Ruger .357 Blackhawk

[Kukri]

I have been researching and figured out that I want a SA Blackhawk. I have a few questions.

1. Is the stainless better than the blued version?

2. Is there any common problems I should look out for?

3. Are there any mods to get the most out of the gun?

4. How do you like yours?

Thank You

 

[Ala Dan]

Hello-

I don't own a Ruger SA "Blackhawk" now; but I've
owned two over the year's! Both were blue steel
versions; and one was the ".357 mag Blackhawk
Convertible", whereas a extra 9m/m cylinder is
provided with the firearm. Funny thing, back then
I gave $125.00 out the door for the convertible
model; and nowday's in LNIB condition, it would
probably run in excess of $350.00? I can't
recall ever experiencing a problem with either
Ruger SA that I owned!

Best Wishes,
Ala Dan, N.R.A. Life Member

 

[YodaVader]

1. Is the stainless better than the blued version?

With the stainless guns you actually have an all steel revolver. The blued versions have that aluminum grip frame which gives the revolver a cheap appearance to me. May also have an aluminum rod guide. Unless you get a Bisley version - it has the steel grip frame as well.

About the only drawback to any Ruger single action is the creepy trigger pull. Have owned a few Blackhawks , Super Blackhawks and a Single Six - creepy triggers on all. But the Ruger SA revolvers can shoot suprisingly well!

 

[4v50 Gary]

Trigger pulls can be worked on, but those old three screws were terrific by comparison. After having the trigger tuned, consider bigger grips. I never like the grips on virtually any Ruger revolver (the cherished Bearcat is the exception).

 

[GrandmasterB]

1. I prefer the stainless myself. Mine has the 7 5/8" barrel.

2. Common problem -- I never get to shoot it enough!

3. Mine is stock and runs great. A trigger job might be worth it, but it ain't bad like it is.

4. I love mine!! I can regularly hit a clay pigeon out to 75 yards.

 

[Majic]

I would say the SS model for the steel grip frame.
Tough as nails.
If you plan to really horse it, I suggest the Bisley model if you like the grip style.
Triggers are nothing to write home abot can can clean up nicely.
I like Blackhawks, even though I'm getting rid of mine, but I much prefer Bisleys ( my 2 have found a home and looking for a brother).

 

[Odessa]

Kukri, I have two OM .357's now, have owned many more OM's in the past as well as have owned various NM's. FWIW here are some observations; Stainless is all steel as mentioned above - but is heavier for carrying in a holster, but more resistant to rust and visible holster wear. The Blue NM version has the aluminum grip frame and ejector rod housing and handles more like a Colt SAA, but not exactly. As for durability, there is not a better affordable SA handgun on the market - in any of it's versions. If adjustable sights are not a requirement and you want an all steel blue gun you can go with the Vaquero - same gun, different sights and parts. One thing I can tell you - they will shoot forever with reasonable loads (anything up to factory max). The Wolfe Spring kit, about 15.00 from Brownells, will really improve the hammer and trigger - I use the Wolfe 19lb mainspring and have never had a primer fail to pop (even hard CCI's), but a buddy of mine used the 17lb spring and found it a bit too light - he went to the 19lb and that cured his problem. Enjoy, Odessa

 

[Jim March]

We have a whole thread going on hop-up parts and techniques for Ruger SAs:

http://www.thefiringline.com/forums/showthread.php?s=&threadid=80872

It started on TFL, continues here on THR.

 

[444]

I was going to mention that thread but Jim beat me to it.

I have owned a .357 Blackhawk for years. Great gun, although I haven't shot mine for quite awhile. I have mine tricked out a little. I have the Power Custom hammer and trigger, the belt mountain base pin, the steel ejector rod housing, the Bowen sights, and a great set of grips. But then this is all recorded in that thread Jim linked you to.