Ruger New Model Blackhawk Convertible
Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. · Revolver · In Production · 1973
Also known as: Blackhawk Convertible, New Model Blackhawk .357/9mm Convertible
Overview
The Ruger New Model Blackhawk Convertible is a single-action revolver chambered in .357 Magnum and supplied with a second interchangeable cylinder for 9x19mm Parabellum, allowing the shooter to swap between the two cartridges without tools. Manufactured by Sturm, Ruger & Co., it uses the New Model action introduced in 1973 with Ruger's patented transfer bar safety, which permits carrying all six chambers loaded. The Convertible pairs a cold hammer-forged alloy-steel barrel with an adjustable rear sight and a ramped front sight, and is offered with 4.62-inch and 6.5-inch barrels.
Specifications
| Weight (empty) | 1191 g (42.0 oz) |
| Overall Length | 266 mm (10.47") |
| Barrel Length | 117 mm (4.61") |
| Action Type | Revolving |
| Firing Mechanism | Hammer Fired |
| Trigger Type | Single Action |
| Magazine Capacity | 6 rounds |
| Magazine Type | Revolving Cylinder |
| Muzzle Velocity | 440 m/s (1444 fps) |
| Muzzle Energy | 784 J (578 ft·lbf) |
| Effective Range | 50 m (55 yd) |
| Barrel Rifling | Right Hand |
| Rifling Twist | 406 mm (15.98") |
| Number of Grooves | 8 |
| Frame Material | Steel |
| Barrel Material | Steel |
| Stock Material | Rubber |
| Finish | Blued |
Calibers
- .357 Magnum · primary — also known as .357 Mag, .357 S&W Magnum, 9x33mmR
- 9x19mm Parabellum · 9mm NATO — also known as 9mm Luger, 9mm NATO, 9x19mm
Features
- Firing modes: Manual
- Feed systems: Revolver Cylinder
- Safety mechanisms: Transfer Bar, Loading Gate Interlock
- Features: Convertible Dual Cylinder, Cold Hammer Forged Barrel, Adjustable Rear Sight, Ramp Front Sight, Checkered Hard Rubber Grips
Service history
Operators
- Civilian sport and hunting shooters
Production
Production years: 1973-present
The New Model action superseded the original 1955 Blackhawk in 1973; the Convertible remains a current Ruger catalog offering.
Origin
Country of origin: United States
Designer: William B. Ruger
Notes
The Convertible ships with two cylinders: one bored for .357 Magnum (also firing .38 Special) and one for 9mm Luger. The two cylinders interchange without tools. A 6.5-inch barrel model (weight approximately 1276 g, overall length approximately 314 mm) is also cataloged.
Background
The original Blackhawk of 1955 was named after William B. Ruger's favorite automobile, the Stutz Blackhawk. In 1973 Ruger re-engineered the entire single-action line around a transfer bar safety, creating the New Model and allowing the traditional six-gun to be safely carried fully loaded for the first time.