^Lot 3378 RUGER 44 FLAT TOP BLACKHAWK REVOLVER.

Cal. 44 Mag. S# 5053. Bbl. is 6 1/2" with serrated blade integral to ramped base front sight plus proper "Micro" marked rear sight with early index mark on elevation screw. Mfg. 1957 (1956-1962) as Type 2A BKH46; long throw offset slotted steel ejector housing, dimpled ejector rod head and XR3 grip frame with checkered hard rubber grips having black eagle medallions. References state 2,500 units of this scarce variation produced. Eagle logo on frame and without "INC." on barrel. Wide bands on base pin like Single-Sixes and capped base pin latch. Very slight plum hue to loading gate. Does not have factory safety update parts; original lockwork. Rear of cylinder has finely electro engraved "5" over "5053" plus "44 MAG". Bottom of cylinder frame opening has more electro engraving: "Major USA" over "John J. Ley"; brief internet search showed WWII vet but more research might be useful. CONDITION: very good to excellent overall with original finish; extremely faint cylinder turn line plus some very light marks on butt and trigger guard of grip frame. Light staining on sides of hammer plus slight high edge finish loss at muzzle and front sight. Near excellent grips. Bore is shiny with sharp, distinct rifling along with some slight bullet fouling. Very nice low numbered collector grade Flat Top. (26-1033/NW). CURIO. $750-1,000.