Author Topic: Blackhawk vs. Optics?  (Read 1335 times)

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Offline Krow Kawler

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Blackhawk vs. Optics?
« on: December 19, 2011, 12:27:51 AM »
I've been thinking about getting a Ruger Blackhawk .357 for hunting purposes. But I was wondering if a pistol scope could be mounted on it. If so, what would I need as far as mounts and the procedure?
 
Thanks for any input!

Offline tacklebury

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Re: Blackhawk vs. Optics?
« Reply #1 on: December 19, 2011, 05:26:35 AM »
I personally don't use a scope with my blackhawk, but I'd researched this a few times previously and the only really good way to do it is Weavers Base without paying a bunch to a smith to change your gun permanently.  They have it in black and silver.  ;)  I've seen them mounted and it isn't bad.  I'd looked at putting a micro-red dot scope on mine for fast shooting, but find the sights faster.  ;)
 
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/359216/weaver-mount-scope-base-ruger-blackhawk-super-blackhawk-301-gloss
http://www.midwayusa.com/product/549048/weaver-mount-scope-base-ruger-blackhawk-super-blackhawk-301s-silver
Tacklebury --}>>>>>    Multi-Barrel: .223 Superlite, 7mm-08 22", .30-40 Krag M158, .357 Maximum 16-1/4 HB, .45 Colt, .45-70 22" irons, 32" .45-70 Peeps, 12 Ga. 3-1/2 w/ Chokes, .410 Smooth slugger, .45 Cal Muzzy, .50 Cal Muzzy, .58 Cal Muzzy

also classics: M903 9-shot Target .22 Revolver, 1926 .410 Single, 1915 38 S&W Break top Revolver and 7-shot H&R Trapper .22 6" bbl.


Offline Blackhawker

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Re: Blackhawk vs. Optics?
« Reply #2 on: December 19, 2011, 06:04:42 AM »
I have a Weaver mount on my 30 Carbine Blackhawk.  I mounted it years ago and had taken it off once about 5 years ago to go back to open sights.  I had it off for about six months and went back to the scope because it's a fun round to shoot at long distances.  I also switched scopes from a Bushnell 3-6X to a Simmons 4X.  Both scopes work great and really, if you're not resting the gun, you don't need 6X on a revolver.

What I was most concerned about when mounting a scope to a revolver was leaving any kind of marks on the finish.  I was relieved to note that NO MARKS were left on the finish of my revolver when I had removed the scope mount. 

I'd recommend the Weaver base for a Blackhawk.  While the 30 carbine is short on recoil and might not be representative of a big bore vs. scope mount, my mount has always remained stable and true.  I've never had a problem with it nor scope adjustments etc.  I would think that your .357 mag isn't going to produce that much more recoil to worry about anything coming loose etc.

By the way, if you're wondering how it mounts; you'll have to remove the rear sight and screw the mount into the sight mount opening on the top strap.  Also, there is a barrel type lug or attachment that runs half of three quarters around your barrel.  I placed "mole skin" on that before I mounted it in order to prevent any scratches or marks on the finish.  I realize that one shouldn't use something like this as it might hinder accuracy but I have not noticed much of a problem as my Blackhawk shoots 3.5 to 4.5 inch groups repeatedly at 100 yards.  I don't expect much better from a standard, run of the mill, non-custom revolver, not to mention that it's fairly old and has seen a lot of rounds through it.

Offline gjdykeman

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Re: Blackhawk vs. Optics?
« Reply #3 on: December 19, 2011, 06:26:14 AM »
I tried on the 45 colt. did have to drill and tap, 40.00 gunsmith work and it did leave holes in the top strap. Leopold mount. 25.00 ebay. It will never come loose and will take any load. I used a millet red dot and it shot well out to about 50y. It was heavy, ugly, and i didn't like it on that gun. The naked blackhawk shoots about the same and is much easier to carry. I use a S&W 657 41 mag for hunting. It has a weaver mount and a 2x scope. Shoots like a laser out to about 125y rested. The Smith is not a carry piece. I carry it in a bag across my shoulder.
SFC US Army 32y 8m 13d RET

Offline 41 magnum

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Re: Blackhawk vs. Optics?
« Reply #4 on: December 19, 2011, 07:15:21 AM »
my .41 mag blackhawk has the Weaver clamp on style since '84 and it has not moved a lick, and my bear loads are top of the chart and rock the house
 
it holds a 2x Burris
 
killed 2 elk, 2 bear, 2 mulies, 36 whitetails with it
 
it is my main hunting gun
 
longest shot was 116 yds
 
but, then again I used to shoot it with open sights out to 200 meters in Silhouette competition
 
if I'll be overlooking a bean field I carry the 257 Ackley or 7x57 Mauser
 
look on www.midsouthshooterssupply.com or www.midwayusa.com for it or www.brownells.com
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Offline Krow Kawler

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Re: Blackhawk vs. Optics?
« Reply #5 on: December 19, 2011, 05:09:21 PM »
You fellas really came thru for me on this one. I have never seen an optic sight on a blackhawk before, or heard anyone speak of one, so it was questionable to me if it was even possible. I really appreciate the helpful feedback, photos, and links you all provided. I'm going to go ahead and get the pistol on order at my local dealer and start on my new project.
 
Thank ya much!

Offline BlkHawk73

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Re: Blackhawk vs. Optics?
« Reply #6 on: December 27, 2011, 03:35:34 AM »
  Years back I wanted a scoped Blackhawk myself.  Wanted it in .41 mag.  Looong before the SBH Hunters in the same chambering were available.  No other choice but to mount a mount.  :o     I didn't care for the clamp one style - just looked cheesy and I wanted something s-o-l-i-d. Went with a Leupold base with Redfield rings.  Had my dealer at that time (since retired) drill & tap the top strap.  The result was a set-up that is still rock solid.  Wasn't worried about the hols or what it may do to the value.  No intention of selling so no worrying. 
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Offline damienph

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Re: Blackhawk vs. Optics?
« Reply #7 on: January 23, 2012, 11:55:18 AM »
I have two Blackhawks and two Supers; one of each is scoped.  I have the Weaver mount on my 7 1/2" .30 carbine and a TSOB from SSK Industries on my  7 1/2" Super.
 
.30 Carbine Blackhawk, Swift 1.25-4x28

 
.44 Magnum Super Blackhawk, Leupold M8 2x

 
I only like scopes on the longer barreled revolvers, my 357 and other 44 are both 4 5/8".
 
.357 Magnum Blackhawk

 
.44 magnum Super Blackhawk

 
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Offline finisher

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Re: Blackhawk vs. Optics?
« Reply #8 on: February 04, 2012, 05:08:28 PM »
I tried on the 45 colt. did have to drill and tap, 40.00 gunsmith work and it did leave holes in the top strap. Leopold mount. 25.00 ebay. It will never come loose and will take any load. I used a millet red dot and it shot well out to about 50y. It was heavy, ugly, and i didn't like it on that gun. The naked blackhawk shoots about the same and is much easier to carry. I use a S&W 657 41 mag for hunting. It has a weaver mount and a 2x scope. Shoots like a laser out to about 125y rested. The Smith is not a carry piece. I carry it in a bag across my shoulder.

 
Who, what, where, and how in regards to the ghost ring. Looks like a good set up.

Offline gjdykeman

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Re: Blackhawk vs. Optics?
« Reply #9 on: February 05, 2012, 06:05:32 AM »
The site is called a "One Ragged Hole" found it on the internet. Available for for many different guns, pistoles and rifles. Works well for me in quick sited shots. You get two holes one small and one larger. Takes about 5 min to install. I use the larger and practice point and shoot with a crossdraw holster. I get about 2" at 10 to 25y. I use the Blackhawk for personnel protection in the woods. Lions, tigers and bears, if you know what I mean. I have Handy rifle to match on surviver stocks but a 2X6 compact scope, works the same way. Good to about 125y. I think I paid 35.00 for the one ragged hole.
SFC US Army 32y 8m 13d RET