Greenhorn Question

[Empty Quiver]

I finally picked up a Blackhawk, 6 1/2 barrel, .41mag, blue, walnut, '77 model year. Now that you have been introduced, my question.
 
Should I expect a handfull of grip? I ask because honestly about the most comfortable grip is with my pinky resting under the stocks. I'm fairly versed in auto pistols, and have a couple that get the two finger grip.
 
I'll be honest I don't feel real "in control" of this thing. I have only been able to dryfire it ( Marshal Dillon sure appreciated the help too ) and between the heavy barrel and what little purchase I have on it I'm wondering.
 
I searched around and can fing large grips advertised, but wonder how that works as the frame stops far short of what I would need. 

[spruce]

I can understand how the single action grip would feel somewhat insecure to someone who was used to shooting semi-autos.
Basically, with the standard grip the barrel will rise upon firing and the grip will slide down in your hand, the sequence of events being stopped by the web of your firing hand.  Certainly not something you're accustomed to with a semi-auto.  Unless you have very large hands it sounds like you may be grepping the gun too low - try a higher grip (and let the gun "roll up" when you fire it).
 
There are grips made that enclose the bottom of the grip frame, thereby extending it's length.  The rubber Pachmayr grips are preferred by some because they are larger and they pretty much eliminate the "roll up" - the recoil dynamics are similar to a DA revolver.  The Bisley style grips are also very well liked by some SA shooters, but it would be fairly expensive to convert your grip frame to the Bisley style.
 
Like most everything else if you ask 10 different people what's best you'll get 10 different answers - and everyone of them is right (for them)!  Have fun experimenting and finding what you like.

[mechanic]

Dittos on above, but don't let that off hand get near the cylinder...I'm sure you know this, but you could get some nasty burns or worse..I have some friends who are semi guys that I have to watch when they shoot my wheel guns, they forget and use the same grip they use on the semis with the left hand under the trigger guard and along  the slide.
 
I believe you will find a two hand grip necessary, there are several variations.  I cup my left hand under the base of the grip and my right hand where it's comfortable on the trigger...
 
Ben

[Empty Quiver]

I do have some pretty big mitts. Not so long as wide. I know not to get burned ...but knowing and doing, are not the same are they.
 
Thanks for the pachmyer tip, didn't think about enclosing the frame. I just could not believe in all the research I have done the grip size was never really an issue. It sounds like it won;t have to be.

[keith44]

+2 on what spruce said


properly gripped (assuming it has the as issued "dragoon" type grip and frame assy) you should be able to lay your finger along side the barrel and naturally point the gun with very little error (my .41 Mag Blackhawk is from '68)  Also when the recoil cycle has ended I find mine pointing nearly verticle where the grip has rolled in my hand.  Do not try to hold it down, let it roll.  It is what it was designed for.

[gcrank1]

Im thinkin' you just gotta load 'er up and take a holt and shoot 'er.........you'll figur it out real quick.