September 09, 2018, 02:08 PM
GCE61Recommend gunsmith- Ruger SBH project
I'm seriously considering a makeover for my 1961 Ruger Super Blackhawk 3-screw 44mag.
I'm thinking of either having the barrel cut, or have a new barrel installed (Hart?) at the length of 4 5/8, 5", or 5 1/2", haven't decided yet. I'd also like to do a custom front sight, maybe new rear, and possibly action work.
The only two who come to mind are Hamilton Bowen and Gary Reeder. Anyone have any recommendations or experience with other qualified shops?
Much appreciated!
September 09, 2018, 02:33 PM
BlackAgnes
Like this?
September 09, 2018, 02:51 PM
GCE61Yes, similar. I'm looking at Dave Clements work and his banded front sight on a 5 1/2" barrel.
Maybe the Keith #5 conversion.
Who did the work on yours ?
September 09, 2018, 03:06 PM
BlackAgnesWC WC Arms, Bloomfield, NY. Sam Chappel
September 09, 2018, 07:00 PM
JohnFLandConsider John Gallagher, Jasper, Alabama
See also
https://gunsmagazine.com/gallagher-to-the-rescue/September 11, 2018, 01:08 PM
Blaque Jacque ShellaqueAndy Horvath, Diagonal Road Gun Shop, LaGrange, OH.
Check out this article from American Handgunner by John Taffin
http://www.sixguns.com/range/horvath.htmContact
Diagonal Rd. Gunshop
14131 Diagonal Rd
LaGrange Ohio 44050
phone: 440-458-4369.
You can also find a list of custom Blackhawk gunsmiths in this Taffin article:
https://americanhandgunner.com...blast-i-gotta-be-me/September 11, 2018, 04:21 PM
GCE61Thanks guys!
September 11, 2018, 06:37 PM
casI've had Dave Clements do a number of things on revolvers, pistols and rifles, including some custom stuff and would be happy to use him again.
Other notable names to look into, Jack Huntington and Ben Forkin.
September 11, 2018, 06:56 PM
4MUL8RAlthough you have plenty of good advice here,
www.rugerforum.com has a couple of old hands with ideas. Most there would counsel you to keep the 1961 original and purchase something to modify. Those folks are might particular about pre-recall SBH.
Don't forget Cylinder & Slide. There is a loading pawl that lines up the hole with the gate you might want to try.
September 11, 2018, 08:05 PM
mlazarusClements is top notch. Hard to find anyone better for this work.
September 11, 2018, 08:27 PM
Sweet ChuckieI'll second Ben Forkin, of Forkin Custom Classics. I believe he worked with Hamilton Bowen before opening his own business here. He's a very conscientious craftsman.