Rare Ruger Hawkeye .256 Win Mag Single Shot Rotating Breech Pistol, C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,555.00
LSB#: WY250424FK001
Make: Sturm, Ruger & Co.
Model: Hawkeye
Serial Number: 2183
Year of Manufacture: 1963 to 1964
Caliber: .256 Winchester Magnum
Action Type: Single Shot Rotating Breech Hammer Fired Pistol.
Markings: The right side of the frame is marked, “2183”. The left side is marked, “STURM, RUGER & CO. SOUTHPORT, CONN U.S.A.”. The barrel is marked, “RUGER HAWKEYE. WIN. .256 MAG. CAL.”
Barrel Length: 8.5?
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a serrated ramped blade set on the barrel via a raised base. The rear sight is a micro-adjustable square notch set into the top strap. The barrel is tapped for scope rails.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two-piece checkered rubber Pachmayer panels with brass medallions. There are moderate handling marks throughout with a white discoloration. The checkering is sharp, there are no rips or tears. Overall, the grips rate at a Good condition.
Type of Finish: Blued, Anodized
Finish Originality: Original
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore but there is some moderate fouling. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 92% of its metal finish. There are spots of thinning and wear throughout. The frame has light thinning and the hammer has spots of patina. The action has light wear from use. The screw heads are sharp and the pins undamaged. The markings are clear. This pistol is in overall Good to Very Good condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: None.
Our Assessment: The Ruger Hawkeye in .256 Winchester Magnum is one of the rarest and most distinctive firearms ever produced by Sturm, Ruger & Co. Manufactured only between 1963 and 1964, the Hawkeye was an ambitious attempt to merge the precision of a rifle with the handling of a handgun. Its unique rotating breechblock action set it apart from conventional pistols, and its chambering in the then-new .256 Win Mag made it a formidable small game and varmint cartridge. Despite its innovation, fewer than 3,300 were made, making the Hawkeye a true collector’s item today. This example, serial number 2183, remains in good to very good condition, showing honest wear with approximately 92% of its original blued and anodized finish remaining. The frame shows some thinning and patina on the hammer, with moderate handling wear throughout. The bore is bright with sharp rifling and no visible erosion, rating a solid 9 out of 10. The checkered Pachmayr grips are in good shape, showing signs of handling but maintaining their integrity and function. Mechanically, the action functions correctly, and the barrel is tapped for scope mounting—adding versatility to this already rare pistol.
For collectors of unusual or limited-production Ruger firearms, this Hawkeye is a top-tier acquisition. Its rarity, unique rotating breech action, and specialized caliber make it a standout in any Ruger or single-shot pistol collection. Whether appreciated for its innovative design, its scarcity, or its potential on the range, the Ruger Hawkeye remains a fascinating piece of American firearms history that continues to gain recognition among discerning enthusiasts. -R.E.
