United Sporting Arms Seville 44 Mag?

[meh92]

A local shop has a 7.5" U.S.A. Seville 44 magnum for sale for $290. It is blued steel and does not appear to have been fired much. The serail number is 44-015XX. Overall the condition is quite good. It has been collecting dust on the shelf (literally) and I bet that I could probably score it for $250 or less.

I have been wanting a .45LC Blackhawk for OH deer hunting, but just don't like the new model's safety system. I had come across several old models but they were WAY out of my price range. When I came across the Seville, it sparked a little interest.

I'm looking for a field gun for normal use, not collect and pamper. The gun seems to be well fit and timed (no range rod test) with an acceptable trigger. Is this a durable gun? I suspect it would see a few hundred rounds a year, mostly "slightly" down-loaded with a moderate amount of full-power stuff. Also, how fragile are the innards and are any replacement parts available? Does it use any internal safeties?

Are grips available for it? Do they interchange with other manufacturers?

I have never really been a fan of off-brands, but a little internet research revealed that these may be very good guns. I'd appreciate your input.

Thanks

[Moonclip]

At two fifty or even the original price it is a good deal. Check out a copy of the gun price book Krause publications(the Gun List people) but out, the competitor to the blue book. Some editions(don't know about current) have a big write up on them in that section of the price guide.

[meh92]

I found a good article on the Seville by Lee Martin. The article mentions that the Seville used a Ruger transfer bar safety (it even used the patent), but was a "half-cock" gun. This confuses me. Was it loaded by traditional methods of the Colt SAA (or Ruger old model) or was it loaded like a new model Ruger?

[Majic]

Back in the days when the Silhouette shooters were finding out that the M29s couldn't hold up to the pounding being dished out the Seville faired quite well except against the Dan Wessons that ruled. As a single action it lead the pack until the Freedom Arm got in the game.
For $290 and in very good shape I would say it's a steal. It would classify as a sleeper today.

[meh92]

Well, I guess someone else recognized the gun for what it was and snatched it up before I could get to the shop. I really appreciate the help, though.

[meh92]

:)

I went back to the shop today and the gun was back in the case. The buyer got home and found out that scope mounts were not commercially available for it and returned the gun. I made an offer and we settled on $260.

The gun has holster wear and a wear ring on the cylinder, but has not gouges, deep scratches, and all of the screws, except the windage adjustment, aren't even touched.

I'll post pics as soon as I get a chance.

[Moonclip]

Glad it worked out for you. Also I think there is a site that deals with all SA revolvers, I can't remember the address but I'm sure someone can help out. I think John Taffin posts there or owns it or somnething and that it has info on your revolver. And now definately seek out that article I told you about as it goes in depth on the history of these guns.

[meh92]

Moonclip,

I read the article and it was full of excellent information. I also have been in touch with John Himmelmann, the son of Sig Himmelmann, one of the founders of the company. I can't wait to get the gun to the range.

The forum is at sixgunner.com. It is an excellent site.

Here's a few pics of the Seville

[seville]

How is the gun? Are you shooting it?
I remeber you writing to me but can't remember why?

John Himmelmann

[wcwhitey]

Damn, if that ain't a Super Blackhawk. Nice Gun!

[meh92]

Hello John,

I've had it out just a few times and found that to groups very nicely... just very high with WWB 240gr JSP's. I just completed building a new house so I've been too busy to really get out and shoot like I want to, though. I was so busy I even missed deer season this year.

I hope all has been well with you. I sincerely appreciate the help you gave me.

Regards