single action exemption revolvers? also...Ruger Blackhawks?

[SanDiegoMan]

I read somewhere on calguns that single action revolvers that meet certain requirements are exempt from the DOJ roster. So basically if its single action and a certain length it can be roster exempt? I've been looking at a Ruger Blackhawk convertable, because the ability to use .357, .38, and 9mm is pretty appealing. Although, I've never shot a revolver with that style grip before (the kinda cowboy looking grip.) Are those grips comfy? Are the Ruger Blackhawks worth looking into? Anyone have any experience with them?

[Calif Hunter]

My first centerfire handgun was a Ruger Blackhawk .41 mag in 1971. I have owned others since then and still have that first one. Good, strong, dependable revolvers. I find the grips comfortable, though they do "roll" inyourhand more than a semi-auto.

[Baboosh]

Grips suck, get the Houge ones and it's a great gun.

We have them in stock if you want to fondle one.

[Calif Hunter]

If you are going to shoot a lot of hot loads, you do not want aggressively checkered grips unless your hands are heavily calloused.

[Kean]

I have a Ruger Blackhawk (.357 / .38) and find the stock grips useable but not necessarily what I would call "comfy". Part of it is the design and part of it is the grips themselves. Still a fun gun to shoot and comfortable enough in regard to recoil (can shoot it all day with no issue). ....the Super Blackhawk chambered in .44 is another story.

[CodyGT46]

I bought an older model 3 screw Blackhawk a couple years ago in .357 Mag. Still have the original grips on it and they fit my hand well and I think they're fine. Even with super hot 180gr loads it doesn't kick as badly as other guns I've shot hot stuff through. I personally like single action revolvers and cowboy shooting though so I am biased.

[LowThudd]

My cousin has a Ruger Vaquero in .357. Honestly a joy to shoot. The muzzle will flip a bit more than a double action, but that kinda tames the recoil IMHO. I could shoot one all day and not get tired of it.

I am actually looking into eventually getting a Super Blackhawk Bisley Hunter. The grip is based on Elmer Keith's grip on his Improved Number five revolver that he developed the .44 mag in.

Great guns IMO.

[Kean]

....I should add to my previous post/experiences that my Blackhawk is the new model; 2 screw. There were some changes to the frame's size IIRC from the earlier, coveted "3 screw" design that will likely make them feel/handle differently.

[ojisan]

SA guns are supposed to roll up in your hand under recoil, that's why the grip is shaped as it is.
If you want the gun to stay put in your hand, get some Pachmayers.

Blackhawks are great guns, you will like them, your kids will like them, their kids will like them, and so on.
Never heard of one wearing out.

[canopis]

I have a Ruger Blackhawk (.357 / .38) and find the stock grips useable but not necessarily what I would call "comfy".

This is my experience also. That said, I love my Blackhawk.

[586L-Frame]

I have a New Model Blackhawk .357/.38/9mm Convertible with a 4 5/8" & 6 1/2". They both are fun and accurate to shoot in all three calibers. Even though I prefer my other S&W Revolvers.

[Marquand]

First centerfire pistols my father allowed me to shoot were my grandfather's 1911A1 and his Ruger Blackhawk .357 loaded with .38 Special. Needless to say I am biased and today I am the proud owner of both handguns.

OP, the Blackhawk is definitely a revolver worth owning. It's an absolute workhorse, built Ruger strong and ready to provide a lifetime (or two, in my case) worth of shooting.

[CaliforniaLiberal]

I read somewhere on calguns that single action revolvers that meet certain requirements are exempt from the DOJ roster. So basically if its single action and a certain length it can be roster exempt? I've been looking at a Ruger Blackhawk convertable, because the ability to use .357, .38, and 9mm is pretty appealing. Although, I've never shot a revolver with that style grip before (the kinda cowboy looking grip.) Are those grips comfy? Are the Ruger Blackhawks worth looking into? Anyone have any experience with them?

Yes, single action revolvers that aren't tiny are exempt from the roster

http://www.calguns.net/calgunforum/showthread.php?t=441766

I bought a Blackhawk convertible many years ago and haven't used the 9mm cylinder after trying it once. I'm thinking that God didn't really intend the 9mm or the 45ACP) for revolvers.

Blackhawks are wonderful guns, can become addictive, I have several. Take a little practice to shoot comfortably if you aren't accustomed to revolvers. I just bought a Blackhawk in 45 Colt and it's love at fist sight all over again. Such a range of power from 800 fps mild loads up to the Buffalo Bore 1400 fps with 300 gr atomic loads. That will turn heads and bring questions at the indoor range.

Blackhawks are beautiful. Buy one, shoot the hell out of it. Pass it on to your kids or grandkids.