Home Forums Hunting & Shooting Handguns Ruger single action grip frame and weight sizes.

Over the years, I haven't paid alot of attention to the Ruger SA guns even though I've owned a Single Six Convertible for many years now.
I suspect I've missed some of the differences in weight and frame sizes. For instance, are the .357's smaller and lighter than the larger .44 Magnums and .45 Colts ? Are they, the .44 Magnums and the .45 Colts the same ? Where do the .44 Specials fit in here ? Are the Vaqueros the same general size and weight as the Blackhawks ? E

This article explains it all:

http://www.gunblast.com/Hamm_Ruger-SA-GripFrames.htm

Thanks Oregon 45. I think that answers my questions. E

Emericus,

The new flattops are indeed smaller than the regular blackhawk (on the .44 magnum sized frame) but not necessarily lighter. The flattops have the steel grip frame, so are fairly heavy, but noticeably more compact than the regular blackhawk. My .44 spl flattop is quite different in feel to the blued .45 of my friend's, with the larger frame but alumium grip frame and ejector housing. Brian Pearce noted in an article that the aluminum grip frame would lighten the flattop from 40+ oz to around 38 oz.

But, I traded a stainless blackhawk .357 (steel grip frame and ejector housing). That .357, with the full size frame AND all steel construction was a heavy revolver! A flattop, smaller frame with the aluminum parts would be a very carryable revolver...probably around 36 oz and compact.

I got one of the flat tops in 44 mag and it's grip frame is smaller than the Super Blackhawk I've had for 34 years.