The Ruger Blackhawk and Super Blackhawk are iconic single-action revolvers, both steeped in Western history and popular among shooters today. While sharing a similar lineage and many features, key differences exist that make one a better choice than the other depending on your needs and preferences. This in-depth comparison will help you decide which Ruger single-action is right for you.
Key Differences: Barrel Length, Cylinder Capacity, and Frame Size
The most significant differences between the Blackhawk and Super Blackhawk lie in their frame size and resulting cylinder capacity.
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Frame Size: The Super Blackhawk boasts a larger frame, designed to handle the higher pressures generated by more powerful cartridges. The Blackhawk, with its smaller frame, is typically chambered in less powerful rounds.
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Cylinder Capacity: This directly correlates with frame size. The Super Blackhawk generally offers a larger cylinder capacity, allowing for more shots before reloading. This difference is critical for practical shooting and hunting applications.
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Barrel Length: Both revolvers are available in a variety of barrel lengths, from short "cowboy" barrels to longer, more accurate barrels. Barrel length choice is largely a matter of personal preference and intended use. However, longer barrels generally offer increased accuracy and velocity.
Caliber Considerations: A Wide Range of Options
Both the Blackhawk and Super Blackhawk are available in a wide array of calibers. The choice of caliber significantly impacts the gun's recoil, power, and intended use.
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Blackhawk Calibers: Often chambered in .357 Magnum, .38 Special, .45 Colt, and other smaller calibers, the Blackhawk is well-suited for target shooting, plinking, and even hunting smaller game with appropriate ammunition selection.
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Super Blackhawk Calibers: The Super Blackhawk handles more powerful cartridges, such as .44 Magnum, .454 Casull, and .480 Ruger. This makes it a more robust choice for hunting larger game and situations demanding greater stopping power. The increased power, however, comes at the cost of significantly more recoil.
Recoil Management: A Critical Factor
The increased power of cartridges handled by the Super Blackhawk translates to substantially more recoil. Experienced shooters might find this manageable, but novice shooters might find the Super Blackhawk's recoil overwhelming. The Blackhawk, with its smaller frame and typically less powerful cartridges, is generally more comfortable to shoot for extended periods.
Ergonomics and Handling: A Matter of Personal Preference
While both revolvers share a similar design language, subtle differences in grip size and weight can affect handling. The larger frame of the Super Blackhawk results in a heavier gun, which some shooters find more stable, while others might prefer the lighter weight and more maneuverable Blackhawk. Ultimately, the "best" feel comes down to individual hand size and shooting style.
Choosing the Right Revolver: Matching Gun to Purpose
The decision between a Ruger Blackhawk and a Super Blackhawk hinges on your intended use:
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Target shooting and plinking: The Blackhawk, with its lower recoil and wider caliber selection, is an excellent choice.
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Hunting larger game: The Super Blackhawk's power and larger cylinder capacity make it more suitable for hunting, though recoil should be carefully considered.
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Cowboy Action Shooting: Both models are popular choices in this discipline, although the choice often depends on the specific rules and regulations of the competition.
Conclusion: Consider Your Needs Before Choosing
Both the Ruger Blackhawk and Super Blackhawk represent excellent examples of single-action revolvers. They offer a compelling blend of history, craftsmanship, and reliable performance. However, the significant differences in frame size, cylinder capacity, and caliber options necessitate careful consideration of your intended use and personal preferences before making a purchase. Consider factors like recoil management, intended use, and personal comfort to select the Ruger single-action revolver that best fits your needs.
