[fulloflead]

Does anyone happen to know if I can take a 9mm cylinder from a convertible Blackhawk and use it to convert a 357 VAQUERO to a convertible 9mm/357?

[J.M.]

I've have some that fit, and some that don't...luck of the draw.

Try it and see...make sure that it will pass the range rod test before firing (I put that in to CMA). - JM.

[fulloflead]

Range rod test. I use an unsharpened pencil, but I hear that loud and clear! :)

[Jim March]

Yes, the parts are "basically compatible", as much as any two Blackhawks are. Cylinders often have to be "fitted" right to a given gun to get the headspace/cylinder gap/endshake issues set right.

Odds of a zero-problem "transplant" on Ruger SAs seem to be around 50/50ish.

Use elements of the "revolver checkout" to make sure you've got a clean fit PRIOR TO FIRING!

If not, a gunsmith can set it right and still have the original cylinder work.

[Lobotomy Boy]

The owner's manual for my Blackhawk Convertible stressed that if I used any cylinders other than the ones that came with my gun, the skies would open up and rain hellfire and damnation. Or pretty close to that, anyway. Let's just say the warning was strongly worded. What exactly are the problems people run into when swapping cylinders?

[steveno]

I put a blue 45 acp cylinder into a SST 45 colt blackhawk without any problems at all. since you are talking fixed sights you will have to guess on the point of aim with your sight picture

[fulloflead]

Good point. Maybe I can play with bullet weight and velocity and see if I can get it close.