.44 mag serial # 4954 help identify era please

I'm confused. According to Ruger serial # data the only .44 mag I see (not counting the Super) was made from 1957-1962 but there is an ad on the site below for a .44 mag old model serial #13702 they say was made in 1969. Were there two different runs of the .44 mag with fluted cylinder made?

I'm asking because I am looking at picking up a 4 digit 3 screw 6.5 inch .44 mag Blackhawk serial # 4954 and want to be sure I am buying an early flat top. I haven't seen or gotten a pic yet or I would post it.

http://www.neaca.com/sturm-ruger-firearms.html

Thanks,
Mike

Mike,



I think the '69 date for a s/n 13702 is in error. '58 would be more like it.


S/N 4954 would likely be a '57 vintage .44 mag. Blackhawk.

Good luck!

flatgate

That's what I thought but needed you guys to say it. I have bought the gun sight unseen for $475 Canadian from a trusted source . Will post pics in a couple of weeks when it arrives.

Best,
Mike

Could be a simple typo, meant to say 1959 but punched in 1969.

If the flattop didn't ship until 1969 though, it would be a pretty cool find. There is one known 2 digit gun that did not ship until, as I recall, 1975.

But yeah, a 4 digit with 6.5" barrel should be a flattop. There were some accidental 6.5" Supers but not in that SN range, and they have non-fluted cylinders.

My .44 flattop OM showed up that I bought sight unseen. It has some wear and the front sight was filed down a bit but is in pretty good condition overall and the price was right.
Mike

Nice! I like the "contoured walnut" grips!

flatgate

Nice Gun! Thanks for sharing.

yessir, you done GOOD, that is indeed a nice one........

Good snag Mike. If the front sight is too short Alan Harton can weld it back to the original height for you. He did that on a 7 1/2" flat top I bought and it turned out great.

Robb