What YOU have is one of the finest .357 magnums Ruger ever made...
Three Screw and a Flat Top...
don't get much better!!
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Ruger’s 1st center fire single action revolver, the new “Blackhawk” .357 Magnum, debuted in 1955...
In 1959,
6-1/2” and 10” barrels were introduced. Some variations of these two barrel lengths were made in low numbers and created some very scarce and rare collectible guns today.
Walnut grip panels became the standard in 1960's...before that, stag and even ivory could be ordered.
The left side of the 3-screw cylinder frame was roll marked “RUGER .357 CAL. BLACKHAWK”. Of course in addition to the .357 Magnum cartridge, the .38 Special cartridge could be fired in the revolver, adding to its versatility.
The grip frame was redesigned in 1963 (marked XR3-RED).
There is no "Transfer Bar" safety...
Due to the “flat” design of the cylinder frame’s top strap, these guns became known as “Flat Tops”.
Around 42,000 of these fine single action .357 Blackhawk “Flat Tops” were produced during its eight year life span of 1955 to 1962, when production ceased.
Many of these .357 “Flat Tops” have red, cherry, or plum colored cylinder frames, loading gates, triggers, and/or other parts. It is thought that this discoloration was due to the make-up of the molten metal used in the casting or molding process. The metal apparently reacted with the bluing solution during the bluing process, resulting in these various colors or tints. Some of these “discolored” guns are absolutely beautiful and highly desired by the serious collector.
An
NRA Excellent example of this vintage firearms' worth can be subjective and will vary due to condition and market demand...but I've seen them in the
$650 range.
