First Look: Ruger's New Single Seven

by
posted on February 24, 2015
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
rugerseven.jpg

You don't always need a monster magnum for handgun hunting. Big bores create big holes, but in game ranging from jack rabbits through small deer, smaller wound channels and reduced recoil are much appreciated. Such are the characteristics of Federal's 327 Magnum with its .31 caliber bullets ranging in weight from 60 to 115 grains. AndRuger's new Single Seven is the perfectly sized single action revolver for taking the 327 afield. Here are three things you need to know.

1. It has the same frame and lock work as Ruger's .22 caliber Model Single Six. 
That said, the Single Seven's cylinder now holds 7 rounds of either 327 Magnum or 32 H&R Magnum. Much like the 357/38 Special combination revolvers, the 327/32 Magnum handles both short and long cases that allow you to choose a level of performance commensurate with the game you're hunting. And while recoil isn't at all abusive in the larger 327 loads, it's still more pleasant and economical to practice (and hunt) with the smaller 32 Mag when appropriate.

2. The Single Seven is the classic .22 Ruger. 
With the exception of larger holes in the barrel and cylinder, that is. For now at least, it is only available in stainless steel. Good news is that all 3 "classic" barrel lengths are available: 4.75, 5.5, and 7.5 inches. During some very brief range time, I was able to shoot all 3. My quick conclusion is that the 7.5 inch barrel had slightly more muzzle flip with the more powerful 327 loads while the 4.75 inch was easiest to carry. The 5.5 inch was a compromise but felt more like the 4.75 barrel. Advantage of sight radius goes to the longest barrel although all models have the adjustable black Ruger single action revolver sights that are quite good for daylight hunting.

3. The variety of factory ammo is excellent. 
Cast and jacketed hollow point 32 Mag. loads are available from Black Hills and Double Tap while Hornady offers their Critical Defense FTX bullet load. More powerful 327 Magnum loads come from Federal (jacketed hollow points) and Double Tap (both JHPs and heavier 115 grain hard cast solids.) Depending on barrel length, you can get anywhere from 800 to 1600 feet per second.

My only outing with the 327 was a 2-day javelina hunt, which proved unsuccessful due to the diminishing field skills of "Hawkeye Williams" rather than any failure of weapon or ammo. Hopefully the short barrel Ruger will have an opportunity for one of Texas's smaller exotics later this year.

Latest

BTB 7Mm RUM Lead
BTB 7Mm RUM Lead

Behind the Bullet: 7mm Remington Ultra Magnum

Launching a 160-grain bullet in excess of 3200 fps, the 7mm RUM is among the fastest commercially loaded 7mm cartridges available.

USFWS Debuts 2025-2026 Federal and Junior Duck Stamps

The 2025-2026 Federal Migratory Bird Hunting and Conservation Stamp—commonly known as the Duck Stamp—became available for purchase on June 27, 2025.

Tested: Work Sharp Professional Precision Adjust Elite Knife Sharpener

Digital Associate Editor walks viewers through the features of the Work Sharp Professional Precision Adjust Elite Knife Sharpener, the perfect tool for a hunter looking to keep all his knives factory sharp season after season.

Recipe: Green Curried Black Bear

Green curry sauce is an excellent base for simmering bear meat, making it flavorful, tender, and safe to consume. Read on for another instant classic recipe from Brad Fenson.

Coyotes to Competitions: An AR-Build for Accuracy

ARs make great coyote guns. But what would the absolute best coyote rifle look like? Digital Associate Editor David Herman builds his take on the best AR for shooters who like to plug coyotes in the winter, and ring steel all summer long.

Pennsylvania Governor Signs Sunday Hunting Bill

Legislation that will fully repeal Pennsylvania’s Sunday hunting ban was signed into law on July 9.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.