Ruger Old Army .45 Black Powder Revolver – 7.5" Blued, First-Year 1972 Production
This Ruger Old Army is a first-year 1972 example of Ruger’s robust cap-and-ball revolver, distinguished by its early 140-prefix serial range and three-screw action. Built on a full-size Blackhawk frame and proof-tested for smokeless pressures, it combines classic percussion operation with modern construction. Adjustable iron sights, checkered walnut grips, and a 7.5-inch barrel round out a package prized by black-powder shooters and collectors alike.
Condition
Overall Condition: Fair – Shows extensive signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Condition: Fair – Generally clean, some residue or smudges, slight corrosion.
Bore Rifling: Fair – Worn rifling, slight loss of definition.
Specific Condition Notes: The revolver remains mechanically solid, but the exterior displays numerous scratches, finish blemishes, and widespread rust and pitting.
What’s Included
- Original Ruger factory cardboard box with red eagle logo
- Ruger Old Army instruction and parts list manual
Released in 1972, the Old Army carried forward Ruger’s proven Blackhawk architecture while adapting it for black-powder enthusiasts. The three-screw action found on early production guns mirrors the feel of Ruger’s classic single-action revolvers, giving the shooter a crisp, traditional hammer and trigger setup.
The 7.5-inch alloy-steel barrel and matching blued cylinder provide generous sight radius and robust strength. Between-chamber safety notches allow all six chambers to be safely carried loaded, eliminating the need to leave one chamber empty—an innovation uncommon on period percussion revolvers.
Adjustable iron sights—ramp front blade and fully adjustable square-notch rear—make it easy to zero for a range of black-powder loads. Checkered walnut grips offer a secure hold while complementing the high-polish blued finish that defines early production guns.
Collectors value first-year Old Army revolvers for their early serial prefix and original configuration. Despite cosmetic wear, this example delivers the mechanical integrity Ruger is known for, providing a functional shooter and a tangible piece of Ruger history.