Fun at the range with the Blackhawk

[JDM2126]

Yesterday, wife hosted a "Pampered Chef" party at our place, so I took the opportunity to go to the range with my best friend. Took two guns-- my .45 Blackhawk convertible, and a new 870 HD which I hadn't fired yet. Once at the range, started with the shotgun. My buddy brought his Mossberg HD along, too, and gave me a few lessons. The lesson I remember the most today is that SLUGS ARE NOT FUN TO SHOOT. Got the souvenir bruises on my shoulder to prove it, despite the fact that I had the 870 tucked in pretty good. Also shot some 000 buck, 00 buck, # 4 and #8 . Gotta find some of that low recoil 00 buck...

After firing the shotgun, the recoil on the Blackhawk seemed light as a feather. Did some plinking with the .45 ACP cylinder installed, two handed and one handed. Let my buddy have a go with it, too. He was with me when I first drooled over it at the gun store, and yesterday, after shooting it, said he regretted not having bought it himself. He has no single action wheelguns, and another range session or two may convert him!

It's funny-- the Blackhawk is the cheapest of the three handguns I own (the others being the Springer Loaded Champion and a Glock 21), but it is hands-down the most fun to shoot at the range. Just sorry it took me so long to "get on board".

[Wet Dog]

<snip> "hands-down the most fun to shoot at the range" <snip>

I would agree and go a step farther. Hands down the most fun to shoot & carry in the woods.

During Elk season this year my Ruger spent every second of the adventure on my person. There is something right about a single action out in the open that I don't get with my auto loaders. I didn't get to line the sights up on any fur or feathers but my Bro-in-law potted some meat with his.

A single action in 45 colt is about as perfect as I can imagine.

[CanyonMan]

There is something right about a single action out in the open that I don't get with my auto loaders. I didn't get to line the sights up on any fur or feathers but my Bro-in-law potted some meat with his.

A single action in 45 colt is about as perfect as I can imagine.



My Friend, This line should go down in history ! :thumbsup:



CanyonMan

[grayelky]

JDM2126 wrote:
...and another range session or two may convert him!
Take a Single Six .22LR, and the conversion will be done!

quote:
There is something right about a single action out in the open that I don't get with my auto loaders...
quote:
A single action in 45 colt is about as perfect as I can imagine.


My Friend, This line should go down in history !

CanyonMan

+1 :banana: :hearts:

[WIG19]

Originally posted by Wet Dog
A single action in 45 colt is about as perfect as I can imagine.
Originally posted by CanyonMan
My Friend, This line should go down in history ! :thumbsup: +2 ;)

:patriot:

[Bill Keith]

I have a 45 Convertible as well and have had it since new from a gun show in 99 when I bought it for $300. I have the 4 5/8" model and it is one of my favorite shooters. That cheap Wolf 45ACP ammo does just fine in it. Wait until you shoot some stout 45 Colt ammo through it. I got some of the 300 grain Buffalo bore stuff and it is phenominal... turns that gun into a smoke belching beast, it is great fun. Two years ago I took a feral hog with 45ACP Speer 200gr+P JHP load from 30 paces. The pig folded up right quick...wasn't too big, dressed out at about 130#.

This gun goes with me on all my tromps and hunts. It is just a great all around gun!

[ajstrider]

You mentioned trying to find low recoil buckshot...I buy Winchester Low Recoil 00 buckshot. It carries 8 pellets, and is bought in boxes of 25 for about 18 bucks, rather than buying a ton of 5 round boxes that you normally see. It patterns nice and it will do the job.

[dougader]

Originally posted by Bill Keith
Two years ago I took a feral hog with 45ACP Speer 200gr+P JHP load from 30 paces. The pig folded up right quick...wasn't too big, dressed out at about 130#.


Was this the gold dot or the old "flying ashtray?" I have used the old ashtray - in fact, still have some for reloading - but didn't think they would penetrate enough on hogs.

There is something right about a single action out in the open that I don't get with my auto loaders. I didn't get to line the sights up on any fur or feathers but my Bro-in-law potted some meat with his.

A single action in 45 colt is about as perfect as I can imagine.

I agree 100% on those quotes, too.

[eastwa]

"A single action in 45 colt is about as perfect as I can imagine." +3:wavey:

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l42/eastwa/45colt001.jpg

Blued 4 5/8", has been my woods gun for 15+ years. Belt Mtn base pin tightened it up last year.

Acusport is 2 weeks old and has not been out to play yet:sad:

Cheap trigger job on both :http://www.gunblast.com/Poorboy.htm

Thanks for the site. I don't own a glock, but seem to spend a hell of a lot of time here. Happy New Year.

[CanyonMan]

Originally posted by eastwa
"A single action in 45 colt is about as perfect as I can imagine." +3:wavey:

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l42/eastwa/45colt001.jpg

Blued 4 5/8", has been my woods gun for 15+ years. Belt Mtn base pin tightened it up last year.

Acusport is 2 weeks old and has not been out to play yet:sad:

Cheap trigger job on both :http://www.gunblast.com/Poorboy.htm

Thanks for the site. I don't own a glock, but seem to spend a hell of a lot of time here. Happy New Year.



Man, as long as you got these, we don't care if you ever own a Glock! :thumbsup:

Hold on to those Irons Hoss !



CanyonMan

[dougader]

Originally posted by eastwa
"A single action in 45 colt is about as perfect as I can imagine." +3:wavey:

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l42/eastwa/45colt001.jpg

Blued 4 5/8", has been my woods gun for 15+ years. Belt Mtn base pin tightened it up last year.

Acusport is 2 weeks old and has not been out to play yet:sad:

Cheap trigger job on both :http://www.gunblast.com/Poorboy.htm

Thanks for the site. I don't own a glock, but seem to spend a hell of a lot of time here. Happy New Year.

I just took possession of one of the gorgeous 5-1/2" SS Bisleys in 45 Colt this week. Merry Christmas, huh! It was used but already had a real nice trigger job done on it. I can't wait to get it out in the woods to shoot.

[SDGlock23]

Nice SA's eastwa, I've been toying with the idea of picking one just like yours (the blued blackhawk). I have the same base pin for my 7.5" version, so I'd have to get another one plus I have some ivory grips waiting for it too!

[eastwa]

The Acusport is heading to Dave Clements in the next week or two, and now the local shop has a SS NMBH in 4 5/8". It never ends...

[27Glock]

I have been thinking of getting a 45 blackhawk with 4 5/8 bbl for the woods. How big is it relative a security six? Is it possible to conceal easily and comfortably? I ask that because I would like to have it on me when I scout, and it must be concealed at that time.

[Wet Dog]

I scout and hunt with my 4-5/8" 45 Colt BH carried crossdraw. Haven't noticed it being a hinderance at all, even when riding a bicycle... Concealment would require at least an untucked shirt, a parka would be better. Concealment is one area the autos seem to have a clear advantage over revolvers.

I've considered getting a birdshead with the shorter barrel just for SD. Hunting here in WA requires at least a 4" barrel so the 4-5/8" is a nice compromise.

When I rifle hunt I carry a 5.5" Single Six (for grouse). While not quite at bulky as the BH the same can be said for ease of carry.

[CanyonMan]

Originally posted by Wet Dog
I scout and hunt with my 4-5/8" 45 Colt BH carried crossdraw. Haven't noticed it being a hinderance at all, even when riding a bicycle... Concealment would require at least an untucked shirt, a parka would be better. Concealment is one area the autos seem to have a clear advantage over revolvers.

I've considered getting a birdshead with the shorter barrel just for SD. Hunting here in WA requires at least a 4" barrel so the 4-5/8" is a nice compromise.

When I rifle hunt I carry a 5.5" Single Six (for grouse). While not quite at bulky as the BH the same can be said for ease of carry.


Wetdog,
Like you, i to hunt with a 4 5/8 ruger BH, (among some of my others).
I also tuck it in a cowboy style X-draw holster and belt rig, as it is easier for getting in and out of the pick up, or for horseback.

I would feel naked with out my daily hardware on. Usually the 4 5/8 "vaquero" ( old style ), for daily carry on the ranch, with 300gr cast, 18.5grs 2400.

The birdshead 45LC, is one of the best SD carry guns around, imo.
Even in the Uberti type guns that don't have rugers strength, they are really good for SD and carry, and with factory winchester silvertips, are plenty enough!

Also, if you can find a ruger sheriffs model, in 45LC, 3 1/2" barrel, this makes for a great belly gun as well.... although I am a Major ruger fan, the lighter Uberti class guns with thinner cylinder walls, make for more comfortable carry, and and since we should use factory stuff for carry ammo anyway, (imho), the win ST, are plenty stout.

These Uberti's and some others, (i personally like the Uberti the best), will still take 1,000 fps, but don't go over that !!
It will blow a hole through a deer at 50 yds, and up close and personal......well you get the idea. ;)

Just thought I'd drop in, I haven't been on GT in a while.
Good Shooting
Stay Safe!

CanyonMan

[27Glock]

Thanks for the info. An untucked shirt would not be a hindrance for scouting. I imagine a bdu shirt over the blackhawk would hide it pretty well. The level of concealment would not have to be on the same level as walking out in the general public. As long it is not blatant for a seldom encounter with a hiker, it would be fine. I guess it could also fit in my camo fanmny pack for warmer days in fl.

[WIG19]

Originally posted by CanyonMan
Also, if you can find a ruger sheriffs model, in 45LC, 3 1/2" barrel, this makes for a great belly gun as well....:thumbsup: Very comfortable & makes a great "point & click" interface. :supergrin:
Newborn pic attached.

Originally posted by CanyonMan
Just thought I'd drop in, I haven't been on GT in a while.Likewise, work's been a bit crazy here, but GREAT to hear from you! Been doing a bunch of loading & all that other winter hermit stuff to get ready for the season whenever the weather breaks above 35° or so.

I second your x-draw recommendation for field carry as well. Buddy is making me a nice half-flap x-draw. Gun is out of the way and also doesn't get banged around should I have a long-gun or other equipment with me. Either of my 5-1/2" BH's carry nice, but the SS Bisley will likely get bobbed to 4-3/4 at the end of this year. "Blue" will remain at 5-1/2" and is a long distance plinker with, well, you know the load. :supergrin:

The slightly shortened Bisley or the 3-1/2" Vaquito both great make great field guns and the Vaquito truly does nestle nicely against my belly under a shirt. That barrel length simply points where I look, so it's fast becoming a companion whenever I'm up at the hunting property in an old strong-side Hunter I found cheap, then had buddy cutoff the strap and install his version of a hammer-thong and - yes CanyonMan - a concho where the snap had been.

Again, great to hear from you; hope all goes fine with you & yours. C'mon Spring!

:patriot:

[CanyonMan]

Originally posted by WIG19
:thumbsup: Very comfortable & makes a great "point & click" interface. :supergrin:
Newborn pic attached.

Likewise, work's been a bit crazy here, but GREAT to hear from you! Been doing a bunch of loading & all that other winter hermit stuff to get ready for the season whenever the weather breaks above 35° or so.

I second your x-draw recommendation for field carry as well. Buddy is making me a nice half-flap x-draw. Gun is out of the way and also doesn't get banged around should I have a long-gun or other equipment with me. Either of my 5-1/2" BH's carry nice, but the SS Bisley will likely get bobbed to 4-3/4 at the end of this year. "Blue" will remain at 5-1/2" and is a long distance plinker with, well, you know the load. :supergrin:

The slightly shortened Bisley or the 3-1/2" Vaquito both great make great field guns and the Vaquito truly does nestle nicely against my belly under a shirt. That barrel length simply points where I look, so it's fast becoming a companion whenever I'm up at the hunting property in an old strong-side Hunter I found cheap, then had buddy cutoff the strap and install his version of a hammer-thong and - yes CanyonMan - a concho where the snap had been.

Again, great to hear from you; hope all goes fine with you & yours. C'mon Spring!

:patriot:



Well, you won't be doning any 'quick draw,' with that flap holster, but it sure will secure your hogleg. :supergrin:

It is good to hear from you as well my friend, and hear that you are doing well, and having fun with the Rugers... Let me know how your project gun turns out, after you have the barrel cut. Sounds good, and it will certainly make a very nice piece after the barrel is shortened. Boy i tell ya, you just got to love the Ruger sheriffs model...Vaquito, as you call it. That is a really nice belly gun, and far more accurate than most think.

Concho on your holster eh? Hoss we will make a cowboy out of you yet! ;)


Let me hear from ya..
Buenos Noches'


CanyonMan

[WIG19]

Originally posted by CanyonMan
Concho on your holster eh? Hoss we will make a cowboy out of you yet! ;)Will drop you a longer note when things cool down at end of week. I don't think the concho is going to intimidate a particular young Galloway that's good at finding his way out of his home pasture to go 'walkabout' but I like the idea anyway. Up here the 'horses' are ATV's - but a savvy horse would surely be more nimble. Next time that son of a gun charges me from the side, I'll have bought 1/2 a beef 'cause the Vaquito will make steak out of him.

:patriot:

[CanyonMan]

Originally posted by WIG19
Will drop you a longer note when things cool down at end of week. I don't think the concho is going to intimidate a particular young Galloway that's good at finding his way out of his home pasture to go 'walkabout' but I like the idea anyway. Up here the 'horses' are ATV's - but a savvy horse would surely be more nimble. Next time that son of a gun charges me from the side, I'll have bought 1/2 a beef 'cause the Vaquito will make steak out of him.

:patriot:



LOL...

Just make sure you cook him slow over mesquite, and plenty of BBQ sauce, and hot peppers. Very hot peppers! :thumbsup:

PS..

For the Ruger fans here that wonder what the heck a "Vaquito" is
It is simply the name WIG19 has given to his Ruger Sheriff's model. So don't run out and look for a Vaquito at the next gun show! :supergrin:

Only a true die hard Ruger man, would name his gun! :thumbsup:

Good shooting.


CanyonMan

[eastwa]

Picked up another Accusport a couple of months ago. Came with a Millet rear sight, action work, and then I had Cary Chapman provide the grips. 250 gr cast / 9 gr Unique works like a charm on the ankle biters.

http://i93.photobucket.com/albums/l42/eastwa/squirrels002.jpg

[WIG19]

Originally posted by eastwa
250 gr cast / 9 gr Unique works like a charm on the ankle biters.
In none of my Ruger 45 Colt's is this load the most accurate, but is plenty accurate enough & such a do-all load (along with a couple of loads using 2400) that I always keep a batch handy. Light enough to shoot all the time, stout enough to get the job done. 9gr Unique is one of those 'gotta haves' I suspect for a 45 Colt person.

:patriot: