Handled a late-model 357 frame, Ruger 45 Blackhawk
today and they sure got the grip frame right. The one I looked at was a used gun, a flattop with 4 3/4" barrel and black checkered grips. Gun was used, as new but had no box with it.
I know Ruger offered some small-frame flattop 45 convertibles, but I hadn't seen one with the black grips and no spare cylinder. Would appreciate your input, as well as any experience with this particular model, and thank you all in advance.
Handled a late-model 357 frame, Ruger 45 Blackhawk
NOT TO ADD TO THE CONFUSION BUT RUGER'S OFFICAL MEASUREMENT IS 4-5/8"; THEY ARE ALSO MEDIUM FRAMES NOT SMALL FRAMES. THE GRIP FRAME SHOULD BE VIRTUALLY IDENTICAL TO THE COLT SAA/EARLY RUGER FLAT-TOP BLACKHAWKS.
Handled a late-model 357 frame, Ruger 45 Blackhawk
Thank you sir and yes I did misspeak with the 'small frame' comment. In offhand shooting I've always had to kink my wrist a little with New Models, just to get the sights to line up. With a Colt SAA or dead copy, the sights seem to just fall under my eye. Anyhow this late production Flat Top sure impressed with its handling qualities.
Handled a late-model 357 frame, Ruger 45 Blackhawk
YOU ARE SO RIGHT ABOUT THE GRIP FRAME! RUGER NEVER SHOULD HAVE CHANGED IT BACK IN 1962. AT LEAST IT IS BACK ON THE NEW MODEL FLAT-TOPS AND NEW VAQUEROS.
Handled a late-model 357 frame, Ruger 45 Blackhawk
I bought one of the Flattop 45s as soon as I could get my hands on one. It has proven to be the best Ruger SA (fit, finish and dimensions) I have ever owned. The charge holes are minimum spec with .452 throats. It shoots and handles very, very well. Iinstalled a SBH hammer and some Texas mesquite grips. Mine is going nowhere.
Handled a late-model 357 frame, Ruger 45 Blackhawk
RUGER SEEMS TO TAKE EXTRA CARE WITH THE FLAT-TOPS.