Blaketh said:
Are the actions in these as good as the 1st gens? And is this case hardened?
Yes, that SAA has a CCH cylinder frame.
1978 is very early in the 3rd generation, quality will be close to late 2nd gen guns. Purists hate the pressed in cylinder bushings on these guns. Ruger folks are accustomed to fixed bushings.
If I wanted another 45 to shoot, i would buy this one. I bought its twin in 44 special last month, fit and color are great, action is smooth, but trigger pull is stout. Need to get a Wolff hammer spring installed soon in my 44.