Low prices on the Ruger Blackhawk Blued 5-1/2" .45 Long Colt start at Champion Firearms-

Classic Lines, Classic Feel, Modern Features. The New Model Ruger Blackhawk is the most advanced single-action revolver ever made. It can be safely carried fully loaded with six cartridges. Back when Ruger introduced the Blackhawk in 1955, the early models still operated the same way as the Colt in that the hammer was half-cocked to load and unload, and that the firearm was technically not completely safe to carry fully loaded. This was due to the fact that the hammer was actually resting upon the chamber and could easily discharge if the gun was banged or dropped..The "New Model" designation meant that all post 1972 Blackhawk's have a frame mounted firing pin that is protected from accidental discharge by Ruger�s famous and proven transfer bar safety system. This makes it nearly impossible for the gun to "go off" when dropped. When the hammer is fully forward, it rests on the frame and cannot contact the firing pin. The transfer bar itself rises as the trigger is pulled. Then when a cocked hammer falls, it hits the transfer bar (thus "transferring" the energy to the firing pin) which subsequently fires the shot.

Ruger has incorporated a loading gate interlock system into the Blackhawk. In effect, opening the loading gate retracts the cylinder bolt, allowing the cylinder to turn for loading and the hammer is not involved. The Blackhawk also has a key actuated action lock. Like many firearm manufacturers, this has become necessary due to idiotic gun laws that are being passed in many parts of our country requiring firearms to have such a device. Unlike those found on most guns, the Ruger system is unnoticed and detracts in no way from the lines or appearance of this revolver. The lock is hidden beneath the grip panels. The key has a built-in screwdriver to remove the right grip panel. Once the grip panel is removed, the key is inserted and rotated to lock the action. This Blackhawk features a solid alloy steel construction, deep blued finish and a 5-1/2" barrel. The sight are fully adjustable and the grips are Ruger's signature black hard rubber.