The Ruger Blackhawk Convertible is a single-action revolver chambered in .357 Magnum with a second cylinder included for 9mm Luger. The 4.62-inch barrel sits on an alloy steel frame with a blued finish, and the whole package weighs 42 oz (2.63 lbs). Capacity is 6 rounds. Sights are a ramp front with an adjustable rear, and the grip is black checkered hard rubber. The transfer bar safety prevents firing unless the trigger is deliberately pulled, which addresses the older Blackhawk's main safety concern. 
 

Key Specifications 

• Brand: Ruger 
• Model: Blackhawk Convertible 
• Caliber: .357 Magnum / 9mm Luger 
• Action Type: Single Action (SA) 
• Capacity: 6 rounds 
• Barrel Length: 4.62 inches 
• Overall Length: 10.5 inches 
• Weight: 42 oz (2.63 lbs) 
• Sights: Ramp Front, Adjustable Rear 
• Grip Material: Black Checkered Hard Rubber 
• Safety Mechanism: Transfer Bar 
   

Detailed Features 

The swappable cylinder is the defining feature. Running 9mm rounds costs less per shot and produces noticeably lighter recoil compared to .357 Magnum, which makes it practical for extended range sessions or training. Switching back to .357 restores full-power capability. The adjustable rear sight lets you compensate for point-of-impact shifts between the two calibers. Cold hammer-forged barrel rifling maintains accuracy and longevity through heavy use. 
 

Usage Scenarios 

1. Sport Shooting: Adjustable sights and the cylinder swap suit both caliber-specific competition and casual target work. 
2. Hunting: Works as a sidearm for small game, particularly in wooded or rural terrain where a revolver's simplicity is an asset. 
3. Training: The 9mm cylinder reduces recoil and ammunition cost without changing the manual of arms.

The dual-caliber feature draws the most consistent praise. Owners like having one revolver that covers two roles — economical 9mm practice and harder-hitting .357 Magnum when it matters. The cylinder swap itself is straightforward and doesn't require tools.

Build quality and reliability come up regularly. Ruger's Blackhawk has a long track record, and current production examples continue that pattern. Owners report smooth operation and confidence in the transfer bar safety system.

Accuracy across both calibers is generally reported as good, with tight groupings at typical range distances. Some users note that point of impact shifts slightly between calibers and requires rear sight adjustment, which the adjustable sighting system handles.

The main criticisms are size and weight — at 42 oz the Blackhawk is not a carry gun for most people, and some note the single-action requirement adds a manual step before each shot. The 6-round capacity is also raised as a limitation compared to modern semi-autos. These are inherent to the format rather than defects in the gun. For buyers who want a traditional revolver with genuine utility, the dual-caliber Blackhawk has a clear niche.