Lipsey's Ruger Blackhawk 10MM: 175gr Chronograph Test: Part2

[mr.revolverguy]

https://youtu.be/-p2A5ZPCEdc


I split the video up into 3 segments and this is part 2 of the series

Chronograph Testing
Ammunition 175gr LSWC
Chronograph 3-5 Yards Downrange
Pistols:
Para Elite Hunter 10MM - 6in Barrel
S&W 610 10MM - 3 7/8in Barrel
Ruger Blackhawk 10MM - 6in Barrel

Chronograph Data
Para Elite Hunter
Hi = 1212
Low = 1189
Average = 1202
ES = 23
SD = 8

S&W 610
Hi = 1150
Low = 1128
Average 1141
ES = 22
SD = 7

Ruger Blackhawk
Hi = 1243
Low = 1219
Average = 1232
ES = 24
SD = 9

Ruger Blackhawk 1232fps, Para Elite Hunter 1202fps, S&W 610 1141fps.
I measured the cylinder gap of the revolvers by holding the cylinder to the rear of the frame as tight as I could get it. I am amazed at the tight fit of the Ruger Blackhawk.

Ruger Blackhawk Cylinder Gap .0025  -- .003 would not fit
S&W 610 Cylinder Gap .005 -- .006 would not fit

The loads you see mentioned in the video were safe in all pistols displayed, but it is recommended that you start 3-5% lower and work your way up to be safe.

My everyday 175gr range load will be aimed at 1200FPS.

Stay tuned for part 3 with the 200gr loads.

[Ramjet]

The results do not look much different the 2" advantage of barrel goes in favor of the Blackhawk yet the Semi Auto keeps pace with lime loads 30 FPS on average gain that is not much considering the barrel lengths.

Now even though it seems I am not a revolver fan in the case of this caliber considering the two platforms you could easily adjust the loads to max or more with the Blackhawk and easily surpass the semi auto. Put an 8" barrle on the semi auto with tight chamber and it will easily surpass the Blackhawk with the same loads in terms of velocity.

[dred]

So ... my mind is very interested.  A Coonan has been on my short list for a few years.  When I get around to ordering, they are going to owe you a commission.  My guess, given this data you are collecting, is that the cylinder gap costs more than I expected.  If you were near Houston - we'd be running that 610 against my 5" 1911 and directly attributing differences to the cylinder gap.  This matters to me 'cause Chiappa's Rhino is also short listed; my interpretation of your data pushes me toward the Coonan trigger.  If a Coonan sneaks home I'm certain the chrono will get a workout.

And, thank you for sharing the results real-time - it makes for a more satisfying viewing experience. 

[TXCOONDOG]

Accuracy ?

[mr.revolverguy]

I am not making a case for revolvers here but does the gap make that much of a difference? Does anyone know what an extra 30 to 50fps means as it pertains to penetration?



I have been collecting 10MM Data for a very long time. Maybe at some point I will get a chance to post it up on my website maybe on a dedicated 10MM page. Like the data above I think I have a 400 line spreadsheet or larger.

[mr.revolverguy]

Dred,

I am not trying to talk you out of a Coonan as I would love to have one also but can't make up my mind. My last thought were there are plenty of nice 10MM's on the market now in semi auto and revolver, but not many semi auto 357 Magnums except for the DE. So some how in my screwed up mind the Coonan 357Mag is the one to have

[Ramjet]

I am not making a case for revolvers here but does the gap make that much of a difference? Does anyone know what an extra 30 to 50fps means as it pertains to penetration?



I have been collecting 10MM Data for a very long time. Maybe at some point I will get a chance to post it up on my website maybe on a dedicated 10MM page. Like the data above I think I have a 400 line spreadsheet or larger.

That's an excellent point but I just prefer the extra performance and quick follow up if needed. Fine revolver and I am happy the opportunities continue for 10mm platforms. Thanks again to all the work

[sqlbullet]

Maybe you guys have seen this..but if not, it is a good read:

http://www.ballisticsbytheinch.com/gaptests.html

Short version is a small gap(.001-.003) doesn't make much difference, but a big gap (.005-.006) does.