Freedom Arms Revolvers live up to the hype?

[AKtinman]

One thing that hasn't been mentioned is grip size and shape. I've owned Ruger single actions of all frame sizes from 44 Magnum down to 22 rimfire, in Bisley and Blackhawk versions. And a couple of Colt SAA's. None of those had grip shapes that really fit my hand.

Earlier this year I purchased a Freedom Arms model 97 in 32 H&R which also had a 32-20 cylinder. I had never seen nor handled one so was taking a bit of a chance that this one would fit my hand. And it does.

This one was originally purchased new 20 years ago, so it is one of the first-year 32 H&R's that Freedom Arms produced. To date I have put 433 rounds through it, as many as 45 at one range outing, with no hint of cylinder binding or other problems. All my loads use cast bullets.

Another plus for the Freedom Arms revolvers is that the front sights are easily changed out and the top strap is drilled and tapped, making scope or red dot sight installations easy.

The Freedom Arms 97 grip shape is different from the larger-framed model 83 and each has its fans and detractors. Try to handle one before purchasing, if possible.

 

[BabaBlueJay]

A Lamborghini will get you from Point A to Point B. A Gremlin or Pinto would likely do the same. If all you want to do is move from Point A to Point B, the FA revolvers are not for you. If you want to move from Point A to Point B in style, in the very best there is, just because you can, and you can afford it, then the FA is what you want. Nobody needs the very best of anything but some just want it. I sure can't afford the Lamborghini but I can afford the Freedom Arms I own, and I consider it money well spent.

I think this is a good analogy. While I can't spend that kind of money now, I will be able to eventually and have always wanted a very crisp single action revolver with bank vault lock up. This sounds like that kind of gun so it will be something to work towards. The only thing I'm torn on is caliber at this point.

One part of me feels like these guns should be in a big bore caliber like 454 Casull, considering Dick Casull was part of forming this great company. The more practical side of me wants one in 357 magnum because that is my favorite round of all time and then I could use my 357 ammo I already have in abundance through it.

 

[6GUNSONLY]

I love the fit, finish, and precision, but I don't like their grip design.

 

[dwever]

If "fit / finish" and strength floats your boat, FA's are second to none and anything else WILL disappoint you.

Except a Korth

 

[.357magger]

Except a Korth

Or a Manhurin MR 73.

 

[ruggyh]

As others have said FA are very nice in fit, finish, and accuracy - have a few.
I would suggest you look at BFR which are in my opinion very close at a lower price point.

 

[Dr Charlie]

Yes, they are worth every penny.

 

[BigMuddy]

One thing about FA revolvers that hasn't been mentioned yet; since they started building them the quality has never been "cheapened". They continue to build to the same level of quality that has existed since 1983. Not many of the other manufacturers can say the same.

Dan

 

[balin]

I picked up a used .357 years ago and the fit was better than any other guns had and accuracy was great. So a couple years ago I ordered a .22 as I knew I could shoot it often and well into old age. Unfortunately I had problems when cocking then hammer slowly the cylinder would not turn all the way. Started working after awhile. Then the trigger wouldn't pull all the way . Had another trigger issue then after many dry fires things work fine. Think there may have been a metal chip causing the iss. Can't say I am over impressed with the accuracy. But it was during the lock downs with covid and I let it slide. I shoot it occasionally but the honeymoon is over.

 

[balin]

I picked up a used .357 years ago and the fit was better than any other guns had and accuracy was great. So a couple years ago I ordered a .22 as I knew I could shoot it often and well into old age. Unfortunately I had problems when cocking then hammer slowly the cylinder would not turn all the way. Started working after awhile. Then the trigger wouldn't pull all the way . Had another trigger issue then after many dry fires things work fine. Think there may have been a metal chip causing the iss. Can't say I am over impressed with the accuracy. But it was during the lock downs with covid and I let it slide. I shoot it occasionally but the honeymoon is over.