The mechanisms of the Ruger Blackhawk differ significantly from that of any other single-action revolver. The patented Ruger single-action revolver mechanism incorporates a transfer bar. The transfer bar - which is raised into firing position as the trigger is pulled to the rear - transmits the energy of the hammer blow to the firing pin. This transfer bar mechanism makes a "safety" notch unnecessary. The gate (loading gate) can be opened only when the hammer and trigger are fully forward. Opening the gate immobilizes the trigger, hammer, and transfer bar. When the gate is opened the cylinder is unlatched and can be turned for loading or ejection. When the gate is closed, the cylinder latch functions in the normal manner. The loading notch is therefore unnecessary in this single-action design. Unlike the earlier single-action revolvers which have four hammer positions - "cocked," "loading," "safety" and "all the...