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Post by 454blaster on Aug 7, 2019 8:47:05 GMT -5
Hello,
I have recently acquired a Abilene Target 44 mag. It is model 519 AB-T. According to the paperwork that came in the box, it’s first year of production was 1979. My question is, does anyone know how many was produced? I have read Mr. Martin’s article and it is full of helpful information. In fact, his article was what intrigued me enough to purchase the Abilene I am inquiring about. It seems to be an excellent specimen of the single action arts. Any information on this model is greatly appreciated.
Thanks
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Post by needsmostuff on Aug 8, 2019 10:30:01 GMT -5
Well, the lack of response is not rude but speaks more to the general lack of exposure to the Abilene. While not rare they are obscure and often take a bit of a back seat to its siblings Seville and El Dorado. A long and convoluted history traces the whole family tree none of it well documented so I doubt you will ever get very accurate production numbers or dates. Lots of hear-say no real records. Nicely made and very solid the 44 mag in 7 1/2" seems to be most common . I have this one but frankly have never shot it ,,,, always just to many Ruger projects demanding attention.
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Post by tinkerpearce on Aug 8, 2019 11:44:37 GMT -5
I purchased one a couple years back- a 7-1/2" with a ported barrel. Great shooter, very accurate. Mine favors heavy bullets. I think these guns represent a real bargain in large-frame SAs. Sorry I can't help you with the numbers; there just isn't much information out there.
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Post by buttebob on Aug 8, 2019 12:07:22 GMT -5
Is that a Riverhead, NY Abilene, or an AIG Abilene?
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Post by 454blaster on Aug 8, 2019 12:44:11 GMT -5
Thank you for your time and responses. It is made in Riverhead. It has a 9 inch heavy bull barrel and large wood target grips. I have owned many single actions from several different makers but this one has by far the heaviest bull barrel I have ever seen on a single action.
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Post by oddshooter on Aug 8, 2019 13:19:36 GMT -5
I am beyond being a fan of the United Sporting Arms wheelguns; I'm more like a junky. It's hard to let one pass me by.
I have a couple of the Abilenes in 44 mag. Beautiful guns with superb fit and finish. Accuracy is outstanding. One of them is scoped, and it rings that 100 yard steel gong all day long.
I think they are the biggest "sleepers" of the entire SAA industry. Big value for your dollar.
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