The air hangs thick with the scent of sulfur and nostalgia. The crisp snap of a cap, the plume of smoke, and the satisfying thud of lead hitting a target—these are the hallmarks of the black powder experience. And standing as a testament to this enduring allure is a firearm that has captivated generations: the Ruger Old Army. This remarkable revolver bridges the gap between the historical charm of black powder firearms and the reliability and build quality that modern shooters appreciate. For those seeking a connection to the past, a challenge for their marksmanship, or simply the pure enjoyment of shooting, the Ruger Old Army is an exceptional choice.
Historical Context of the Ruger Old Army
The history of firearms is a fascinating tapestry woven with threads of innovation, conflict, and the evolving skills of craftspeople. Black powder revolvers, particularly, hold a special place in this narrative. Before the advent of self-contained cartridges, these firearms were the cutting edge of personal defense and warfare. They allowed for multiple shots without the cumbersome process of reloading after each firing, a significant advantage in the heat of battle or the pursuit of prey. Iconic figures like Wild Bill Hickok and Buffalo Bill Cody relied on these weapons, and their influence has permeated popular culture, inspiring countless books, films, and the imaginations of enthusiasts around the world.
In the realm of black powder revolvers, the names Colt and Remington often take center stage. However, there’s a manufacturer that brought a new level of precision and durability to this time-honored design: Sturm, Ruger & Co. This company, known for its innovative and rugged firearms, entered the black powder market with a bold vision. Their goal was not simply to replicate the historical designs but to improve upon them, bringing modern manufacturing techniques and material science to the table.
The Ruger Old Army was introduced with much fanfare. It was immediately apparent that Ruger had approached the project with a commitment to excellence. Its design was both a nod to tradition and a step into the future, with its robust build, exceptional accuracy, and overall quality setting it apart from its contemporaries. This Ruger Old Army became an instant success. It was designed to give the owner a modern approach to an old school concept. Its quality earned it the respect of seasoned black powder shooters and attracted newcomers to the sport. It quickly established itself as a favorite among enthusiasts of the time.
Features and Design
The beauty of the Ruger Old Army lies not just in its historical connection but also in its thoughtful design and the high quality of its components. The construction of the revolver is immediately impressive. Crafted with a sturdy steel frame, the Ruger Old Army exudes a sense of strength and reliability. The stainless steel models, which were also available, added an extra layer of corrosion resistance, making them even more suitable for outdoor use and providing easier cleaning. This solid build ensures that the revolver can withstand the rigors of repeated firing and a long lifespan.
The action of the Ruger Old Army operates on a single-action mechanism. This means that the hammer must be manually cocked before each shot. This design choice offers a great deal of control, providing a crisp trigger pull that is perfect for precision shooting. The design also contributes to the firearm’s safety, as the user must deliberately cock the hammer before firing, reducing the risk of accidental discharge. The trigger pull is generally smooth and predictable, further enhancing the shooting experience.
The Ruger Old Army is chambered in .44 caliber, a popular and effective size for black powder revolvers. This caliber offers a good balance between stopping power and manageable recoil. The six-round cylinder provides a sufficient number of shots before reloading. The cylinder rotates smoothly and locks securely into position, ensuring proper alignment with the barrel for each shot.
The available barrel lengths of the Ruger Old Army played a significant role in handling and accuracy. The different lengths offered different characteristics. Longer barrels offer a longer sight radius, which is crucial for accuracy. The longer sight radius helps the shooter achieve better precision. This is particularly advantageous for target shooting and hunting. Shorter barrels provide a more compact and maneuverable package, making it easier to carry and handle, and making it a good choice for defensive purposes.
The sights of the Ruger Old Army were designed with practicality in mind. They are typically fixed sights, meaning they are not adjustable. This simplifies the design and enhances its reliability. However, the sights are well-placed and provide a good sight picture, allowing for accurate aiming. The front sight is a blade, and the rear sight is a notch milled into the top strap of the frame. The simplicity of the sighting system aids in ease of use and accuracy in the field.
The loading system of the Ruger Old Army is a classic design. The user utilizes a loading lever that is located under the barrel. This lever allows the shooter to easily load the chambers with powder and a round ball. This design streamlines the loading process, making it faster and easier to reload than other black powder revolvers.
The grip of the Ruger Old Army is another area where Ruger put an emphasis on ergonomics. The grip, often crafted from wood or durable synthetic material, is designed to fit comfortably in the hand. This comfortable grip enhances control and allows the shooter to maintain a solid hold on the firearm while firing. The thoughtful shape of the grip contributes to the overall balance of the revolver and makes it a pleasure to shoot.
Key design elements further set apart the Ruger Old Army. One of the most unique features is its solid frame design. Other guns of this kind have frames that can be taken apart, which can loosen up over time and cause problems. The Ruger Old Army’s solid frame design means it is both rugged and durable. Another distinguishing feature is the loading mechanism, which allows for easy and quick loading. These details make the Ruger Old Army a standout weapon.
Performance and Accuracy
The reputation of the Ruger Old Army for accuracy is well-deserved. The high-quality barrel, the solid construction, and the crisp trigger pull all contribute to its ability to shoot tight groups. It is not uncommon for skilled shooters to achieve impressive accuracy with this revolver.
Many factors can affect the accuracy of the Ruger Old Army, as with any firearm. The type of powder used can have a significant impact. The granulation of the powder and the amount of powder used can have a marked influence on ballistics and accuracy. Choosing the correct amount of powder and a proper load for the conditions is vital for precision. Another key element is the choice of bullet. Different bullets can perform differently in the same firearm. Experimentation with different bullet types and weights is often necessary to discover the bullet that performs best. Perhaps the most important factor is the shooter’s technique. Steady hands, proper sight alignment, and a consistent trigger pull are essential for achieving accurate shots.
The shooting experience with the Ruger Old Army is something that is cherished by black powder enthusiasts. The process of loading, which involves the ritual of measuring powder, seating the bullet, and capping the cylinder, is a special experience. This deliberate process slows down the shooting experience, encouraging a mindful approach. The recoil of the Ruger Old Army is manageable, providing a satisfying kick without being overwhelming. The sound of the shot, the smell of the black powder smoke, and the sight of the smoke cloud combine to create a sensory experience that is unlike that of modern firearms.
The Ruger Old Army, in a direct comparison, often surpasses other black powder revolvers in terms of accuracy and build quality. While other models may be more historically accurate or less expensive, the Ruger Old Army provides a combination of precision, reliability, and ease of use that is hard to match. Its modern manufacturing, while honoring the past, ensures that it will give better performance than many competitors.
Loading and Operation
The safe and proper loading and operation of the Ruger Old Army are paramount. Safety should be the top priority. Before any shooting session, it is essential to familiarize yourself with all safety guidelines and to handle the firearm in a responsible manner. Always treat every firearm as if it is loaded. Always point the muzzle in a safe direction. Never put your finger on the trigger until you are ready to fire. These practices are crucial to prevent accidents.
A vital part of the process involves carefully choosing the right components. The selection of black powder is the first step. FFFg black powder is typically recommended for revolvers. The right choice of bullets is important for accuracy and performance. Round balls are the most common choice. Other bullet designs may be selected to suit specific needs. Caps are another important component; they must be selected to fit the nipples of the cylinder.
The loading procedure itself follows several steps. First, the chambers of the cylinder are loaded. The correct amount of powder is measured and carefully poured into each chamber. Then, a felt wad is added to seat the powder. A bullet is seated on top of the powder and tamped down, and the cylinder is rotated to the next chamber. Finally, a percussion cap is carefully placed on the nipple of each cylinder chamber. Always be careful when handling powder and caps.
The regular maintenance and cleaning of the Ruger Old Army is essential for its long-term performance. After each shooting session, the revolver must be disassembled, cleaned, and lubricated. The barrel and cylinder should be thoroughly cleaned to remove powder residue. The metal surfaces should be wiped down to prevent corrosion. The proper cleaning, lubrication, and care are critical.
Pros and Cons
The Ruger Old Army has both advantages and disadvantages, as with any firearm. Its accuracy, its durability, its rugged design, and the overall ease of loading and operation are undeniable advantages. Its solid construction makes it exceptionally reliable, capable of withstanding many years of use. The ease of operation is another significant benefit, making it simple and fun to shoot. The appeal of the classic design is also a huge advantage. However, there are some disadvantages.
The black powder shooting is a different world. It is an experience that needs additional care and maintenance. There are also issues with ammunition. Black powder is needed and not as easily found as modern ammunition. The same with bullets and caps. While the value of the Ruger Old Army holds, some people may find that the cost is higher than with other firearms.
The Ruger Old Army Today
Despite the challenges, the Ruger Old Army remains a highly prized firearm. They can be found in the used markets, at gun shows, and through online auctions. Because the design is desirable and because they are well-made, they tend to retain their value.
The Ruger Old Army is also a sought-after collectible firearm. Because it is no longer in production, well-maintained examples are valued by collectors and enthusiasts. This collector status adds to the revolver’s appeal, making it even more desirable. The prices depend on the condition, the serial number, and the accessories.
The Ruger Old Army enjoys lasting popularity. It is the perfect weapon for black powder shooting. The Ruger Old Army offers everything that enthusiasts desire. It provides the opportunity to experience the thrill of shooting a classic firearm with all the benefits of modern craftsmanship.
Conclusion
The Ruger Old Army, a testament to Ruger’s commitment to quality and innovation, remains a modern classic in the world of black powder revolvers. It is a weapon that combines the historical appeal of black powder firearms with the performance and reliability. It has earned the admiration of many shooters. It’s a weapon that is a reliable performer.
The Ruger Old Army is a must-have for anyone who is passionate about firearms. This revolver is a great addition to any collection. The pleasure of loading and shooting it, coupled with its undeniable accuracy, makes it a truly unique and rewarding experience. So, if you have the opportunity, consider trying the Ruger Old Army. It is a weapon that will make you think and remember the past.
