Double action .357 & 9mm?

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cstrack

Bearcat
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May 26, 2012
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I have been looking at the Blackhawk .357/9mm revolver, but my hesitations with the pistol are a.) single action and b.) time needed to eject shell casing and reloading (one at a time). This lead me to a question, "Does Ruger make (or did they make) a double action verions of the .357/9mm combo? If they do, then what is it called?

If Ruger does not make this pistol, then does it exist with any manufacturer...revolver or non-revolvers?

Thank you.
 
Ruger offered their Six Series double action revovers in both 357 mag. and 9mm (in the fixed sight version) but not as a convertable.

However, it's fairly easy to swap cylinders. One could find, say, a 9mm version and then pick up a 357 mag. cylinder set and then just swap them out when needed. Might take some fitting.

Might just be easier to get two guns, one in 9mm and one in 357 mag. :shock:
Terry
 
I believe the 9mm versions of the Six series will have a tighter bore than a .357/.38 version, but I could be wrong.

I have heard that the 9mm/.357 Blackhawk conversions are not exactly one-hole tackdrivers with 9mm, since the bore is sized for .357. The bullet diameter for 9mm is .354-.355. No doubt good enough that most of us wouldn't even notice a slight decrease in accuracy over say, a P89 or some such.
 
A gunshop sales clerk told me today that Ruger's making a limited run of 1500 stainless Flattop Blackhawks in .357/9mm convertible for a distributor. Is this true?
 
9mm pretty much sucks in a revolver anyway. If you want a toy, buy a GP100, and send the cylinder out for a moon clip conversion for the best of both worlds.
 
anachronism said:
9mm pretty much sucks in a revolver anyway. If you want a toy, buy a GP100, and send the cylinder out for a moon clip conversion for the best of both worlds.
Click to expand...

Again, everybody has a different idea.

I've actually shot lots of 9mm's out of a revolver, and I really like it. The 9mm is somewhat hotter that a .38 Spl, and costs a bunch less to shoot, assuming you're buying ready-made ammo.

WAYNO.
 
anachronism said:
9mm pretty much sucks in a revolver anyway.
Click to expand...

That is ridiculous! My two 9mm SP101s would have to disagree with as would my wallet after saving hundreds of dollars already by shooting 9mm and not 38 Special or 357 Mag.
 
My experiences 940s disagree with yours with SP101s, or they would if I hadn't sold them off. I came to loathe revolvers that require moon clips to function. Also, the recoil from the 9mm in revolvers is much sharper than even hot 38 Spls. I now keep 640s & 649s in 357 mag for that purpose. I seriously thought 9mm would be really neat in a compact until I spent some time with one. I didn't learn my lesson, and bought a second one a few years later, only to sell it off too. The extra bulk of the SP101 may dampen the recoil a bit, but I had a 357 SP101 and sold it because I felt it was too heavy for practical pocket carry. I'm sure others feel differently. I cast almost everything I shoot for practice, so most of my ammo cost is pretty much the same.
 
Thanks for the replies. Some interesting points were made.

eveled said:
It would be a nice setup to have..
Click to expand...

The rational for my question was:
"IF" mass chaos erupts across the world and I am forced to one pistol and scrounging for ammo, then I want to maximize my odds of finding ammo. [BTW--I'm not a big proponent of the world ending this year, but it wouldn't hurt to be prepared for such an event...if/when it ever happened.]

Since 9mm (and .22) is the ammo with the highest volume shipments across the world, I would want a pistol that could handle 9mm. But, if my one pistol was capable of handling 9mm, 357 mag, and 38, then I would have more choices when ammo scrounging. The convertible Blackhawk has this capability, but it takes longer to reload than a double action and you need to be a cowboy action shooter to send multiple rounds in a short time interval. Hence, the double action version of the convertible Blackhawk seemed like a reasonable thought.

I located a double action 357/9mm convertible pistol on GunBroker. It's a Manurhin from France. The $5K price tag excludes me from this club.[/u]
 
A Ruger LCR in 357 mag and an LC9 in 9mm would meet your basic concept for not too much money.
The Ruger double action 9mm revolvers are no longer in production and are bringing a premium on the used market. They were offered in Speed Six, Service Six and SP-101 configurations. (I have only 6 double action 9mm revolvers :shock: ).

The double action revolvers can use the 9mm rounds without the half moon or full moon clips but the ejector does not work without the clips and the rounds must be removed from the chambers with a pencil or some such small rod.

I think the chances of Western Civilization As We Know It ending are remote. However, local chaos is quite possible and would seem like The End to those caught up in it. Just look at those poor folks in Syria.

First priority for gunnies is to have ammo and lots of it. First thing that gets closed in a riot is the gun stores. If you don’t already have it, you won’t be able to get it. :shock:
Second priority is fire control – there is no re-supply line! :shock:
Just my $0.02 worth,
Terry T
 
cstrack,,, Welcome to the Forum!

Now,,, your reasons for wanting a very versitile revolver is understandable. A single gun, capable of handling several types of ammo is desirable. Your thoughts on quick reloads etc may not be as big an issue as you may percieve. In real world issues,,, especially a survival type of senario, you will WANT to slow down & not expend much ammo. So,, a Single-Action design could easily be beneficial. As for speed shooting,, a SA can easily be fired VERY quickly,, if needed. Reloading is definately slower than a DA or a semi-auto, but still not as slow as you may think. (Go to a SASS match & watch how fast the cowboys who are required to load an extra shell to complete a stage.)
All in all, to fit you needs,,, a Blackhawk in 9mm/357 will cover centerfire easily, (w/o spending a lot on customizing a gun,) and a SIngle-Six can easily cover the 22 LR caliber you mentioned.
Just a bit of musing here.
 
Hi,
Your not going to find a better revolver that won't cost a fortune than a Blackhawk 357/9mm revolver. They are meant to be the perfect all around revolver. Yes, you will give up some accurately in the 9mm mode, but not that much. I have one and its a joy to shoot. From full power 357 magnums to target 38 specials and finally 9mm which is the cheapest to shoot, a person can bring one revolver to the range. Loading does not bother me.
In a combo revolver I don't know of anything better.
Good luck with your seach,
Howard
 
My usual response to the "end of the world" ammo scenario is that you want to have as much as you can get NOW and not have to "scrounge"........I have read all the crap about having NATO "ammo commonality" because, yeah, the US military is going to be giving out 5.56 and 9mm ammo to citizens :roll:

It doesn't matter if you're chosen caliber is 30-40 Krag or 9mm, if you don't already have it, don't rely on having to find it after chaos breaks out.

It may seem wierd but a 10-22, a Mark III or some such and a few 100's of thousands of rounds of .22 LR could be your best friend in this scenario.......
 
cstrack said:
Thanks for the replies. Some interesting points were made.

eveled said:
It would be a nice setup to have..
Click to expand...

The rational for my question was:
"IF" mass chaos erupts across the world and I am forced to one pistol and scrounging for ammo, then I want to maximize my odds of finding ammo. [BTW--I'm not a big proponent of the world ending this year, but it wouldn't hurt to be prepared for such an event...if/when it ever happened.]

Since 9mm (and .22) is the ammo with the highest volume shipments across the world, I would want a pistol that could handle 9mm. But, if my one pistol was capable of handling 9mm, 357 mag, and 38, then I would have more choices when ammo scrounging. The convertible Blackhawk has this capability, but it takes longer to reload than a double action and you need to be a cowboy action shooter to send multiple rounds in a short time interval. Hence, the double action version of the convertible Blackhawk seemed like a reasonable thought.

I located a double action 357/9mm convertible pistol on GunBroker. It's a Manurhin from France. The $5K price tag excludes me from this club.[/u]
Click to expand...
Medusa revolver. Will also handle 9x18 Makarov and 9x17 380 Auto and (I think) the 38 Auto as well.

Lost Sheep
 
I appreciate the thoughts and musing from all of you.

I was unaware of the Nato ammo commonality strategy...my thoughts were based solely on maximizing my odds of finding ammo in a caliber that would work in my one pistol. I doubt the military will hand out ammo, too.

If I don't need to select just one pistol, then I have some options. For instance, I have .22 covered with a pistol and rifle, which I've owned since the late 80's. Also, I have a 20 gauge and 30-30. Recently, I purchased a 9mm SA, and I'm anxiously waiting for it's arrival. Assuming I could carry all these firearms, as well as the ammo, I could survive...at least until the ammo ran out.

In order to "round out my collection", I'm in the market for a .357/38 revolver, but I want to select a pistol that is as versatile as possible. Sounds like the .357/9mm Blackhawk is a good choice, but I will need to practice shooting and reloading. The $30/hr range fees are my largest hurdle for practicing, since I currently live in a moderately-size city.

If I find a .357 magnum Blackhawk but it is not the convertible model with a 9mm cylinder, can I purchase a 9mm cylinder (and will it work without a pistol modification)? In other words, is a plain .357 Blackhawk the same as a convertible .357 Blackhawk, other than the 9mm cylinder with the convertible model?

Ammo. I do need to increase my reserves. Any recommendation on locations to buy some? The local Wal-Mart always seems to be out of stock (except .22), and the local gun stores think I'm made of money...based on their prices.
 
Once and a while Cabela's has $5 or free shipping on orders over $100. Their prices are competitive and the internet usually means no sales tax and the free shipping makes it much more of a deal. Don't even have to spend fuel to drive to the local shop! :D
I like to support my local shops so I usually buy one or two boxes of the really good stuff there for every day carry. Then I use the internet, if I can for the bulk, end of the world, stash.
Big 5 just had a pretty good price on 250 rd. boxes of 9mm FMJ. Not my first choice but better than thowing rocks! :shock:
Terry T
 
cstrack said:
I appreciate the thoughts and musing from all of you.

I was unaware of the Nato ammo commonality strategy...my thoughts were based solely on maximizing my odds of finding ammo in a caliber that would work in my one pistol. I doubt the military will hand out ammo, too.

If I don't need to select just one pistol, then I have some options. For instance, I have .22 covered with a pistol and rifle, which I've owned since the late 80's. Also, I have a 20 gauge and 30-30. Recently, I purchased a 9mm SA, and I'm anxiously waiting for it's arrival. Assuming I could carry all these firearms, as well as the ammo, I could survive...at least until the ammo ran out.

In order to "round out my collection", I'm in the market for a .357/38 revolver, but I want to select a pistol that is as versatile as possible. Sounds like the .357/9mm Blackhawk is a good choice, but I will need to practice shooting and reloading. The $30/hr range fees are my largest hurdle for practicing, since I currently live in a moderately-size city.

If I find a .357 magnum Blackhawk but it is not the convertible model with a 9mm cylinder, can I purchase a 9mm cylinder (and will it work without a pistol modification)? In other words, is a plain .357 Blackhawk the same as a convertible .357 Blackhawk, other than the 9mm cylinder with the convertible model?

Ammo. I do need to increase my reserves. Any recommendation on locations to buy some? The local Wal-Mart always seems to be out of stock (except .22), and the local gun stores think I'm made of money...based on their prices.
Click to expand...
It sounds like you are thinking about a SHTF scenario and going it alone, perhaps on foot.

Not practical. The sound of gunfire only brings the zombies to you. If you are not an experienced woodsman, you are unlikely to survive the first winter.

If you want to survive the breakdown of civilization, it is best to move to a rural area, become a part of the local community and survive as a group. Develop skills that contribute to the society (farming, veterinarian, small engine repair, stuff like that) and make yourself indispensable.

Be practical.

There is more to survival than bullets.

If I misread your thoughts, please forgive me.

Lost Sheep
 
cstrack,

If we get to that stage, my first pick wouldn't be a handgun. I'd be hauling around my .38/.357 mag. Browning B92. It would give me more versatility until someone with longer range took me out.

Take Care

Wheelgunner
 
Ok,, you have clarified your desires a bit more.
The Blackhawk in 357 w/o a 9mm cylinder can accept the extra cylinder and work,,, IF the following is done.
First,, the OAL has to fit. When those of us buy an extra cylinder,, we look for one that is the same OAL or slightly longer, so it can be fitted. Next,,, if you do not know how to check to see if the timing is correct for your gun & the new cylinder,, then a gunsmith is needed.
But,, the best thing is to go ahead & have a gunshop, (or do an internet search & buy there) get you a factory convertable model.

As for ammo,, local places like wally world are hit & miss in the caliber & selection. Gun shops carry more calibers & such,, but are not capable of buying in the bulk that wally does.
Ammo prices have risen sharply in the last few years due to the increased costs of materials,, AND demand.
Internet shopping like Terry T has mentioned is one way to cut costs.
However,,, reloading is THE way to go. By becoming a reloader,, you can buy components in bulk and really save money on ammo. (Check out our reloading section and the "stickys" there to assist you.) By reloading,, you can maximize your range time with more shooting. :D
Plus,, look around for other shooting ranges that aren't as expensive either.
Just a few more thoughts.
 
The more I consider this the more I like the idea of having a revolver that can shoot a variety of ammo.

How about a stainless Ruger GP or SP revolver in 357. Send the cylinder off to be machined to accept 9mm in full moon clips. You then have a revolver that can shoot 357, 38 sp, or 9mm ammo.

Add a 357 mag carbine and/or a 9mm carbine and you have a great combination.

Corbi
 
Corbi said:
The more I consider this the more I like the idea of having a revolver that can shoot a variety of ammo.

How about a stainless Ruger GP or SP revolver in 357. Send the cylinder off to be machined to accept 9mm in full moon clips. You then have a revolver that can shoot 357, 38 sp, or 9mm ammo.

Add a 357 mag carbine and/or a 9mm carbine and you have a great combination.
Click to expand...
You can't get a cylinder to shoot both 38/357 and 9mm. You can however get a cylinder machined to use 38/357 with or without moon clips. :D :D

https://www.moonclips.com/cart/shopdisplaycategories.asp
 
Well that is not handy :oops: Seems you can convert a 45LC to fire 45 ACP. Wonder what the probelm is with the 357/9mm?

Corbi
 
I am lusting for one of those BlackHawk convertibles. I hear the 9mm is not bad.

S&W made a 9mm revolver for a few years. I saw one recently for $500. Almost bought it.

I don't know why more manufacturers don't make a 9mm revolver. The round is cheap and plentiful and it would sure shorten the little snubbies.
 
The base of the 9mm case is larger in diameter than that of a 38/357. If you rechamber to 9mm, you could blow out 38/357 cases at the base where it wouldn't be supported. 45 ACP & 45 Colt are the same diameter from top to bottom. The only differences are case length & the rimmed/rimless case thing. If you anticipate needing the revolver for serious self defense, I'd recommend you take a second look at the GP100. We're not all Bob Munden, and can't unload/reload a single action really quickly. Also, I have reservations about having to manually cock the hammer for every shot. Buy a GP, and learn to shoot double-action as the competition guys do.

There will now be a brief pause while the Blackhawk guys come crashing down on me.
 
I have the smith 940 in stainless. It is a sweet little shooter. It uses moon clips and fits nicely in the pocket. They are hard to find at a fair price.
 
It sounds like you are thinking about a SHTF scenario and going it alone, perhaps on foot.

Not practical. The sound of gunfire only brings the zombies to you. If you are not an experienced woodsman, you are unlikely to survive the first winter.

If you want to survive the breakdown of civilization, it is best to move to a rural area, become a part of the local community and survive as a group. Develop skills that contribute to the society (farming, veterinarian, small engine repair, stuff like that) and make yourself indispensable.

Be practical.

There is more to survival than bullets.

If I misread your thoughts, please forgive me.

Lost Sheep
Click to expand...

Lost Sheep--Misread my thoughts? Somewhat, but I do value your points.

Concerned with SHTF and going it alone, possibly on foot--Yes.
Zombie concern--No. I do like to watch The Living Dead. I could argue a portion of our population behaves somewhat like Zombies, so maybe I should become more concerned. I won't open that can of worms. There is always Falling Skies, too. But, I'm about as concerned about aliens as I am about zombies.

Experienced woodsman--Not at the level of an Alaskan. In high school, I lived on 100 acres in the mountains of central TN...30 minute drive from the nearest town (~1 mile drive to the nearest neighbor...from the top of our mountain to the neighbor in the valley). I hunted, fished, farmed crops & livestock, cut firewood, cleared land, built barns, and spent nearly every day outdoors on my property or neighboring properties. This was my first hands-on exposure to firearms and living outside subdivisions. I acquired the .22 pistol & rifle, the 20 gauge, and a compound bow during those years. Could I survive? Maybe. I think it would depend on the situation.

I appreciate the thoughts on joining a rural community and becoming invaluable. I somewhat have this reputation already in my work community in the moderately-sized city where I live. People at my work, sometimes 2x older than I, often come to me to learn how to fix their car, lawn mower, roof, plumbing leak, or acquire general guidance on some aspect of their life. Do I have vet, dentist, or doctor skills? No.

I agree with moving to a rural community. I'm sure some will exist, after the tsunami, tidal wave from a meteor, hurricane, tornado, volcanic eruption, or N. Korean nuke. It might involve traveling on foot and surviving to find them.

And, I agree there is more to survival than bullets. However, for most of my life, I focused on increasing my skills and knowledge outside firearms. With all the earthquakes, tsunamis, unpredictable third world leaders, etc., I find myself wanting to increase my firearm capabilities...just in case SHTF. If I could predict the precise SHTF scenario, then I would not be so concerned with being prepared for it.

Thanks,
Chris
 
cstrack said:
(truncated for brevity)
Lost Sheep--Misread my thoughts? Somewhat, but I do value your points.
Click to expand...
I underestimated your experience. Sorry about that. I normally read through someones posting history to get an idea of where they are coming from, but I had to jump to conclusions in your case.

As you did with me. I am a transplant to Alaska and live in what we refer to as "Los Anchorage" (an homage to Los Angeles). The big city. Half the population of Alaska lives in the greater Anchorage area and we have a LOT of what you would call "City Folk". I would be taking lessons from you in woodscraft. I know just enough to know that I don't know enough.

Thanks for the kindness of your reply.

Lost Sheep
 
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