Ruger Old Army TALO 5.5” Barrel .45 Cal Cap & Ball Percussion Revolver
SOLD FOR: $1,452.00
WOA#: WY240811DH002
Make: Sturm, Ruger & Co.
Model: Old Army
Serial Number: 148-00276
Year of Manufacture: 2004
Caliber: .45 Cal. Black Powder Only
Action Type: Percussion Black Powder 6 Shot Revolver with Ramrod.
Markings: The right side of the frame is marked, “148-00276” The left side of the frame is marked, “RUGER OLD ARMY” The cylinder is marked, “BLACK POWDER ONLY” The barrel is marked, “STURM, RUGER & CO. INC. SOUTHPORT CONN. U.S.A.”
Barrel Length: 5.5?
Sights/Optics: The front sight is a tall quarter moon fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a square notch fixed to the top strap.
Stock Configuration and Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth walnut with silver Ruger medallions. There are some small pressure dents throughout. There are no chips or cracks. Overall, the grips rate at an Excellent condition.
Type of Finish: Blued
Finish Originality: Original
Cylinders: One 6rd .45 Cal. Cylinder
Bore Condition: The bore is bright and the rifling is sharp. There is no erosion in the bore. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 10/10.
Overall Condition: This handgun retains about 99% of its metal finish. There is some light plum discoloration throughout. The screw heads are sharp and the pins undamaged. The markings are clear. This pistol is in overall Excellent condition.
Mechanics: The action does not function correctly as the cylinder/action is locked up with the hammer in partial cock back. 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: Original gray Ruger hard case, paperwork, lock.
Our Assessment: The Ruger Old Army .45 Cal Cap & Ball Percussion Revolver is a modern take on the traditional black powder revolvers used in the 19th century. Introduced by Sturm, Ruger & Co. in 1972, the Old Army revolver combines the classic aesthetics and function of cap and ball revolvers with the robust construction and precision engineering characteristic of Ruger firearms. Though it is no longer in production, the Ruger Old Army remains a popular choice among black powder enthusiasts and collectors for its reliability, durability, and historical charm. Chambered in .45 caliber, the Ruger Old Army uses cap and ball loading, which involves placing a percussion cap on the nipple at the rear of each chamber, filling the chamber with black powder, and then seating a lead ball or conical bullet on top. This method replicates the loading process of Civil War-era revolvers, providing an authentic shooting experience. The .45 caliber offers significant stopping power and accuracy, making it suitable for both target shooting and hunting. The design of the Ruger Old Army is heavily influenced by the Colt 1858 Remington New Model Army, known for its solid frame and top strap design. This construction provides superior strength and stability compared to the open-top design of other contemporary revolvers. The solid frame of the Ruger Old Army enhances its durability, making it capable of withstanding heavy use and the high pressures generated by black powder loads. The revolver features a 7.5-inch barrel, which contributes to its excellent accuracy and ballistic performance. The longer barrel length provides a longer sight radius, making it easier to aim and hit targets at various distances. The barrel and other metal components are high-quality stainless steel, offering corrosion resistance.
Overall, the Ruger Old Army .45 Cal Cap & Ball Percussion Revolver is a modern classic that pays homage to the black powder revolvers of the 19th century while incorporating Ruger’s renowned quality and precision. Its solid frame, adjustable sights, and ergonomic grip make it a reliable and accurate firearm suitable for target shooting and hunting. The Ruger Old Army offers a unique blend of historical authenticity and modern engineering, making it a cherished piece for collectors and a reliable tool for black powder shooting enthusiasts. .45 Colt cartridge conversion for this revolver, (https://www.gunbroker.com/item/1070656165) -R.E.
