Shamus2022
Single-Sixer
Can anyone definitively answer this question: can the Old Army grip frame be swapped out for an XR3 frame?
Hondo44,3. If you want to use a New Model Flattop Blackhawk/New Vaquero steel XR3 grip frame, yes but you'll need to use a wide OA trigger and adapt the grip frame to the old model trigger spring and plunger by using an empty .22 LR cartridge case. Or add a new model trigger spring shelf to the back of the trigger to use the new model trigger return spring.
Hondo44,
Would you be kind enough to explain in more detail exactly how this is done. I would guess there are other budding revolver mechanics that would like to know also.
Most do it the get the authentic Colt SAA style grip that the XR3 replicated...And that Ruger foolishly abandoned when they changed to the "improved" XR3-RED.Since I paid Ruger to put an Old Army steel frame on my OM Blackhawk .41 Mag. I just have to ask. Why would you want to replace the Old Army grip frame?
The other reason is: to have an all steel Old Army. As I posted above, the early Old Army's came with the same alloy grip frame as your OM Blackhawk .41 mag and all other Blackhawks.Since I paid Ruger to put an Old Army steel frame on my OM Blackhawk .41 Mag. I just have to ask. Why would you want to replace the Old Army grip frame?