The Ruger Blackhawk in .45 Colt is a single-action revolver built on Ruger's own transfer-bar design rather than being a period reproduction. The 7.5-inch barrel gives it good sight radius and more velocity than shorter-barrel SA revolvers, and the blued steel finish with black checkered hard rubber grips keep the look traditional without ornamental touches. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Ruger 
• Model Name: Blackhawk 
• Caliber: .45 Colt LC 
• Action Type: Single Action 
• Capacity: 6 rounds 
• Barrel Length: 7.5 inches 
• Overall Length: 13.38 inches 
• Weight: 42 oz (2.625 lbs) 
• Sights: Ramp front sight & adjustable rear sight 
• Grip Material: Black checkered hard rubber 
• Finish Type: Blued steel 
   

Detailed Features 

 
The patented transfer bar safety prevents the firing pin from contacting the primer unless the trigger is fully pulled through, which allows the gun to be carried with all 6 chambers loaded -- a safety improvement over older SA designs. The adjustable rear sight allows windage and elevation changes for precision shooting at varied distances, which is useful with the range of .45 Colt loads available. The blued finish provides corrosion resistance while maintaining the classic look. 
 
Single-action only means the hammer must be cocked manually before each shot. Reloading is through a loading gate one round at a time. 
 

Target Audience 

 
This fits target shooters and hunters who want a strong-framed SA revolver that can handle full-power .45 Colt loads (Ruger's frame is built for higher-pressure "Ruger-only" loads that are not safe in older or lighter revolvers). Cowboy action shooters and SA enthusiasts who want a reliable, well-made American SA revolver without going to a custom or premium-priced gun. 
 

Usage Scenarios 

• Target Shooting: The 7.5-inch barrel and adjustable sights make this one of the better factory SA revolvers for precision work at the range. 
• Hunting: A capable sidearm for hunting larger game where .45 Colt power is appropriate. 
• Recreation: Single-action shooting is a skill in itself, and the Blackhawk is a solid platform to develop it on.

The Ruger Blackhawk in .45 Colt draws consistent admiration from SA revolver enthusiasts, with practical observations from shooters coming from different backgrounds.

Build quality and durability are praised most consistently -- the Blackhawk frame is stronger than older SA designs, and owners note it handles full-power .45 Colt loads without issue. The blued finish holds up well and the overall fit and finish are good for the price point. Accuracy at short and medium ranges is frequently cited as a strength, and the adjustable rear sight is appreciated for allowing precise windage and elevation tuning.

The SA mechanism gets positive comments from shooters who like the deliberate, tactile experience of cocking and firing. Many recommend it for target shooting specifically for this reason.

Criticism centers on the format's inherent limitations. The SA-only design means slower follow-up shots and a single-gate reload compared to swing-out cylinder double-action revolvers. Weight at 42 oz is noted as heavy for some carry applications. Users who want versatility beyond deliberate target work generally acknowledge the SA format isn't the right tool for fast-paced shooting.

Suggested primarily for target shooting and hunting use, and well-regarded in those roles by the people who buy it for them.