Why Equip Your Super Blackhawk with a Scope?
The deep, guttural bark of the Ruger Super Blackhawk, a legendary six-shooter, has echoed across ranges and hunting grounds for decades. Known for its robust construction, powerful chambering, and timeless design, the Super Blackhawk is more than just a firearm; it’s a statement. But even a classic can benefit from an upgrade. If you’re looking to elevate your shooting accuracy, extend your effective range, and improve target acquisition with your trusty Super Blackhawk, then exploring the world of the Ruger Super Blackhawk Scope Mount is a journey worth taking. This guide will provide everything you need to know to transform your shooting experience.
The primary advantage of using a scope on your Super Blackhawk is significantly improved accuracy. Scopes magnify the target, making it easier to identify details and refine your aim. This translates into tighter groupings and greater precision, especially at distances where iron sights become less effective. Hunting at longer ranges becomes more feasible, increasing your chances of a clean and ethical shot. Target shooting enthusiasts will also appreciate the precision a scope provides, allowing for more challenging targets and satisfying results.
Another crucial benefit is enhanced target acquisition. A scope allows you to acquire the target more quickly and maintain focus, especially in challenging conditions like low light or against a cluttered background. The clarity and magnification of a scope make it easier to see the target clearly, reducing eye strain and improving your overall shooting efficiency.
Of course, there are some counterarguments. Adding a scope and mount introduces extra weight, and that weight can affect balance and maneuverability. The aesthetic of the firearm changes too, shifting from the traditional look of the revolver. However, these potential drawbacks are often outweighed by the substantial improvement in accuracy and performance that a scope offers. Ultimately, the decision comes down to your individual needs and preferences.
Exploring Mounting System Options for Your Ruger Super Blackhawk
The market offers a variety of mounting systems, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Understanding these options is the key to selecting the best Ruger Super Blackhawk Scope Mount for your needs.
One category involves permanent mounting solutions. These often utilize Weaver or Picatinny bases that are affixed directly to the revolver’s frame. Installation usually requires drilling and tapping, a process that creates a more robust and permanent attachment. The key advantage of a permanent mount is its inherent strength and stability, crucial for withstanding the recoil of powerful cartridges like the Super Blackhawk’s. Permanent mounts are often preferred by those who prioritize long-term reliability and maximum accuracy. While extremely effective, it’s often recommended that installation is completed by a qualified gunsmith to avoid damaging your valuable firearm.
Another approach involves temporary mounting systems. These mounts are designed for easier installation and removal, often employing clamp-on designs or rail-grabber mechanisms. This makes them an attractive option for those who don’t want to permanently modify their firearm or who want to switch between different scopes or accessories. These types of mounts are often less expensive than their permanent counterparts. A significant advantage is their ease of use, requiring no specialized tools or gunsmithing expertise. However, they can sometimes be less stable than permanent mounts, potentially shifting under the heavy recoil of the Super Blackhawk. Thoroughly checking the mounting system regularly is essential to ensure your zero is maintained and that your scope remains secure.
Integrated mounting options represent a different path. Some scope manufacturers offer scopes that include built-in mounting systems designed specifically for handguns. This simplifies the mounting process, eliminating the need for separate rings or bases. These often provide a sleek, streamlined appearance, reducing the overall bulk of the setup. Integrated systems can be a good choice for those new to scoping or who are looking for a simpler solution. However, your scope selection will be limited, and these systems may not always offer the same level of robustness as more dedicated mounting setups.
When making your decision, several factors are important to consider. The primary element is the mount’s durability. Opt for mounts made of high-quality materials like steel or aircraft-grade aluminum to ensure they can withstand the stresses of repeated recoil. You also need to think about compatibility. Does your chosen mount work with the scope you intend to use? The mount’s ease of installation is another key element. The ideal mount offers a straightforward installation process, so you can get back to shooting quickly. Consider the aesthetic aspect too. Do you prefer a mount that blends seamlessly with the revolver’s design, or are you more concerned with functionality?
Choosing the Right Glass for Your Super Blackhawk
Selecting the appropriate scope is just as important as choosing the right Ruger Super Blackhawk Scope Mount. The correct scope will optimize the performance of your firearm, offering clarity, accuracy, and enhanced usability.
Scope magnification determines how much the target appears to be enlarged. The ideal magnification level depends on your intended use. For close-range shooting or hunting, a scope with lower magnification (e.g., 2x or 4x) may be sufficient. For longer-range shooting or hunting, a scope with higher magnification (e.g., 6x, 8x, or even adjustable magnification) will be more beneficial.
The objective lens, the front lens of the scope, affects the amount of light that enters the scope. A larger objective lens gathers more light, which results in a brighter image, especially in low-light conditions. However, larger objective lenses can add to the overall weight and size of the scope, and the mount will likely need to be higher.
Various features also impact scope performance. Eye relief refers to the distance between your eye and the scope’s eyepiece that allows for a full, clear view. Sufficient eye relief is crucial for avoiding injury from recoil. Reticle types, the aiming pattern within the scope, vary widely. The classic duplex reticle is excellent for general use. Mil-dot reticles provide a means of estimating range and compensating for bullet drop. BDC (Bullet Drop Compensating) reticles are calibrated to compensate for bullet drop at different distances. The type of reticle you choose should align with your shooting style and preferred application. The adjustments found on your scope allow you to fine-tune windage and elevation to zero in your shot placement. These adjusters will be essential for accurate shooting at varying distances.
While there are various scope models that would work well with your Super Blackhawk, consider researching scopes designed specifically for handguns. These scopes are often built to handle the heavier recoil and feature eye relief that suits the shorter distance between the eye and the scope on a handgun.
Selecting the right scope rings for your Ruger Super Blackhawk Scope Mount is also critical. Choose rings of the appropriate height to ensure the scope clears the barrel and rear sight. The size of your objective lens plays a factor in this. The diameter of the tube of your scope is also a factor. Make sure your chosen rings fit the tube of your chosen scope.
Getting Your Scope Mounted: A Step-by-Step Guide
Installing a scope mount is a critical step. Take the time to follow the steps carefully and ensure proper functionality.
Before beginning any work, prioritize safety. **Always ensure your Super Blackhawk is unloaded and the chamber is clear.** Double-check that the cylinder is empty and that no ammunition is present in the vicinity.
The tools you will need may vary based on your chosen mounting system. Common tools often include a set of Allen wrenches, a screwdriver, and perhaps a torque wrench. Refer to the specific instructions provided by the manufacturer of your chosen Ruger Super Blackhawk Scope Mount.
*Note: Installation instructions can vary greatly based on the type of scope mount you have chosen. The following steps provide general guidance. Always refer to the manufacturer’s instructions that come with your specific mount.*
**For a Permanent Mount:** (Due to the need for gunsmithing for permanent mounting, this section is more of a general overview. Employ the services of a qualified gunsmith for this step!) The process typically involves carefully aligning the mounting base on the top of the receiver, accurately measuring and marking the locations for the mounting holes, and then drilling and tapping those holes to accept the screws. The gunsmith will ensure that the base is perfectly level and properly secured.
**For a Temporary Mount:**
- Carefully attach the mount’s base to the appropriate part of your Super Blackhawk’s frame. Make sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions precisely.
- Once the base is positioned correctly, begin tightening any clamping mechanisms or screws. Tighten securely, following any torque specifications provided by the manufacturer.
- If the mount includes separate scope rings, now is the time to attach them to the base. Ensure the rings are properly aligned and securely tightened.
- Carefully place the scope into the rings.
- If your scope rings require adjustment, use a level to ensure that the scope is aligned and level, both vertically and horizontally.
- Tighten the scope ring screws, following the manufacturer’s recommended torque specifications. Use a torque wrench if available.
**For Integrated Mounts:** Follow the specific instructions provided by the scope manufacturer, as the installation process will vary depending on the specific design.
The final step in mounting your scope is to ensure the scope rings are tight and the scope is secure, and that your mount itself is firmly attached.
Achieving Zero: Calibrating Your Scope
Once the scope and Ruger Super Blackhawk Scope Mount are installed, the next step is to zero the scope. This process involves adjusting the scope’s crosshairs so they align with the point of impact of your bullets at a specific distance.
One method involves bore sighting. Remove the cylinder from your Super Blackhawk and look down the barrel. Position the target at a reasonable distance, aiming at its center. Now, while still looking down the barrel, adjust your scope’s windage and elevation adjustments until the crosshairs appear to be centered on the same point on the target as the bore of your Super Blackhawk. This can provide a great starting point.
Another option is to use a laser bore sighter. Insert the laser into the barrel and then align your scope crosshairs with the laser’s dot on the target.
After bore sighting, proceed to live-fire adjustments. Start shooting at a close range (e.g., 25 yards). Fire a three-shot group at a target, and then examine the point of impact of those shots. Use the scope’s windage and elevation adjustments to move the reticle to the desired point of impact. Fire another group and repeat the adjustment process as necessary. As you become more experienced with your scope, gradually increase the distance and refine your adjustments. Remember to check and re-adjust your zero periodically, especially after traveling or after extended use.
Maintaining and Troubleshooting Your Scoped Super Blackhawk
Proper maintenance is essential to ensure your Ruger Super Blackhawk Scope Mount and scope remain in optimal condition.
Cleaning is an important task. Wipe down the scope’s lenses regularly to remove dust, dirt, and fingerprints. Use a lens cleaning solution and a soft cloth. Keep the mount itself clean and free from debris. Lubricate the scope’s adjustment dials and other moving parts with a light coat of gun oil.
Regularly inspect your mount and scope for any signs of wear or damage. Check all screws to ensure they are tight, and re-tighten them as needed. Examine the scope rings and base for any movement or shifting. If you notice any issues, address them promptly to prevent them from escalating.
Troubleshooting is also an essential part of maintaining a scoped Super Blackhawk. If you experience problems with scope movement or shifting, double-check all mounting screws and ensure they are properly tightened. Accuracy problems can often be traced back to a scope that is out of alignment. Re-zero the scope if you suspect that the zero has shifted.
If you encounter issues that you are not comfortable resolving, consult a qualified gunsmith. Professional expertise can help you diagnose and repair any problems, ensuring that your scoped Super Blackhawk remains in optimal condition.
Conclusion: Elevate Your Revolver’s Potential
Adding a scope to your Ruger Super Blackhawk represents a significant upgrade. By choosing the right Ruger Super Blackhawk Scope Mount and scope, you can experience a marked improvement in your accuracy, range, and target acquisition capabilities. Whether you are a hunter, a target shooter, or simply enjoy the satisfaction of precision shooting, the addition of a scope can transform your shooting experience.
Consider the factors discussed in this guide, explore the available options, and select the components that best fit your needs. Once you’ve installed and zeroed your scope, you’ll be well on your way to taking your Super Blackhawk’s performance to the next level.
Don’t hesitate to try different options. Share your experiences and ask questions. The world of scoping a Super Blackhawk opens up new horizons for every shooter. Happy shooting!
