Description
Imagine the moment you’re at the range, and the sharp, satisfying crack of a black powder revolver turns every head. That’s the presence of the RUGER OLD ARMY BLACK POWDER REVOLVER 5.5″ (TALO EXCLUSIVE) .45 CAL BLUED FINISH. It’s not a replica—it’s the pinnacle of modern percussion revolver engineering, built to modern standards for the traditionalist who demands reliability. This is a TALO distributor exclusive, blending Ruger’s legendary strength with classic single-action aesthetics and a practical 5.5-inch barrel. At $986.99, it represents a serious investment in a heirloom-quality piece of shooting history that ships to Missouri and compliant US states.
What is it? The Ruger Old Army is a modern, top-break black powder percussion revolver chambered in .45 caliber. This TALO-exclusive model features a 5.5-inch barrel and a polished blued finish, offering superior strength and reliability over historical designs. It’s built on a solid frame with adjustable sights and uses #11 percussion caps. This revolver is designed for serious black powder enthusiasts and hunters seeking a robust, accurate platform that fits out of the box with no gunsmithing required.
Built for the Long Haul
Ruger didn’t just recreate the past; they improved upon it. The Old Army’s frame is massively strong, engineered to handle stout loads that would stress period-correct revolvers. The transfer bar safety system is a modern touch that provides secure carry with all six chambers loaded—a significant operational advantage. The 5.5-inch barrel strikes a perfect balance between sight radius for precision and overall handling speed. The polished blued finish isn’t just for show; it provides a durable layer of corrosion resistance, a wise feature when dealing with black powder’s corrosive byproducts. Weighing in at approximately 45 ounces, it has a substantial, steady feel in the hand that aids in managing recoil and maintaining a steady sight picture.
Precision in the Tradition
This isn’t a point-and-hope piece. The fully adjustable rear sight is a game-changer for consistent accuracy, allowing you to dial in your load for precise shots at 25, 50, or even 100 yards. The single-action trigger is famously crisp, breaking cleanly with minimal creep. That said, the real work happens at the loading bench. Using a compatible press like a Tedd Cash Loader, you can consistently seat .457-inch round balls or conical bullets over a measured charge of FFFg black powder or a substitute like Pyrodex. The cylinder’s nominal capacity is roughly 40 grains of powder under a ball, but always consult a reliable manual. The fixed loading lever is robust and makes the process of seating bullets straightforward and secure in the field.
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Caliber | .45 Caliber Percussion |
| Barrel Length | 5.5 Inches |
| Overall Length | Approx. 11.5 Inches |
| Finish | Polished Blued Steel |
| Frame | Solid Steel, Top-Break |
| Sights | Adjustable Rear, Blade Front |
| Weight | Approx. 45 oz (unloaded) |
Pros & Cons
The Good: Unmatched strength and durability for a percussion revolver. The adjustable sights provide modern-rifle accuracy potential. The transfer bar safety allows safe carry with six chambers. The fit and finish are exemplary. It’s a modern classic that will hold its value.
The Considerations: Black powder shooting requires more preparation and cleaning than cartridge firearms. The process is slower, which is part of the appeal but not for everyone. At nearly a thousand dollars, it’s an investment for dedicated enthusiasts, not a casual impulse buy.
Who This Revolver Is For
This revolver is for the shooter who understands that the journey is as important as the destination. It’s for the hunter who wants to take game with a primitive weapon but refuses to compromise on build quality or accuracy. It’s for the competitor in black powder cartridge or silhouette matches who needs every mechanical edge. It’s for the collector who appreciates the zenith of a discontinued, legendary model in an exclusive configuration. If your idea of a good day involves measuring powder, seating balls, and the distinct sulfurous scent of a well-fired cap, this is your tool.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I use modern .45 Colt cartridges in this revolver?
A: No. The Ruger Old Army is a strictly percussion-fired (cap-and-ball) revolver. It is not designed for, and should never be used with, any form of metallic cartridge. You load loose black powder or a substitute, a projectile, and a percussion cap.
Q: What accessories do I need to start shooting it?
A: You’ll need black powder or a approved substitute (like Pyrodex), .457-inch round balls or conical bullets, #11 percussion caps, a powder measure, a capper, cleaning supplies specific for black powder residue, and safety glasses. An FFL transfer is required for firearm purchases before taking possession.
Q: Is the 5.5-inch barrel model better than the longer ones?
A: “Better” is subjective. The 5.5-inch barrel offers excellent balance and pointability, making it a favorite for field carry and quicker handling. Longer barrels (7.5-inch) offer a longer sight radius for maximum precision. This TALO-exclusive 5.5-inch model is prized for its ideal blend of control and classic profile.
Ready to experience the definitive modern black powder revolver? This TALO-exclusive Ruger Old Army is available at firearms-missouri.com for Missouri residents and nationwide. See the product page for current availability and ordering details.
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