Ruger Super Blackhawk Hunter base pin problem

[WNY_Whitetailer]

Well, I went out last weekend and shot my SBHH for the first time. I must say that the recoil is not bad at all...Actually, I think it is a pussycat. I am used to shooting 2 3/4" Partition Gold shells out of my shotguns so I was expecting something in that realm...Not even close.

Anyway, after about 15 or so rounds I couldn't **** the hammer back anymore. I was baffled and couldn't figure out why. I unloaded the gun and looked it over...It seems that the base pin latch allowed the base pin to slide out a little bit. That little movement stopped the hammer from cocking. I slid the base pin back in and the gun fired fine. After another 5 or so rounds it happened again. I again slid the base pin back and checked the base pin latch to make sure it is ok. It happened again and again I fixed it...

My question is...Is there a way to tighten the spring in the base pin latch to keep it from allowing the base pin to slide out to a position that I cannot fire the gun? Help please...

This problem will not stop me from hunting with it but it is a pain when target shooting.

[oo_buck]

There are aftermarket base pins available that supposedly cure the problem. Never tried one though. Haven't had the problem with any of my Rugers....

[hangunnr]

Ah yes, the wandering base pin problem...........

Replacing the pin is really your best option for a permanant fix.

Belt Mtn. Enterprises, Inc. makes a very nice replacement pin that locks in place via a set screw. The price is IMO very reasonable.

hangunnr

[WNY_Whitetailer]

Seems that I may be going with the Belt Mountain Locking base pin...$21.95 doesn't seem like too much to spend...Although I would have rather had Ruger fix it before it made its way to me. You figure if you spend $500 on a gun that it wouldn't do that.

[WNY_Whitetailer]

Would you suggest the new locking base pin as well as an upgraded spring kit? I have been looking at the Wolff Spring Kit with the hammer spring, base pin spring and trigger springs...Does the locking base pin set screw apply pressure to the barrel to keep itself in place?

[hangunnr]

If you are gonna go to the trouble of half way tearing the gun down you may as well do a complete job and upgrade the springs also.

The set screw will make contact with the barrel. I would suggest installing the new base pin and lightly bottoming the screw just enough to mark the barrel. Then remove the pin and drill a very shallow dimple in the barrel just slightly larger in diameter than the screw. This will allow the screw to bottom without mushrooming metal which could impair base pin removal. You'll also have to remove the ejector rod and housing to get the base pin out.

This will be the location of the dimple....



I guess I've been lucky with my Blackhawk. My gun locks up real tight and hasn't as of yet let thrown the pin.

hangunnr

[WNY_Whitetailer]

I ordered the Belt Mtn #5 Locking Base Pin...Everything is good now and the #5 looks great on my Ruger. Thanks for the heads up...I think I may order that spring kit in the future but for right now I am golden.