The Ruger Blackhawk is the standard single-action revolver of the modern era — Ruger's answer to the Colt Single Action Army at a fraction of the price, with modern metallurgy capable of handling contemporary ammunition. Introduced in 1955 alongside the .357 Magnum Blackhawk, the platform expanded to .44 Magnum, .45 Colt, .30 Carbine, and others. The "New Model" Blackhawk (1973) added a transfer bar safety, making it drop-safe — an improvement the original Colt SAA never received. More Blackhawks are in active use for hunting, cowboy action shooting, and general use than any other single-action revolver platform. Type: Revolver Action: Single-Action Caliber: .44 Special Capacity: 6 Year introduced: 1955, USA Weight: 42 oz Overall length: 10.5" Status: Active Intended use: hunting, hunting_big_game, collector, competition