Early 3-Screw Ruger Blackhawk Flattop .44 Magnum 6½" – Three-Digit Serial

Early 3-Screw Ruger Blackhawk Flattop .44 Magnum 6½" – Three-Digit Serial

Early Production | 1956–1962 44 Mag Flattop Series | Three-Screw Old Model | Pre-Transfer Bar | Vintage Collector Condition

OVERVIEW

Offered here is an early-production Ruger Blackhawk Flattop chambered in .44 Magnum, featuring a 6½-inch barrel, original three-screw configuration, and desirable three-digit serial number 981.

Introduced in 1956 and manufactured through 1962, the original .44 Magnum Blackhawk Flattop represents an important chapter in Ruger's single-action history. Distinguished by its flat-topped receiver and traditional Western styling, the Flattop was Ruger's first revolver chambered for the powerful .44 Magnum cartridge.

According to Ruger's published serial number records, serial number 981 dates to 1957, placing this example in the second year of production.

This revolver retains its original-style, unconverted three-screw action without a transfer bar, along with its 6½-inch barrel, adjustable sights, fluted cylinder, and black checkered Ruger medallion grips.

Displaying honest wear and vintage character, this early Flattop is a desirable collector piece that represents the beginning of Ruger's legendary .44 Magnum single-action lineup.

SPECIFICATIONS & HIGHLIGHTS

Manufacturer: Sturm, Ruger & Co.

Model: Blackhawk Flattop – Old Model

Production Series: 1956–1962

Year of Manufacture: 1957 (Based on Ruger Serial Number Records)

Serial Number: 981 – Three-Digit Serial Number

Caliber:.44 Remington Magnum

Barrel Length: 6½"

Action: Single Action Revolver

Capacity: 6 Rounds

Frame: Original Three-Screw Flattop Design

Cylinder: Blued Steel, Fluted

Finish: Blued Steel with Honest Vintage Wear

Front Sight: Fixed Blade

Rear Sight: Adjustable

Grips: Black Checkered Grips with Ruger Medallions

Safety Configuration: Original-Style Action – No Transfer Bar Conversion

Collector Significance: Second-Year Production, Three-Digit Serial Number, Original Flattop Series

Condition: Great Overall Vintage Collector Condition – See Photographs

CONDITION

This 1957 Ruger Blackhawk Flattop presents in great overall vintage condition, with honest wear consistent with its age.

The blued metal surfaces exhibit normal scattered finish wear, thinning, and handling marks, while retaining the distinctive appearance of an early Ruger single-action. The black checkered grips feature Ruger medallions and complement the revolver's traditional styling.

Of particular interest to collectors, this example retains its unconverted three-screw action without a transfer bar, preserving its original-style mechanical configuration.

With its three-digit serial number 981, 6½-inch barrel, and early 1957 production date, this is an appealing example of the original .44 Magnum Flattop series.

Please review all photographs closely for the best representation of the revolver's condition, finish wear, and vintage features.

COMPLIANCE & SHIPPING

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