Make: Ruger

Model: Hawkeye

Serial Number: 2511

Year of Manufacture: 1963

Caliber: .256 Winchester Magnum

Action Type: Single Action, Breech Block, Single Shot Pistol

Barrel Length: 8 1/2"

Sights / Optics: The front sight is a serrated blade integral to a base fixed to the barrel. The rear sight is a square-notch leaf pinned to the topstrap that is adjustable for elevation and windage. The top of the barrel is drilled, tapped, and filled for optic rail options, none present.

Stock Configuration & Condition: The grips are two-piece smooth wood panels with Ruger medallions. There are light handling marks and a few light nicks on the bottoms. There are no chips or cracks. The right grip has a chunk removed from the bottom front. Overall, the grips are in about Good Plus condition.

Type of Finish: Blued

Finish Originality: Original

Bore Condition: The bore is bright, and the rifling is sharp. There is light fouling. In this writer’s opinion the bore rates 9/10.

Overall Condition: This pistol retains about 97% of its metal finish. The breach-block release shows moderate finish loss and the frame has taken on a light plum hue. There is wear on top of the barrel from a previously mounted optic rail. There is finish loss on the right side of the trigger guard and frame. The screw heads are sharp with strong slots, and all markings are clear. Overall, this pistol rates in about Fine condition.

Mechanics: The action functions correctly. The lock up is solid with light side to side play. We did not fire this pistol. As with all used firearms, a thorough cleaning may be necessary to meet your maintenance standards.

Box, Paperwork & Accessories: None.

Our Assessment: This Ruger Hawkeye single shot pistol, manufactured in 1963, represents one of the most unconventional and short lived handgun designs produced by Sturm, Ruger & Co. Chambered in .256 Winchester Magnum and built around a breech block action more commonly associated with rifles, the Hawkeye was Bill Ruger’s bold attempt to deliver rifle like ballistics from a handgun platform. Limited production of about 3,000 units and modest commercial acceptance at the time have since elevated the model’s status, making original examples increasingly scarce among Ruger collectors.

This example retains strong original finish with honest, clearly defined wear consistent with careful use, including typical finish loss at the breech block release. The bore remains bright with sharp rifling, and the pistol maintains solid lockup with correct mechanical function. Overall, this Hawkeye offers an excellent opportunity to acquire a distinctive piece of Ruger’s experimental era in a desirable and increasingly difficult to find configuration.