Ruger New Model Blackhawk .357 Mag Revolver, 6.5-Inch Barrel — 1978 Production
Built in 1978, this full-size Ruger New Model Blackhawk pairs classic single-action handling with the strength of Ruger’s alloy-steel frame and a 6.5-inch barrel. An early New Model example, it features the transfer-bar safety that lets you carry all six chambers loaded, plus the desirable pre-warning barrel roll-mark. Chambered in .357 Magnum and able to fire .38 Special, it offers flexibility for target, field, or collection display.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Good – Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling – Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: Minor scratching, scuffing, and blemishing are present on the blued surfaces, consistent with careful field use.
What’s Included
- Ruger New Model Blackhawk revolver (6-shot, 6.5-inch barrel)
Ruger introduced the New Model Blackhawk in 1973, adding a robust transfer-bar safety system that sets these revolvers apart from earlier “Three-Screw” guns. This 34-prefix example dates to 1978, placing it in the sought-after era before Ruger added barrel warning text in 1981.
The 6.5-inch alloy-steel barrel balances steadiness with manageable weight, while the micrometer-adjustable rear sight and ramp front sight provide a clear, precise sight picture. Combined with Ruger’s coil-spring lockwork, this configuration earned a reputation among silhouette shooters for reliability and durability.
Factory walnut grip panels with silver Ruger medallions give the revolver a traditional look and secure feel. The deep blued finish on the frame, cylinder, and barrel highlights the firearm’s clean lines and remains a hallmark of late-1970s Ruger production quality.
Chambered for .357 Magnum yet compatible with .38 Special, the revolver offers economical practice and potent hunting or defense loads in a single sidearm—ideal for shooters who appreciate versatility without compromising performance.