Ruger Old Model Blackhawk 1st Year Production .44 Magnum Revolver C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,350
woa#: WY240209TL016
Make: Sturm, Ruger & Co.
Model: Old Model Blackhawk
Serial Number: 2465
Year of Manufacture: 1968, C&R
Caliber: .44 Magnum
Action Type: Single Action Revolver with Side Loading-Gate Cylinder
Markings: The left side of the barrel is marked “STURM, RUGER & CO. / SOUTHPORT, CONN. U.S.A.”. The left side of the frame is marked “RUGER BLACKHAWK / .44 MAGNUM CAL.”, followed by the Ruger logo. The right side of the receiver is marked “2465”. The cylinder is marked “S” on its front face.
Barrel Length: 4..75
Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramped blade with red plastic insert fixed to an elevated base on the barrel. The rear sight is a square notch micro adjustable for windage and elevation.
Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are smooth walnut with black on silver Ruger medallions. There are faint handling marks on the grips with a couple notable compression lines but no chips or cracks. The grips rate in about Excellent overall condition.
Type of Finish: Blue
Finish Originality: All Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. There is minor fouling in the grooves. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 97% of its metal finish.There is thinning on the leading edges including the muzzle. The cylinder itself shows a thin and crisp turnline.The rear edges of the rear sight have the most notable wear. There are a few nicks on the finish on the bottom of the grip frame. The screw heads are Sharp. The markings are Clear. Overall, this handgun rates in about Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. This old model Blackhawk is in original factory condition without the transfer bar. We did not fire this handgun.
Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: This is a fantastic looking revolver for one that is over 50 years old.The mechanics are all excellent as you might expect from Ruger. With its four click hammer, it sounds and functions like a Colt except the Ruger has more reliable coil springs. So, if you like “period” revolvers, this is as close as you can get with a modern design. This very early first year of production .44 Magnum Blackhawk should be of great interest to the Ruger collector. Also, the adjustable sights make it easy to adjust for different loads without losing accuracy. Please see our photos and good luck on your bid! – L.S.
