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Post by ceadermtnboy on Mar 8, 2020 11:01:09 GMT -5
The great thing about owning single action revolvers is that we have different options and calibers. I can't decide myself, but I really want to form my opinion on what Ruger single action revolver (vaquero, new vaquero, Flat top Black Hawk, Old model Black hawk 3 screw, New model Black hawk, Super-Black hawk new & old, Bisley Vaquero (new or old) , Bisley Black hawk, Bisley Super blackhawk, Birds head vaquero or new vaquero), and all possible combinations would make the best Ruger SA ever made. So please give your opinions on:
What Model What Grip Frame What Frame Size What Barrel Length What Caliber (no rim-fire) for the sake of best Ruger SA, I would like to consider only center-fire calibers. What finish (blue, blue-color cased, polished stainless, satin stainless) What grip material
Also, lets keep the custom's out of this opinion, as I am looking for opinions on the best SA stock revolver in stock configuration and caliber, with only option is a grip change to the material of your preference. I also am looking for the best intrinsic model with out regard to throat sizes that can be corrected with minor work. Just the best Ruger SA model ever offered where Ruger got it right with no need for anything other than very minor modifications. I personally flip my opinion each time I think about them all. The goal is to gain new insight on what everyone here on this forum would choose. We have such a mixed group of Ruger and SA fans from Writers to Hunters to Custom collectors, that maybe I will learn what makes each different model special and maybe I can finally decide what affordable (non custom) grail revolver Ruger has made that I can place above all other in my current and future collection. Custom revolvers are an entirely different discussion. The only thing that I personally am sure about is the caliber being 44 or greater as in my mind harnessing some greater power is very important and sets it apart and that I know that I prefer a blue finish over stainless. And for the record, I really think JT and his article about (only one handgun and his choice - 44 flat top with 7.5 inch barrel) was absolutely special to me in that JT along with all of us possibly can own that one special SA that still has affordability.
Finally I don't want to give a purpose for this revolver, because the best in this discussion makes the purpose irrelevant. My apologies if this post is too long, but I am bored, and want to figure out my quest for the Best Ruger SA ever made. And i believe some here can help!
CMB
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princeout
.375 Atomic
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Post by princeout on Mar 8, 2020 11:11:58 GMT -5
Finally I don't want to give a purpose for this revolver, because the best in this discussion makes the purpose irrelevant. I can’t answer this one. Best requires the phrase “ for what?” attached to it. Best for hunting Whit’s African monsters is not the same as best for plinking at tin cans. I can choose “if I only had one” but I don’t think I can choose best. Tim
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Post by ceadermtnboy on Mar 8, 2020 11:14:36 GMT -5
Tim, if I included the phrase for what, Then I could not pick just one as the best. So maybe I should just say the best SA revolver ever made for the purpose it was intended? In other words for example if the New Vaquero 45 colt was intended for CAS and the SBH Hunter 44 mag was intended for Hunting white tail deer, which one got it right better for that purpose? Of course I did close the scope to center fire revolvers. Just a background , I have studied several forums that deal with what is the best for this or that purpose, but not what revolver is at the pinnacle of all SA revolvers made by Ruger. What make it the pinnacle? So I know there are all types of gun nuts, collectors, hunters, builders, target shooters, conceal carry holders, etc... They would all need to know the purpose. I am simply asking a question that may or may not have a definitive answer. So in my mind I am looking for some sort of consensus on the Ruger specific handgun that best captures the whole package in regards engineering, mechanics, aesthetics , form, function, that appeals to the most of all of us? I know everyone will have different opinions, and thats ok, I am hoping to see some preferences that help me decide what I can't by myself.
having said all of this , maybe its impossible. But still fun at the same time. Usually no one wants to here my opinions, but I would like to hear yours. If you can't decide with knowing for what. Just tell me the one that you believe captures the best for what for you.
thanks again. CMB
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Post by kings6 on Mar 8, 2020 11:23:08 GMT -5
At this moment in time I say three screw blackhawk 41 mag with 4 5/8” barrel and XR3-RED gripframe. Five minutes from now it may be the 7 1/2” old model flat top 44 mag with the XR-3 grip frame with factory ivory option grips.
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gsp7
.30 Stingray
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Post by gsp7 on Mar 8, 2020 11:25:19 GMT -5
The Best is the one that they dont make anymore or the one lipsey is out of....
that was easy
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Post by wheelguns on Mar 8, 2020 11:28:25 GMT -5
The reason that ruger has so many choices, is the fact that we are all different. We have different size hands. We have different uses, and different opinions. The best for me, won’t be the best for you. Then you have different quality within the same model. Some examples are great while some are much less than perfect. Having said all this, my choice would be for the .41 magnum bisley with a 5 1/2” barrel in stainless.
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Post by 45dragoon on Mar 8, 2020 11:38:14 GMT -5
Wow! Great question!! My opinion would be a Stainless Ruger Old Army! Seriously!!
Here's why: - It's a 3 screw model (simple, less parts) - It's got adjustable sights (or there are fixed sight examples) - It's got a barrel with correct rifling for .45C - It has a wide range of available bullets to choose from (in stock configuration) - You can install a 45C conversion "drop" cyl and shoot off the shelf or reloads (of course!! ("Drop" cylinders are removed for loading and unloading)
- Best of all, soon you'll be able to install a "gated conversion" which will allow you to load and unload while the cylinder remains installed (a first for the ROA) and no internal mods. You'll also be able to shoot "Ruger only" loads as well!
That would allow the owner to use one platform but have the ability to go from cap gun to 45C "Ruger onlys"! Oh yes, a 5 shot version would be available as well (still no internal mods!)
That would give you the most " versatile " S.A. ever made!
Mike
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Post by mike454 on Mar 8, 2020 11:40:49 GMT -5
I'm not a huge 44 special fan, so it's a little tough for me to say this, but my pick is the flattop bisley 44 special. Plenty of power in a bit smaller package. The ones that I've handled seem to have a bit better finish than most of the current Ruger single actions I've seen. The flattop frame combined with the bisley grip frame is a pleasing and unique look.
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Post by ceadermtnboy on Mar 8, 2020 11:43:37 GMT -5
GSP7... now that's not only funny its true right? Wheelguns...I get what you are saying, but lets assume we are talking about doing a thorough inspection before purchasing (something that is a must for me) so that we can take different quality out of the equation and just assume Ruger did the impossible and make them all correct from a manufacturing perspective. Lets also assume instead of fitting your hand to the gun, that you can fit your hand to the gun. In other words, you do not have to pass on a gun that you really love otherwise. I get that you could never consider a gun that dosen't fit you as a Best, but maybe some can also point out the SA revolvers that they really liked, but where really upset when the fit/feel where off. Then maybe if that SA pops up a lot in the discussion, I also have an idea of how many may have liked it or the thought of it , but otherwise it didn't make the cut. Then I could add that into the formula with the others that liked it, fit them, and they pick. I know .. very confusing.
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Post by ceadermtnboy on Mar 8, 2020 11:49:55 GMT -5
Mike its great you say the Old Army. It's always on my mind and I have owned 3 in my life. I always have had sellers remorse, you make several points I have not considered. But in the world of best ever made without the what for question then It very well should probably be at or near the Pinnacle of a Ruger made gun. It is a shame that they are no longer a regular production offering. Now if Ruger would re-offer with a Ruger designed conversion cylinder.. well that gets me excited.
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Post by 45dragoon on Mar 8, 2020 12:08:51 GMT -5
Thanks ceadermtnboy!!
The "Gated Conversion" for the Old Army is my "baby" (I have a manufacturer interested in production) so that's a given. The idea for the 5 shot is obvious and the platform is there. The big deal with it being able to shoot cap and ball gives the shooter full range in that "genre". Likewise, with the 45C round going up to "Ruger Onlys" and further with a 5 shot.
Mike
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JM
.375 Atomic
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Post by JM on Mar 8, 2020 12:14:28 GMT -5
How does the 5-shot conversion rotate & index the cylinder without internal modifications?
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Post by reconciler on Mar 8, 2020 12:14:55 GMT -5
I ponder this question often. For my purposes, the Ruger NMFT in .45 Colt with the extra .45 ACP cylinder and a 5 1/2 inch barrel is the one. Versatile, strong, accurate with great aesthetics. Box stock is perfectly fine, but add the following and it quickly becomes perfect....for me. -Bowen rear sight -Fermin's reflector front sight -Ivory grips -Charcoal blue -Casehardened frame
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Post by ceadermtnboy on Mar 8, 2020 12:27:46 GMT -5
Mike, Please let us know when that platform becomes available. I agree with you 100 percent about shooting cap and ball and also being able to perform in the field. I sometimes kick myself for not ordering a Clements old Army when it was relatively easy to do so.
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kelye
.30 Stingray
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Post by kelye on Mar 8, 2020 12:31:22 GMT -5
There has been a lot of interest in the Old Army parts lately, Mr. Taffin mentioned them in the Book of the .45, and away we've gone. I'm thinking there may be a market for factory style pins, since they are prone to bending and breakage.
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