Top 5 Convertible Revolvers: Multiple Cartridges From One Gun

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The wheelgun just won’t die. And that’s a good thing. Maybe it’s because, just like with lever-action rifles, revolvers let us keep that cowboy that’s in all of us alive. But there are some practical reasons a revolver is a good choice, especially for an outdoorsman.

For one, they let you pack a lot of power into a small package. For the handgun hunter, a revolver in 44 Magnum, 41 Magnum, or 357 Magnum is hard to beat. But there’s another trick that keeps revolvers ticking—the convertible cylinder.

Running a magazine in a semi-automatic pistol makes cartridge conversions nearly impossible. But, with some designs, a revolver cylinder can be replaced with another chambered for a different cartridge. As long as the cartridge uses the same caliber bullet, you can go from one cartridge to another in a snap.

The following revolvers all lend themselves to cylinder and cartridge swaps. Just about all of them come from the factory with a spare cylinder in a different chambering. Each will let you run your revolver on at least two cartridges, whether you want to work in some low-cost sessions at the range or need a backup option in case of an ammo shortage.

1) Ruger New Model Blackhawk Convertible

On the outside, the New Model Blackhawk looks like it just fell out of a Western movie. Under the hood, it’s all modern. As of this writing, there are 19 different convertible Blackhawks on Ruger’s website, letting you go from either 357 magnum (and 38 special) to 9mm or 45 Colt to 45 ACP. They make perfect hunting handguns or a sidearm to carry into the backcountry.

You can swap the cylinders on the New Model Blackhawk without using tools. Many of them feature adjustable sights, which come in handy when changing cartridges or dialing in the gun for hunting. They also have a transfer bar mechanism and loading gate interlock to keep your gun extra safe when loaded. With a wide variety of chamberings, barrel lengths, finishes, and grip styles, you’re bound to find something you’ll like from Ruger.

2) Korth 2.75 Inch Carry Special

I had a chance to shoot a Korth 2.75 inch Carry Special during a handgun test a few years ago. This German-made revolver is imported by Nighthawk, and just like other German gadgets, it’s flawless. During our test, we fired 9mm ball and carry ammo, 357 magnum hunting loads, and a few outrageous 357 Buffalo Bore loads. The Korth ate them all without an issue.

While some consider the 357 on the lighter end of bear defense ammo, I wouldn’t hesitate to carry this gun into grizzly country. It’s compact enough that it won’t weigh you down, and its smooth double-action trigger feels like rollerskating on ice. We even ran timed drills with the Korth transitioning between targets, and it kept right up with many semi-autos on the market. The only downside to the Carry Special is the price, but you really get what you pay for.

3) Ruger Single Six 22lr/22mag

If you’re running a trap line, you know how useful a single-action rimfire is. But what if your 22lr could double as a varmint gun in 22 WMR. That’s what you get with the Ruger Single Six convertible revolver.

There are several variations of Single Sixes available, from long-barreled models cut for an optic to a versatile and extremely packable 4.25-inch barreled version. Whichever you choose, this gun is made for plinking, target shooting, small game hunting, and a little varmint work. It’s the perfect companion for patrolling your property.

4) Cimmaron Model P Junior

With a color-case-hardened finish and walnut grips, the Model P Junior is dripping with 19th-century style. Most of these handguns cost between $500 and $600, but for about $150 more, you can get a dual-cylinder Model P Junior in 32-20 and the potent 32 H&R.

While these cartridges aren’t as readily available as more modern cartridges like 38 special or 357 Magnum, they make up for it with classic appeal. These Peacemaker-style guns are right at home on the belt of a Cowboy Action shooter, and in 32-20, they’re a blast for plinking at the range.

5) Smith and Wesson Model 610

We’re cheating a bit here with the Model 610. It doesn’t have a convertible cylinder, but it does let you fire two cartridges with the same cylinder. What’s even cooler is that it’s chambered for 10mm auto and 40 S&W. In 10mm, it’ll give you about the same punch as a 41 Magnum. But, as you probably know, 10mm ammo is easier to find than 41 Magnum. In 40 S&W, it’s a good companion to a 40 S&W carry gun, letting you run both guns on the same ammo.

If you’re looking for a revolver and you already own a 10mm or 40 S&W, the 610 is a solid choice. The 610 comes in two barrel lengths on S&W’s N frame, both in a stainless-steel finish. From the factory, it includes three moon clips, but it’s a good idea to pick up a few extra.

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