Ruger New Model Blackhawk Pistol, .45 Caliber, 5.5″ Barrel

The Ruger New Model Blackhawk configured with a 5.5-inch barrel is a traditional Western-style, single-action-only (SAO) revolver chambered primarily in .45 Colt (historically called .45 Long Colt). The defining characteristic of this specific caliber framework is its dual identity: while it replicates the feel of a classic 19th-century frontier sidearm, it is built on a massively thick, over-engineered modern steel frame. This extreme durability makes it a favorite among hand loaders because the full-size frame can safely handle high-pressure ".Ruger Only" +P field loads that would catastrophically destroy standard reproduction single-actions. The 5.5-inch barrel variant is widely considered the ideal "packing length," striking a perfect equilibrium between a balanced sight radius for hunting and comfort when holstered at the hip.