April 27-30, 2021 Extraordinary Firearms & Militaria
This lot is closed for bidding. Bidding ended on 4/27/2021
Born in 1899 and coming to age in the rugged American West, famed firearms innovator, big game hunter, and writer Elmer Keith made a name for himself appearing in numerous firearms-related periodicals and popularizing classic magnum pistol cartridges. As listed by serial number on a copy of his personal firearm collection logbook and certified by a 2015 dated letter, this Ruger Old Model Blackhawk (BKH-45X) in .45 Colt came directly from the legend's estate. As per an included Ruger factory letter, this revolver was shipped from the factory in June of 1971. It features a blued 4 - 1/2" barrel, six-shot cylinder, ramped front sight, adjustable square-notch rear sight, scarce brass frame, and walnut grips. Notably, the right grip is inlaid with a silver ellipse inscribed in script with "Elmer Keith", while the left grip is inlaid with a silver elk head. The revolver is accompanied by a hardbound copy of Elmer Keith's autobiography "Hell, I Was There", as well as copies of the aforementioned documents. CONDITION: Excellent. Nearly all of the factory blued finish is retained on this historic firearm with a very light cylinder turn line, some light silvering at the muzzle and a minor mark on the front sight blade. The brass grips straps exhibit a mellowing patina with several spots of deeper red/brown patina. Grips very good with a few scattered impressions. The cylinder shows light firing residue, while the mirror bore is excellent with crisp rifling. Excellent mechanics. BAS
Caliber/Bore
.45 Long Colt
Paperwork
Factory Letter, Autobiography, Collection Log Copy