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.30 Carbine Blackhawk 7 1/2 inch

Warning! Notes: Most of these loads are maximum, and should be approached with caution. Bullets will usually feed properly if a GI or factory round is used to set the seating die, if the seating punch corresponds to the standard bullet configuration. Bullets must not be crimped, since the case headspaces on the mouth.

Source: Handloader Issue #48 – March, 1974

Cartridge History

.30 Carbine Blackhawk 7 1/2 inch

The .30 Carbine produces a remarkably unique shooting experience when chambered in the Ruger Blackhawk with a 7 1/2-inch barrel. Originally developed during World War II for the M1 Carbine rifle, the cartridge was intended to provide lightweight firepower with greater effectiveness than a standard service pistol. In a single-action revolver, however, the .30 Carbine transforms into a high-velocity handgun cartridge known for sharp muzzle blast, intense flash, and impressive flat-shooting performance.

The Ruger Blackhawk proved especially well suited for the cartridge due to its strong construction and ability to safely handle the .30 Carbine’s relatively high operating pressures. The longer 7 1/2-inch barrel allows the cartridge to achieve higher velocities than shorter revolvers while also improving sight radius and practical accuracy. Despite the dramatic muzzle report often associated with the cartridge in revolvers, recoil remains surprisingly manageable, making the platform enjoyable for shooters who appreciate unconventional handgun combinations.

Handloader Issue #48 discussed loading and shooting the .30 Carbine specifically in the 7 1/2-inch Ruger Blackhawk platform. Handloaders often favor powders such as H110 and Winchester 296 because they provide strong velocity and reliable ignition characteristics within the cartridge’s compact case capacity. Since the .30 Carbine headspaces on the case mouth, proper case trimming and careful crimping remain important for smooth cylinder function and consistent extraction.

Although the .30 Carbine Blackhawk occupies a somewhat niche place among revolvers, it has developed a loyal following among enthusiasts who enjoy powerful, fast-moving handgun cartridges with distinct personality. The combination of classic single-action revolver handling and rifle-like cartridge performance creates a memorable shooting experience that continues to stand out decades after its introduction.

Source: Handloader Issue #48 – March, 1974

Be Alert: Publisher cannot be responsible for errors in published load data.

Wt.	Bullet	Powder Manufacturer	Powder	Charge	Velocity (FPS)
100	Hornady S-J	Alliant	2400	Subscribe	1,400
Remarks:
100	Speer Plinker	Alcan	AL-7	Subscribe	1,590
Remarks:
110	Hornady RN-SP	Hodgdon	H-110	Subscribe	1,560
Remarks:
110	Sierra HP	Hodgdon	H-110	Subscribe	1,792
Remarks:
112	Lyman 3118 (.309)	Alliant	2400	Subscribe	1,350
Remarks:
127	Lyman 311410 (.308)	Alliant	Unique	Subscribe	850E
Remarks:
130	Lyman 311410 (.308)	IMR	IMR-4227	Subscribe	1,387
Remarks: