Ruger Old Model Blackhawk .357 Magnum 4 5/8” Barrel, Revolver, 1958 C&R
SOLD FOR: $1,249.00
LSB#: LSB250520ST055
Make: Sturm, Ruger & Co.
Model: Blackhawk
Serial Number: 1465
Year of Manufacture: 1958
Caliber: .357 Magnum
Action Type: Side Gate Loaded Single-Action Revolver.
Markings: The right side of the frame is marked “1465”. The left side of the frame “RUGER .357 CAL BLACKHAWK”. The side of the barrel is marked with the Ruger Southport address.
Barrel Length: 4 5/8″
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a black serrated ramped blade fixed to the barrel. The blade has been reprofiled. The rear sight is a black square-notch leaf in a base pinned to the top strap and is adjustable for elevation and windage.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The birdshead grips are two-piece smooth faux ivory panels. There are small scratches and handling wear throughout along with a repair on the left panel. Overall, the grips rate in Good condition as repaired / replacement grips & frame.
Type of Finish: Blued, Aluminum
Finish Originality: Refinished
Cylinders: One fluted 6rd .357 Magnum cylinder.
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion but there is some heavy fouling throughout. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9.5/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 80% of its metal finish. There is moderate thinning and wear marks throughout. The cylinder has a crisp turn line. The hammer has light wear. The grip frame is and aftermarket replacement. The screw heads are mostly sharp and the pins undamaged. This pistol is in overall Good Condition.
Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The cylinders lock up with light side to side play. We did not fire this handgun. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards. This revolver has no transfer bar conversion (4-click hammer).
Box, Paperwork, and Accessories: Custom leather crossdraw shoulder holster.
Our Assessment: The Ruger Old Model Blackhawk is a classic in American single-action revolver design, combining the aesthetics and function of the Colt Single Action Army with Ruger’s modern steel construction and rugged durability. Introduced in the mid-1950s and chambered in .357 Magnum, these early “Flat Top” models became instant favorites among shooters who wanted a traditional revolver capable of handling modern high-pressure loads. Built before Ruger’s transfer bar safety conversion, these revolvers are favored by purists for their original 4-click hammer operation and crisp single-action trigger. This particular example, manufactured in 1958 with serial number 1465, is an early production model with desirable collector status. The revolver has been refinished and features a non-original birdshead grip frame with faux ivory grips, which have a repair on the left panel. While the finish shows moderate wear and thinning, it retains 80% of its bluing and has a bright bore with sharp rifling. The cylinder locks up properly, and the revolver still maintains its original pre-transfer bar action, which will appeal to those seeking an authentic Old Model shooting experience. A custom leather shoulder holster is also included, adding both functionality and style.
For collectors, enthusiasts of early Ruger production, or anyone who appreciates the feel of a traditional single-action revolver built to modern standards, this Old Model Blackhawk offers both historical appeal and functional reliability. With its early serial number and classic .357 Magnum chambering, it’s a great revolver to shoot or showcase—especially for those who favor the old-school hammer feel and pre-safety conversion action. -R.E.
