I couldn't wait for the weekend, so I stopped by the range for a quick test of my new Single Seven. Only fired twelve shots but I'd say it shows promise.
First three were using a load that shoots very well in my 32 H&R Single Six, the excellent RCBS 32-98 SWC over enough W231 to get it going around 950 fps. Shot offhand with the sights as sent from the factory at 7 yards.
The next load was another 32 H&R magnum load but this time it was the Blackhills factory load with an 85 grain JHP.
Next I went 327 with some American Eagle 85 grain JFP that shoot OK in my 327 SP101 and spitting them out at 1324 fps in that gun. I'll chronograph them in the 5.5" Single Seven asap.
Lastly I tried another reload, the Lyman 311008 (shot as cast, .313") over the Hodgdon MAX load of SR4756. I haven't chronographed the load in the SP101 but it seems to shoot well in both.
At only 7 yards and offhand it is hard to draw any conclusions but I'd say it does show promise.
Other notes: The factory sight setting seemed to be pretty close for both the 32 H&R and 327 Fed loads. The Single Seven really tames the 327 compared to the SP101. Neither is bad but the Single Seven makes them feel like 38 specials target loads. The Single Seven performed flawlessly. The cylinder holes appear to be plenty generous, I have not measured other than testing by dropping a few jacketed bullets though them - .311" shows no resistance. I'll have to try some .313" next.
I think I'm going to like that extra hole. Seven is better than Six.
I'm hoping to do a lot more shooting with it this weekend and give it a field trip or three. My enthusiasm for this gun has grown since acquiring it 24 hours ago. I think Ruger really has a winner with this one. Just perfect for the 327 cartridge.