[Blakenzy]

I appear to be growing an interest for this sport (great, now I have another activity to drain my pocket:rolleyes: ), and have been trying to figure out just exactly what is required to get started in this sport. I don't want/cannot spend a whole bunch on an expensive specialized revolver. So, with a rather tight budget in mind, what can I get that will work as an introductory class revolver? I have been eyeing Ruger Blackhaws, I saw a Colt Anaconda and a .44 S&W with a 8'' barrel, don't remember what model it was. The Rugers seem to be better priced even though the other two seem more appealing. Does this type of gun have what it takes to hit the farther targets? Also what would be an acceptable caliber? I would like to go with .357 Mag if that will do it, however I have been considering .44 Mag and ,45 Colt if the extra power is needed.

[Tom C.]

I competed in the 80’s in handgun silhouette. I started with a 7 ½” Redhawk. I quickly learned that it couldn’t compete. I bought a .44 DW 744 8” HB. That worked well. Others used the 10” Ruger SBH in .44 mag. That was when there was a price limit on the guns to keep out Freedom Arms. These days, with the price limit off, the Freedom Arms revolvers win most of the important matches.

[magnumman44]

This has proved to be an excellent IHMSA revolver for me. I consistently shot in the mid-30's (out of 40) with it shooting 22 grains of 820 powder and 20 grains lead swc bullets. My Dad shoots a Freedom Arms. Contenders are still by far my favorite IHMSA gun in the big bore classes, however.