Rifleman Q & A: A Collector or a Shooter?

by
posted on March 27, 2018
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
shooterqa.jpg

Q: I recently started hunting and ATV riding in Colorado and want to carry a large-caliber and capable gun with me for defense. I have one gun that fits the bill easily, it is a like-new, commemorative New Model Super Blackhawk chambered for .44 Mag. Stamped on the gun’s barrel is “Made in the 200th Year of American Liberty.” I am concerned with the potential for spoiling any additional value this commemorative edition has by firing it.

A: Given the nature of your question and the queries I have made, the pistol does not appear to gain significant additional value due to its markings. One source says Ruger marked virtually all of its 1976 production this way. If it were my gun, I would not hesitate to use it. But to obtain more information on its collector value, if it has any, I would suggest you contact the Ruger Collectors’ Ass’n at its website: rugercollectorsassociation.com.

--Charles W. Pate

Latest

Walther PDP Pro-X PMM
Walther PDP Pro-X PMM

Unfair Advantage: The Walther PDP Pro-X PMM

The latest “Pro” model in this famous German maker’s line of U.S.-assembled pistols leverages more than 100 years of experience in building service-size semi-automatics. And the results are better than even most experienced shooters should expect.

The Armed Citizen® Sept. 8, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

Terminal Ballistics 101: What You Must Know As A Rifleman

It is easy to take a box of bullets for granted, but as a rifleman, it is important to understand all variables at play when it comes to terminal ballistics. This guide, from NRA Firearms Sourcebook, will help drill down on what is important.

Preview: BlackPoint Tactical Leather Wing—Light Mounted

The Leather Wing from BlackPoint Tactical is a hybrid OWB concealed-carry holster that pairs thermoformed front and rear Kydex shells with flexible leather side panels.

Bringing The 940 Back: Smith & Wesson & Davidson's Revive Classic Revolver

After a 27-year hiatus, the Smith & Wesson Model 940 revolver in 9 mm Luger is finally back, thanks to S&W's partnership with distributor Davidson's, Inc.

Preview: The Life Of Samuel H. Walker

Firearm enthusiasts will recognize the name of Samuel Walker due to his association with Sam Colt.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.