[Jeff Higgins]

Those loads are for full size Blackhawk frames only.

Ruger originally made two sizes, the Blackhawk and the Super Blackhawk. Actually, they introduced the Super sized frame after the original proved inadequate for the .44 mag. They built the two sizes through the late '60's or early '70's, then dropped the smaller frame and produced both the Blackhawk and Super Blackhawk on the same frame. Unnecessarily heavy for the .357 mag and standard pressure .45 Colt.

They have now reintroduced the original "Flattop" style smaller frame, along with a downsized Vaquero. Neither are suitable for these loads. They will safely digest "+P" level loads, with 250 grain bullets at 1,000 fps or so, but I would call that the limit.

All of that said, I finally rattled down to that level of load for my "hunting" loads in .45 Colt. The last several animals I've killed with the .45 Colt were actually with black powder loads from a 7 1/2" Colt Peacemaker. 40 grains of Swiss FFFg will propel a 250 grain bullet to just about 1,000 fps, which was the original "civilian" load (the Army never loaded more than 28 grains of powder). To duplicate this with smokeless, I use about 16 1/2 grains of 2400. These loads will drive broadside right through our biggest mule deer and elk. I can't see any reason for anything more, at least not for my use.

In other words, the smaller Blackhawk and Vaquero are still excellent hunting guns. They will accept loads heavy enough to kill deer and elk. Going after big bears, or moose, or that stray Cape Buffalo rampaging around your neighborhood might justify the bigger gun and heavier load.