Ruger Hawkeye .256 Winchester Magnum Single-Shot Pistol, Limited-Production 1963–1964, 8.5 in Barrel
This Ruger Hawkeye stands out as a scarce, limited-production single-shot pistol chambered in .256 Winchester Magnum. Produced only from 1963 to 1964 in approximately 3,000 units, it is the first commercial firearm offered in this caliber. It features the Hawkeye's unique swiveling breechblock in place of a cylinder, an 8.5 in barrel that is drilled and tapped for scope mounting, and a distinctive two-tone construction.
Condition
Overall Condition: Good condition, showing some signs of prior use and handling.
Bore Overall Condition: Good - Clean, well-maintained, minor wear marks.
Bore Rifling: Good Rifling - Intact, well-defined lands and grooves.
Specific Condition Notes: The blued finish shows scattered scratches and blemishes. The bore presents a clean, bright appearance.
What’s Included
- Leather belt holster with decorative border stamping
- Leather cartridge belt with individual cartridge loops
The Hawkeye employs a single-action mechanism with a single-shot rotating/swiveling breechblock in place of a traditional cylinder. An under-barrel spring-plunger ejector aids in quick case removal, and capacity is 1 round. The XR3-RED grip frame pairs with smooth walnut grip panels bearing Ruger eagle medallions, giving this example classic Ruger revolver-style ergonomics in a unique single-shot format.
Chambered in .256 Winchester Magnum, this model holds a special place as the first commercial firearm offered for the cartridge. Its short production run, roughly 1963–1964 with about 3,000 made, adds meaningful scarcity and collector interest to an already distinctive design.
The 8.5 in steel barrel is drilled and tapped for scope mounting and wears iron sights from the factory, with an adjustable rear and a ramped front. This configuration provides practical sighting options while preserving the Hawkeye's purpose-built silhouette.
Construction is two-tone, with a blued steel upper and a silver-colored alloy grip frame. Overall length is approximately 14.5 in, and weight is about 45 oz. Made in the United States, this Hawkeye presents the hallmark features that define the model and its brief production era.