Ron Power conversions for half-cock load/unload

[PALADIN85020]

I have converted two of my .45 Colt Vaqueros (pics below) with Ron Power kits, so that they load/unload at half cock and properly index, just like the old model Blackhawks. Old habits die hard, and I detest the terrible method of loading and improper indexing of the transfer bar system. These two revolvers are now two of my favorite single actions, and are very satisfying to load and unload. The only difference from the old model Blackhawks and the Colt SAA in feel is that there are three clicks instead of four when you cock the hammer. Also, you can load six instead of just five. Anyone else like these conversions?

 

[flatgate]

I have quite a few Ruger Blackhawks, Super Blackhawks and Single-Sixes, of the New Model persuasion, that have "half cock" lockwork and fully functional transfer bars. I've also retimed the cylinder latch so it doesn't ring the cylinders.

I agree, they are a lot of fun to shoot.

flatgate

 

[bnewberry]

I added the Power half cock hammers/triggers/transfer bars to my Bisley Vaqueros. This not only gave me the half cock option, but a very sweet trigger pull.

Love them!

 

[Driftwood Johnson]

Howdy

I added Power Custom half cock triggers and hammers to 3 of my 'original model' Vaqueros a number of years ago. I hated the way the cylinder would easily slip past the appropriate chamber requiring me to 'go around again' to load or unload a particular chamber. The Power Custom kits made that a thing of the past. I also put in some lighter springs while I was at it, and all three revolvers now have nice light 2 1/2 pound trigger pulls.

I believe the Power Custom parts are actually superior to the original Ruger hammers, they are completely CNC machined from bar stock rather than being investment castings with some features machined. In addition, they are made to tighter tolerances than the original parts, that's why they can usually drop right in with no fitting. The area around the pivot hole on the Power Custom hammer is built up for more strength, but most important, the sear engagement is smoother with no creep or roughness.

They are expensive, but I really like them.

 

[Aeroscout9]

I only have one NM SA. It's a 41 Mag Blackhawk. I installed the Power Custom SAA profile hammer/trigger they make for the New Vaquero. It dropped right in to my NM Blackhawk and looks good. Great trigger pull too.

 

[Dale53]

I WILL admit that my new .44 Lipsey Special Flattop and my new 50th Anniversary .44 Magnum Flattop are MUCH nicer with the new pawl set up. It is not like the Power Custom set up but solves the problem nicely (and the older Ruger Single actions DID have a problem when loading and unloading).

It makes you wonder why Ruger waited fifty years to institute this DEFINITE improvement.

Dale53

 

[Guns-N-Rugers]

Yes, I do like the Power Custom Conversions too. After I found out what they were, I did my Blackhawk.
I do wish Power Custom would offer a conversion kit with the Super Blackhawk half-cock hammer.

 

[BIgMuddy]

I have them in several of my NM Rugers, and I think they are a great addition. Easier to load and great trigger pull. When you consider the cost of action work, along with shipping both ways of your gun to have the work done, the Power hammer/trigger is a bargain in my opinion.

I have an OM 45 Colt with 4 5/8" barrel. I always wanted one with 7 1/2". I had a pre-warning NM that I added the Power hammer and trigger, and I am happy with it as is now.

If you compete in CAS, the infamous Ruger "short stroke" is not so much of a problem if you have the half cock option.

Ron said he has no plans for a half cock SBH hammer, because he does not think the demand is there. He would sell a few of them sure, but not enough to justify the set up cost for another hammer. He does make them with the Bisley profile, which I prefer the SBH.

 

[Bucks Owin]

Yep, half cock conversion and a Belt Mtn pin should be "standard equipment" with any NM Blackhawk IMO... :wink: Hey Flatgate, how about a "how to" on the cyl latch mod? Nobody likes those pesky rings....