Converting Super Blackhawk

[hvacmedic]

What would need to be done to convert my .44 mag 4 5/8" super blackhawk to .45 LC. How much would I need to expect for funding this project?

 

[Tommy Kelly]

It would probably be easier to just buy a 45 than to convert it over. That way you would be ahead of the game and have a good start with 2 with many more to follow.

 

[Hondo44]

What Tommy Kelly said. Is it the smooth cylinder you want and steel grip frame?

For a lot less money you can start with a 45 Colt and find a Bisley smooth cylinder (polish off engraving & reblue cylinder) and add a steel grip frame.

Or start with a 45 Bisley, polish off engraving & reblue cylinder, shorten the barrel and add standard steel grip frame, hammer and trigger. People will be knocking down your door for the bisley grip frame and parts.

 

[Kanook]

Keep your eyes open for a barrel and cylinder for sale on gunbroker. I have seen them sold as a set for $125

Or buy a 4 5/8" 45colt and swap the gripframes hammers, and triggers with each other. Then sell the 44.

Or send it off to one of the custom smiths and for around $700 (low end)

 

[CraigC]

It is cheaper to sell it and buy a .45 but rechambering a .41 or .44Mag (or building a new cylinder from scratch) is the only way to get properly cut chambers. Personally, I wouldn't go to the trouble and use a factory barrel. Ruger's barrels are "good" but a premium barrel is a lot better (typically more consistently accurate) and only slightly more expensive. Rechambering should run $150-$200. Jim Stroh gets $230 for a new premium barrel, plus whatever sight option you choose. I would STRONGLY suggest at least a new custom blade, if not a whole new custom front sight assembly. Huge improvement over Ruger's factory sights. Throw in an action job and a Bowen target rear sight while you're at it.