Couple of Questions on Ruger Blackhawk

[Burrito]

I'm wanting a Ruger Blackhawk in 45 Long Colt.

I'm struggling with a decision on barrel length. I can't decide if I want the 4 5/8 or the 5 1/2. Can you guys help me decide? Here are my plans for the gun. I want to use it as a hunting sidearm (for whitetail/hogs), and in certain cases a primary hunting weapon (50 yard range or less). I will also be plinking with it. I like the idea of a crossdraw setup for a holster. Will the shorter barrel length be better for this type of carry, or will I notice the difference? I don't like how my rifle stock bumps my pistol when I use the rifle sling and have the pistol holstered on my strong side. Also, I reload for 5 cartridges and will be ordering 45 LC dies, brass, and bullets as soon as I purchase the gun.

Should I consider the convertible 45 LC/45 ACP model for the extra $$$ it costs. I already have a 1911 in 45 ACP and reload for it. But I can't think of why I would want to shoot the 45 ACP in the Blackhawk. Do any of you have the convertible? Do you use it and enjoy it?

If I order online, what store do you recommend? Bud's gun shop? The store that carries Blackhawks in my town is around $90 higher than Bud's (after taxes/FFL fees).

 

[BlkHawk73]

I've yet to get excited over the convertables, but I can see their purpose and interest for some folks. All personal choice there. BBL length...I like the longer bbls, 6 1/2" or 7 1/2", but having 5 1/2" models I can say I've yet to find the length a hinderance at all. If that difference from 4 5/8" to 5 1/2" is THAT big a deal...well, handle both and see which feels best. IMO, it's better to have the gun feel good in the hand and balance well for you.
Buying online will get you paying shipping and transfer fees to your dealer. It also will leave a real sour taste for your dealer if you have to go beyond him to get such a commonly available model. Maybe venture out of town and check another shop nearby. Might seem like saving a few dollars is worth it but being loyal to your dealer can sure pay off dividends in the long run. (think frequent flyer points)

 

[Glockman17366]

I bought the convertible in .45 Colt/.45ACP. I have quite a bit of .45 ACP ammo, so it was worth it to me.
However, be advised the Ruger only builds the convertibles when demand reaches a certain point. I had to wait about 3 months for mine.

As far as barrel length, I went for the 4.62" model. The gun balances better, but I've not shot really hot loads yet (so far, all commercial grade .45 Colt). Recoil isn't a problem (even shooting one handed), but hot loads (like Buffalo Bore) may handle better with a 5½" barrel. Recoil using standard (not +P) .45 ACP is mild.
For hunting, that longer sight radius would be an advantage.

So, I'd suggest you strike a compromise...go for the 5½" barrel.

 

[Virginian]

I like long barrels, either 6-1/2 or 7-1/2 so I guess I would vote for the 5-1/2 in this case. With me, it makes a huge difference in accuracy, which is necessary for a hunting gun.

 

[batmann]

If you are going to use this as a hunting weapon, I would go with the 5.5". I believe the perceived recoil to be less as well. Before you decide, check with your state, or the state you will hunting, for the minumim barrel length, some states require a 5+ inch barrel.
I am another one who is less than enamered with a convertible, especially since you already have a 1911 platform.

 

[goodtime]

Go with the:

5.5" -- the extra length won't encumber you at all, but the extra velocity and accuracy are worth it.

Buds Gun Shop -- why not save dough? Just make sure you find a transfer dealer who charges reasonable fees ($25 is good.) Search and you'll find that a lot of guys do it out of their homes, so you don't have to go to a gun shop.

The convertible -- For the extra $50, or whatever it is, give yourself the more versatile piece.

My Blackhawk convertible 5.5" blued is probably my favorite gun.

 

[Gary A]

I'm a huge fan of my Blackhawk convertibles, my favorite being the 4.62 inch. Unlike goodtime, my 5 1/2 inch convertible is my second favorite, though I like it a lot. I do shoot quite a bit of .45 acp from it and the lighter weight of the alloy-framed short Blackhawk is perfect for that cartridge, IMO. For a hunting gun, I would choose the longer barrel, no doubt. As a matter of fact, you might consider trying to pick up one of the 5 1/2 inch Bisley convertibles that were sold through Acusport, then Williams, and now I understand through, I think, Lipsey's. Stainless steel (so heavier for stout .45 Colt loads), a bit more barrel, and that full Bisley grip. Barring, that the blued Blackhawk will serve you well.

 

[Glockman17366]

I do shoot quite a bit of .45 acp from it and the lighter weight of the alloy-framed short Blackhawk is perfect for that cartridge, IMO.

I could be mistaken, but the only "alloy" (by that, I think you mean aluminun alloy) part of the Blackhawk is the grip frame. The cylinder, frame and barrel is steel. The ejector rod housing is aluminum.
That aluminum grip frame is one of the few things I don't care for on my Blackhawk. I'd rather it be steel or even brass. Replacement grip frames (in steel and brass) are available through Brownell's.

 

[Gary A]

Glockman17366 - you are perfectly correct and I should have been more careful in my choice of words (I was tired). Yes, the grip frame and ejector rod housing are alloy, not the frame itself. Formerly I shared your opinion of the alloy grip frames but, for some reason, have changed my thinking on them, and now think they are just about perfect for "packing" at std .45 colt/45 acp power levels.

 

[RJM]

I don't have any exeperience with the blackhawks, but I do with the Vaqueros. I like the longer length barrels over the shorter ones. I have had a vaquero in every barrel length they offer, currently I have the 7.5" barreled vaquero (not the new model) and think the longer barrel really helps with accurate shooting. I would get the 5.5" model.

I don't have any desire for a convertible, but I can see that some would really enjoy them.

 

[AKElroy]

My response is purely about the asthetics & handling of the gun. Since the ejector rod housing is 4 5/8ths, I love the way that the equal length barrel option looks & feels. I do not think a 7/8ths" of an inch is going to make much difference in either velocity or sight radius. I vote 4 5/8ths".