Anyone have a source to research serial numbers on a couple of Blackhawks and a Vaquero? I have a couple of them that I would like to know when they were made. Any help is appreciated.
Hey, thanks a lot. Great info, just looked up all three that I have.
One more question if you don't mind, my "New Model Blackhawk" in 45 Colt that was manufactured in 2004, what loads are safe in it? Tier 2 or Tier 3 or neither? Thanks
Not sure what your 'tier" levels signify. Any SAAMI spec loads would be fine. If yours is a large frame model than it's one that the "Ruger only" loads are designed for. Being a 2004 man. date, you're would be if my memory serves me right.
Personally not a fan of these levels of loads as in my opinion, if you need that amount of power, you use a more powerful cartridge from the beginning not a lesser cartridge pushed above it's standard specs.
Thanks for all the help. I am planning on taking my Blackhawk in 45 as a sidearm on a bear hunt this spring. I've only loaded it to standard specs in the past, but since all my powder manufactures list Ruger only loads for it, I thought I would stiffen up some 300 grain cast bullet loads for my hunt. I will still be way below max loads though. Just wanted a little "extra" for this one occasion. I'm not a "hot rod" load kind of guy myself, don't enjoy the recoil.
Your gun is good for tier 1, 2, and 3 loads as it is a Large Frame BH. Lipsey only recently came out with the medium frame flattops in .45 Colt which are Tier 1 and 2 only. Of course all New Vaquero .45 Colt revolvers are on the medium frame. Enjoy!
Those shooters not familiar with the Tier levels check out the Brian Pearce PDF
Basically, Tier 1 is standard SAAMI .45 Colt loads, Tier 2 is up to around 20,000psi, and Tier 3 is 30,000psi. Most modern .45 Colt revolvers are good for Tier 2 which is as warm of loads that I want to shoot in general.
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