Shane Jahn

Bill Ruger’s original Blackhawk we now know as the “Flattop,” is one of the undisputed classic single-action revolvers. The XR-3 grip frame nestles in the hand like that of the famous Colt Single Action Army. Aesthetically the Ruger resembled the Colt somewhat, but it demonstrated a good adjustable rear sight and a ramped front, something Colt didn’t do until 1961 with the New Frontier.

The guys at Dodson Guns in Alpine, Texas are aware of my wheelgun affliction, especially when it comes to Ruger single actions. Occasionally they will notify me when a used hogleg wearing the famed Phoenix bird brand shows up.

The organized opposition of the importation, production, sale, and transportation of alcohol was seen as a way of curbing alcoholism, domestic violence, and wait for it…saloon-based political corruption. I’m sure we all agree that combating alcoholism and domestic violence were noble endeavors. They say rates of infant mortality, liver cirrhosis, and alcoholic psychosis declined during the Prohibition Era.