I was thinking about getting a Freedom Arms Model 97 in 45 Colt.
Was wondering if anyone has any experience with this and if so can it withstand a hotter load like a ruger blackhawk since the frame (I understand) is a little lighter? Thanks for any and all help!

Eyeman,

I have several 97s. Great guns, strength however is not the issue. Because of the length of the cylinder, bullets with short noses are required, unless you seat them deeply. The deep seating encroaches on powder - free space, driving up pressures, sometimes considerably AND dangerously. If your bullet has a short nose and it is seated like you would for any other revolver, the gun will handle the pressure and last longer than your lifetime ( even if you live very loooong time ).

Doc

Doc, do you own a 97 in 44 spl. If so how do you like it?

One of my dreams is to eventually own a FAs in .454 or .500 WE but, alas, I just bought a John Ross custom 500 and am handgun broke?
Still dreaming, Steve

Thanks for the replies. Does anyone shoot a 260 grain Keith style bullet in the FA 97? Wondering if it is too long for the cylinder. Thanks again.

Wheelguns,

Yes, I have the 44 spl. 97, and it shoots great. I usually feed it some form of cast bullet; however, it shoots the jacketed bullets as well.

Eyeman,

The problem with the "true" Keith type bullet is that they have a very long nose. Hence, the cartridge overall length problem I mentioned previously. Use an NEI or LBT WFN bullet with a large meplat, as opposed to the Keith and avoid the problems. If you can't find an NEI or LBT to your liking get a hold of Dan? at mountainmolds.com and spec one out to your needs.

Doc

Many thanks Doc. BTW do any of your FA's have the fiber optic sight. I would prefer to not use a scope and yet have trouble seeing iron sights in the wooded areas I tend to hunt. If not do you know if the std front sight is easy to replace with something more agreeable to 50+ year old eyes. Thanks.