Old Model Super Blackhawk value

[Chief]

Found Old Model Super Blackhawk. Has some blue wear at the muzzle and some staining to the sides of the hammer, but mostly nice, shiney deep dark Ruger old school blue. Stocks in great shape, appears to be walnut. Sorry didn't get the SN so I can't even guess at build date. Has been fired but not much turn line. Nice gun. Not converted. Seller wants $700. What say ye?
Chief

 

[contender]

Not enough details go make a determination. The serial number, is critical,, and once that's known, other minor details may come into play.

 

[Chief]

I was afraid of that. I guess I’ll have to go get another look. I just ran across it while doing something else and didn’t have time to a full evaluation. A cursory look if you will. What’s the ballpark on this?

 

[hittman]

And long frame or short frame?

Mahogany box?

As said earlier, S/N makes prices vary greatly.

 

[Chief]

Well I see I have much to learn. What denotes a short vs long frame. There is no box. Has a 7 1/2 in barrel, recessed cylinder. It also has the flat, shiny eagle medallions.

 

[contender]

If it has the shiny silver eagles in the medallions,, AND they have not been swapped out,, it'll be a later production.
But the serial number is the key.
Long frames are very early guns,, and highly desirable. They are about 3/16" longer than normal.

A tip; ANYTIME you find a Ruger OM that has interest,, always memorize the serial number as a good starting point to figuring out a value.

 

[Johnnu2]

Chief, I'm not a knowledgeable collector but I do have an opinion. If that gun is in really nice condition (which it sounds like it is), and has NOT been converted (as you said) I would offer $600 and see what happens. If the guy says no, then walk away knowing that you saved $600-$700. In my neck of the woods, I've found Ruger OM single actions at prices that were lower than I would expect simply because everyone wants black guns; on internet, prices can go anywhere. If you get it for $600 and it turns out to be a collector value gun i.e. long frame etc. then you still have a gun that's worth (to you) $600. IMHO a nice (not converted) Old Model SBH for $600 would make me happy.
J.

 

[Chief]

Good point contender. Went back to the shop and got the SN, 80-570XX. Looks like 1972? Nice old gun, locks up tight and has great trigger. I bought it. Gets out of detention on Wednesday. $700 OTD.

 

[contender]

Yep,, a 1972 built gun. And by all accounts,, most likely not a "collectable rare" variation. BUT,, they are desirable as shooters & in general, have a pretty good bluing finish!

 

[hittman]

That sounds right fair to me.

I know of one recently sold for $850 BUT it's s/n was in the 49xx range and in excellent condition.

 

[Chief]

Contender, I have a couple of S&W revolvers that come close this Ruger’s blue finish. It may not be a rare collectible but it is a real nice example of the breed!
Hittman. I think I did alright. Have been searching for one of these for some time. I did have a heavily finished challenge ged one back about 30 years ago, but it slipped way from me. This one is much more nice.
This is my one and only .44. cal anything so I have more accouterments to buy!

 

[contender]

Kudos! Sounds like you got one of the "high polish" late versions. And,, it sounds like you are happy with it,, and as hitman says,, "sounds right fair to me!"

I have an OM 44 like it,, but the gun has a lot more "character" due to my heavy use of it many years ago. But it is a SWEET shooting gun for sure.
I'm sure you'll enjoy this one!