The original Ruger Blackhawk (1955-1973) action closely copied the Colt SAA action except it used coil springs. They worked the same: hammer at 1/2 cock to rotate the cylinder for loading, need to have an empty chamber under the hammer. In ‘73 the “new model” came out with a transfer bar so loading 6 rounds is safe and no need to 1/2 cock the hammer to load. However the action wasn’t quite as smooth after the changes in the mechanics. The other thing is is the new model action is slightly larger to handle the big bores better.
All of that made the old model or “3 screw” revolvers desirable for many single action aficionados, of course that made them more expensive.
I’ve wanted a 3 screw for awhile but didn’t want to pay the premium. I recently found this shooter grade .357 at a reasonable price. Function and bore are perfect, blueing shows some holster wear but no pitting.
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