A used .44 Magnum Ruger Super Blackhawk typically sells for $500 to $900 depending on condition, barrel length, and market trends as of 2026
How much is a 44 Ruger Super Blackhawk?
As of 2026, a new .44 Ruger Super Blackhawk lists for about $989 MSRP
You’ll find used examples on sites like GunBroker priced between $500–$900. Condition matters a lot—expect to pay more for pristine examples with original boxes and paperwork. Barrel length plays a role too (7.5" or 10.5" are most common). Meanwhile, Cabela’s and MidwayUSA usually stick close to MSRP on factory-new models. Just remember to check function and safety before handing over any cash.
What’s the price of a Ruger Blackhawk?
Ruger Blackhawk revolvers list around $989 MSRP as of 2026
Used prices swing wildly. A clean .357 Magnum or .44 Magnum with a 4.625", 5.5", or 7.5" barrel might run $400–$850. Blued finishes usually cost $50–$150 less than stainless. Local pawn shops and private sellers can have real steals, but always test-fire and inspect the action first. (Honestly, this is the best approach for any used gun purchase.)
What is the difference between a Ruger Blackhawk and Super Blackhawk?
The Super Blackhawk has a larger grip frame and an unfluted cylinder to better manage .44 Magnum recoil
Both revolvers share the same action and basic frame, but the Super Blackhawk’s grip is noticeably thicker and taller to tame the heavier recoil. It’s typically chambered only in .44 Magnum or larger, while the standard Blackhawk comes in .357 Magnum and .45 Colt. Barrel options differ too: Super Blackhawks usually come in 7.5" or 10.5", while the standard model spans from 4.625" to 10.5".
When was my Ruger Super Blackhawk made?
Ruger Super Blackhawk production ran from 1959 to 1973
If your serial number falls between 1521 and 20600, it was made between 1960 and 1973. Earlier serials (starting around 1521 in 1959) need a Ruger factory letter or their 1959+ serial chart for exact dating. For the most accurate answer, contact Ruger Customer Service with the full serial number.
Is the Ruger Blackhawk a good gun?
The Ruger Blackhawk is widely regarded as rugged, accurate, and reliable for field carry and target use
Its investment-cast frame and coil-spring action hold up to serious use better than many modern replicas. Accuracy is solid for a single-action revolver, especially with quality ammo. Plenty of ranchers and hunters still carry them as backups or primary sidearms because they’re simple and built to last. Just keep it clean and lubricated to maintain smooth operation.
Is a Ruger Super Redhawk a good gun?
The Ruger Super Redhawk is built for big-game hunting and dangerous-game defense
This revolver packs a heavier frame, extended grip, and larger cylinder to safely handle high-pressure cartridges like .454 Casull and .480 Ruger. The shrouded barrel and integral scope mount make it a favorite for elk or bear hunters. Recoil stays manageable thanks to the low-snag grip and integral compensator. If you need serious power on dangerous game, this is one of the best choices out there.
Is a 45 Colt more powerful than a 44 Magnum?
For similar modern factory loads, a .44 Magnum is generally more powerful than a standard-pressure .45 Colt
High-performance .45 Colt handloads can surpass .44 Magnum energy, but most factory loads clock around 300–320 ft-lbs at the muzzle. A typical .44 Magnum factory load delivers 400–600 ft-lbs, giving it a clear edge in velocity and terminal performance. Always check both the firearm’s pressure limits and ammo specs before mixing loads.
Is a 44 special more powerful than a 357 magnum?
No—factory .357 Magnum loads are almost always more powerful than .44 Special
.44 Special factory loads max out around 300–350 ft-lbs at the muzzle, while .357 Magnum factory loads start at 500 ft-lbs and can reach 700 ft-lbs with heavier bullets. The .357’s higher pressure and longer case give it a significant power advantage. That said, .44 Special offers milder recoil and less muzzle blast, making it more pleasant to shoot in snub-nose revolvers where .357 loads would be punishing.
Can you fan a Ruger Blackhawk?
Never fan a Ruger Blackhawk revolver
Fanning bypasses the trigger safety and can lead to uncontrolled discharges, bent firing pins, or ruptured primers. Ruger’s hammer block and transfer bar system aren’t designed for this technique—doing so voids the warranty and risks serious injury. Want rapid fire? Grab a modern double-action revolver or a semi-auto pistol instead.
Can I check a gun serial number online?
No — civilian access to firearm ownership records is restricted by federal law
Only law enforcement and licensed dealers can query the ATF’s firearm tracing system. For owner information, you’ll need to contact local law enforcement with a valid reason and proper documentation. If you suspect a firearm is stolen, file a police report and provide the serial number to authorities—they can check the database for matches.
What year is my 357 Blackhawk?
Ruger .357 Blackhawk production spanned 1955 to 1973
Serial numbers starting around 18688 correspond to 1959 models, with earlier serials mapping to 1955–1958. Ruger’s published serial chart is your best bet for exact year matching. Serials reset after 1973 when production moved to newer models, so pre-1974 serials are the only reliable indicators for these revolvers.
Is a 9mm more powerful than 357?
No — the .357 Magnum generally delivers higher muzzle velocity than most 9mm loads
Typical 9mm Luger (115–124 gr) loads run about 1,050–1,150 fps. A standard .357 Magnum (125–158 gr) averages 1,200–1,400 fps, giving it more energy and penetration. Only subsonic or light 9mm +P loads can match the .357’s velocity, and even then the heavier bullet usually tips the balance toward the .357 in terminal performance.
Can you shoot 9mm out of a 357 revolver?
Yes — you can safely fire .380 ACP and 9mm Luger in a .357 Magnum revolver
.380 ACP and 9mm Luger share the same 0.355" bullet diameter, so they fit safely in the cylinder. The shorter .380 case works fine, though recoil will be milder than with .357 Magnum loads. Always use moon clips for reliable ejection with these shorter cartridges—unclipped cases can drag and fail to eject cleanly.
