels of checkering and oak leaf motif carving on each panel. This pistol is described as having been "displayed at numerous shows including the SHOT Show, NRA Show, and at the U.S. Shooting Center in Colorado Springs." It was offered through the HHP "Treasures and Traditions" auctions on GunBroker.com with #82 of 250 2004 Olympics Beijing medal where it realized $1,025 on 11/29/2009.